Established in 2011 as a centerpiece of the Governor's strategy to jumpstart the economy and create jobs, the Regional Councils replaced the state's old top-down approach to economic development with one that is community-based and performance-driven. The initiative empowers communities, business and academic leaders, as well as members of the public in each region of the state, to develop strategic plans specifically tailored to their region's unique strengths and resources to create jobs, improve quality of life and grow the economy. More information on the 2018 Regional Economic Development Council Awards is available here.
"Over the last eight years, we have implemented a vision to move New York State's economy forward by allowing communities to make strategic investments to help grow their local economies and reenergize and develop their unique regions," Governor Cuomo said. "Regional-based economic development is vital for maintaining New York's thriving, prosperous economy. I congratulate all of the winners of this year's REDC awards and look forward to working together to build a stronger New York for generations to come."