Genesee County's Growing Edge: Powering Progress through Economic Development
By: Jenna Kavanaugh, Economic Development, National Grid
There’s a steady, encouraging pace of growth unfolding in Genesee County. Whether it’s activity at local industrial parks, updates to downtown buildings, or expanding production lines, the momentum is visible—and it’s rooted in the strength of our regional industries: advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, and revitalized commercial centers.
As the electric utility serving Genesee County, National Grid has been working alongside businesses, county and state leaders, and economic development partners to help support this growth. Through our targeted economic development programs, we aim to help companies invest in infrastructure, improve productivity, create new jobs, and expand their operations.
Why this matters
For the business community, momentum doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It comes from companies making bold decisions, communities aligning behind shared goals, and support systems that help translate plans into action. That’s why the progress happening in Genesee County is so meaningful—not just for the companies leading the projects, but for the wider regional economy that benefits from their success.
In Batavia, Graham Corporation—a long-established manufacturer serving the aerospace, defense, and energy industries—is in the midst of a $17 million expansion at its headquarters on Florence Avenue. The project is expected to retain more than 360 jobs and create two dozen new ones. It’s a significant investment in advanced manufacturing and a signal of long-term commitment to the region.
Just a few blocks away, the former C.L. Carr’s Department Store is being brought back to life. After more than 20 years of vacancy, the building is being redeveloped into a mixed-use space with new residential and commercial opportunities. Supporting downtown renewal like this helps reinvigorate historic spaces and bring new energy to local main streets.
These are the kinds of efforts that reflect thoughtful planning and meaningful collaboration. They don’t happen overnight, and they don’t happen without a broad network of support behind them.
Agribusiness is evolving—and Genesee County is ready
Agribusiness in this region extends far beyond crops in the field. It includes value-added food and dairy processing, cold storage, logistics, and packaging—essential links in a complex and growing supply chain. Genesee County’s strategic location, available infrastructure, and deep agricultural roots make it an ideal home for processors and food manufacturers looking to grow.
Support for energy optimization, facility upgrades, and site readiness ensures these businesses can stay competitive while preparing for the future.
Genesee County has a story worth telling
Located between Buffalo and Rochester, Genesee County offers proximity to major markets, a skilled workforce, and shovel-ready sites designed for manufacturing, food processing, and high-tech industry. From STAMP’s advanced manufacturing campus to revitalized downtown storefronts, the county is poised for thoughtful, long-term growth.
Programs like National Grid’s Electric Manufacturing Productivity Program (MPP), Main Street Revitalization, and the Electric Capital Investment Incentive are designed to help support this growth—whether that’s through infrastructure investments, productivity improvements, or breathing new life into legacy spaces.
To learn more about development opportunities and grant programs available in Genesee County, visit shovelready.com. The tools are in place and the future is promising.
Here’s to continued progress—right here in Genesee County.