Author: autumn

Photo: University at Buffalo | Meredith Forrest Kulwicki

Western New York’s proximity to Canada is a major economic asset. Every day, goods and materials move between the U.S. and Canada, shaping the region’s manufacturing and logistics landscape.

A new initiative by the University at Buffalo School of Management’s Center for Supply Chain Analytics is helping the region build on that advantage while advancing the priorities of the NY SMART I-Corridor.

With more than $1 million in federal funding secured by Rep. Tim Kennedy, the University at Buffalo is expanding its work in cross-border supply chains, supporting small and mid-sized businesses as they implement reshoring strategies and strengthen manufacturing across the region.

“Our region’s future is intrinsically linked to its relationship with Canada,” Congressman Kennedy said in an announcement of the funding. “It’s critical that we strengthen our ties to create good-paying jobs and ensure the long-term viability of our region’s economy.”

This initiative strengthens one of the core focus areas of the NY SMART I-Corridor: The Supply Chain Activation Network (SCAN). SCAN is building more resilient and efficient supply chains that support advanced manufacturing and regional competitiveness by connecting businesses directly with university-led research and analytics, while also providing access to technical assistance, capital, and strategic matchmaking to help firms enter, expand, and compete within the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

Visit our Supply Chain Opportunity Guide to explore how your business can plug into New York’s growing semiconductor ecosystem.

Companies will work alongside faculty and students to better understand supply chain risks, costs, and opportunities tied to cross-border trade, while also building stronger connections to the region’s broader network of support.

“By combining faculty expertise and student talent with the great work already underway by local resource providers, we can elevate awareness of the opportunities available to businesses and better connect them to the broader support network,” said Jennifer Flagg, NY SMART I-Corridor SCAN project lead and executive director of UB’s Center for Supply Chain Analytics.

As global trade continues to evolve, investments like this position Western New York to compete and grow while reinforcing its role within the NY SMART I-Corridor as a hub for cross-border innovation.

Interested in getting connected with a member of our SCAN team? Click here.

The NY SMART I-Corridor Semiconductor Summit is designed to strengthen connections across supply chain, workforce and research and development by bringing together industry leaders, researchers, manufacturers and partners from across Upstate New York’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Over two days, the summit focuses on innovation and supply chain, connecting companies and partners to support commercialization and industry growth. Day one, the Innovation Expo, will highlight product development and emerging technologies, while day two, the Supply Chain Exchange will bring together buyers and suppliers to showcase capabilities and strengthen industry relationships. Both days will also feature panels on workforce development and talent needs.

Attendees will gain insights from global industry leaders, hear real-world success stories and explore opportunities for international collaboration, creating a platform for partnership, knowledge sharing and continued leadership in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing.

What you’ll experience

• Connect with industry leaders, researchers and policymakers
• Build partnerships through targeted matchmaking and networking
• Gain insights on semiconductor innovation, supply chains and workforce development

Featured speakers

Confirmed speakers and panelists will be announced as the event approaches. The list includes representatives from:

• GlobalFoundries
• Edwards Vacuum
• Cornell University
• Monroe Community College
• U.S. Senate
• Additional industry, academic and investment leaders

Program overview

Innovation Expo | June 1

The Innovation Expo will focus on advancing semiconductor innovation through:

• Lightning talks and panels on research capabilities, product development and commercialization
• Sessions on funding, technology co-development, intellectual property and workforce development
• Networking and matchmaking opportunities

All-day resource tables and matchmaking meetings will support one-on-one engagement and partnership development.

Supply Chain Exchange | June 2

The Supply Chain Exchange focuses on strengthening connections between semiconductor buyers and suppliers while highlighting New York State’s capabilities and growth opportunities.

Programming highlights include:

• Keynote insights and success stories from industry leaders and NY SMART I-Corridor firms
• Buyer and supplier matchmaking, exhibitor engagement and global collaboration sessions
• Workforce and resource panels, with networking opportunities throughout the day.

Event details

Date: June 1-2, 2026
Time: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: RIT Inn and Conference Center (5257 W Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623)
Cost: Free

A discounted room rate is available at the RIT Inn and Conference Center using the attendee code “260602ICTH”, with rooms starting at $119 per night. Additional accommodations are available at Homewood Suites Rochester Henrietta, with rooms starting at $159 per night.

