BNMC’s Innovation Center to Host Startup Grind

September 26, 2016 by BNMCin Entrepreneurs, Homepage, Innovation Center8 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick

716-866-8002/skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

BNMC’s Innovation Center to Host Startup Grind

BNMC Team Member Sean Heidinger Selected as New Co-Director of Google Entrepreneurial Forum

Buffalo, N.Y., September 26, 2016 – The Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus will continue to host Startup Grind Buffalo, Powered by Google for Entrepreneurs, and Sean Heidinger, Manager of the dig co-working space at the Innovation Center will serve as co-director along with David Murphy, Programmer Analyst of Rich Products who continues in the co-director role. Startup Grind is the largest independent startup community, actively educating, inspiring, and connecting 400,000 founders in over 200 cities. The monthly events, featuring speakers in the entrepreneurial community, nurture startup ecosystems in 85 countries.

Zach Schneider, founder of 15 Fingers, a digital branding and marketing firm, and founder/owner of Ru’s Pierogi will be the first of this season’s featured speakers this Thursday, September 29 at 7pm.

Startup Grind Buffalo has been active in the Buffalo area since 2014, helping to connect entrepreneurs with each other for a monthly conversation about issues and ideas impacting those with new and emerging businesses. The Buffalo Chapter and its events will now have a permanent home within Western New York’s largest start-up incubator at the Innovation Center where BNMC, Inc., 43 North, Z80 Labs and more hthan 80 start up and growing companies are located. Startup Grind Buffalo had previously been led in the Buffalo area by Eben Piazza, before he re-located to San Diego.

Heidinger, who currently manages dig, the co-working and event space at the Innovation Center, will be responsible for event logistics, securing speakers, attracting sponsors and all promotional activity for the monthly meet-ups. Vic Nole, director of Business Development for BNMC, will lead a board of advisors that will oversee Startup Grind Buffalo activities as well as assist with speaker and sponsor attraction.

According to Nole, “As long time supporters of the entrepreneurial community, we are thrilled that Startup Grind Buffalo will be a regular offering at the Innovation Center. There is already tremendous energy, support and mentorship for new and emerging businesses here and we hope to bring new ideas and new people here through the Startup Grind Buffalo events for continued conversation, collaboration and support for young businesses.”

Schneider’s wp-contentearance will kick off Startup Grind Buffalo’s first monthly conversation of the new season in the Innovation Center. Additional local entrepreneurs will be featured and will pair a local craft brewery for each event to highlight a local start up. Start Up Grind Buffalo events are open to the public and registration is required at https://www.startupgrind.com/buffalo/

About the Innovation Center

The Innovation Center, powered by the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc., is the largest business incubator in Buffalo. It is currently serving over 100 companies including some of the fastest growing, most successful small businesses and start-ups in the region. The Innovation Center provides workspace, education, business resources, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs and young companies.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC Inc.)

The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC Inc.) is a self-sustaining social enterprise successfully combining innovation, job creation, and urban revitalization. It serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus located within the 120-acre campus bordering Allentown, the Fruit Belt and Downtown. The BNMC Inc. fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, its partners and the community to address critical issues impacting them, including entrepreneurship, energy, access and transportation, workforce and procurement, neighborhoods, and healthy communities, with the goal of increasing economic development and building a strong community. bnmc-old.local.

Local Minority, Women and Veteran-Owned Small Business Fair to be Held September 20 on Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus

September 20, 2016 by BNMCin Homepage9 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2016

For more information, contact:

Susan Kirkpatrick, BNMC Inc. skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

716.866.8002(m)

Local Minority, Women and Veteran-Owned Small Business Fair to be Held

September 20 on Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus

Event Goal is to Connect Local Vendors with Institution Purchasers

What: The Business Enterprise Fair will provide an in-person forum to connect local vendors, particularly minority, women and veteran business owners, with those who make purchasing decisions for organizations based on and around the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Purchasers include the City of Buffalo, University at Buffalo, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Kaleida Health, and more.

When: Tuesday, September 20, 2016
1 pm – 5 pm

Where: UB’s Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Center on the Medical Campus at 555 Ellicott Street. Free parking will be available at the Gateway Building at 77 Goodell Street and at the parking lot at 589 Ellicott Street across from the Innovation Center.

Who: Local vendors will include those offering business services, catering, printing, solar energy services, health & wellness, medical devices, travel services and architectural & engineering services and more!

Anyone who makes decisions about purchasing products or services for their company or organization is encouraged to attend.

Why: It can be difficult for small local businesses to make connections with the people who make purchasing decisions in larger institutions for everything from catering to janitorial services. Likewise, larger institutions may not be aware of the availability of local resources that can meet their needs.

Sponsors: The Business Enterprise Fair is hosted by BNMC Works, a collaboration of BNMC institutions including the University at Buffalo, Kaleida Health, Roswell Park Cancer Institute and the BNMC, Inc. The mission of BNMC Works is to increase employment of local residents and to increase the purchase of goods and services from local suppliers by organizations located on the Medical Campus.

