Frustration and Determination: Oneida County’s Quest for Tech Hub Grants.
In a recent announcement, Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. presented his 2024 budget, emphasizing the importance of advancing technology jobs in the region. However, Picente expressed frustration upon discovering that federal funding was not available to support these initiatives. He criticized the U.S. Economic Development Administration for excluding the Utica-Rome area from receiving Tech Hub grant awards, despite its significant presence in semiconductor and supply chain industries.
Picente highlighted the region’s numerous opportunities in quantum computing, cybersecurity, and drone research at Griffiss Business & Technology Park, which boasts over 2,000 technology jobs. He emphasized the need for investment in these industries to stimulate economic growth and create new job opportunities while also enhancing national security.
Although New York’s NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub led by the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity received $40 million in grants from the Biden-Harris Administration as part of $504 million awarded to 12 Tech Hubs across the country, the Utica-Rome area was not among the recipients.
Despite this setback, Picente remains committed to developing Oneida County’s tech corridor with support from New York State and other partners. He expressed disappointment but assured the community that efforts to advance technology jobs would continue.
In summary, Picente underscored his commitment to promoting technology jobs in Oneida County and expressed frustration with federal funding limitations that prevented his region from receiving Tech Hub grant awards despite its strong presence in semiconductor and supply chain industries.
