Empire State Development (ESD) announces more than $1.4 million investment for Rocket Science Corporation’s New headquarters at Glenville, Schenectady County. It will house a game studio, a video game incubator and a game developer certification facility.
According to EDS sources, it will be an 8,200-square-foot facility approximately. ESD is supporting these projects by awarding Rocket Science Corporation with up to $1.269 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits for the creation of 30 jobs, and a $200,000 grant for construction and renovation costs related to the development of the Capital District Gaming Studio. Funding for both projects was recommended by the Capital Regional Economic Development Council.
Rocket Science founder and CEO Brian Corrigan said, “New York State has played a crucial role in the growth of the gaming industry in the Capital Region. With the addition of the new production credit, New York has the opportunity to become a truly global hub for innovation and in the space.”
Rocket Science Corporation is transforming the former Glenville Fire Station into a new, permanent home for its game studio. The facility will also serve as an incubator site to help smaller studios grow and thrive. The Capital District Gaming Studio will feature a co-working space for independent game developers, as well as an educational space where existing programs can expand their reach into Schenectady County. The studio will also have a training facility where students, beginners, and professionals can learn game development skills and earn professional certifications. This program will be run in conjunction with existing programs at SUNY Schenectady and the University at Albany, where certification requires both exams and practical experience.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is the main economic development agency for the state of New York. Its goal is to boost the economy, create new job and business opportunities, generate more revenue for the state and local governments, and support diverse local economies. To achieve these goals, Empire State Development uses financial aid such as loans, grants, tax credits, and more to encourage private sector investment and growth, leading to job creation and strong communities throughout New York. In addition, Empire State Development is responsible for managing the New York State Regional Economic Development Councils and promoting the state’s popular tourism brand, “I LOVE NY.” To learn more about the Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit http://www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov/ and http://www.esd.ny.gov/..