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Local Small Businesses Interested in Providing Goods and Services to Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Institutions Sought for Business Enterprise Fair

September 9, 2016 by BNMCin Campus-wide, Community, Employees, Homepage, Member Institution(s), Networking9 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 2, 2016

For more information, contact:

Susan Kirkpatrick, BNMC Inc. skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

716.566.2339/716.866.8002(m)

Local Small Businesses Interested in Providing Goods and Services to Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Institutions Sought for Business Enterprise Fair

Event to Connect Local Vendors with Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus

Institution Purchasers with a focus on Minority, Women and Veteran-owned business

Buffalo, N.Y., September 2, 2016 – Local small businesses interested in doing business with institutions and businesses on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus are encouraged to participate in the Business Enterprise Fair to be held on September 20 at UB’s Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Center on the Medical Campus.

The Business Enterprise Fair will provide an in-person forum to connect local vendors, particularly minority, women and veteran business owners, with those who make purchasing decisions for organizations based on and around the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Purchasers include the City of Buffalo, University at Buffalo, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Kaleida Health, and more.

The event is free to small businesses and will provide an opportunity to highlight products and services and to make personal connections with purchasers from the major Campus institutions. A previous Business Enterprise Fair held in late 2014 resulted in a number of new relationships and business opportunities for local vendors.

Vendors must commit to participating from 1 pm – 5 pm on Tuesday, September 20 and will be provided a table to display information. Free parking will be available at the Gateway Building at 77 Goodell Street and at the parking lot at 589 Ellicott Street across from the Innovation Center.

The Business Enterprise Fair is hosted by BNMC Works, a collaboration of BNMC institutions including the University at Buffalo, Kaleida Health, Roswell Park Cancer Institute and the BNMC, Inc, in partnership with the City of Buffalo and the Small Business Association. The mission of BNMC Works is to increase employment of local residents and to increase the purchase of goods and services from local suppliers by organizations located on the Medical Campus.

To learn more and sign up for the Business Enterprise Fair, go to www.bnmcworksvendorfair.eventbrite.com.

Buffalo Public Schools Seeks Local Chefs to Participate in Buffalo Farm-to-School Chef Challenge

August 17, 2016 by BNMCin Community, Healthy Communities, Homepage, Outreach7 Comments

Buffalo Farm to School Chef Challenge
Press Release/August 10, 2016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick

skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local 716-866-8002

Buffalo Public Schools Seeks Local Chefs to Participate in Buffalo Farm-to-School Chef Challenge

Challenge Issued to Develop New Menu Ideas to Take Advantage of Local, Seasonal Food that Conform to USDA Standards

Buffalo, N.Y., August 10, 2016 – Buffalo Public Schools is seeking local chefs to participate in the Buffalo Farm-to-School Chef Challenge as a means to seek input on recipe development for student lunches that conform to USDA standards and that incorporate local, seasonal food. Participating chefs will compete against one another as well as against a team of Buffalo Public School students. Winning recipes will be highlighted on the December school menu in participating Buffalo Public Schools.

The student team, made up of 8-10 students in grades 7-12 will be led by Chef Bobby Anderson, famed Chef recognized for his role in the Season 4 Fox television series Hell’s Kitchen, where he finished 4th place out of 17 contestants under the fiery tutelage of Gordon Ramsay. Chef Bobby now serves as the Executive Director of F Bites, an organization that uses culinary instruction as a vehicle to develop leadership, professional skills, as well as college and career readiness in youth and adults.

Interested chefs will be challenged to prepare a complete school meal that meets the nutritional requirements as mandated by the USDA Child Nutrition Meal Requirements. Meal preparation, judging and sampling will take place on October 4 at an event to kick off the 2016-2017 Farm-to-School Program at Southside Elementary School. The event is intended to engage and educate the school community about local farms and the importance of eating healthy fruits and vegetables. Interested chefs can learn more and download the wp-contentlication form HERE. All wp-contentlications must be received no later than August 25.

The Farm-to-School program began last year and is a pilot program for 12 Buffalo Public Schools that have introduced locally grown, seasonal produce to school lunch menus. The Farm-to-School program highlights seasonal offerings, encourages student trial and asks for feedback. The program’s goals are to introduce more fresh, locally grown produce in school lunches and to encourage healthy eating habits in students.

On-site meal preparation and cook time will be held from 2 pm – 4:30 pm and judging and public sampling will take place between 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm at the October 4^th event. The school district will provide all ingredients for the meal preparation. Meals will be judged on meeting USDA criteria including the use of 2 ounces of protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables and how successfully the meal meets the nutritional guidelines of less than 30 grams of fat, less than 10 grams of saturated fat, less than 640 milligrams of sodium and be between 550-650 calories.

Bridget O’Brien Wood, Food Service Director Buffalo Public Schools commented, “The Buffalo Farm to School, Harvest of the Month pilot program has really afforded our students the opportunity to have a voice in their school nutrition program. These students are trying locally grown foods and learning about New York State agriculture, and they get to tell us what they think about the new menu items. This Chef Challenge is another way to engage our youth in a fun, friendly competition with local area Chefs who can help create wp-contentealing recipes that will be incorporated into the school meal program! We can’t wait to see what they cook up in October!”

Chef Anderson added, “Both the Buffalo Public Schools and our team at F Bites see the importance of engaging kids in the power of their own future. This Chef Challenge allows them to use their creativity and explore new opportunities while having a role in creating healthier schools. By creating menus for their classmates, we hope to further their engagement and their understanding of healthier food choices.”

The winning meal will be chosen based on the highest number of points awarded for meeting nutritional standards, as well as for taste, visual presentation, ease of replication, and other factors.

