Yesterday, the New York State Governor’s office announced a new initiative entitled “Empire State Digital.”

OBJECTIVE

According to the Governor’s press release the purpose of the initiative is to accelerate the ability of NYS-based small businesses to grow their digital presence.

Specifically, it will provide, “specialized solutions such as education, free resources, marketing support and discounted pricing,” with more information available on Empire State Digital’s website.

ENTITIES INVOLVED

The announced partners for the initiative are Empire State Development and the Department of Financial Services on the government side and include Shopify, Square, Clearbanc and Etsy, as ‘e-commerce enablers,’ on the private sector side.

Additionally, NYS Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers, Small Business Development Centers, Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers, Incubators and Hot Spots will provide counseling and support.

IMPACT ON THE NYS DIGITAL ECONOMY

The state is hoping that the effort will allow small businesses to digitally reach their existing customer base and also find new markets in addition to helping them to survive amidst the pandemic.

The various private sector partners stated they hope to enable small businesses to do the following:

• Launch an online presence in a matter of hours
• Allow online stores to be highly accessible
• Provide on-demand delivery
• Enable curbside pickup
• Assist small businesses to reach a global market

Categories: Comparative Advantage, Digital Economy, E-Commerce, Startup Ecosystem