It is that time of year in Buffalo. Spring is finally here, and so are the Food Trucks! They are ready to serve you lunch all spring and summer long. The trucks will be parked in the Pocket Park at 589 Ellicott on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus from 11:30 a.m. to noon every Tuesday through Friday. The August schedule is below. We look forward to seeing you here!
It was great to see everyone at Buffalo Bike To Work Day @ BNMC yesterday. The sun was shining, the coffee was good, and the energy was amazing. Congratulations to our friends at NFTA, winners of the 2026 Bike Battle for the most miles travelled using sustainable transportation options during the month of May.
Thanks to Evolve Fitness, Go Buffalo Niagara, Go Bike, and Reddy Bikeshare for making the event extra special. Here are a few photos to enjoy. Happy biking all summer long, Buffalo!
For years, the BNMC has played an active role in helping shape conversations around innovation districts and the future of cities, cross-sector partnerships, and community investment.
As a founding steering committee member of the Global Institute on Innovation Districts (GIID), we regularly engage with innovation district leaders from around the world through research, knowledge sharing, and peer exchanges. GIID was established to connect innovation districts globally, encourage shared learning, and advance best practices across the field.
The BNMC is one of the earlier innovation districts in North America, dating back to our founding in 2002, and has often served as a reference point for other districts exploring how institutions, government, philanthropy, and community partners can work together to support long-term investment and neighborhood revitalization.
Many of these same themes are explored in City Forward: How Innovation Districts Can Embrace Risk and Strengthen Community, the 2022 book authored by BNMC President & CEO Matt Enstice, which examines how innovation districts can strengthen communities and approach urban investment through a more connected and inclusive lens.
This week, the BNMC participated in a peer exchange with the Melbourne Innovation District in Australia focused on how innovation districts are adapting to changing workforce, economic, and community needs in a post-pandemic environment. The discussion was led on behalf of BNMC by Jamie Hamann-Burney, Chief Strategy Officer, who shared the history and continued evolution of the Campus since our founding in 2002.
During the exchange, Jamie highlighted how BNMC was shaped through partnerships between anchor institutions, local government, philanthropic organizations, and the broader community. He also spoke about our governance structure, including the Campus Board and work councils that help guide initiatives and strengthen coordination across the district.
Additional topics included federal and state policy shifts, evolving urban trends, and exploring new funding opportunities and partnership models to support long-term sustainability and continued momentum.
As innovation districts continue to evolve globally, we remain committed to learning from peer districts around the world while also contributing Buffalo’s perspective and experience to the broader conversation around innovation, connectivity, and community life.
Thanks to all who joined us for Campus Connect yesterday evening. It was a fun time and great to see so many of you from our campus community! The puppies from Queen City Pitties came to say hi, and our friends from Jack Rabbit served some delicious food and drinks. Special shoutout to Shared Mobility, Inc., Reddy Bikeshare, and GoBuffalo Niagara. You guys are the best.
We can’t wait to see you again on the last Thursday of June and all summer long.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) is proud to announce Community Connections Day, presented by Community Bank, a free, family-friendly event designed to connect residents with vital health resources, wellness programming, and community services—all in one place.
Taking place on Saturday, March 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the UB Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Community Connections Day invites neighbors from across Buffalo to learn, taste, and connect through a dynamic lineup of interactive experiences.
Attendees will enjoy:
“This event reflects BNMC’s commitment to building a healthier, more connected community,” said Beth Machnica, Director of Health and Well-Being. “Community Connections Day is about breaking down barriers—making it easier for individuals and families to access the resources they need to live well.”
Open to the public and free of charge, the event aims to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where community members can engage directly with organizations, providers, and programs that support overall well-being. Lunch will be provided, and registration is encouraged but not required.
Community Connections Day is part of BNMC’s broader mission to foster a vibrant, collaborative ecosystem that advances health, innovation, and opportunity for all residents of Western New York.
Event Details
What: BNMC Community Connections Day
When: Saturday, March 28, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where: UB Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 955 Main Street
Cost: Free and open to the public
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
BNMC brings people together to create positive social and economic impact within our community. We manage the premier innovation district and economic engine of WNY, the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, and are building an innovation ecosystem that focuses on breaking down barriers to a higher quality of life for all in our region. Today, we manage a 120+ acre urban innovation district that is home to over 200 public and private companies with over 16,000 employees, which brings 1.5 million patients and visitors annually to our Buffalo district. www.bnmc.org.
The BNMC Transportation team hosted an NFTA 101 Lunch and Learn session at Canisius University to present the wide array of transportation options offered by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority to students and the wider community.
