Gov. Pataki commented, "The fact that IBM, one of the world's leading high-technology companies, has chosen to make this major investment in Upstate New York makes clear that our Centers of Excellence initiative is going to produce tremendous benefits for the Empire State. The work… will lead to the development of cutting edge technologies and innovative new products, while also fostering new job creation for the people of Upstate and all across New York."

The center will leverage IBM and New York's funding to draw down millions in Federal and other funds, for a more than a $200 million total project value over the next five years, state officials say. The only university-based 300-millimeter computer wafer pilot prototyping facility in the world, the complex will provide laboratory and clean room space for research, build incubator space for high-tech company spin-offs and create a state-of-the-art workforce development program.

State officials say that the research, economic development and workforce development that will be undertaken are especially critical in light of IBM's recent announcement of a $2.5-billion chip-fabrication facility in East Fishkill, NY.