In a statement, NYCEDC Presidet and CEO James Patchett said, “There’s no city in the world that’s better positioned to lead the way in blockchain. We’re a global leader in finance, real estate, media, and tech – all industries seeing incredible innovation from this new technology.”
Additionally, Patchett stated that the city is focusing on blockhain to find out how to grow the industry. The city also “wants to make sure it’s creating great opportunities for New Yorkers.”
On the other hand, Council Member Paul Vallone, Chair of the Committee on Economic Development, commented, “There is an enormous potential for applications and growth of blockchain technology.” He noted that New York City is already a global leader in this field. Its new initiatives will ensure that it will remain on the forefront.
Meanwhile, NYS Assembly Member Ron Kim believes that the NYCEDC’s support for blockchain will help strengthen the state’s position as the financial capital of the 21st century.
On may 12 to 13, NYCEDC and GrowNYC co-sponsored a hackathon. The agencies challenged technologists to explore blockchain to improve the trackability and transparency of GrowNYC food supply chain.
