QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ISSUES FAREWELL AND BEST WISHES TO SETH BORNSTEIN ON HIS RETIREMENT

The Queens Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes the retirement of Seth  Bornstein, who is stepping down after nearly four decades of exemplary service to the Queens Economic Development Corporation (QEDC). Mr.  Bornstein—who began his career with QEDC in 1979 and assumed the role of Executive Director in 2009—is retiring effective July  1,  2025. 
“Seth Bornstein has been nothing short of a visionary leader and tireless advocate for the borough of Queens,” said Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. “His commitment to small businesses, entrepreneurship, and equitable economic development has left an extraordinary legacy that will benefit our communities for generations to come. On behalf of the Queens Chamber of Commerce and the entire business community, I thank Seth for his decades of service, partnership, and passion—and I wish him nothing but the very best in his next chapter.”
Under Mr.  Bornstein’s stewardship, Queens has seen transformative initiatives, including the establishment of the borough’s first commercial revitalization programs, which catalyzed the formation of numerous local development corporations and business improvement districts. His leadership also led to the launch of the Entrepreneur Space in Long Island City, the expansion of “Made in Queens,” and growth of the Queens Tourism Council.

"Seth Bornstein has combined his amazing leadership ability with a creative flair that has enabled the QEDC to significantly help small businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities in Queens create and retain jobs," said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. "Under Seth's leadership the QEDC has proudly supported immigrants, women, and people of color, and has done an outstanding job of promoting tourism throughout the borough. I speak on behalf of all 2.4 million residents of Queens in commending Seth for his wonderful work here in 'The World’s Borough,' as we wish him all the best as he embarks on what is sure to be a happy and fruitful retirement.
“For over four decades, Seth Bornstein has been a transformative and steadfast leader in Queens, shaping our borough’s economic development and supporting generations of entrepreneurs,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Under his tenure, the Queens Economic Development Corporation has successfully implemented impactful programs to foster growth in tourism, tech, and many other industries. Seth’s passion and dedication to our small businesses and Queens communities will be felt for years to come. I’m proud to call Seth a friend, and I wholeheartedly congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement!"
“Seth Bornstein has been a champion for Queens and a tireless advocate for inclusive economic growth across our borough,” said New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “From revitalizing commercial corridors to creating pathways for local entrepreneurs, Seth’s leadership has shaped the economic landscape of Queens for the better. I thank him for his decades of dedicated service, and I wish him continued success and fulfillment in his well-earned retirement.”
“Seth Bornstein’s legacy in Queens will live on long past his well-earned retirement. For over four decades, his work at the Queens Economic Development Corporation has empowered many small businesses, promoted local entrepreneurs, and driven economic growth in every part of our borough,” said New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga. “His leadership has helped to shape a stronger and more resilient Queens, and his impact will influence our community for years to come. I thank Seth Bornstein for his service, unwavering commitment, and determination to support and better the communities we serve.”
"Seth Bornstein's four decades of dedicated work at the Queens Economic Development Corporation, including sixteen years as Executive Director, have been paramount in uplifting the Queens business community. His unwavering drive, foresight, and steadfast commitment have forged an enduring legacy, the impact of which will resonate for years to come. I extend my congratulations to Seth on his well-deserved retirement and thank him for his advocacy and exemplary service to the Queens Community,” said Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman.
“Seth has not only built programs—he’s built trust, opportunity, and hope across every corner of Queens. From Long Island City to Jamaica, from tourism to tech, he’s helped grow an economy rooted in equity and inclusion. I’ve seen firsthand how his work has empowered families and entrepreneurs who simply needed a chance. I’m proud to call Seth a friend, I thank him for all he’s done, and I wish him joy and rest in this next chapter,” said Assemblywoman Catalina Cruz, Assembly District 39.
“Seth Bornstein has left a lasting impact in Queens as a visionary leader for over 40 years. On behalf of the Long Island City Partnership, we thank him for his work leading economic development efforts throughout the borough that have been critical to the success of Queens. As a champion for the borough, Seth has laid the foundation for innovative programs that will have a lasting impact for decades to come. We congratulate him and wish him the best of luck in his next chapter,” said Laura Rothrock, President of Long Island City Partnership.
“Seth has raised the profile of Queens in a manner that few individuals have done and changed the conversation about this borough as a place to do business. His vision and strategic thinking have helped make Queens better,” said Justin Rodgers, President and CEO of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation. “We look forward to working with Ben and the great things to come.”
Seth Bornstein’s involvement with QEDC began as a program manager collaborating closely with successive Queens Borough Presidents, eventually guiding the organization for 16 years as executive director.
Ben Guttmann, a marketing executive from Sunnyside, will succeed Mr.  Bornstein as QEDC Executive Director on July  1.

Press release available for download, below.

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