Partners in the Farm to School Program include the Buffalo Public Schools, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Massachusetts Avenue Project (MAP), Grassroots Gardens, and the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc (BNMC). Pilot schools encompass grades Kindergarten through 12 and include Buffalo Public Schools #27, #32, #33, #43, #54, #64, #94, #195, #198, #81, #93, and #301.

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. to Acquire Former Osmose Holdings, Inc. Property at 980 Ellicott Street

July 5, 2016 by BNMCin Construction, Entrepreneurs, Homepage, Innovation Center, Parking10 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Kari Bonaro
202-904-7034/kbonaro@bnmc-old.local

Susan Kirkpatrick
716-866-8002/skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. to Acquire Former Osmose Holdings, Inc. Property at 980 Ellicott Street

Adding Property Addresses Need for Additional Office Space and Parking

Buffalo, N.Y., June 29, 2016 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) today announced plans to purchase property located at 980 Ellicott Street on the Medical Campus from Osmose Holdings, Inc. The 4.4-acre site is located on the northern end of the Medical Campus and includes the majority of the block bordered by Ellicott, Main, Best and Dodge Streets. It includes office, laboratory and warehouse space, as well as two parking lots with wp-contentroximately 200 spaces. The deal is expected to close late this summer.

Plans for the property have not been finalized although it will likely include renovations to the existing buildings in order to make it available to current companies on the Medical Campus that are in need of additional office and/or laboratory space, and to new companies seeking to locate to the Medical Campus. The current parking lot will provide additional Campus parking. The property is ideally located adjacent to the Summer-Best Metro rail station.

Matt Enstice, President and CEO of the BNMC stated, “The long term vision of the Medical Campus as an economic driver is now becoming a reality as young companies located here are growing and are in need of more space, and others are realizing the value of locating in close proximity to Medical Campus resources. We are thrilled to add this property to our portfolio to address two of the biggest needs on the Medical Campus today: additional room for companies to grow and support for our overall transportation plan in the form of both additional parking spaces and proximity to transit.”

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC Inc.)

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Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Offers “Walking on Wednesdays”

July 5, 2016 by BNMCin Campus-wide, Community, Employees, Event, Homepage, Member Institution(s), Wellness9 Comments

MEDIA ADVISORY

CONTACT: Susan Kirkpatrick

skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local/716-866-8002

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Offers “Walking on Wednesdays”

Free guided tours offer lunchtime exercise and an insider’s guide to the growing Medical Campus

What: “Walking on Wednesdays” (W.O.W.) is a series of free guided tours of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus in Downtown Buffalo every Wednesday throughout the summer in partnership with The Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo. A representative from the Wellness Institute will guide the tours each week in conjunction with a guest tour guide from the Medical Campus.

When: Each Wednesday at 12:10 PM – 12:40 PM. June 1 through August 31, 2016. Rain or Shine!

Where: All Walks begin and end at Roswell Park Cancer Institute’s Kaminski Park, located at Carlton and Elm Streets. A weekly Farmers Market is also offered there between 11 AM – 2 PM on Wednesdays!

Who: The Walks are ideal for employees on the Medical Campus, as well as for visitors and the interested public and will be led by a variety of guest tour guides. June guides and topics include:

June 1 – Mark McGovern, BNMC’s Senior Project Manager/Construction Update

June 8 – Justin Booth, GObike Buffalo’s Executive Director/Biking infrastructure along Main Street

June 15 – Matt Enstice, BNMC’s President & CEO along with Tom Beecher, Chair Emeritus/Medical Campus history and progress

June 22 – Craig Coyne, Senior Planner at Roswell Park Cancer Institute/RPCI’s new Clinical Sciences Center

June 29 – Ekua Mends-Aidoo & Sarah Warner, Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus/Neighborhood Explorer program overview

Coordinated by the Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo and sponsored by the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc.

Why: Add to your “step count”

Get a break from your workplace

Refresh your spirit

Enjoy the fresh air and Buffalo’s beautiful summer weather

Learn more about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus

Learn more: Visit bnmc-old.local/wow

About: The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC Inc.) is a self-sustaining social enterprise successfully combining innovation, job creation, and urban revitalization. It serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus located within the 120-acre campus bordering Allentown, the Fruit Belt and Downtown. The BNMC Inc. fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, its partners and the community to address critical issues impacting them, including entrepreneurship, energy, access and transportation, workforce and procurement, neighborhoods, and healthy communities, with the goal of increasing economic development and building a strong community. bnmc-old.local.

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“Tunes in the Tent” Resumes on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus July 7

July 5, 2016 by BNMCin Campus-wide, Community, Employees, Event, Healthy Communities, Homepage, Innovation Center, Member Institution(s), Networking10 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE/July 5, 2016

For more information, contact: Susan Kirkpatrick, skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

MEDIA ALERT & PHOTO OP

“Tunes in the Tent” Resumes on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus July 7

BNMC Presents Free Lunch Time Concert Series Featuring Local Musicians Employed
on the Medical Campus

What: The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. will resume “Tunes in the Tent,” its popular lunchtime concert series, each Thursday at noon in the heart of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. The 6-week concert series will feature local bands, all of which include at least one Medical Campus employee. The free concert is open to the public and all are encouraged to grab lunch and enjoy these talented employees and other local musicians performing original music and popular favorites every Thursday this summer!