The program was made possible through our partnership with Clean Mobility Buffalo.
Thank you to our knowledgeable presenters from the Center for Self Advocacy! Check out everything you need to know to get started taking the train or bus. Explore your options for paying fare to figuring out your route, and what to do when you get to your stop.
Thank you to all who joined us on October 23, 24, and 25 for our largest and most impactful symposium to date. Over 250 attendees from 6 countries joined our conference, powering three high-energy days. Here are some of our key takeaways from our expert speakers and panelists:
“It was inspiring to see such strong alignment across sectors from policy to payers, all recognizing that food is more than fuel; it’s fundamental to health outcomes and cost reduction.”
Soil Health = Human Health.
Local and Regenerative Agriculture Took Center Stage
Blue Zones Lifestyle for Longevity
Women’s Health Across the Lifespan
Nutrition for Sports Performance featured diverse perspectives from the NFL, the Army, and Women Athletes
Clinical Adoption and Continuing Medical Education
What People are Saying
Images by Pat Cray @yungpainkiller
The sunshine arrived just in time, and it was all smiles at Happy Campus, July edition. Thanks to all who shopped in the market, enjoyed the delicious food from Half Luna Empanadas and Chef Paolo Bettini, and drinks from Jack Rabbit—special thanks to Scoop Shop Consignment, Bee Sweet Cup Cakery, Awesome Paws Animal Rescue, and our amazing musical guests Wind and Wire. We had a great night! Here’s a photo gallery for your enjoyment. We can’t wait to do it again in August!
Thanks to all the people and puppies that joined us for our Happy Campus Happy Hour event yesterday evening. Special thanks to Fattey Beer Co., Second Chapter Bookstore, MenalynSkyn Co., Collegiate Village, and last but by no means least, the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter. The puppies made our night! Here are a few photos of the fun and festivities.
BNMC is proud to be a partner in Clean Mobility Buffalo. This morning, the initiative was launched at a press event. Read on for the full news release and more information on this transformative program.
Buffalo, NY — June 25, 2025 — Clean Mobility Buffalo, an alliance of organizations and neighborhood leaders advancing transportation solutions through projects that connect people and places, today launched its Clean Commute program, for East Side employers to incentivize and support employees who travel by public transit, walk, carpool, or bicycle to work, with a ribbon-cutting at Viridi on E. Delavan Avenue.
“We’re excited to provide extensive Clean Commute resources and amenities that make it easier for employees and residents to get to work, school, and other destinations,” said Kim LaVare, project manager for Clean Mobility Buffalo. “We’re breaking down transportation barriers that impact job retention and new employment opportunities, reducing pollution, and supporting the health and wellbeing of the neighborhoods surrounding local businesses.”
The Clean Commute program provides transportation benefits and builds awareness about transportation options for employees commuting to companies, universities, hospitals, and other organizations on Buffalo’s East Side.
Energy technology company Viridi is the first to launch Clean Commute for its employees, with program introductions also planned for Canisius University; Erie County Medical Center; Harmac Medical Products, Inc.; Kaleida Health; and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“At Viridi, we believe clean energy should be accessible not just in the grid, but in everyday life. Being the first to launch the Clean Commute program reflects our deep commitment to our employees and to our East Side community. This initiative supports our vision for a more resilient, cost effective, equitable, and connected Buffalo,” said Jon M. Williams, Chairman & CEO, Viridi.
“Our mission is to connect people to meaningful careers—and that includes removing barriers that stand in their way. Transportation is one of the biggest challenges our workforce faces. Clean Commute helps ensure our people can get to work reliably, safely, and sustainably, opening doors to long-term employment and community stability,” said Jeff Conrad, Executive Director, GreenForce.
Clean Mobility Buffalo’s Clean Commute program includes:
Clean Mobility Buffalo partners the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) and GO Buffalo Niagara are actively working with local institutions to implement Clean Commute by developing commuter policies and programs.
“We’re grateful to NYSERDA and our participating anchor companies for their efforts to connect people to clean and affordable transportation options. Transportation has a big impact on access to jobs and on overall quality of life, and the more we all work together to create reliable options, the stronger and healthier our neighborhoods will be,” said Jamie Hamann-Burney, Chief Strategy Officer, BNMC.
