SYRACUSE, NY — The INSPYRE Innovation Hub, Central New York’s premier startup incubator, recently welcomed members of Upstate Venture Connect (UVC) and its UNY 50 leadership network for an exclusive tour and discussion on the region’s evolving innovation ecosystem. Formerly known as The Tech Garden, INSPYRE is undergoing a $32 million expansion to become New York State’s largest entrepreneurship hub, with over 90,000 square feet of coworking spaces, private offices, a makerspace, podcast studio, and drone demonstration deck.

The visit provided members of Upstate Venture Connect (UVC) and its UNY 50 leadership network — a curated group of founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders from across Upstate New York — with a firsthand look at INSPYRE’s mission to support diverse small businesses and startups. UVC is a nonprofit organization focused on building a connected, self-sustaining startup ecosystem across the Upstate region by facilitating introductions, strengthening regional networks, and accelerating the growth of high-potential entrepreneurs.

The visit also included a hard hat tour of INSPYRE’s ongoing construction, showcasing future coworking spaces, maker amenities, and collaborative environments. Attendees participated in a networking session, exchanging ideas and forging new connections that will help shape the next chapter of innovation in Central New York.

INSPYRE celebrates Syracuse’s legacy of innovation and is a beacon to its bold future. It’s where the innovation ecosystem convenes, and possibilities are redefined. No longer primarily focused on seeding tech-based startups, INSPYRE Innovation Hub will be a space where founders of all industries, sizes and stages of growth can find support. INSPYRE invites everyone to push boundaries and shape what’s next. 

The event highlighted the importance of regional partnerships in scaling startups and building a connected entrepreneurial community across Upstate New York. With its grand reopening slated for late summer 2025, INSPYRE is poised to become a central hub for founders, mentors, and investors alike.

To learn more about UVC, visit – https://uvc.org/