STEG, CCIDA and economic development partners in the Southern Tier region recently released the Southern Tier Cleantech Strategy . A regional effort guided and produced by Newmark, a global development consulting firm, the New York Southern Tier Cleantech Strategy highlights key industries — including renewable energy storage development, clean transportation manufacturing and semiconductor packaging — that the region can attract by pairing existing resources and research capabilities with additional infrastructure expansion and workforce development programs.

The strategy builds on the region’s growing reputation as a hub for energy storage research, development and manufacturing, while also positioning it as a key future supply chain location for semiconductor and other high-tech businesses that are rapidly growing along the Thruway corridor to the north.

The strategy’s release comes as people across the Southern Tier work to rebound from long-standing underemployment, poverty, and decades of job losses following the decline of major manufacturing industries.

“Economic development is very competitive and fast paced. While the region as a whole has a strong manufacturing, engineering, sales and R&D base to support and further develop the cleantech supply chain, we need to continue to move forward to remain competitive,” said Joe Roman,. “Addressing the shortage of sites and buildings that have the proper infrastructure and other amenities that companies desire is extremely important to our region and our growth in the cleantech space. Cleantech will be one of the pillars of economic development efforts in the future and will provide more opportunities for employment which will help keep younger generations here.”

Next steps for strategy implementation include ongoing coordination with higher education powerhouses like Binghamton and Cornell Universities; NYSEG, the region’s utility provider; workforce practitioners; and other critical stakeholders around necessary site and infrastructure upgrades, as well as development of a powerful marketing plan to promote regional strengths.

Senator Schumer recently visited Ward Apparatus, located at BEST Corporate Park, to demonstrate his continued support for the region's manufacturing sector. During the visit, discussions focused on the ongoing concerns surrounding tariffs and their impact on the local business community.

The event brought together representatives from several organizations, including The Hilliard Corporation, Rimco Plastics, Swift Glass, and the City of Elmira Fire Department. Their presence underscored the collective importance for advocating for policies that strengthen local industry.



We extend our sincere thanks to Senator Schumer for his engagement and for championing the interests of Chemung County's business community.

On April 23, 2025, SUNY Corning Community College hosted a regional job fair that attracted hundreds of job seekers from across the Southern Tier. The event featured approximately 80 employers spanning various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, public service and skilled trades.

The job fair also highlighted SUNY CCC's workforce development programs, emphasizing vocational training opportunities that led directly to high-demand careers.

This event was a massive success and collaboration of many regional partners including CSS Workforce NY, the New York State Department of Labor, and GST Boces. Strengthening our local economy and workforce collectively.

On April 10th, 2025 more than 600 students from 22 schools districts across the Southern Tier attended the annual Try Trades event at the Big Flats Municipal Campus. The hands-on event gave students the chance to explore careers in skilled trades, including construction, welding, heavy equipment operation, and more.

Organized in partnership with the IBEW Local 139, CSS Workforce NY, the New York State Department of Labor, and the Chemung County Chamber of Commerce, Try Trades introduced students to real tools, machinery and professionals in the field.

The event highlights the ever growing demand for skilled trade professionals and encourages students to consider alternative career paths that offer strong wages, job security, and long-term growth. Try Trades continues to be an important effort to connect students with high-demand industries in our region.

Startups and small manufacturers are invited to join the Manufacturing Readiness Accelerator, a free virtual webinar series hosted by NY Manufacturing Extension Parntership, Fuze Hub, and Incubator Works.

Dates: May 13, 15, 20 & 22

Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM

Register Today: Webinar Series Link

Tossed, a popular healthy dining spot formerly located on Market Street in Corning, is making a new home in downtown Elmira. Tossed officially closed its Corning location on April 24th and is currently preparing for its Elmira debut. An opening date will be announced soon. This move is a very exciting step in the continued revitalization of downtown Elmira. We would like to thank Jim Capriotti for his vision and continued dedication to Elmira's revitilization.

NYSCA and NYFA are offering grants of $10,000-$75,000 to help arts and culture nonprofits build or grow financial reserves.

Requirements:

Budget under $3M

Must have received NYSCA Funding in the past 3 years

Deadline for Application June 17th, 2025

Info Session: May 13, 2-3pm

Click here for More Information

Grow-NY has is accepting applications for its 2025 competition, offering $3 million in funding to innovative food and agriculture startups.

The top prize is $1 million, with several other cash awards available.

Finalists will receive mentorship, business support, and a chance to pitch at the Grow-NY Summit this fall. Winning companies commit to growing their business in the Finger Lakes, Central NY, or Southern Tier Regions.

The deadline to apply is May 15th 2025. GROW NY