A New York governor has announced $20 million (£12.9m) of funding to attract and grow clean energy businesses and jobs.

Andrew M. Cuomo said the ’76West’ initiative’ will help local businesses and residents in the Southern Tier.

The project includes a $10 million (£6.5m) clean energy business competition and $10 million for business support services to the local clean energy market.

Governor Cuomo said: “This competition is designed to jumpstart the clean energy economy in the Southern Tier, bringing with it new jobs, new economic opportunity and increased sustainability to local communities.

“By supporting the growth of clean energy companies in the area and investing in the infrastructure they need to succeed, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter future for residents and businesses throughout the region.”

The project is expected to launch this autumn.