For more information, contact our facilitators at nysemisummit@gmail.com

As the semiconductor ecosystem continues to grow across the NY SMART I-Corridor, businesses across the region are exploring how they can participate in this rapidly expanding industry.

From advanced manufacturing to logistics, construction, engineering, and professional services, the semiconductor supply chain is broader than many companies realize. Many firms already have capabilities that could support semiconductor production or services. The challenge is making those capabilities visible to the right partners.

One of the most effective ways to do that is through a capability statement.

What Is a Capability Statement?

A capability statement is a one-page overview of your company that highlights what you do, what sets you apart, and where you have experience.

Think of it as your company’s resume for supply chain and partnership opportunities. It provides potential partners and buyers with a quick snapshot of your business and how it may fit into the semiconductor ecosystem.

While each company’s statement may look slightly different, most include key information such as:

• Core competencies
• Differentiators
• Certifications and affiliations
• Industries served
• Facilities and operational highlights
• Contact information

When done well, a capability statement helps buyers, partners, and ecosystem stakeholders quickly understand how your company could contribute to the semiconductor ecosystem.

Businesses interested in developing a capability statement can connect with the University at Buffalo’s Supply Chain Activation Network (SCAN) team, which works directly with companies to assemble and verify the information included in the document.

Why Does a Capability Statement Matter for Your Company?

Capability statements help potential buyers quickly determine if a company may be the right fit for their procurement needs. They also help the Tech Hub team and its partners better understand the region’s semiconductor supply chain to facilitate matchmaking.

By working with the SCAN team to develop a capability statement, businesses will be included in the Tech Hub database and capability-mapping dashboard, gaining visibility among potential buyers and suppliers.

In short, a capability statement helps your company get discovered and pursue new opportunities.

Next Steps for Businesses

Developing a capability statement is often the first step in engaging with the SCAN team. From there, companies can explore additional opportunities within the regional semiconductor ecosystem.

SCAN is also documenting procurement needs across the industry to better understand what companies are looking to source locally and where regional businesses may be able to meet those needs.

Companies can also access technical assistance as they prepare for growth, gaining support with certifications, operational improvements, facility planning, and other business needs.

How to Begin a Capability Statement

Many companies express interest in the semiconductor industry but aren’t sure how their existing capabilities translate to this space. The opportunity landscape is broad, and many firms may already have relevant expertise without realizing it.

The SCAN team works directly with companies to:

• Co-develop capability statements
• Identify pathways to grow or pivot into semiconductor-related activities
• Explore opportunities to engage in the regional ecosystem

Getting Started

To learn more and get started on developing your capability statement, contact:

Kathleen Burke
SCAN Engagement Coordinator
mfburke@buffalo.edu

Cleanroom Facilities From Concept to Long-Term Operations

The NY SMART I-Corridor is launching ConnectSemi, a new Community of Practice focused on strengthening collaboration and shared learning across New York’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Inaugural Webinar

Thursday, March 26 | 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM EST

Featuring:

Brian Weed
Vice President, Critical and Controlled Environmental Services

Jacob Picchione
Business Development Manager, GDI Ainsworth

This session will explore the full lifecycle of cleanroom development and operations, from early planning and design through long-term performance optimization. Participants will gain practical insights into building, operating, and sustaining cleanroom environments in today’s advanced manufacturing landscape.

As semiconductor and advanced manufacturing activity continues to expand across Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Ithaca, stronger coordination among industry, academia, and supply chain partners is essential. ConnectSemi serves as a forum for shared problem-solving, technical exchange, and regional alignment.

This session is ideal for:

• Semiconductor and advanced manufacturing firms
• Facilities and operations leaders
• Supply chain partners
• University and research stakeholders
• Workforce and economic development professionals

ConnectSemi supports the NY SMART I-Corridor’s broader effort to accelerate innovation, strengthen supply chain resilience, and build long-term competitiveness across Upstate New York.

Register Today

Secure your spot for the inaugural session:
https://sunybuffalo.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_37SY1W0Uvyt2dts

The first round of NY THRIVE Innovation Vouchers is delivering real momentum to semiconductor innovation across the NY SMART I-Corridor. Six companies from Syracuse, Buffalo, Ithaca and Rochester have been awarded more than $350,000 to accelerate semiconductor-related research, development and commercialization. Through the NY THRIVE program, these companies gain direct access to world-class academic research capabilities, specialized equipment and leading faculty expertise.