Where: At the corner of Ellicott and Virginia Streets on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, (across from Hauptman Woodward Institute at 700 Ellicott Street)

When: Every Thursday at noon, beginning July 7th and running through August 11^th

Who: Medical Campus employees, visitors and any one who lives or works near the Medical Campus is invited to join the fun! All are encouraged to bring lunch or take advantage of local food trucks that will offer lunch options on-site to enjoy with the tunes!

Line Up: The Larkin Plan/July 7

The Wilde’s/July 14

Rick Jameson/July 21

Ten Cent Howl/July 28

Nelson Rivera & Jazz Conception/August 4

Theresa Quinn Trio/August 11

Visit Facebook.com/BNMCSummer to stay up to date on all upcoming events!

About the BNMC

The BNMC is a self-sustaining social enterprise successfully combining innovation, job creation, and urban revitalization. It serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus located within the 120-acre campus bordering Allentown, the Fruit Belt and Downtown. The BNMC fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, its partners and the community to address critical issues impacting them, including entrepreneurship, energy, access and transportation, workforce and procurement, neighborhoods, and healthy communities, with the goal of increasing economic development and building a strong community. bnmc-old.local.

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Tyno Recognized by City & State Reports for Corporate Social Responsibility

July 5, 2016 by BNMCin Conference, Employees, Energy, Homepage11 Comments

For Immediate Release

Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick

skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

716-866-8002

Tyno Recognized by City & State Reports for Corporate Social Responsibility

Work on Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Cited

Buffalo, N.Y., June 30, 2016 – City & State Reports, the only media company devoted solely to covering government and politics in New York, has recently honored Paul Tyno, Strategic Advisor for Energy on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc., with the Corporate Social Responsibility Award in Tech, Energy and Utilities. Tyno will receive the award at a ceremony in New York City at New York Law School on June 30^th.

Tyno is one of a number of honorees from across the state that has been recognized as an outstanding corporate citizen from New York’s tech, energy and utility sector. Tyno’s work in leading energy initiatives on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, most notably in designing a new model encouraging the use of solar power in an underserved neighborhood adjacent to campus, and in leading the feasibility and design phases of a potential micro-grid for the Medical Campus were factors in the award. Tyno is the immediate past Chairperson of the Peak Load Management Alliance.

The event will feature remarks by Andrew Rasiej, Chair, NY Tech Meetup, and will be hosted by Libby Wayman, Global Director, Ecomagination at GE. The breakfast event will also feature a thought leadership breakfast discussion on social responsibility in the tech industry today.

Picture Yourself on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Powered by AT&T

April 25, 2016 by BNMCin Campus-wide, Community, Homepage, Member Institution(s), News12 Comments

“Picture Yourself on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Powered by AT&T” Expected to Attract Hundreds of Middle and High School Students
Day Includes Exploration of STEM Careers, Internships, and Volunteer Opportunities

What: “Picture Yourself on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus is a half day event to introduce future careers, internships and volunteer opportunities to area students in grades seven through twelve and their parents. Student will have an opportunity to tour the campus, participate in hands on activities and hear from experts at University at Buffalo, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Kaleida Health, Hauptman-Woodward Institute, the Jacobs Institute, Unyts, Buffalo Manufacturing Works, and the Thomas R. Beecher, Jr. Innovation Center.

When: Saturday, April 23, 2016, 9 AM – Noon

Where: Start your tour of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus in dig at the Innovation Center at 640 Ellicott Street, Buffalo and then tour facilities on your own at your own pace. Representatives from participating organizations will direct attendees and share information about each stop on the tour.

Activities:

Test drive the Robotic Surgery Simulator (RoSS®) that’s used to train surgeons
Use a microscope to view cancer cells
Hold a human brain
View a catheterization lab
Watch a pre-recorded surgery
See robotic demonstrations and 3D printers in action
Take a turn as a virtual welder
Buy lunch from Lloyds Taco Truck (located on Campus throughout the event)
And much more!

Who: Sponsored by AT&T, the event is hosted by the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, iSciWNY, and its partner institutions.

Media is encouraged to attend, excellent photo and broadcast opportunities (See attached program)

Why: “Picture Yourself On the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus” is designed to expose area students and their parents to the many and varied career options offered here and to provide “hands-on” opportunities to imagine working on the Medical Campus or in similar settings.

About: The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC Inc.) is a self-sustaining social enterprise successfully combining innovation, job creation, and urban revitalization. It serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus located within the 120-acre campus bordering Allentown, the Fruit Belt and Downtown. The BNMC Inc. fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, its partners and the community to address critical issues impacting them, including entrepreneurship, energy, access and transportation, workforce and procurement, neighborhoods, and healthy communities, with the goal of increasing economic development and building a strong community. bnmc-old.local.

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. Launches “Try Transit” Program to Promote Bus and Rail Service to Employees

March 28, 2016 by BNMCin GO BNMC, Homepage, News, Outreach, Transportation9 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kari Bonaro
202-904-7034/ kbonaro@bnmc-old.local

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. Launches “Try Transit” Program to Promote Bus and Rail Service to Employees

Free NFTA-Metro Passes for April for Employees New to Transit

Buffalo, N.Y., March 28, 2016 – In an effort to promote alternative transportation options on its expanding campus and to familiarize employees with the benefits of transit, the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) is launching a month-long “Try Transit” campaign aimed at employees through its GO BNMC program. The centerpiece of “Try Transit” is a free NFTA-Metro pass for Medical Campus employees who are new to transit that can be used for unlimited bus and rail trips throughout April.

