A Yates County economic development official will now help lead one of New York’s largest statewide business and development advocacy organizations.
Steve Griffin, chief executive officer of the Finger Lakes Economic Development Center, was officially named chair of the New York State Economic Development Council Board of Directors during the organization’s annual meeting last week in Cooperstown.
Griffin will serve a two-year term leading the statewide organization, which represents more than 1,000 economic development agencies, local development corporations, banks, utilities, chambers of commerce, colleges, and private-sector partners across New York.
The appointment places a Finger Lakes leader at the forefront of statewide conversations surrounding economic growth, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and business policy during a period of continued competition for jobs and development projects across New York.
In a statement, Griffin said the appointment reflects the organization’s willingness to include communities of all sizes in statewide economic development efforts.
“As someone who is immensely proud to represent Yates County — one of the smallest counties in New York State — this appointment underscores the true core value of the NYSEDC,” Griffin said.
The New York State Economic Development Council serves as one of the primary advocacy and networking organizations for economic development professionals in the state. The group works closely with state lawmakers, local agencies, and regional organizations on policy priorities and development initiatives.
Ryan Silva, executive director of the council, credited Griffin with helping secure major wins for the Finger Lakes Economic Development Center and said he expects Griffin to help guide the organization through its next phase.
“He represents the best of our membership, cares passionately about our mission, and understands the important role economic development has in the quality of life in communities across the state,” Silva said.
Griffin said his focus during the next two years will center on expanding the organization’s influence and continuing to push policies aimed at sustainable economic growth across New York.
The Finger Lakes Economic Development Center serves as Yates County’s primary economic development agency and works on business recruitment, expansion projects, infrastructure planning, and workforce initiatives throughout the region.
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