Plug and Play, one of the world’s largest innovation platforms and early-stage venture capital firms, has officially expanded into New York City with the launch of two major initiatives supported by the New York City Economic Development Corporation. The expansion includes the NYC AI Nexus and the International Landing Pad Network, both designed to strengthen the city’s position as a global destination for artificial intelligence, deeptech commercialization, and cross-border startup growth.
The announcement was delivered on stage during the Plug and Play Enterprise and AI Expo at the Silicon Valley Summit. This event convened executives, founders, and investors to explore the future of artificial intelligence and digital transformation across multiple industries. The move marks Plug and Play’s first operational footprint in New York City. And it reflects its larger strategy of connecting corporations, innovators, and government agencies to solve global challenges through technology.
The NYC AI Nexus will focus on enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to adopt and integrate artificial intelligence solutions that drive operational efficiency and stronger business outcomes. The program will target companies in food and beverage, media and advertising, travel and hospitality, and professional services. Over the next three years, Plug and Play and co-operator C10 Labs will support as many as 165 AI startups, launch 96 pilots between startups and corporate partners, and host 90 ecosystem events across the city.
Plug and Play will also lead a companion initiative through the International Landing Pad Network in partnership with Cornell Tech. The new program is designed to attract growth-stage international startups to New York City and help them scale in the United States. Within the first year, the initiative aims to bring more than 50 international startups to the city, offering workspace, mentorship, and access to Plug and Play’s global network of investors and corporate partners. Medtech, health, sustainability, and deeptech ventures will be key areas of focus as they enter the U.S. market.
The firm’s expansion will establish New York City as a new hub within Plug and Play’s global network, connecting startups, academic institutions, investors, and enterprise partners to accelerate the development of next-generation technologies and support job creation across major sectors.
KEY QUOTES
“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
“The International Landing Pad Network gives international startups a soft landing into one of the world’s most influential innovation hubs. With the support of NYCEDC and Cornell Tech, Plug and Play will help global innovators navigate the U.S. startup landscape, connect with corporate partners, and unlock the opportunities that only New York can offer.”
Sherif Saadawi, VP of Growth Strategy, Plug and Play
