Plug And Play Launches New York City Presence To Advance AI And Deeptech Innovation

Plug and Play, a leading global innovation platform and early-stage venture capital firm, is establishing a formal presence in New York City with two initiatives backed by the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). The NYC AI Nexus and the International Landing Pad Network will accelerate artificial intelligence adoption, deepen commercialization of cutting-edge technologies, and support cross-border startup expansion.

The expansion was unveiled at Plug and Play’s Enterprise and AI Expo during the Silicon Valley Summit, marking the organization’s first operational footprint in New York City. This move aligns with Plug and Play’s broader strategy to connect corporations, innovators, and public-sector partners to solve complex challenges through technology.

NYC AI Nexus: Accelerating AI Adoption for SMBs

The NYC AI Nexus is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses integrate AI solutions that improve efficiency and drive measurable business outcomes. The program will engage companies across food and beverage, media and advertising, travel and hospitality, and professional services—sectors where AI can rapidly enhance productivity and customer experience.

• Co-operated with C10 Labs to deliver hands-on support and technical guidance
• Up to 165 AI startups supported over three years
• 96 pilots launched between startups and corporate partners
• 90 ecosystem events hosted across the city

International Landing Pad Network: A Gateway for Global Startups

In partnership with Cornell Tech, Plug and Play will operate the International Landing Pad Network to attract and scale growth-stage international startups in New York City. In its first year, the initiative aims to bring more than 50 global startups to the market, providing workspace, mentorship, and access to Plug and Play’s network of investors and enterprise partners.

The program will prioritize medtech, health, sustainability, and deeptech ventures—areas where New York’s industry landscape and talent base create strong opportunities for piloting, partnerships, and commercialization.

Building a New York Hub in a Global Network

By adding New York City to its global footprint, Plug and Play will connect startups, academic institutions, investors, and enterprise partners in a hub designed to accelerate next-generation technologies and promote job creation. The initiatives are expected to catalyze collaboration across major sectors, drive real-world AI deployment, and strengthen the city’s role as a destination for deeptech innovation and international business expansion.

What Leaders Are Saying

“Plug and Play is expanding into New York City’s unparalleled innovation ecosystem in a major way, as a selected operator for both our NYC AI Nexus and International Landing Pad Network initiatives. The firm’s established expertise building technology ecosystems all over the world will strengthen NYCEDC’s efforts to support early-stage and global companies, fostering dynamic innovation, job creation, and economic growth right here in the five boroughs.” — Andrew Kimball, President and CEO, New York City Economic Development Corporation

“New York City represents one of the most dynamic and diverse innovation ecosystems in the world. Through our collaboration with NYCEDC, we’re excited to help founders—from early-stage AI innovators to global deep tech leaders—scale their solutions, pilot new technologies, and connect with corporate partners that can accelerate real-world impact.” — Michael Olmstead, Chief Revenue Officer and Partner, Plug and Play

Program leaders emphasized that the International Landing Pad Network will provide a soft landing for international startups, helping them navigate the U.S. market, connect with corporate partners, and access opportunities unique to New York City, with support from NYCEDC and Cornell Tech.

With these initiatives, Plug and Play aims to transform New York City into a high-impact node within its global ecosystem—where breakthroughs move from lab to market, startups gain traction faster, and enterprises accelerate digital transformation through AI and deeptech collaboration.