Western New York Regional Economic Development Council

About the WNY REDC

The Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative is a key component of New York State's approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, the state established 10 Regional Councils to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth in their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations.

In November 2023, the WNY region’s strategic plan was updated for the first time since 2011. The re-established regional priorities build off the region’s unique assets and geographic location. They also reflect the rich history as a center of manufacturing and pioneer of innovation, important community and cultural assets, core urban centers and quaint villages, and world-class research and innovation resources. Over the past ten years, by building on these and burgeoning strengths such as growing population segments, new entrepreneurs and a strong Tech workforce, WNY made tremendous investments in places, people and industries critical to a sustainable economic future. Key industries in tradable sectors are advanced through investments in placemaking to create accessible job centers, sustainable infrastructure and livable communities; in workforce through targeted job training and talent attraction; and in innovation by investing in the support networks that attract entrepreneurs and ensure a healthy and diverse business climate.

The WNYREDC is composed of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties.

New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) is transforming downtown neighborhoods into vibrant communities where the next generation of New Yorkers will want to live work and raise families.

NY Forward supports a more equitable downtown recovery for New York’s smaller and rural communities, with a focus on hamlets and villages.

Learn more about the winning communities: