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Emerging and Regional Partner Program Fund

Emerging and Regional Partner Program Fund

Backs emerging and regional fund managers by adding anchor commitments to funds focused on New York innovation.

OpenNew York Ventures (Empire State Development)United StatesDeep-tech · adjacent

Eligibility · United States · US-NY

The Emerging and Regional Partner Program Fund deploys $102 million in federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) capital as LP commitments to diverse and emerging private-sector fund managers operating in or supporting New York State innovation businesses. The program's explicit goal is to develop the next generation of high-performing diverse and regional fund managers who can channel capital into New York-based technology companies.

Eligible fund managers must be raising Fund I, II, or III and must demonstrate the ability to raise a minimum of $8 million in total fund commitments. NY Ventures' SSBCI allocation cannot exceed 25% of other committed capital in the applicant's fund, functioning as an anchor or co-anchor LP rather than the sole source of capital. Target investment sectors for the underlying portfolio include life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and information technology, though fund managers operating in adjacent high-growth sectors are also considered.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis as program funds remain available, and applicants are directed to review the formal Request for Applications for detailed submission guidance. New York Ventures holds monthly office hours on the second Thursday of each month, available via Zoom registration, for managers seeking guidance before submission. Managers from underrepresented backgrounds and those focused on geographies underserved by traditional venture capital are explicitly prioritized. Contact: nyventures@esd.ny.gov.

LP commitments from $102M in SSBCI capital to diverse and regional emerging fund managers raising Fund I–III with a minimum of $8M in New York State.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.Rolling
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Equity
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.$102M

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Last verified: 29 Jun 2026Source: esd.ny.gov