The companies selected in this first round include:

• TTM Technologies Inc. (Syracuse)
• TunaBotics (Syracuse)
• IBEX Materials (Buffalo)
• Menlo Micro (Ithaca)
• OWiC Technologies (Ithaca)
• Photonect Interconnect Solutions Inc. (Rochester)

Together, they represent a diverse cross-section of the semiconductor supply chain and advanced manufacturing landscape, with projects spanning printed circuit board reliability, robotics for electronics manufacturing, sustainable materials innovation, photonic integration, MEMS technologies and advanced electrochemical devices.

The Innovation Voucher program operates through the NY SMART I-Corridor’s Collaboration and Commercialization Center (C3), led by Syracuse University in partnership with Cornell University, Rochester Institute of Technology, the University of Rochester and the University at Buffalo, to reduce barriers to commercialization and strengthen New York’s semiconductor ecosystem.

“This first round of THRIVE Innovation Vouchers marks another important step in translating the NY SMART I-Corridor’s vision into tangible results for businesses across Upstate New York,” says Joseph Stefko, regional innovation officer for NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub. “By giving companies direct access to world-class research facilities, advanced equipment and technical expertise, we’re lowering barriers to commercialization and accelerating the growth of a stronger, more competitive semiconductor ecosystem. These vouchers don’t just support individual firms; they strengthen the entire innovation pipeline that is positioning Upstate New York as a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, innovation and supply chain.”

By connecting industry directly with university research assets, NY THRIVE is helping companies move promising technologies from concept to market faster—reinforcing Upstate New York’s position as a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, innovation and supply chain development.

Read the full announcement from Syracuse University here: NY THRIVE Innovation Vouchers Advance CNY Semiconductor Manufacturing | Syracuse University Today

Syracuse University has received $1 million in federal funding to establish a Semiconductor Thermal Noise Testbed. The investment strengthens semiconductor manufacturing capabilities while supporting workforce development across the NY SMART I-Corridor.

The testbed will support the development of ultra-low thermal noise materials used in quantum sensing, advanced scientific research, and semiconductor production. Syracuse University says that these capabilities are “critical to strengthening the U.S. domestic semiconductor industry,” particularly as demand grows for high-precision, next-generation technologies. These cross-cutting technologies highlight the corridor’s strength as an integrated innovation ecosystem where discoveries move from research labs to real-world manufacturing and economic growth.

As semiconductor investment accelerates across the region, including Micron Technology’s multibillion-dollar manufacturing campus in Central New York, which broke ground earlier this month, research infrastructure such as Syracuse University’s thermal noise testbed is essential to aligning innovation, manufacturing, and workforce development. The facility will prepare students and researchers with the high-precision skills needed to support advanced semiconductor production.

Advancing U.S. leadership in semiconductor and quantum technologies is essential not only for economic competitiveness, but also for national security. Investments like this reinforce the NY SMART I-Corridor’s position as a nationally significant hub for advanced manufacturing, research excellence, and workforce development. These efforts help ensure the next generation of semiconductor innovation is designed, built, and scaled in New York.

The funding, included in the FY 2026 Commerce-Justice-Science appropriations bill as Community Project Funding, was championed by U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Representative John Mannion.

Federal Leaders’ Support Critical to Securing Investment

“Thanks to this million-dollar investment that I helped champion, Syracuse University’s cutting-edge thermal noise testbed is poised to develop the semiconductor manufacturing, precision metrology, and quantum computing technologies and workforce that will power our nation’s future. It gives me great pride to deliver this federal funding to build on Syracuse University’s decades of leadership in thermal noise research while driving economic growth and creating new, good-paying jobs for Upstate New York’s growing semiconductor manufacturing hub,” said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. “With this new investment and the recent groundbreaking of Micron’s megafab in Clay, it is becoming clearer every day that America’s road to semiconductor leadership runs through Central New York.”

“I’m proud to have secured these federal dollars that will drive real growth across Central New York through the creation of high-tech jobs and the advancement of cutting-edge research at Syracuse University,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “This investment in our domestic semiconductor workforce and manufacturing capacity will help to solidify Central New York as a leader in next-generation technologies. I’ll keep working to bring home resources that strengthen our research capabilities and make a real difference for working families.”

“Investing in cutting-edge scientific research is critical to Syracuse University and Central New York, continuing their long tradition of innovation and leadership,” said U.S. Representative John Mannion. “This funding will drive discovery, help train the next generation of scientists and engineers, and keep our region at the forefront of emerging technologies that matter to our local economy and America’s national security. I’m grateful to partner with Syracuse University to support world-class research, talent, and opportunity right here in Upstate New York.”