“GO Buffalo Niagara is thrilled to celebrate these partnerships with East Side anchor institutions who are leading the way in innovative employee transportation benefit programs. Together, we are advancing efforts that not only improve mobility and reduce environmental impact but also create healthier, more connected neighborhoods. We aim to inspire other employers to invest in sustainable, accessible transportation options and look forward to replicating these initiatives across Western New York as we continue working toward a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable future,” said Christine Krolewicz, Program Manager, GO Buffalo Niagara.
Clean Mobility of Buffalo is supported by a $10 million award from NYSERDA’s New York Clean Transportation Prizes program to implement efficient, affordable, and accessible transportation solutions across Buffalo’s East Side.
ABOUT CLEAN MOBILITY BUFFALO
Funded by New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) under the New York Clean Transportation Prizes program, Clean Mobility Buffalo is an alliance organized by LISC NY, Clementine Gold Group and Heart of the City Neighborhoods—and activated in East Side neighborhoods by project partners including Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Coalition for Economic Justice, East Side Bike Club, GObike, and Reddy Bikeshare. Together as partners—working with and for the community—these dynamic organizations are championing a shared vision for a cleaner, healthier, and more connected East Side, identifying current transportation challenges and introducing innovative, environmentally friendly, and health-conscious alternatives for all. Learn more.
ABOUT BNMC
BNMC creates positive social and economic impact within our community and the premier innovation district and economic engine of WNY, the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. The BNMC breaks down barriers to a higher quality of life for the region, spearheads new models around sustainable energy, environments, and transportation options, and manages a 120+ acre urban innovation district that is home to over 200 public and private companies with over 16,000 employees and 1.5 million patients and visitors annually. Learn more.
ABOUT GO BUFFALO NIAGARA
GO Buffalo Niagara is the transportation management association for Western New York, promoting active and sustainable options for commuters. We help organizations and individuals reach their health, financial, and environmental goals with tools and resources to reduce our community’s reliance on personal vehicles. Learn more.
ABOUT VIRIDI Viridi is transforming energy storage with its proprietary fail-safe lithium-ion battery technology. Viridi’s battery energy storage systems (BESS) feature breakthrough anti-propagation technology, preventing propagation and significantly reducing the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. Viridi’s commercial-scale BESS is among the first and only to be installed in an existing, occupied space, setting a new benchmark for safety and reliability. Engineered for seamless integration into virtually any environment, the BESS combines advanced AI and connectivity to deliver unparalleled remote monitoring and energy optimization. Viridi enables clean, scalable energy solutions across industries, paving the way for a safer, more sustainable future. Learn more.
Thanks to everyone who came out for Buffalo Bike to Work Day @ BNMC and joined us for Breakfast in the Pocket Park. It was great to see you all! What a fun and energizing start to the day! Special thanks go to GOBike, Reddy Bikeshare, Independent Health, NFTA, Unapolegitic Coffee, and Evolve Fitness, who joined to celebrate with us.
For lunch, we enjoyed a lunchtime ride to @GOBike over on Broadway. Here are a few photos of the events. We can’t wait to do it again next year!
Buffalo, NY – September 2024 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) Health & Well-being
Department is proud to announce the 4th Annual Food as Medicine Symposium, “Culture. Cuisine.
Community: Savoring A Healthy You,” which will take place on October 18th and 19th, 2024, at the
University at Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.
This exciting two-day event will bring together renowned national experts alongside local leaders to
discuss the most pressing issues in the food-as-medicine movement. With a mission to improve health
outcomes, reduce disparities, and advance a more equitable food and healthcare system for all, the
symposium promises to inspire meaningful conversations and innovative solutions.
The Food as Medicine Symposium highlights Buffalo’s commitment to fostering health and wellness
through food. Attendees will hear from prominent voices in the field, including keynote speaker
Benjamin Perkins, MA, MDiv, Founder & CEO of Upstream Impact, Solutions Consulting, LLC, who will
deliver a thought-provoking address titled “Love’s Labor Found: A Meditation on Fidelity, Equity, and
Dignity in our Work.”
The symposium will cover a broad range of topics, including:
Buffalo’s East Side will be recognized during the opening remarks, and the event will also feature
engaging roundtable discussions on innovation in food and health, fireside chats, and practical working
sessions. “We’re thrilled to continue growing this annual event,” said Beth Machnica. “This year’s theme
reflects our commitment to building a healthier community through culturally relevant and equitable
food and healthcare systems. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, an entrepreneur, or someone
passionate about the intersection of food and health, there will be something for you.”
The full schedule and further details are available at www.BNMC.org.
Date: October 18-19, 2024
Location: University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
You can register here to join the event.
