economic development Archives - News Center

person in protective gear works inside a high-tech laser research facility with glowing panels and precision equipment.

Science & Technology

University-led STELLAR project named a finalist in national ‘innovation engines’ competition

September 18, 2025

The National Science Foundation recognizes the Rochester/Finger Lakes region as a potential hub for laser science and development.

A technician maneuvers a laser diagnostic outside the target chamber of the Omega EP laser at the University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics.

Science & Technology

University’s STELLAR project advances in national ‘innovation engines’ competition

The National Science Foundation grant will connect University, industry, and business partners to grow the region’s laser workforce.

library tower and city skyline illustrate the economic impact of the University of Rochester.

University News

Report details economic reach of the University

September 8, 2021

Latest analysis highlights the University’s role as a “critical engine” with an economic impact that has grown during the past decade and a half.

Seen from behind, a man sits in a yellow chair and looks at his laptop in the NextCorps business incubation space at Sibley Square, complete with colorful mural and modern shared workspaces.

University News

University affiliate NextCorps receives federal grant to help create software companies

The SPRINT Challenge award will benefit students at the University of Rochester and RIT, as NextCorps plans to offer internships with the new software startups.

technician holds a device in front of the eyes of a young child, who looks through the device

University News

Startups with University ties win big at Luminate competition

Ovitz and VPG Medical took home first and second prize in this year’s Luminate competition, the world’s largest startup accelerator program for optics, photonics, and imaging technologies.

business and science colleagues around a table with the Rochester Data Science Consortium at the Incubator at Sibley Square

Science & Technology

Data Science Consortium gives member companies a data edge

October 19, 2018

Since its inception in 2017, the consortium has expanded the number of member companies and created a pool of skilled data science students to assist companies on short notice.

aerial photo of the University of Rochester campus and Rochester neighborhoods

University News

New report details growth of University of Rochester

New economic data from CGR places the University of Rochester as the largest private sector employer in upstate New York, noting that the education and healthcare sectors overall now account for 20% of all jobs in the state.

The Science Coalition

University News

New Report Highlights UR Start-Ups

October 29, 2013

New ideas and technologies produced at research universities are essential to U.S. industry and its ability to compete globally.