To learn more about semiconductor innovation and collaboration opportunities across the NY SMART I-Corridor, get connected here.

Micron Technology has officially begun construction on its semiconductor megafab in Clay, New York, marking a major milestone for Upstate New York and the nation’s semiconductor industry. Once completed, the facility will be the largest semiconductor manufacturing site in the United States and a significant driver of advanced manufacturing, innovation, and regional economic growth.

The megafab is expected to support:

• 9,000 direct semiconductor jobs
• Up to 50,000 total regional jobs through supply chain and supporting industries
• More than $100 billion in private investment — the largest in New York State history
• $5.2 billion in annual investment
• $18 billion in long-term economic growth

By 2033, one in four American-made chips is expected to be produced within 350 miles of the NY SMART I-Corridor, cementing Upstate New York’s role as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing. The project also includes investments in infrastructure, clean energy, workforce training, and housing to ensure local communities benefit from this historic opportunity.

For the NY SMART I-Corridor, Micron’s groundbreaking represents a defining moment and reflects years of coordinated regional planning. The project accelerates the development of a connected semiconductor ecosystem across Upstate New York, strengthening relationships among manufacturers, suppliers, research institutions, and workforce partners.

“It is impossible to overstate the significance of this moment for our region,” said Robert M. Simpson, President and CEO of CenterState CEO. “Micron’s groundbreaking reflects years of dedicated effort and the start of a new era of growth for the entire SMART I-Corridor. The positive impact of the megafab will be felt quickly and broadly through the creation of thousands of jobs, the growth of new businesses, and expanded opportunity for our residents.”

“The groundbreaking shows our region has what it takes to transform its economy,” said Dottie Gallagher, CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. “While the facility is being built in Central New York, the growth it creates will reach communities across Upstate, including Buffalo, through new jobs, suppliers, and expanded economic opportunity.”

“Micron’s groundbreaking marks a transformative investment for New York and the nation’s semiconductor future,” said Joe Stefko, Regional Innovation Officer for the Tech Hub and CEO of OneROC. “It accelerates the Corridor’s efforts to scale a resilient semiconductor supply chain and world-class innovation ecosystem, signaling that Upstate New York is ready to compete, build, and lead in the next generation of advanced manufacturing.”

Supported by more than 100 regional organizations, the NY SMART I-Corridor is aligning workforce development, supplier readiness, and innovation initiatives to ensure Micron’s investment delivers lasting economic benefits for communities across Upstate New York

Interested in plugging into the growing semiconductor ecosystem? click here.

*Photo courtesy of the Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

POWER UP New York (Promote Opportunity with Electric Readiness for Underdeveloped Properties) is a $300 million New York State initiative focused on preparing industrial sites for the energy demands of advanced manufacturing, including semiconductors, agribusiness, and cleantech.

The program represents a shift in how New York approaches industrial site readiness, prioritizing power infrastructure early so companies can move faster from site selection to operation.

What POWER UP New York Offers

Modeled on the success of FAST NY, which supports municipalities in preparing industrial sites, POWER UP focuses specifically on electrical and transmission infrastructure upgrades.

Eligible projects may include improvements such as:

• Substations and transmission connections
• Utility upgrades needed to support high load manufacturing
• Infrastructure that enables clean and reliable power delivery

By addressing power needs upfront, POWER UP creates “turn-key” power-ready industrial sites that are ready to support next-generation manufacturers.

Why POWER UP Matters for the NY SMART I-Corridor

The NY SMART I-Corridor is emerging as a national hub for semiconductor manufacturing and advanced technology. These industries depend on reliable, high-capacity power, and POWER UP helps ensure the region’s sites are prepared to meet those needs.

By funding power and transmission infrastructure at strategically located sites, POWER UP helps:

• Reduce development timelines
• Attract semiconductor and supply-chain companies
• Support good-paying manufacturing jobs
• Strengthen regional competitiveness

This approach eases one of the biggest barriers to advanced manufacturing development — access to sufficient electrical capacity — while supporting long-term economic growth across Upstate New York.

Strategic Investment in Upstate New York’s Manufacturing Future

POWER UP is administered by Empire State Development in consultation with the Department of Public Service, ensuring funded sites are positioned to support advanced manufacturing and aligned with long-term energy planning.