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force of Buffalo’s
economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has
foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being and sustainability. Today, the
BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our
community, and launching the IC Success (Innovation Community Success) program to support aspiring entrepreneurs from all
backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates will form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation
Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines leading the region’s next wave of economic
development and growth. www.bnmc.org
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us at the BNMC Block Party at Kaminski Park yesterday! The weather was beautiful and gave us the perfect backdrop to come together, eat, laugh, and dance.
Thanks also to our amazing partners and collaborators who made it all happen.
Special thanks to NFTA, the Buffalo AKG, and all the amazing vendors who came to showcase their businesses and work in our community. Here’s a photo gallery by photographer Jean Rios to enjoy!
The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) has announced a new partnership with the community-backed crowdfunding platform Kiva. Kiva allows small businesses to receive loans at zero interest for up to three years with no fees. This new partnership provides an important opportunity for anyone starting or growing a business in Buffalo and Western New York. Uncomplicated access to financial tools and resources adds a vital new component to our region’s small business ecosystem.
Kiva loans range in size from $1,000 to $15,000 with no interest for terms from 12 – 36 months. Kiva loans do not have barriers like credit scores and other hurdles that come with more traditional financing options for businesses.
BNMC is a Kiva Trustee Partner, which means we can work with directly with businesses to fast-track and endorse their applications. Those seeking this resource, or any assistance with their application should contact our Capital Access Manager, Kyria Stephens at kstephens@bnmc.org
To learn more about this new opportunity you can visit Kiva at the BNMC website here.
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force of Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community, and launching the IC Success (Innovation Community Success) program to support aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates will form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. www.bnmc.org
The Independent Health Foundation is hosting Healthy Options Restaurant Week, which runs March 4 – 10.
Restaurants across Western New York are taking part in this week’s event.
Select menu items at participating restaurants have been analyzed by a registered dietitian from the Independent Health Foundation to meet Healthy Options standards for calories, fat, saturated fat, and sodium.
“For two decades, the Healthy Options Buffalo program has helped the community make informed choices about healthy eating and we’re excited to once again highlight that work through Healthy Options Restaurant Week,” said Carrie Meyer, executive director of the Independent Health Foundation. “It’s going to be a great opportunity for families to try a healthy spin on their favorite foods – like grilled cheese, burgers, and pizza. We hope it will show people there’s no need to sacrifice flavor and fun when dining out.”
Participating restaurants include Avenue 29 Foods, Bratts Hill, Buffalo Plant Veggie Burgers, Carine’s Caribbean Cuisine, CEOKitchen, The Cheesy Chick, Fresh Catch Poke, Giacobbi’s Cucina Citta, Green Eats Kitchen and Juice Bar, Mario’s Bistro and Brews, Mister Pizza Elmwood, New Jewel of India, Sto Lat Bar, Sunshine Vegan Eats, and Undergrounds Coffee House & Roastery.
“As research continues to show evidence of the impact of food and diet on health outcomes, we are proud to work with community-based partners, like the Independent Health Foundation, to create educational resources about, and access to, nutritious meal options,” said Beth Machnica, director of Health & Well-Being for the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. “We hope Healthy Options Restaurant Week serves as a catalyst for Western New Yorkers to learn that it is possible to nourish yourself with tasty, healthy food and enjoy local restaurants.”
For more details, visit healthyoptionsbuffalo.com/restaurantweek.
Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC to Provide Free Legal Services to Buffalo’s Newest Entrepreneurs.
Donation to BNMC’s IC Success program will provide vital support to the region’s early-stage entrepreneurs
BUFFALO NY– The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) is pleased to announce that it has partnered with leading Buffalo law firm Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC to provide a new resource to entrepreneurs in its IC Success program—a free, year-long program that connects historically marginalized, early-stage entrepreneurs with mentors, marketplaces and other resources.
The partnership will ensure that entrepreneurs have curated access to the essential legal resources they need as they begin to build their businesses. Business law can be tough to navigate, even for well-established companies. Business owners, particularly new business owners, can often have a lot of questions. Rupp Pfalzgraf’s generous in-kind donation to the IC Success program will ensure that a vital legal resource is available to all entrepreneurs in the program.
Speaking about the partnership David Pfalzgraf, Jr, managing partner of Rupp Pfalzgraf, said “We are very excited to partner with the BNMC and Juweria in connection with this innovative and “one of a kind” IC Success program. Rupp Pfalzgraf has always taken great pride in its entrepreneurial spirit, our partnership with the BNMC, and our unwavering commitment to our community. We see our ability to support start up organizations and fellow entrepreneurs during their time of greatest need as the perfect opportunity for us to achieve the proverbial “win win.” We can’t wait to begin supporting the program and we’re already looking forward to watching our new clients “grow up” and achieve great success with their businesses.”
