The Digital NYC: Wired to the World^® program, New York City's award-winning technology-based real estate development program, is beginning its third year of operation by offering companies a wider selection of affordable, high-speed broadband-equipped space, enhanced benefits and hands-on business assistance.

Through Digital NYC: Wired to the World, which was created by the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC), 32 buildings and nearly 1.6 million square feet of office space have been renovated in eight designated districts throughout all five boroughs. These thriving business districts offer significant financial incentives and excellent access to transportation. To date, more than 150 companies in industries as diverse as telecommunications, biotechnology, health/medical services, new media, software and computer services, and architecture have established or expanded their business in the Digital NYC districts.

By leasing space in Digital NYC districts, companies may qualify for the City's Commercial Expansion Program, which offers incentives including relocation grants, rent abatements and low-cost energy benefits. The combined value of these programs, as much as $15 per square foot, allow cost-conscious companies to invest more in business development endeavors such as research and development, marketing and sales.

In addition to affordable rents and valuable financial incentives, companies participating in the Digital NYC: Wired to the World program will enjoy enhanced benefits that include technical assistance and employee training, more connections to the talent and technological innovations being developed in the City's academic community and industry-wide networking opportunities.

The New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS), EDC's partner in the Digital NYC program, is also creating satellite business centers in each borough to provide business owners with comprehensive access to government and private programs and expert business advice. Business owners will be able to obtain information about procurement and incentive opportunities, assistance in navigating problems with government agencies and a range of other business development services in their community.

Current Digital NYC districts include the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Sunset Park, Downtown/DUMBO, and Red Hook in Brooklyn; the South Bronx, Long Island City, Upper Manhattan, and St. George, Staten Island.

With a wide range of business location options, rents that average $18 per square foot, and flexible floor plans, Digital NYC: Wired to the World offers start-up or growing companies the space and assistance they need to succeed.

For detailed information on the Digital NYC: Wired to the World program and its wide variety of available real estate and incentives, visit www.digitalnyc.info.