Think, Act, Be, LOCAL

Dear Fellow WNYers,

Buffalo First! is a nonprofit that believes in the power of locally owned and independent business to transform the Western New York region and economy. We are primarily focused on supporting social entrepreneurship, educating consumers on the importance of shopping local and businesses on the importance of sourcing local, encouraging diversity by supporting women and minority-owned businesses, advocating for better policies for homegrown and mission-driven businesses, and fighting for a local living economy that benefits workers, environment, businesses and citizens throughout Western New York.

     We envision a future where businesses are investors in the quality of life for all citizens. We challenge and support the business community to build profitable enterprises that serve community needs, share wealth, and protect the environment. READ MORE...

30 Day Challenge Day 2

Stay informed about what Buffalo First! is doing for Buffalo by joining their mailing list. Join at Buffalofirst.org 

Answer here

Day 1 Challenge

This idea was born in Buffalo and has now spread to over 70 cities and three countries. It’s received coverage in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Inc. Locally, it features Buffalo First! members exclusively.

Answer Here...

Fast Growing Companies

ADAPTING, THRIVING, HIRING, GROWING...IN WNY.  YES, REALLY.

As a community entering into a season of renewed vitality and fresh possibilities, we are encouraged to shed the preconceptions of a long, barren winter. For many across WNY, the struggle of the wintery months is perfect analogy to a considerable period of stress facing a majority of Buffalo-based businesses. Despites widespread belief that local businesses are experiencing losses or remain frozen in the status quo- there are numerous organizations experiencing expansion, rebirth and surplus. From the perspective of local Human Capital Firm, APA Solutions Inc. and business leadership expert, Joan Graci, there could not be a better time for businesses in Buffalo, NY to grow. From Graci’s perspective, “organizations that are succeeding are doing different” and “those organizations that can successfully connect their unique corporate mission to niche markets, emerging technologies, holistically-connected employees and lean business practices are the first to break the cycle of stagnation.” Drawing from her extensive research on Inc 500|5000 companies, Graci and her team have made it their mission to mentor local organizations on the demands of “doing different” and strategically planning for advancement on a local, national and international scale. With respect to the emerging leaders of today’s vibrant Buffalo business community, APA Solutions recognizes the local businesses that embody the many forms of today’s growth, innovation and success: READ MORE...