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