The aim of “Try Transit” is to introduce bus and rail service to employees who may not be familiar with the service and to provide an opportunity for trial to determine if it can work for them. The program will be launched at a “Try Transit” information session on March 30th at noon in Learn at the Innovation Center at 640 Ellicott Street. Interested employees who are new to transit can request a pass by emailing gobnmc-old.local or by calling 716-218-7162. Supplies are limited and will be available on a first-come basis.

According to William Smith, Director of Access and Safety for the BNMC, “Rail or bus service may be a great option for many people working on the Medical Campus, so we are making it easy for employees to give it a try with the free pass. We hope employees recognize the many benefits of transit including a lower environmental impact, the ability to let someone else drive, and in avoiding the challenges of parking. As the Medical Campus continues to grow, we know that reducing the number of single driver cars is critical, so we hope that this program will introduce a new option for employees.”

Through its GO BNMC program, the BNMC has been an active advocate for alternative transportation options including transit, carpooling, biking and walking. The non-profit has also worked to ensure that infrastructure on the Campus and within the surrounding neighborhoods supports and promotes alternative transportation options.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) is a self-sustaining social enterprise successfully combining innovation, job creation, and urban revitalization. It serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus located within the 120-acre campus bordering Allentown, the Fruit Belt and Downtown. The BNMC fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, its partners and the community to address critical issues impacting them, including entrepreneurship, energy, access and transportation, workforce and procurement, neighborhoods, and healthy communities, with the goal of increasing economic development and building a strong community. bnmc-old.local.

Innovation Center Adds Offices at Dig Cowork Space

March 11, 2016 by BNMCin Amenities, Career Opportunities, Homepage, Innovation Center, Networking11 Comments

Thomas R. Beecher Innovation Center Adds Offices to dig Cowork Space

Six private offices added to accommodate start up growth on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus

Buffalo, N.Y., March 11, 2016 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus recently completed the build-out and leasing of six new, private offices in its dig cowork and event space at the Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center to accommodate growing demand for workspace from the start-up community. The six offices have been built within the 6,000 square foot space on the first floor of the Innovation Center, Buffalo’s largest business incubator that houses start-up and emerging companies, as well as the businesses that provide services to them. The Innovation Center serves more than 100 companies and nearly 500 employees.

The six companies leasing the new offices represent a combination of those moving up from coworking at dig to more permanent office space, as well as new companies joining the Innovation Center community. Those leasing the new offices include:

Girls Education Collaborative supports and promotes the efforts of local communities in developing countries to improve educational opportunities for girls. The non-profit had been located in the Suites at the Innovation Center and will now have expanded office space in the new dig offices.
JMS Technical Solutions, Inc. a former dig member, is an international technology consulting and staffing firm.
Norris Clifton Creative, also a former dig member, is a boutique-marketing group offering advertising, marketing, branding & identity, web services and photography.
A former dig member, The Parson Group, LLC is the parent company with subsidiaries in the fields of Philanthropy and Social Engagement (The Black Diamond Society™), Educational Training and Development (The AppleTree Agency™) and Mobile Application Development (HIPPO™).
Tipping Point Communications expanded beyond its Rochester headquarters to Buffalo and offers marketing, public relations and digital media services.
911Flex, LLC (formerly 911Next) brokers public safety and national security products and services and was a dig member previously. The company shares the office space with Plur-al-ity Press, which aspires to be the lead generator of sophisticated thought-images advancing how both image and language are consumed and created while assisting writers in deepening their craft.

According to Vic Nole, Director of Business Development for the BNMC Inc., “We recognized that there was a growing demand from dig members whose companies were maturing and had a need for more permanent and private office space. We see this as an indication of a very healthy entrepreneurial environment as companies realize success and have a need for greater resources to continue to grow their businesses. We are more than hwp-contenty to be able to accommodate those needs with these new offices.”

The office are designed to accommodate one to four individuals and are constructed with clear glass walls and doors, providing users privacy when necessary but an open feel in the midst of the dig environment. Lease agreements are month-to- month, providing young companies flexibility as they continue to grow. Amenities include a fully operational set up for tenants including Internet, telephone and print/copy services as well as access to the events and services offered by the Innovation Center.

About the Innovation Center

The LEED-certified Innovation Center opened in 2010 with two tenants and is designed to accommodate small and mid-size companies seeking office, wet lab and/or research space, on a month-to-month basis or via longer-term leases. Owned and operated by BNMC Inc., the facility is designed as a “plug ‘n play” set-up whereby tenants enjoy a fully operational office setting without having to handle office and facilities issues such as phone, Internet and other services. The Innovation Center also includes the recently opened Learn at the Innovation Center, designed as classroom space for educational programs and dig, its co-work space. The Innovation Center serves as the physical location BNMC Inc.’s business development program, that actively identifies and evaluates new business opportunities, educates and provides mentorship to entrepreneurs, and creates, incubates, and grows new companies in Buffalo.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC Inc.)

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus to Host Internship Fair

February 26, 2016 by BNMCin Career Opportunities, Community, Event, Homepage, Innovation Center, Networking3 Comments

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus to Host Internship Fair
Life science, business, marketing, technology companies looking for spring and summer interns

What: The Buffalo Niagara Medical Center, Inc. (BNMC) will host an Internship Fair to connect area companies with undergraduate and graduate students for spring and summer internships. Nearly two dozen companies in varying fields, including life sciences, technology, business, marketing and more, will be on hand to meet with an estimated 100 local students for potential internship positions.

When: Thursday, March 3, 2016 from 4 pm – 7 pm

Where: dig at the Innovation Center

The Thomas R. Beecher, Jr. Innovation Center

640 Ellicott Street

Buffalo, N.Y.

Participating

Companies: Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, 43North, SelectOne, Pitch + Pivot, Hauptman Woodward Institute, The Jacobs Institute, ClearView Social, Thimble, Cytocybernetics, ACV Auctions, Lumsden & McCormick and many more.

Students: Undergraduate seniors and graduate students will be meeting and interviewing for a chance to gain valuable work experience at some of Western New York’s most innovative companies for a variety of paid/unpaid internships for the Spring and Summer of 2016.

Sponsor: SelectOne, a professional employment agency and search firm providing staffing services and recruitment opportunities to a broad range of industries and companies in the Buffalo, NY region.

To Register: Interested students can register at http://conta.cc/1SSH9Ve; companies that are interested in participating can contact Vic Nole at vnole@bnmc-old.local.

About:The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) is a self-sustaining social enterprise successfully combining innovation, job creation, and urban revitalization. It serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus located within the 120-acre campus bordering Allentown, the Fruit Belt and Downtown. The BNMC fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, its partners and the community to address critical issues impacting them, including entrepreneurship, energy, access and transportation, workforce and procurement, neighborhoods, and healthy communities, with the goal of increasing economic development and building a strong community. bnmc-old.local.

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) named a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists

February 19, 2016 by BNMCin Biking, Community, Environment, Healthy Communities, Homepage, News, Transportation6 Comments

GO BNMC Program has championed biking and other alternative transportation options for over a decade

Buffalo, N.Y., February 18, 2016 – The League of American Bicyclists has recognized the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) with a Gold Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB^SM) award, joining more than 1,100 visionary businesses from across the country. The City of Buffalo is recognized as one of only three bicycle-friendly communities in New York State by the League of American Bicyclists and the BNMC is the only organization to be honored with a Gold designation in Western New York.

With the announcement of 73 new and renewing BFBs today, the BNMC joins a cutting-edge group of 1,132 local businesses, government agencies and Fortune 500 companies in 49 states and Washington, D.C. that are transforming the American workplace.

“The business community’s investment in bicycling is playing a central role in making the country a safer, hwp-contentier, and more sustainable place to live and work,” said Amelia Neptune, League Bicycle Friendly Business Program Manager. “We wp-contentlaud this new round of businesses, including the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, for leading the charge in creating a bicycle-friendly America for everyone.”

The BNMC has been an active advocate for alternative transportation options including biking through its GO BNMC program. The non-profit organization, in partnership with GObike Buffalo, has worked for over a decade on increasing active living opportunities throughout the City of Buffalo, promoting biking to work, and ensuring infrastructure on the Campus and within the surrounding neighborhoods supports and promotes alternative transportation options. In addition to carpooling, transit and walking, the BNMC encourages bicycling as an easy option for transportation to and from the dense urban campus to promote active living, ease parking congestion and improve the environment by lessening pollution from motor vehicles.

The BNMC provides amenities such as ten dry, secure bike storage options throughout the Medical Campus, and incentives such as the Secure Bike Parking Bundle that includes access to a dedicated Bike Storage facility, the Guaranteed Ride Home program, and a GObike membership. Buffalo BikeShare is also available on the Medical Campus as an amenity for employees and visitors who may want access to a bike for short-term use. Moving forward, the BNMC will have access to a variety of tools and technical assistance from the League to become even more bicycle-friendly.

William Smith, Director of Access and Planning for the BNMC commented, “We are thrilled to join our partner, GObike Buffalo as a Bicycle Friendly Business in Buffalo. Over the past decade, our efforts to promote biking and build necessary infrastructure on Campus has resulted in a strong biking culture among employees. When our employees and visitors bike, great things hwp-contenten including a decreased carbon footprint, reduced health care costs, and an active and healthy work culture. We are proud to set an example for our community on the benefits of biking, alternative transportation, and the benefits of active, healthy living.“

To wp-contently or learn more about the BFB program, visit the League online at www.bikeleague.org/business. To learn more about GO BNMC, visit www.gobnmc-old.local.

About the Bicycle Friendly America^SM Program

The Bicycle Friendly Community^SM, Bicycle Friendly State^SM, Bicycle Friendly Business and Bicycle Friendly University^SM programs are generously supported by program partner Trek Bicycle Corp and Silver-level BFA Sponsor Planet Bike. To learn more about building a Bicycle Friendly America, visit www.bikeleague.org/BFA.

The League of American Bicyclists is leading the movement to create a Bicycle Friendly America for everyone. As leaders, our commitment is to listen and learn, define standards and share best practices to engage diverse communities and build a powerful, unified voice for change.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

Buffalo Student Sandbox Opens to Applicants

January 28, 2016 by BNMCin Campus-wide, Entrepreneurs, Homepage, News2 Comments

Innovative summer program to “hire” student entrepreneurs to pursue ventures full-time
BUFFALO, NY – WNY Incubator Network (WIN), a consortium of the region’s business incubators, today announced the 2016 iteration of Buffalo Student Sandbox, a summer accelerator for scalable, disruptive ventures led by college and graduate students. The nine week accelerator, running from May 30 – July 29, 2016, will select promising teams of student entrepreneurs and provide them with stipends and mentors as they compete for cash prizes at the end of the program. The wp-contentlication is online at www.wnyincubators.com/Sandbox, with the initial deadline on March 1.

