The Healthcare and Life Sciences Ecosystem is the anchor of Westchester’s economy. How is the WCA helping grow this $15 billion industry?

Westchester has never been better positioned for growth. How is the WCA ensuring the county capitalizes on its tremendous potential?

Regions that focus on talent and workforce development benefit economically. How is the WCA connecting businesses with talent?

Today’s economy depends on a robust digital infrastructure. How is the WCA pioneering an effort to make gigabit-plus-speed connectivity the new standard across Westchester?

“The pandemic hijacked everyone’s plans, but it has exposed challenges and opportunities for growth. Affordable housing, access to high-speed internet, the digital divide, ramping business up for telecommuting, and supporting the healthcare industry have jumped to the forefront,” says Romita, who admits that any other agenda he may have had coming into his new job got summarily changed by the pandemic. It has been a big pivot for Westchester and how business will be done here. Still, Romita remains optimistic about the future. “Sure, we are going through a very difficult period here, with over 14 percent unemployment in the county and somewhere between $90 million and $160 million in reduced tax receipts. Yet, a recent WCA survey showed a clear majority of folks remain optimistic about Westchester’s future and feel the economy will bounce back within the next three years. Only 10 percent were pessimistic about the county’s economic future.”

Optimism for Westchester’s economic future, combined with a sense that the region’s financial recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic will take between one and three years, are among the key findings from a public survey conducted by the Westchester County Association (WCA), the results of which were announced today. The survey also found that healthcare, entrepreneurship, higher education and hospitality are among the most important industry sectors to the region’s economic future, while high taxes, unemployment, broadband/digital technology, and affordable housing are key economic issues moving forward.

The “Business Insights” live video series will feature hosts from the WCA and Westfair Communications interviewing business leaders from throughout the region and discussing topics related to the challenges and opportunities organizations are encountering. Episodes will stream live on the WCA’s Facebook Page, LinkedIn Page, and YouTube Channel, and also on Westfair Communications’ website, Facebook Page, LinkedIn Page, and YouTube Channel, and be available for on-demand viewing.