Upstate New York is uniquely positioned to benefit from recent advances in biotechnology, alternative energy, viticulture, aquaculture, and agrarian science. The area is rich in natural resources, bolstered by the strength of its technology sector, and committed to sustainable economic growth. Its citizens’ perspectives have been informed by two centuries of ties to New York’s farmland and by access to educational, engineering, and biotechnological hubs throughout the Hudson and Genesee Valleys.

To pursue great opportunities, great leadership, community involvement, and initiative must be present. Brisk scientific strides must pair with the ethos of the family farm. To help upstate New York define a vision, plan for its economic future, and identify leaders that will help drive toward a shared goal, Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Michael McNulty will lead a collaborative economic summit to be held on May 9 in Cobleskill. The 2008 Economic Summit: Greener Pastures for Upstate New York will bring together representatives from business, education, labor, local government, environmental protection advocacy groups, the media, and local communities to examine existing resources and develop effective, ecologically conscious, innovative ideas for economic growth.

Specifically, the summit will highlight the evolution of biofuels; the importance of educational programs and true business development to the future of agriculture; the growth of niche farming and domestic viticulture; the potential economic boost of agro-tourism, equine breeding and studies, and the practical applications of aquaculture. The summit will help define the role of entrepreneurs and local businesses as agents for positive change, draw attention to the research potential of the region’s colleges and universities, and serve as a sounding board to collect community feedback.

The format of the summit will combine presentations by experts, panel sessions, and an interactive technology called eFORUM designed to collect instant feedback from summit participants and identify action steps and plans. Following the summit, a report will be published on-line to encourage and facilitate future action on the priorities agreed upon at the summit.

The summit will be coordinated by the Public Forum Institute, an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that has considerable experience with similar efforts.