On April 29, 2013, Assembly Members Kim, Rozic, Moya, and Hevesi along with 12 Members of the Queens delegation signed a letter to Governor Cuomo urging him to adopt a comprehensive “Tech Zone” innovation hot spot proposal designed by the organization Coalition for Queens. The Coalition for Queens proposes to transform the borough into a hub for technological innovation by working with existing technology entrepreneurs and with other community stakeholders. Among numerous other resources, the organization cites Queens College, the leading city institution in graduating computer science professionals, and the proximity to the future Cornell NYC Tech campus as contributing to the viability of the borough in becoming a leading technology hub within New York State. As a “Tech Zone” innovation hotspot, the Coalition for Queens proposes to grow start up technology businesses through the use of various support services and tax incentives, spurring well-paid tech careers in Queens.

Technology Innovation Hot Spots were proposed by Governor Andrew Cuomo in his 2013 State of the State. The movement to create 10 high tech incubators is expected to diversify the state economy by creating a tech friendly business climate, and attract an industry that historically has favored California. Technology Innovation Hot Spots are aided by tax incentives and growth support services, including legal and accounting, to help guide technology businesses through the initial startup stage. The NYS Innovation Venture Capital Fund proposed by Governor Cuomo will provide critical seed and early-stage funding to transition from research to marketable products.

“As a representative from Queens, I have seen firsthand the qualities that would make my borough the perfect place for a Technology Innovation Hot Spot. Queens College has the best computer science program in our city, and the students that graduate from the college have the skills that are necessary for the success of this initiative. We are the most diverse borough of New York and our diversity is a part of what makes Queens the perfect spot for a tech zone. The people in our borough have unique skills and experiences, and will drive innovation throughout the city if given the opportunity. The Coalition for Queens has outlined several reasons why we should be the location of the first of these innovation zones, and I can add Queens’ reputation as the site of a hardworking and tenacious populace to that list.” said Assemblyman Ron Kim (D-Flushing).

“With a diverse and talented workforce, premier academic institutions, and developed infrastructure, Queens is a proven start-up borough. Establishing an innovation hot spot is a huge opportunity for Queens to become the mecca of the tech industry in New York," said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D-Fresh Meadows), who represents Queens College which has more computer science students than any other New York school. "I applaud the leadership of the Coalition for Queens and my colleagues in government as we advocate for the advancement of our borough.”

“Tech Zone Innovation Hotspots provide a unique opportunity for expanding business in Queens,” said Assemblyman Francisco Moya. “Job growth in the technology sector has rapidly expanded over the past few years in New York City. The plan proposed by Coalition for Queens will help continue this trend, and ensures that Queens residents will have the necessary resources to grow their technology start-up business.”

“Queens is an ideal location to promote growth in the technology industry through the use of Innovation Hot Spots,” said Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills). “We have a highly educated and motivated workforce that is capable of competing with Silicon Valley, and as the most diverse county in the United States, Queens has much to offer tech entrepreneurs seeking a market to grow. The proposal by Coalition for Queens brings together the most innovative ideas, from some of the brightest minds in the tech community, about how to make the borough a future technology hub in New York State.