Letter to Penny Pritzker, Secretary of Commerce - Additional EDA Funds for Buffalo's Launch NY

Letter

Dear Commerce Secretary Pritzker:

I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by Launch New York for funding through the Economic Development Association's Economic Adjustment Assistance Programs. Such funding will further support Launch New York's investment in the Upstate New York business community by providing new start-ups with the necessary resources to succeed in a 21st century business climate.

Launch New York is currently working with a diverse group of service provider organizations to bolster the business ecosystems of several different upstate communities. With nearly 180 outreach partnerships, Launch New York has a strong presence across Upstate New York. Headquartered in Buffalo, they maintain healthy visibility in the Southern Tier and the Finger Lakes, and stretch as far as the Central New York region. This sprawling reach means that Launch New York is working to spur economic development in 27 different counties.

With this funding, Launch New York will invest in a younger generation of New Yorkers by creating a national mentoring network that will connect upstate start-ups with highly specialized professionals that are unavailable locally. In addition, Launch New York plans to supplement this access with a network of local trainers to provide instruction to brand new workforces. By allowing access to the best and brightest minds, Launch New York is seeking to ensure that our businesses of tomorrow have the wherewithal to compete in a complex global marketplace. They know how crucial it is to provide new and innovative opportunities that will keep our young people employed, and ensure that the Upstate economy is equipped for the 21st century. I applaud Launch New York for their foresight and sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator

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