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Civic Hall - The Bernard Goldstein Center is a first-of-its-kind training and events hub for NYC’s booming tech economy, which now accounts for more than 350,000 jobs across the city.

With 85,000 square feet of state-of-the-art classrooms and event spaces, NYCEDC, The Fedcap Group, and RAL are investing in digital equity and economic mobility for all New Yorkers—by breaking down traditional barriers within the tech sector and providing workforce development opportunities for diverse and underserved communities.

Civic Hall at Union Square will help bridge the digital divide, train the workforce of the future, and ensure that all New Yorkers can access the opportunities presented by the ever-evolving tech industry.

Seema Shah
Executive Director, Civic Hall
Video thumbnail showing a diverse group of people smiling and holding a long ribbon during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Civic Hall at Union Square, with NYC buildings visible in the background. Overlaid text reads: Introducing Civic Hall at Union Square.

Investing in Tech Equality

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By The Numbers

85K

The square footage of Civic Hall - The Bernard Goldstein Center dedicated to tech training, support services, events, and meeting space

Rendering of Union Square Tech Training Center shows modern, open-plan office with glass walls, several people working at desks, conversing in groups, and walking. Large windows let in lots of natural light, creating a bright and collaborative workspace.
Investing in Jobs
Street view photo of Civic Hall at Union Square. A glass office building with reflections of another tall building on its facade, with traffic lights and crosswalks visible.
State-of-the-Art Space
By The Numbers

750

Approximate number of people expected to be served within the first year

By The Numbers

$200K

Annual fund to support training and workforce development opportunities at Civic Hall - The Bernard Goldstein Center

Rendering of Union Square Tech Training Center. Modern open-plan office with large windows, natural light, and city views. People are working at desks with computers, and some are standing or conversing. The space features wood floors, white walls, and plants for decor.
Technology Training

The vision for Civic Hall is to be the connective hub for the tech workforce development community in New York, and ultimately, to help the tech sector grow and diversify.

Many of the training programs come at no cost or are offered at low, affordable rates to ensure that all New Yorkers can pursue their educational and professional goals without the burden of financial strain. And tenant organizations receive access to an array of capacity-building resources, including community-driven marketing and outreach, industry connections, collaborative fundraising opportunities, and a comprehensive suite of support services designed to bolster the success of their students.

History of Zero Irving

In November 2015, NYCEDC launched a request for proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of 124 East 14th Street in Manhattan and encouraged responses that supported the development of 21st century workforce skills, created a high density of quality jobs per square foot, and/or promoted the formation of next-generation companies and industries in New York City. Additional goals included provisions for services or neighborhood amenities that help to ensure New Yorkers’ access to economic mobility. RAL Companies, a family-owned-and-operated development firm, was selected as the winner in 2017 in partnership with Civic Hall to create a tech hub at Union Square that would provide space for tech worker training, education, startups, and convening.

Now called Zero Irving, the property is a dynamic and engaging office building, which includes:

  • Civic Hall workforce development space
  • Event and conference center operated by Civic Hall with dedicated access to 14th Street
  • Premier office space including flexible space for emerging and maturing startups
  • Urbanspace food hall with 25% of booths reserved for first-time entrepreneurs or new businesses
  • Tenant amenities including rooftop access and fitness facilities

Learn More

Visit: CivicHall.org

Host events, register for classes, become a member, offer a training program, hire participants, and more!

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