Entering into its second year, Buffalo Student Sandbox is modeled after a similar program in Syracuse. Eight teams were selected from a pool of more than 40 wp-contentlicants in 2015 and have raised capital and launched products since completing the program. Two graduates advanced to the semifinals of 43North, while five were selected to pitch at Bright Buffalo Niagara. Three graduates were selected in as finalists for the Buffalo leg of Steve Case’s Rise of the Rest tour, with one earning a $100,000 investment through that program.

Ventures looking to participate in the program must be led by a current undergrad, graduate student, or recent graduate, and will be evaluated based on their wp-contentlication, interviews, quality of the team, and overall commercial potential of their venture. For 2016, a special focus will be on recruiting teams that have formed and committed to working on a venture over individuals working on their own. Participants are required to treat Student Sandbox as their primary commitment during the program.

The program will be administered by WIN and the UB Office of Economic Development, hosted in the dig cowork and event space at the Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center, and include participation in the UB Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership Startup CEL course. Student Founders will spend their days working independently on their ventures, but will also benefit from the structure of the Startup CEL course, receive help from mentors, and participate in weekly board meetings with experienced entrepreneurs. At several milestones throughout the program, teams will compete for additional resources to be used for the development of their businesses.

Organizers will seek teams from the region’s colleges and universities, as well as programs including Startup Weekend and Student 2 Biz, a business plan competition facilitated by the WNY College Connection and sponsored by WIN.

“This is not an academic exercise, but rather an opportunity for students to experience the entrepreneurial process in real time,” said Tom Ulbrich, executive director of UB’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. “There are no tests, grades or homework for these founders, but we will expect great things from them.”

For Vic Nole, director of business development for Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc., which operates the Innovation Center and dig, Buffalo Student Sandbox represents an opportunity for Western New York’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to shine. “Selected teams will complete an intense summer program focused on product development and input from potential customers,” he said. “Our program focuses on building market-driven companies that will thrive in the real world.”

Tom Murdock is UB’s incubator network manager and sees the program as a chance for students to take major steps forward. “Last year, with no track record, we received more than 40 wp-contentlications to take part in this program, and this year, we plan to select only the most cohesive and promising companies,” he said. “We’re looking for teams who have already demonstrated some progress and are determined to succeed.”

Susan Kirkpatrick

skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local

Mobile: 716-866-8002

BNMC Partners with GoBike to Promote Alternative Transportation Options to Campus Employees

January 25, 2016 by BNMCin Homepage, News, Sustainability, Transportation, Wellness9 Comments

Buffalo, N.Y., January 22, 2016 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) announced today that it will partner with GObike Buffalo to assist with managing and promoting alternative transportation options for employees and visitors to the growing Medical Campus.
The two not-for-profit organizations have worked together for more than a decade on increasing active living opportunities throughout the City of Buffalo, promoting biking to work, and ensuring infrastructure on the Campus and within the surrounding neighborhoods that support and promote alternative transportation options. The formal partnership marks a more structured arrangement in that GObike will provide specific services and staffing for BNMC that will supplement the significant transportation and planning work currently undertaken by BNMC and its partners. Under the agreement, GObike will conduct in-depth assessments of current commuting choices for participating Medical Campus employers, help implement various strategies and infrastructure improvements to promote alternative transportation modes, and provide educational resources for people working on the Medical Campus who are interested in smarter commuting options.. In addition, GObike will assist in marketing and outreach as well as day-to-day management of the current GO BNMC program, which works to provide employees with better access to healthier, greener and affordable transportation options.

According to William Smith, Director of Access and Planning for BNMC, “As the Medical Campus continues to grow, it is critical to educate our community on alternatives modes of transportation that are more cost effective, better for our environment and that address parking challenges in a dense, urban environment. GObike has a proven track record of supporting alternative modes of transportation including transit, carpooling and walking, as well as biking. We believe that this unique partnership can be a model for other companies seeking to promote alternative modes of commuting, as well as those interested in the overall health and wellbeing of their employees.”

Justin Booth, Executive Director of GObike Buffalo added, “We know that employers can play a significant role in encouraging their employees to consider leaving the one-person, one car model of commuting behind. We are delighted to work more closely with the BNMC to help educate and motivate Medical Campus employees to consider alternative means to get to work that will benefit their health, the environment and to help to ease transportation and parking congestion on campus.”

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

About GOBike Buffalo

Through advocacy efforts, infrastructure improvements, and community programs, GObike Buffalo works to create healthy, environmentally sustainable, community friendly options in the greater Buffalo region.

Learn at the Innovation Center Opens at the Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center on the Medical Campus

December 9, 2015 by BNMCin News8 Comments

For Immediate Release
Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick, skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local 716-866-8002

Learn at the Innovation Center Opens at the Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center on the Medical Campus

First Niagara support adds another tool for start-up businesses

Buffalo, N.Y., December 9, 2015 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) has recently opened Learn at the Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center on the Medical Campus, designed to provide education and training to entrepreneurs and their growing companies. Learn at the Innovation Center was made possible through a $50,000 two-year grant from First Niagara Bank.

