The coalition, made up of business and trade organizations, announced Golisano's membership at a news conference at HSBC Arena Thursday afternoon.

"I am pleased to welcome Mr. Golisano as a new member of Unshackle Upstate," said Andrew Rudnick, President & CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership and a founder of Unshackle Upstate.

"Mr. Golisano is an entrepreneur who has created many jobs in this state. He understands the issues facing employers, and how they are tied to the lack of reform in Albany. We look forward to working with him to amplify our voice and strengthen our political action efforts to advance our goals of reducing state spending and improving the conditions of upstate businesses."

Golisano's membership to the coalition comes just days after he was named as one of the leader's behind this week's republican coup in the State Senate.

The organization says Golisano will support Unshackle Upstate in its expanding efforts to hold New York's elected leaders accountable and demand they pursue reforms that cut government spending, reduce the cost of doing business and provide relief to taxpayers. © Copyright 2009, WBFO