A life sciences hub in Syracuse is getting a major upgrade as New York pushes to grow its biotechnology sector.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Monday that the state will invest nearly $3 million to renovate SUNY Upstate Medical Center’s CNY Biotech Accelerator. The project aims to ease a shortage of lab space and nearly double the number of companies the accelerator can host onsite.
More lab space, more startups
The renovation will convert underused areas into new, flexible workspaces for biotech companies. Plans include 1,809 square feet of wet lab space, new cold storage, shared equipment rooms, and office space.
State officials say the upgrades will allow the accelerator to support up to 10 additional early- to mid-stage companies each year.
“This latest investment in the CNY Biotech Accelerator reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare,” Hochul said. “The entrepreneurs who are bringing their ideas to this supportive incubator are focused on advancing medical science, helping to drive our economy, and securing treatments and hope for those battling life-threatening diseases.”
Economic impact already underway
The CNY Biotech Accelerator supports startups working in health tech, pharmaceuticals, biologics, and medical devices. Over the past two years, the program has generated $65 million in regional economic impact and helped create 82 jobs.
Empire State Development will provide up to $2.25 million for the project through the Central New York Rising Upstate Revitalization Initiative. Construction is already underway, with completion expected by summer 2028.
“Our continued support for Upstate Medical’s CNY Biotech Accelerator means that even more industry entrepreneurs will have the space they need to grow their innovations,” said Hope Knight, president and CEO of Empire State Development.
Designed for collaboration
The project will transform existing space into shared, adaptable labs with moveable benches and equipment. Renovations also include new areas for microscopy work and client storage.
Dr. Mantosh Dewan, president of Upstate Medical University, called the accelerator a key driver of innovation in the region.
“Investing more than $2 million to upgrade this facility ensures Central New York continues to be a place where medical breakthroughs are born and accelerated,” Dewan said.
Part of a bigger biotech push
State leaders say the Syracuse project fits into a broader plan to make New York a national leader in life sciences. Hochul recently announced a renewed investment strategy to support biotech work from early discovery through commercialization.
The accelerator expansion also follows other major state investments at Upstate Medical Center, including the design phase of a $450 million hospital annex with an expanded emergency department and burn unit.
Local and state leaders say the renovation will help attract companies, talent, and investment to Central New York, while strengthening the region’s role in medical research and innovation.
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