MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN AND PRESIDENT & CEO

What a year.

The Buffalo Niagara Partnership’s mission came to life in many new and exciting ways. We are grateful that you, our valued members, continue to support us in carrying out this important work. It is our privilege.

The NY SMART I-Corridor, the federal tech hub that the BNP is implementing alongside peer organizations in Rochester and Syracuse, scored a major victory: an award of $40 million in federal funding. Beating out intense competition to receive this funding not only recognizes our region’s strengths but also opens opportunities for BNP members and the communities they serve.

Meanwhile, we are pleased to report that the BNP’s membership grew this year, including the introduction of two new membership levels. BNP Pro Free, generously supported by National Grid and launched in May, was built for the smallest businesses in our community and has been a smashing success. BNP Young Professional, a membership level exclusively for those under 40 and introduced in September, was designed after our team thoughtfully
researched the needs of the next generation of leaders in Western New York.

We also added to our suite of talent programs, extending our efforts to provide the very best professional development opportunities for local employers. In the fall, we launched BNP Grow, which will equip rising professionals with skills in strategic thinking, communication, and team leadership.

Perhaps most exciting is the announcement that we’ll be moving our headquarters to the Cobblestone District in 2025. We are thrilled to be entering a space beautifully restored by the Pegula Family. At the same time, we are thankful to Evans Bank for its generosity in hosting our staff while we transition to our new home.

Our advocacy work scored an important win, stopping New York State’s disastrous plan to shut down the natural gas network. All of this comes on top of our usual robust efforts to convene employers for important discussions and provide meaningful networking opportunities.

To our members – thank you for your support, which makes this all possible.