ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Ep.23 “One in four semiconductor chips that are produced in the United States are going to be manufactured within 350 miles of where we’re sitting.” - Joe Stefko, President & CEO of OneROC and Regional Innovation Officer for the New York Smart I-Corridor.
Today we go Inside the I-Corridor to get the big-picture view of how Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse are becoming a globally competitive hub for semiconductors, microelectronics and advanced manufacturing.
Sponsored by The Enterprise Center at PathStone, a CDFI helping small businesses access the capital and support they need to grow.
Joe Stefko brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Before leading OneROC, he worked on the front lines of Buffalo's fiscal recovery. Now he's helping Greater Rochester, and the broader I-Corridor, think regionally about its next major economic transformation.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• The opportunity is bigger than Micron. Semiconductor growth is creating demand throughout a much larger regional ecosystem.
• You don't have to manufacture chips to participate. Construction, skilled trades, transportation, logistics, landscaping, technology and professional services are among the opportunities emerging throughout the supply chain.
• Small businesses have an entry point. I-Corridor programs can help companies assess their capabilities, strengthen areas such as cybersecurity and connect with buyers and technical assistance.
• Workforce development is a major piece of the strategy. Many semiconductor technician positions won't require a four-year degree, creating new pathways into well-paying careers.
• Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse aren't approaching this as competitors anymore. The three markets are combining their strengths to compete nationally—and globally.
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Sponsor: The Enterprise Center at Pathstone Join us Monday, Oct. 26 from 9:30 AM–3:00 PM for the FAiR Program — a FREE hands-on session built for early-stage business owners who are ready to stop waiting for customers to show up and start building a system that brings them in.
At the Neighborhood Hub, 616 North Goodman St. Rochester, NY 14609 Register Here: https://ow.ly/rke650ZRaj6
NY SMART I-Corridor
Learn about supply chain, commercialization, workforce development and business opportunities across the corridor.
https://nysmarticorridor.com/
Supply Chain Activation Network (SCAN)
Connect with resources for businesses interested in entering or expanding within the semiconductor and microelectronics supply chain.
Commercialization & Collaboration Center (C3)
Access university research, specialized facilities, prototyping, technical expertise and commercialization support.
OneROC
Learn more about Greater Rochester's regional economic alliance and its work supporting economic growth and collaboration.
https://www.oneroc.com/
NY SMART I-Corridor Opportunity Exchange — October 8, 2026
Business Guide to the NY SMART Tech Hub
Chapters:
00:00 What Is the New York Smart I-Corridor?
00:58 Meet OneROC CEO Joe Stefko
02:08 How Joe Stefko Helped Buffalo Recover From Fiscal Crisis
07:28 Why Rochester, Buffalo & Syracuse Are Finally Working Together
10:09 New York Smart I-Corridor & the CHIPS and Science Act Explained
12:53 How Upstate New York Won Federal Tech Hub Funding
15:11 How Startups & Entrepreneurs Can Access I-Corridor Resources
18:27 What's Happened Since the NY Smart I-Corridor Summit?
19:32 Semiconductor Supply Chain Opportunities for NY Businesses
22:09 Propel NY: Helping Businesses Enter the Semiconductor Industry
23:37 How Your Business Can Get Into the I-Corridor Supply Chain
25:09 Construction, Logistics & Business Opportunities Available Now
28:37 How Businesses Should Prepare for Semiconductor Contracts
30:20 How to Access I-Corridor Funding & Technical Assistance
32:15 How the Tech Hub Could Transform Rochester's Economy
34:14 Semiconductor Jobs That Don't Require a College Degree
36:18 Making Sure Local Communities Aren't Left Behind
37:21 Workforce Development & Training Opportunities
40:14 STEP UP & New York's $200M ON-RAMP Investment
42:36 What Is OneROC?
46:08 Upcoming I-Corridor Opportunities for Businesses
47:11 How to Get Connected Inside the I-Corridor
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