IC Success provides new and early-stage entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to launch and grow their business—all at no cost.
Entrepreneurs who are accepted into IC success receive full access to the business accelerator program, extensive mentoring from business experts, access to connections and customers throughout the downtown medical campus (where 17,000-plus people work), and semi-annual pitch contests where entrepreneurs can earn seed funding.
“We are so grateful to Rupp Pfalzgraf for this new partnership. It will be an invaluable resource for our entrepreneurs. We’re here to connect people to the tools they need to grow their businesses,” said Juweria Dahir, who has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs and business owners as BNMC’s Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “For too long, people in historically marginalized and underserved communities have not had equal access to legal services, mentors, funding, and other resources—even though they have brilliant ideas and have proven to be amazing businesspeople. Creating these integrated networks eliminates many of the barriers for these entrepreneurs and it is partners like our friends at Rupp Pfalzgraf that make it possible.”
Twice each year, a cohort comprised of 15 talented Buffalo entrepreneurs begins the IC Success business accelerator program. This intensive 10-week program provides classes on all aspects of running a business, including finance, law, accounting, and marketing. In addition, each participant is matched with three mentors who support entrepreneurs throughout the program, and beyond.
Underrepresented entrepreneurs face unique obstacles. For example, Black business owners who apply for funding were three times more likely to be rejected by banks than white business owners, according to a report from Goldman Sachs.
“We started this program because there are entrepreneurs all over Buffalo who still don’t feel welcome in the flourishing startup ecosystem here—especially people of color and women, who often face discrimination and other obstacles when building a business,” said Matt Enstice, President of BNMC. “By purposefully integrating networks—and caring for those connections on a long-term basis—we can help communities grow from within, driving the next wave of our region’s economic development.”
IC Success is the latest equity-focused program from BNMC, which has helped drive Buffalo’s economic growth and development for more than 20 years.
Contact:
Adriana A. Viverette
Digital Communications Manager
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc.
Innovation Center at 640 Ellicott St. | Buffalo, NY 14203
C 716.348.4126 | aviverette@bnmc.org
Samantha Sliwa
Marketing & Events Coordinator
Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC
1600 Liberty Building | Buffalo, NY 14202
716.854.3400 x 260 | sliwa@rupppfalzgraf.com
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force of Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community, and launching the IC Success (Innovation Community Success) program to support aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates will form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. www.bnmc.org
About Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC
Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC is a full-service law firm headquartered in Buffalo, NY. Founded in 2000, the firm employs more than 70 attorneys in 6 offices across New York State. Core practice areas include litigation, corporate law and governance, banking and creditors rights, project development and environmental law, construction law, healthcare law, insurance law, commercial real estate and financing, and labor and employment law. Rupp Pfalzgraf’s experienced attorneys are recognized as leaders in their fields by Super Lawyers, Business First’s Legal Elite, and Business First’s 40 Under 40 and 30 Under 30, among other industry publications and organizations. Rupp Pfalzgraf also has been honored for its unique culture, including recognition by Business First as a Most Admired Company, and more than 16 times as one of Western New York’s Best Places to Work. For more information, visit www.rupppfalzgraf.com.
Monday, March 4 – Sunday, March 10.
Calling all restaurants! Share your healthy food with our community!
The Independent Health Foundation, Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Appetit, and the Buffalo Urban League are excited to bring Healthy Options Restaurant Week to Buffalo! This spring, we
are encouraging our community to visit new restaurants and taste all the healthy food that Western New York has to offer.
Each vendor will be asked to serve one “Healthy Option” menu item, including an appetizer,
entree, and an optional dessert. If you don’t currently offer a healthy option, we will work with you to find an option that fits your menu! The Healthy Options Restaurant Week runs from Monday, March 4 to Sunday, March 10.
More information can be found here, and at the Healthy Options Website here. You can also email info@healthyoptionsbuffalo.com.
Today the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) shared its final report to the US Department of Agriculture on a multi-year Farm to Hospital project. Nine years ago, BNMC brought partners Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Kaleida Health together with a shared vision for what a culture of fresh, healthy, local foods in healthcare systems could look like. To advance this vision, BNMC applied for and received three rounds of grant funding from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Together the partners worked to:
As a direct result of their efforts, local procurement at Campus hospitals has increased by 333%. This matters, because for every dollar spent on local procurement (small to midsize farms, aggregators & distributors operated by our neighbors), 75-85 cents stays in the local economy when compared to conventionally sourced produce (largescale corporate food chain) where the revenue share to local farmers hovers around 14.9 cents. More data highlights are included on page 14 of the report.
