Westchester's 2004 comprehensive economic development plan was the first of it's kind for the county. It identifies six key industries, referred to as "clusters," as key players in the region’s economy. Each of these growth markets is cultivated with a unique approach based on its needs.
These clusters include Biotechnology, Education, Headquarters & Corporate Services, Information Technology, Manufacturing and Tourism.
Biotechnology
Nearly 20 percent of the biotechnology work force in New York - 8,000 employees – is in Westchester County. That’s the largest concentration within the state. Plans are underway for a medical research park, additional incubator space and additional educational programs in Westchester County. This cluster is further complimented by the presence of premiere medical and research institutions such as the Westchester Medical Center and the New York Medical College.
Education
Higher education provides approximately 10,000 skilled professional jobs throughout the county. Innovative programs -- many geared to business -- also serve to retain the next generation of workers and business owners in Westchester County.
Headquarters and Corporate Services
Westchester County’s proximity to New York City, coupled with its excellent transportation system, high-tech infrastructure and quality of life, have helped to make the county the corporate headquarters or home of more than 170 businesses. The sector accounts for more than 45,000 employees. More than a dozen of these firms are in the Fortune 500. There are also more than 10,000 local companies throughout the county that support and service these headquarters.
Information Technology
There are more than 900 technology-related companies, employing nearly 14,000 professionals, which call Westchester County home. These include software firms, Internet service providers and telecommunications companies. IT firms thrive in Westchester County, as the county has consistently out-paced neighboring Nassau County, Suffolk County and New York City in terms of the number of patents issued by the U.S. Patent Office.
Manufacturing
More than 37,000 persons are employed in the manufacturing sector in Westchester County. The "ripple" effect of this manufacturing employment equates to an additional 60,000 jobs in the area economy.
The manufacturing sector in Westchester County is well diversified including firms in printing, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, computers and electronics, textiles, food and beverage and numerous others industries.
The Westchester County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) and the Hudson Valley Technology Development Center (HVTDC) can provide further information and assistance.
Tourism
More than 30,000 persons are employed in the county’s tourism industry. Tourism is an integral part of Westchester County’s economic development growth strategy. To request additional information on tourism and related publications, visit Westchester Tourism.
