Tech:NYC Statement on Governor Hochul’s launch of the FutureWorks Commission

March 19, 2026

Tech:NYC issued the following statement on Governor Hochul’s launch of the FutureWorks Commission to build a vibrant AI ecosystem in New York.  

“Governor Hochul has a strong track record on attracting and building a vibrant and responsible AI ecosystem in New York, and she reaffirmed that commitment today with the announcement of the FutureWorks Commission. 

The Governor recognizes the potential benefits as well as the potential risks that come with the inevitable shift to an AI-based economy. We are encouraged by a strong effort to bring together the public sector, the private sector, researchers, and labor to work together to navigate this transition in a way that ensures that new technologies lift up all New Yorkers.

We are also encouraged to see significant investment in education, workforce training, and small business support, especially the designation of Welcome to Chinatown — an alumnus of Tech:NYC’s Decoded Futures program, which empowers the social sector to scale their impact with AI — as a statewide hub for AI assistance.”

— Julie Samuels, President & CEO, Tech:NYC