The increase in local procurement meant that 42 local farmer entrepreneurs directly benefitted from the effort and grew their businesses. A further 10 local producers were able to expand their ability to sell into healthcare food systems by becoming USDA-certified in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). Several other local businesses in processing and procurement also benefitted greatly from this work.
While the impact on local entrepreneurs in our healthcare food system is significant, campus hospitals have been able to greatly improve the quality of their procurement practices for the benefit of patient and visitor health. With new policies and operations templates in place, these practices will continue to grow well into the future.
You can read a full copy of the report here. Meet the partners, growers, and distributors in a short video here.
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force in Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community, and launching the IC Success (Innovation Community Success) program to support aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates will form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. www.bnmc.org
BUFFALO NY– The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) will present its latest pitch competition for its IC Success Summer 2023 cohort on December 5, 6, and 7. The IC Success program provides new and early-stage entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to launch and grow their business—all at no cost.
The cohort members have almost completed the program’s intensive 10-week business accelerator program, received extensive mentoring from business experts, and are now ready to take the stage to make their business pitches to a panel of expert judges from an array of industries.
Competing for seed funding for up to 5 businesses are:
Companies that are part of an IC Success cohort also have additional opportunities to earn seed funding each quarter as their businesses are developed.
“We are so proud of how far this group of entrepreneurs has come over the past 10 weeks,” said Juweria Dahir, who has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs and business owners as BNMC’s Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “It has been a joy to share in their progress in the IC Success program and we welcome everyone to join us at the Innovation Center for the Competition and graduation ceremony.”
Winners will be announced at a special graduation ceremony on December 14. All are welcome to attend the pitch competition on December 5, 6, and 7. Those wishing to attend can register here. Anyone who would like to attend the graduation ceremony on the 14th can register here.
Twice each year, a cohort comprised of 15 talented Buffalo entrepreneurs begins the IC Success business accelerator program. This program provides classes on all aspects of running a business, including finance, law, accounting, and marketing. In addition, each participant is matched with three mentors who support entrepreneurs throughout the program, and beyond.
IC Success is focused primarily on underrepresented entrepreneurs, and the unique obstacles they face. For example, Black business owners who apply for funding were three times more likely to be rejected by banks than white business owners, according to a report from Goldman Sachs.
“We started this program because there are entrepreneurs all over Buffalo who still don’t feel welcome in the flourishing startup ecosystem here—especially people of color and women, who often face discrimination and other obstacles when building a business,” said Matt Enstice, President of BNMC. “By purposefully integrating networks—and caring for those connections on a long-term basis—we can help communities grow from within, driving the next wave of our region’s economic development.”
IC Success is the latest equity-focused program from BNMC, which has helped drive Buffalo’s economic growth and development for more than 20 years.
Contact:
Adriana Viverette
Digital Marketing Manager
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc.
Innovation Center at 640 Ellicott St. | Buffalo, NY 14203
C 716.348.4126 | aviverette@bnmc.org
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force in Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being, and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community, and launching the IC Success (Innovation Community Success) program to support aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates will form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. www.bnmc.org
Buffalo, New York – Buffalo All Access: In and around BNMC, a new initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) under the ITS4US Deployment Program, will use technology to improve transportation options for travelers in and around the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC), regardless of ability, age, or income. The initiative aims to make it easier for people of all abilities to utilize public transit and access the many essential services and destinations on and around the medical campus. The initiative focuses on providing:
The project is led by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) in partnership with BNMC, the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council (GBNRTC), the University at Buffalo (UB), City of Buffalo, NITTEC, Kaleida Health, Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center, VIA, Heart of the City Neighborhoods, and FruitBelt Coalition, Inc. aka Fruit of the City. Consultant partners on the project include ICF, ETCH, RSG, and the Open Doors Organization. The project team has just produced an overview video that showcases more details about this project. For more information, please watch the video on the website (https://bnmc.org/allaccess/).
Speaking about the project, Jamie Hamann-Burney, Director of Planning & Implementation for BNMC, said: “The lack of safe and inclusive trip planning and travel options for people of all abilities can be a major barrier to employment, healthcare, and other quality of life essentials in our community. We’re thrilled to be a part of this initiative that will help break down these barriers.”
