News Summary
The newly inaugurated INSPYRE Innovation Hub in downtown Syracuse is the largest business accelerator in New York State, aiming to boost local economic growth. Spanning 90,000 square feet, this modern facility hosts 35 resident startups and offers coworking spaces, meeting rooms, and a rooftop terrace. The project, receiving significant support from Empire State Development, is designed to foster innovation and attract new businesses, aligning with the Syracuse Surge strategy for economic development and revitalizing the downtown area.
Syracuse, New York – The INSPYRE Innovation Hub has officially opened its doors in downtown Syracuse, establishing itself as the largest business accelerator in New York State. This landmark facility, developed by CenterState CEO, celebrated its grand opening with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday. The hub is located at 235 Harrison Street and encompasses a total of 90,000 square feet across three stories.
The construction of the INSPYRE Innovation Hub commenced in August 2023 and involved a comprehensive $32 million investment that included renovation works as well as the addition of a two-story structure to the existing building, formerly known as The Tech Garden. The renovations modernized the on-site mechanical and security systems, and the newly designed facility showcases a redesigned entrance and a 5,000 square foot roof terrace that is accessible to clients.
Among the amenities in the hub are a meeting room and private offices for 35 resident startups, along with dedicated coworking spaces and an expanded hardware area designed specifically for prototype and product development. The INSPYRE program is tailored to foster innovation by providing entrepreneurs with access to industry experts and valuable networking opportunities.
The INSPYRE Innovation Hub emerges as a significant boost to the region’s economy, aligning with the Syracuse Surge strategy for economic development. Positioned within the “Innovation Alley” concept on Warren Street, the hub plays a crucial role in revitalizing the downtown area and creating an ecosystem that encourages the growth of startups and innovation.
Financial support for the project was significantly bolstered by Empire State Development, which contributed $16 million to the initiative through its CNY Rising Upstate Revitalization Initiative, demonstrating the state’s commitment to economic progress in Central New York.
Ben Sio, the Acting President of CenterState CEO, highlighted the importance of the hub in enhancing resources, programming, and amenities available to entrepreneurs in Central New York. This new accelerator is poised to support not only local startups but also attract new businesses, thereby generating jobs and stimulating local economic growth.
The INSPYRE Innovation Hub marks a transformative step for Syracuse, emphasizing its role as a center for innovation and entrepreneurship. As the largest business incubator in New York State, its opening sends a strong signal about the potential for growth and collaboration within the region.
With modern facilities and a supportive environment for emerging businesses, the INSPYRE Innovation Hub is set to play a vital role in shaping the future of local entrepreneurship, ensuring that Central New York remains competitive in the national and global entrepreneurial landscape. This pioneering initiative is a significant addition to the existing resources available for startups, fostering a vibrant community focused on innovation and growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Syracuse.com: See Inside Syracuse’s INSPYRE Innovation Hub
- CNY Central: $32M INSPYRE Innovation Hub Opens
- LocalSYR: INSPYRE Innovation Hub Opens
- Spectrum Local News: INSPYRE Innovation Hub Opens
- Rome Sentinel: State Unveils Expanded Innovation Hub
- Wikipedia: Business Accelerator
- Google Search: INSPYRE Innovation Hub
- Google Scholar: INSPYRE Innovation Hub
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Innovation
- Google News: INSPYRE Innovation Hub

Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.