ALBANY – Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced a major economic development initiative for the Southern Tier, including Chautauqua County.
76West is a $20 million business competition and business support program geared toward identifying innovative, clean-energy businesses to locate or create jobs in New York’s 11-county Southern Tier.
According to the governor, the competition will create jobs, attract entrepreneurs and support the Governor’s Reforming the Energy Vision strategy to build a clean, resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers. Cuomo also said it’s one of the largest clean-energy business competitions in the nation.
The competition consists of $10 million in dedicated prize money, and $10 million for business support, marketing and administration. Each year, 76West will distribute a total of $2.5 million in prizes, consisting of a $1 million grand prize, one $500,000 award and four $250,000 awards. Additional support and services may also be available, including mentorship and incubator space.
The name 76West refers to a longitudinal line that passes through the Southern Tier. The competition will run once a year from 2016 to 2019 and will be administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.
The program is now accepting applications from developers throughout the Southern Tier, including Chautauqua County. An application and contest information is available at nyserda.ny.gov/76west.
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