Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. recently unveiled his 2024 budget, emphasizing his commitment to advancing technology jobs in the region. However, he expressed frustration when he discovered that federal funding was not available to support these initiatives. In a statement, 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 pointed out that the Utica-Rome region has over 2,000 technology jobs and numerous opportunities in quantum computing, cybersecurity, and drone research at the Griffiss Business & Technology Park. He emphasized the importance of investing in these industries to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance national security. While the Biden-Harris Administration recently awarded $504 million in grants to 12 Tech Hubs across the country, the Utica-Rome area was not among the recipients.
Despite this setback, Picente remains committed to developing the region’s tech corridor with support from New York State and other partners. The Utica-Rome area has already received $36 million from state funding through New York’s START program to develop advanced manufacturing capabilities for semiconductor manufacturing and supply chain management.
Picente highlighted this achievement as evidence of his dedication to growing technology jobs in Oneida County and said efforts would continue despite federal oversight or lack thereof.