ESD is the economic development arm of the state of New York. The mission of Empire State Development (“ESD”) is to promote a vigorous and growing state economy, encourage business investment and job creation, and support diverse, prosperous local economies across New York State through the efficient use of loans, grants, tax credits, real estate development, marketing and other forms of assistance. To support its economic development mission, ESD Invests strategically in infrastructure, innovation, place-making and revitalization and also provides early-stage support for new ventures, including the research and development of new technologies.