From Bloomberg to Kushner – The Torchbearers of NYC’s Tech Innovation

A Legacy of Leadership: From Bloomberg to Kushner – The Torchbearers of NYC’s Tech Innovation

In the early 2000s, as cities around the world vied for supremacy in the evolving tech landscape, New York City stood at a crossroads. The city had long been a global center for finance, fashion, and media, but it was behind the curve when it came to technology and innovation. That was, until Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, saw a path forward.

A successful businessman turned public servant, Bloomberg recognized that the future wasn’t just about skyscrapers and Wall Street, but about transforming New York into a global hub for technology and innovation. His administration laid the groundwork by investing heavily in infrastructure, encouraging the growth of tech companies, and establishing programs like the Applied Sciences NYC initiative, which brought the now-renowned Cornell Tech to Roosevelt Island. Bloomberg’s vision was clear: New York wasn’t just going to compete with Silicon Valley, it was going to lead.

But visionary leadership is only the first step. It takes continuity, dedication, and resilient torchbearers to truly create an impact. Enter Cecilia Kushner, one of the individuals who has carried forward Bloomberg’s mission of turning New York City, and specifically Brooklyn, into the epicenter of technological innovation and startup growth.

As Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer at the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), Cecilia has played a pivotal role in keeping the city at the forefront of the global tech conversation. Her work has focused on leveraging technology to not only grow industries but also improve the lives of everyday New Yorkers. From leading public-private partnerships to championing urban tech solutions, Cecilia has continually pushed for New York’s transformation into a smarter, more connected, and more equitable city.

In the face of immense challenges, such as navigating the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and adapting to the rapid rise of automation and AI, Cecilia has shown what it means to lead with both vision and resilience. Under her strategic leadership, NYC has seen a surge in tech talent, innovation hubs, and startup incubators, particularly in Brooklyn, now recognized globally as a thriving tech ecosystem.

Her story is one of overcoming hurdles, embracing change, and fostering growth. Whether it was adapting city strategies to embrace emerging fields like AI and blockchain or supporting local startups struggling to scale, Cecilia’s relentless pursuit of innovation has kept New York on the cutting edge.

Today, Cecilia Kushner stands as a key figure continuing Bloomberg’s legacy. She is lifting NYC on her shoulders, striving to position Brooklyn as not just a tech hub, but as THE place where the future of AI, tech, and startups will take shape. At AGI CON – The AI Experience, she brings her story full circle, reminding us all that New York City’s strength lies not just in its skyscrapers, but in the people and leaders who dare to imagine and build a better future.

Now, Cecilia invites you to join her as we continue the mission of making New York and Brooklyn the global epicenters of technological innovation. The torch is still burning brightly – will you be part of this movement?

Join us at AGI CON – The AI Experience to hear Cecilia’s inspiring vision for how AI can empower urban communities and improve everyday life.

It’s time to think BIG – and act even bigger!

📅 Nov 20-23, 2024 | RSVP Today at [www.BrooklynTechWeek.org]✨ AI is changing cities. Let’s change them for the better.

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