The ITS4US Deployment Program (https://its.dot.gov/its4us/) is a $40 million multimodal effort, led by the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Joint Program Office (JPO) and supported by the Office of the Secretary, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration, to identify ways to provide more efficient, affordable, and accessible transportation options for underserved communities that often face greater challenges in accessing essential services.
The U.S. DOT launched Phase 1 of the program in January 2021 and supported the concept development efforts of select sites, including Buffalo All Access. In June 2022, Buffalo All Access was selected to continue Phases 2 and 3 of the program, which includes the design, testing, operation, and evaluation of the deployment.
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force of Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community. BNMC launched its flagship program, IC Success in 2021 to provide support to aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines and leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. BNMC www.bnmc.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Adriana Viverette
Digital Communications Manager
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
640 Ellicott, Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 348-4126 aviverette@bnmc.org
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Buffalo, NY – BNMC is pleased to announce the upcoming Food as Medicine Symposium, “Transformative Practices for Health.” The symposium will take place on September 27th and 28th, 2023 at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo. The school is located at 955 Main Street.
This two-day event aims to bring together national and local speakers to facilitate discussions and workshops centered around value-based practices. This year’s symposium will focus on the food industry, food equity, and lifestyle medicine. Additionally, the event will highlight partners’ food and nutrition practices rooted in integrity, accountability, and transparency, which are contributing to meaningful and sustainable change in clinical and population health outcomes.
The agenda for the 2023 symposium includes a range of activities designed both for community members and healthcare professionals.
On Day 1, participants will have the option to choose between two workshops. The first workshop, led by Registered Dietitian Rachel Laster and Rhonda Wilson of Buffalo Black Nurses, will offer a cooking demonstration for the general public, showcasing how to incorporate food as medicine in daily life. The second workshop, facilitated by Dr. Ted Barnett of the Rochester Lifestyle Medicine Institute, is tailored for clinicians and members of the healthcare team, focusing on integrating food as medicine, and whole-food plant-based nutrition, into their practice.
Day 2 of the symposium will feature a morning keynote address on food equity by Dr. Angela Odoms Young from Cornell University’s College of Human Ecology. This will be followed by a panel discussion on food equity, exploring how stakeholders outside the food system can advance health and food equity through food as medicine programs. The afternoon keynote by Chef Dr. Robert Graham of Fresh Medicine NYC will delve into the field of lifestyle medicine, followed by a panel discussion highlighting best practice models for lifestyle medicine and culinary medicine programs.
The symposium will conclude with a panel discussion featuring representatives from the private food sector, examining their contributions to health outcomes, sustainability, and profit within the complex landscape of nutrition and health.
Accreditation for continuing medical education (CME) will be provided by the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB.
To learn more and register, visit: https://bnmc.org/health-and-wellbeing/.
BNMC is happy to offer discounted tickets for non-profits with this code FAMNP2023 and FREE tickets for students with this code FAMSTU2023.
This year’s symposium is generously sponsored by the Jacobs School and the School of Public Health and Public Health Professions at UB.
About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force in Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community. BNMC launched its flagship program, IC Success in 2021 to provide support to aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines and leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. BNMC www.bnmc.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Adriana Viverette
Digital Communications Manager
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
(716) 348-4126 aviverette@bnmc.org
| First-of-its-kind free initiative connects business owners with mentors and marketplaces April 1, 2023. BUFFALO NY– The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) is pleased to announce the launch of IC Success—a free, year-long program to connect historically marginalized, early-stage entrepreneurs with mentors, marketplaces, and other resources. IC Success provides new and early-stage entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to launch and grow their businesses—all at no cost. Entrepreneurs who are accepted into IC success receive full access to the business accelerator program, extensive mentoring from business experts, access to connections and customers throughout the downtown medical campus (where 17,000-plus people work), and semi-annual pitch contests where entrepreneurs can earn seed funding. “We’re here to connect people,” said Juweria Dahir (pictured above), who has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs and business owners as BNMC’s Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “For too long, people in historically marginalized and underserved communities have not had equal access to mentors, funding, and other resources—even though they have brilliant ideas and have proven to be amazing businesspeople. Creating these integrated networks eliminates many of the barriers for these entrepreneurs.” A cohort comprised of 15 talented Buffalo entrepreneurs began the IC Success business accelerator program in January. This intensive 10-week program provides classes on all aspects of running a business, including finance, law, accounting, and marketing. In addition, each participant is matched with three mentors who support entrepreneurs throughout the program, and beyond. Shéquanda Long, the founder of the educational resource company Teacher Tidbits, is one of the entrepreneurs in the spring 2023 class. “Through IC Success, I’ve met with mentors who are helping me create new products, focus my marketing, and get in front of new customers,” said Long. “It’s truly a game-changer.”