Gov. Kathy Hochul is throwing the state’s support behind a new commerce company in Williamsburg.
Queen One Inc. has signed a 10-year lease for its new headquarters at 25 Kent Ave., Hochul announced on Monday, supported by $6 million in tax credits from the state’s Excelsior Jobs Program.
Over the next five years, the company plans to build a “next-generation e-commerce platform” out of its 30,0000-square-foot Williamsburg facility, create 600 tech-centered jobs, and generate $67 million in research and development investments, according to the governor’s office.
“This project brings hundreds of high-quality jobs and millions in research and development, reaffirming our commitment to making the Empire State a national leader in innovation, talent, and opportunity,” Hochul said in a statement. “We’re proud to support projects that not only grow the economy but also strengthen our communities through inclusive, forward-thinking investment.”
Queen One has a “bold vision” for the future of commerce, per the governor’s office, and will bring “life and energy” to brand websites and communications. Its new commerce platform is expected to help brands “communicate their value” and drive revenue.
The company pledged to create hundreds of jobs in exchange for the Excelsior Jobs tax credits.
“We are proud to work with Queen One on their selection of their new headquarters right here in New York City – a move that will bring 600 jobs to the city by 2030,” said Andrew Kimball, CEO of the city’s Economic Development Corporation, in a statement. “Queen One joins a thriving innovation ecosystem in Brooklyn and its emphasis on AI will contribute to NYC’s status as the applied AI capital of the world.”
On weekends, the Queen One facility is set to be used as a center for adults with autism; and the team has also pledged to create local workforce development and tech training programs and industry networking events.
“We’re developing a Vision Centre where innovation meets purpose and our team will ship breakthrough technology,” said Queen One Founder and CEO Ryan Urban. “Monday through Thursday, it will be a destination, hosting the best organizations and people in New York. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday the space transforms into an Imaginarium for adults with autism to have friends, enjoy life and break free.”
25 Kent Ave. is already home to tech companies including Amazon and Altana AI, as well as clothing company Kith, event venue Vesper, and bathhouse Otherhouse. Urban called it the “best building in the Western Hemisphere.”
“Core to our vision, we’re creating a ‘lighthouse’ here that guides the path, inspiring other companies to build in Brooklyn,” he said in a statement. “25 Kent has a remarkable presence. It’s pure, it’s grounded, and it’s the special place to build at life-scale.”
Hope Knight, president and CEO of Empire State Development, said Queen One’s decision to establish its headquarters in Brooklyn was a “testament” to the state’s workforce, business ecosystem, and innovation.
“Empire State Development is proud to support Queen One’s growth as part of our broader efforts to attract cutting-edge companies, strengthen regional economies, and position New York as a national leader in tech-driven innovation,” she said in a statement.
