Westchester County’s first-ever comprehensive economic development plan 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. As an example, a new university partnership focusing on e-commerce is linking academic researchers with local businesses. For a selected listing of the County’s colleges and universities offering job training and other programs please click here.

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. In the year 2004, tourism spending in Westchester County resulted in an economic impact of more than $1.48 billion, which in turn resulted in $24.749 million in local tax revenue. Tourism is an integral part of Westchester County’s economic development growth strategy.

Additional information on tourism and printed materials include the following:

• The 2006 Westchester Way Travel Guide - 68 pages of information on hotels, attractions, art and culture, historic sites, special events, nightlife, parks and recreational activities and special events.
• The 2005-2006 Meeting Planners Guide - 40 pages of information on holding meetings, conferences and conventions in Westchester, with listings for hotels, conference centers, and other unique spaces and places.
• The Tourism Map of Cultural and Recreational Attractions in Westchester County
• “Gardens, The Westchester Way” color brochure describes 14 gardens open to the public for individual or group tours, as well as a calendar of garden and plant shows.
• “Antiques, The Westchester Way” color brochure listing over 40 antiques shops and auction houses throughout the county, as well as a calendar of antiques shows.
• “Outdoor Adventure, The Westchester Way” color brochure listing locations to enjoy outdoor recreation on water and on land.
• African American Heritage Trail brochure highlights thirteen locations that testify to African-Americans' many roles and contributions to the county.
• The Hike and Bike Trail Map details six scenic trail ways welcoming bicyclists and hikers.
• Art Galleries guide features 52 galleries, annual art events and craft fairs.

For more information on these publications and other resources, contact www.westchestertourism.com.