Thomas-Henry on RISE program and Innovation East (for Epstein)

The RISE program.

So the executive budget includes additional funding for the RISE program, which helps businesses adopt innovative climate resilient technology.

How is EDC ensuring that small businesses in climate vulnerable neighborhoods like Corona and East Elmhurst in my district are aware of and able to access these resources, particularly those that

may lack the capacity to navigate complex application processes and kind of piggybacking on what Councilmember

Lisa said the language barrier often times.

Yes.

So this is a federally funded program.

And in the implementation of how the RISE program was, I'll have to get back to you on that.

Because I'm not familiar exactly how it's implemented for small businesses.

But I know it's for small businesses to promote climate resilience.

Chair, if it's okay, I do want to ask before my time expires.

Councilmember Epstein had to leave but had a question.

Do you mind if I ask his question before I go?

Sure, go ahead.

Innovative East, Innovation East was approved in 2025.

Is EDC looking at this project to do this project at all?

Okay, I'm sorry, say it.

Innovation East.

Yes.

Was approved in 2025.

Again, this is Councilmember Epstein.

Is EDC looking at that project?

And if you are looking at it, is it the same plan or have any alterations been made of the plan?

There's no alterations to the plan.

But you are still looking forward to moving it forward?

Yes.

Thank you.

Okay.

Councilmember Brewer?