[GU1] [MM2] Underrepresented entrepreneurs face unique obstacles. For example, Black business owners who apply for funding were three times more likely to be rejected by banks than white business owners, according to a report from Goldman Sachs. “We started this program because there are entrepreneurs all over Buffalo who still don’t feel welcome in the flourishing startup ecosystem here—especially people of color and women, who often face discrimination and other obstacles when building a business,” said Matt Enstice, President of BNMC. “By purposefully integrating networks—and caring for those connections on a long-term basis—we can help communities grow from within, driving the next wave of our region’s economic development.” IC Success is the latest equity-focused program from BNMC, which has helped drive economic growth and development for more than 20 years. IC Success, which stands for Innovation Community Success, replaces EforAll, a national program that recently left the Buffalo market. Contact: Maria Morreale Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. Innovation Center at 640 Ellicott St. | Buffalo, NY 14203 C 716.866.7344 | Mmorreale@BNMC.org About Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus For more than twenty years, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus organization (BNMC) has been a driving force in Buffalo’s economic renaissance. Throughout its management of the growth of Buffalo’s premier innovation district, the BNMC has foregrounded smart economic, social, and environmental development, prioritizing health & well-being, and sustainability. Today, the BNMC is focused on the next phase of Buffalo’s ongoing resurgence, cultivating inclusive innovation in partnership with our community, launching the IC Success[GU5] (Innovation Community Success) program to support aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to help them start or grow a business. Program graduates will form the heart of Buffalo’s growing Innovation Community comprised of businesses large and small in an array of disciplines and leading the region’s next wave of economic development and growth. www.bnmc.org |
We are delighted to share the news that City Forward: How Innovation Districts Can Embrace Risk and Strengthen Community, a new book by Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) President and CEO, Matt Enstice with Mike Gluck, was published today by Island Press.
The book tells the compelling story of the establishment and growth of Western New York’s premier innovation district.
Innovation districts and anchor institutions—like hospitals, universities, and technology hubs—are celebrated for their ability to drive economic growth and employment opportunities. But the benefits often fail to reach the very neighborhoods they are built-in. As CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Matt Enstice took a different approach. Under Matt’s leadership, BNMC has supported entrepreneurship training programs and mentorship for community members, the creation of a community garden, bringing together diverse groups to explore transportation solutions, and more. Fostering participation and collaboration among neighborhood leaders, foundations, and other organizations ensures that the interests of Buffalo residents are represented. Together, these groups are creating a new model for re-energizing Buffalo—a model that has applications across the United States and around the world.
City Forward explains how BNMC works to promote a shared goal of equity among companies and institutions with often opposing motivations and intentions. When money or time is scarce, how can equitable community-building remain a common priority? When interests conflict and an institution’s expansion depends upon parking or development that would infringe upon public space, how can the decision-making process maintain trust and collaboration? Offering a candid look at BNMC’s setbacks and successes, along with efforts from other institutions nationwide, Enstice shares twelve strategies that innovation districts can harness to weave equity into their core work. From actively creating opportunities to listen to the community, to navigating compromise, to recruiting new partners, the book reveals unique opportunities available to create decisive, large-scale change. Critically, Enstice also offers insight into how innovation districts can speak about equity in an inclusive manner and keep underrepresented and historically excluded voices at the decision-making table.
Accessible, engaging, and packed with fresh ideas applicable to any city, this book is an invaluable resource. Institutional leadership, business owners, and professionals hoping to make equitable change within their companies and organizations will find experienced direction here. City Forward is a refreshing look at the brighter, more equitable futures that we can create through thoughtful and strategic collaboration—moving forward, together.
All proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to further diversity, inclusion, and equity-related efforts throughout our community, You can purchase a copy here.
You can read the full press release here.
BNMC frequently serves as a living laboratory for new and innovative programs in Buffalo. For the summer of 2021, we are delighted to partner with Shared Mobility, Inc. to offer shared e-bikes this summer. E-bikes will be stationed at a number of locations around Buffalo, including at the corner of Ellicott and North Oak/Virgina Streets on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Other locations around the City include Seneca One, and Push Buffalo’s School 77. East Side Bike Club will lead an E-Bike Library with group rides and a variety of programming.
Participation in this program is FREE! To learn more about how to get involved, visit Shared Mobility here.