By upgrading industrial sites with modern power and energy infrastructure, New York is supporting the advanced manufacturing future the NY SMART I-Corridor is building. This investment lays the foundation for a strong, competitive, and sustainable semiconductor and advanced manufacturing ecosystem across Upstate New York.

Interested in developing a site with high power needs? Learn how to apply for POWER UP here.

2025 was a transformative year for the NY SMART I-Corridor, strengthening Upstate New York’s position as a national hub for semiconductor manufacturing and advanced technology.

From the launch of innovation programs to the progress of major infrastructure projects, the Corridor connected businesses, researchers and communities to high-value opportunities.

Here’s a look back at some of the highlights from 2025.

Impact snapshot

• Nearly $200K awarded in NY THRIVE Innovation Vouchers
• 89 industry partners engaged, 30+ training providers and 75+ workforce support partners connected through STEP UP
• 100+ companies engaged and 12+ technical assistance projects launched through SCAN
• Projects underway to support 9,000+ jobs, $5.2B in annual investment, and $18B in regional GDP over the next decade

Events driving collaboration

In July, UB hosted Bridging the Gap: Activating the Semiconductor Supply Chain Network, bringing together 130+ leaders, 30 speakers, and 40+ matchmaking meetings. Participants engaged with Micron, Moog, and Edwards Vacuum, learning about supplier standards, financing, and navigating federal and state purchasing.

In December, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership hosted the Opportunity Exchange, where manufacturers, educators, and economic development partners explored Upstate New York’s semiconductor ecosystem. Highlights included:

• Micron Clay mega fab: Creating thousands of jobs and supplier opportunities
• Edwards Vacuum: Local sourcing and cleanroom facility services
• APEX Accelerators: Guidance on government contracting and supplier readiness

These events showcased supply chain integration, world-class R&D at universities including UB, RIT, Syracuse, and Cornell, and workforce development efforts addressing growing industry needs.

State support & programs

The FY2026 state budget made key investments to support Tech Hub efforts, including:

• Expanded Excelsior Jobs Program for semiconductor supply chain roles
• 15% tax credit for R&D projects over $100M
• Up to 75% of wages and training costs covered for workforce development
• $300M POWER UP infrastructure investment to support site readiness

Programs like NY THRIVE awarded nearly $200K in innovation vouchers, helping companies access labs, maker spaces, and specialized equipment to accelerate research and commercialization.

The NY SMART I-Corridor Opportunity Guide provides a roadmap for businesses to connect with semiconductor opportunities, highlighting major investments, workforce programs, sourcing opportunities from top manufacturers, and supplier requirements covering quality, sustainability, cybersecurity, and business continuity.

Micron Clay mega fab

Key milestones in 2025:

• Environmental reviews and permits completed
• Construction slated for mid-2026; operations expected around 2030

This historic project will create thousands of jobs, generate billions in investment, and cement Upstate New York as a national semiconductor manufacturing hub.

Looking ahead

2025 demonstrated that the NY SMART I-Corridor is actively building the future. Strategic events, state support, innovation programs, and major projects have strengthened the region’s role as a national leader in semiconductors and advanced technology.

As 2026 begins, the Corridor will continue expanding supply chain opportunities, supporting workforce growth and driving innovation that shapes Upstate New York’s semiconductor ecosystem.

The NY SMART I-Corridor continues to unite partners across Upstate New York to advance the region’s role in America’s semiconductor future. On December 8, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership hosted the Opportunity Exchange, bringing together manufacturers, technology firms, educators, and economic development organizations to explore how companies can engage directly in the growing semiconductor supply chain.

The event underscored the momentum building across the NY SMART I-Corridor. Attendees heard updates on cornerstone projects shaping the region’s advanced manufacturing landscape, including Micron Technology’s historic Clay mega fab and Edwards Vacuum’s new Genesee County manufacturing facility. They also received guidance from APEX Accelerators on how businesses can meet federal and prime contractor requirements and position themselves for supplier opportunities.

Participants were introduced to the expanding suite of Tech Hub resources available to companies across the Corridor. These initiatives support supplier readiness, connect businesses to world-class university research capabilities, and help build the skilled workforce required for long-term industry growth.

The Opportunity Exchange demonstrated how regional partners are working together to ensure that companies of all sizes have clear pathways to participate in this once in a generation economic transformation.

To read the full event recap from our partners at the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, click here.