GENIUS NY is the world’s largest business accelerator competition focused on uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). Each year, GENIUS NY awards $3 million dollars to five start-up companies looking to grow their businesses in Central New York. 

GENIUS NY builds on the progress of CNY Rising – The Region’s comprehensive strategy to create good jobs and attract businesses to Central New York. To date, GENIUS NY has invested more than $18 million in 32 start-ups from around the world, who have gone on to raise over $100 million in follow-on funding, and create more than 80 tech jobs in Central New York. 

Naming:

GENIUS NY is an acronym that stands for Growing ENtrepreneurs & Innovators in UpState New York. 

Mission:

To attract and retain high-growth technology startups to Syracuse.

We invest in start-ups in the uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), robotics, and aerospace industries. Our continued investment in UAS businesses is helping to ensure that New York remains the leader in the industry and brings quality jobs and economic growth to Central New York.