Ithaca Area Economic Development reports meeting year‑three commitments, highlights workforce pilots

Curt Anderson, director of operations for Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED), briefed the committee on Sept. 10 about IAED’s work under a five‑year Tompkins County funding commitment and described the organization’s three core pillars: direct services (business retention and incentives), workforce programs, and special projects/leadership.

Anderson said IAED’s revolving loan funds and industrial development agency administration continue to support growth in traded‑sector employers, while workforce programs — notably Tompkins Build (a paid, 11‑week pre‑apprenticeship program) and the direct‑to‑work pathways to manufacturing model — are key focus areas. He said a planned summer cohort of the manufacturing pathway was paused after several participating manufacturers signaled hiring uncertainty tied to tariff costs, but the apprenticeship pathway and other cohorts continue.

IAED reported it had exceeded some five‑year metrics early, driven in part by the timing of the large Southworks project closing through the IDA. Anderson said the county’s five‑year commitment (matched by private investors and fee revenue) remains the linchpin for IAED’s ability to leverage outside investment and expand services. He told legislators IAED is preparing for a search to fill the organization’s president role and expects to restore a fifth staff position soon.

Committee members asked about attraction vs. retention work, IAED’s engagement with minority‑ and women‑owned businesses (IAED acknowledged low MWBE metrics this reporting period and said outreach will be emphasized going forward), and attention to sites such as the Cornell Industrial Park where bank and receivership activity earlier limited marketing. Anderson said IAED is re‑engaging on that site and pursuing regional coordination on broadband and supply‑chain projects.