The new classroom-type setting is outfitted with the latest in technology and is designed to create a dynamic learning environment. Located on the first floor of the Innovation Center at 640 Ellicott Street, the 1,500 square foot suite includes a main classroom for up to 30 people and private conference spaces. Learn will be used by the BNMC business development team for its programs and will also be available to other partners that are dedicated to supporting the region’s growing entrepreneurial community. Capstream Technologies provided the audio-visual and digital technology and Mid-City Office Furniture provided the furniture for the new space.

Learn complements the array of amenities currently offered by the BNMC at the Innovation Center that are focused on supporting small and mid-size companies seeking office, wet lab, or research space and support on a month-to-month basis or via longer-term leases. The facility is designed as a “plug and play” set-up whereby tenants enjoy a fully operational menu of office services without having to worry about facilities maintenance issues. Service providers are co-located in the building to provide legal, financial, marketing, and IT support. Tenants also have access to collaborative space, conference rooms, kitchen facilities and a fitness center. Additional workspace also includes dig, a cowork and event space. As the region’s largest local business incubator, the Innovation Center also offers networking events, workshops, educational forums, as well as mentoring and start-up assistance for young companies.

Vic Nole, Director of Business Development for the BNMC commented, “Learn at the Innovation Center now gives us a dedicated place to hold more targeted learning and problem solving forums for companies and individuals that need access to specific business networks and expertise. We are delighted that First Niagara has recognized the value in supporting the creation of this space in a way that will really benefit the start-up community. The Center will be a tremendous complement to the already rich portfolio on the Medical Campus.”

The Innovation Center is the centerpiece of the BNMC’s Business Development office that actively identifies and evaluates new business opportunities, educates and provides mentorship to entrepreneurs, and creates, incubates, and grows new companies in Buffalo.

“First Niagara is very proud to launch Learn at the Innovation Center as a central resource on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus to spur entrepreneurship, business development and job growth. The Center will facilitate the collaboration and resource sharing necessary for companies to take root and grow in our city,” said Buford Sears, Regional President, Western New York. “First Niagara’s team of experts will help staff the space to provide financial workshops, cultivate relationships and provide business services needed to develop new companies. We are looking forward to the opportunities Learn will present to increase economic development in Buffalo and build a thriving community.”

Learn will be used primarily for programs offered by the BNMC and its partners including Start Up CEL and Student Sandbox. The facility will also be offered to outside organizations dedicated to the entrepreneurial community. For more information about programs offered though Learn at the Innovation Center, contact Vic Nole at vnole@bnmc-old.local.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

Angelo Fatta Named Chair of Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Board of Directors

December 3, 2015 by BNMCin Homepage, News6 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick, skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local, 716-866-8002

Angelo Fatta To Become Chair of

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Board of Directors

Buffalo, N.Y., December 3, 2015 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) today announced the wp-contentointment of Angelo Fatta, Ph.D., to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors for the not-for-profit organization. Fatta’s term began after a vote by the Board of Directors at its quarterly meeting today. The BNMC is the umbrella organization formed in 2002 to facilitate collaboration among member institutions that form the Medical Campus and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Fatta succeeds William L. Joyce, who has served as Chairman since 2008 and has been a board member since the organization’s inception. He has served as Treasurer (2002-2005) and as Vice Chairman (2005-2007) and prior to that was the representative from Kaleida Health while serving as Chairman of Kaleida’s Board of Directors. Joyce will remain on the BNMC board as Chair Emeritus.

Fatta brings a strong entrepreneurial and life science background to the position. He is the founder of ANESCO group, a consumer products testing laboratory with locations in Buffalo and Hong Kong that was sold in 2015. He was also co-founder and CEO of Buffalo-based ACTS Testing Labs, a global consumer products quality assurance company that was acquired in 1998. Fatta co-founded and served as volunteer president of BuffLink, Inc., a not-for-profit, private sector initiative that promoted the creation of a regional life sciences economy for Western New York. He has served as a pro-bono entrepreneurial coach to several start-up companies and was part of the original BNMC team when the not-for-profit organization was formed.

According to Joyce, who oversaw the search process for his successor, “We are confident that Ange is the right person to continue to lead the Medical Campus as it continues its growth and its significant impact on our local economy. With the increase in entrepreneurial activity on the Medical Campus, and in the BNMC’s Innovation Center in particular, we are delighted that he will be guiding the organization. We are looking forward to being able to tap into his knowledge and experience as an entrepreneur and as someone with extensive leadership experience in guiding not-for-profits dedicated to revitalizing our community.”

Matt Enstice, President and CEO of the BNMC added, “We anticipate a seamless transition as Ange continues the course set by outgoing Chairman Bill Joyce over the last eight years. We are grateful for the skillful leadership that Bill has provided throughout his tenure. Under his leadership, the Medical Campus has grown tremendously and Bill has been the guiding force behind the growth and impact that this organization has had in helping to make positive change in our community over the last eight years.”

Long time BNMC volunteer Tony Martino continues in his role as Vice-Chair of the BNMC Board, serving along with James Biltekoff, David Zebro and incoming Vice-Chair Ted Walsh. Thomas R. Beecher, Jr. remains as Founding Chair Emeritus. The BNMC Board is made up of representatives of the member institutions and the surrounding neighborhoods of Allentown, Downtown and the Fruit Belt.

Fatta holds a BS in Chemistry from Canisius College and a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Wayne State University. He has held numerous volunteer leadership positions in the community including current terms as a Trustee of the State University of New York (SUNY) and Vice Chair of the Board of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. He also serves as an officer of the Fatta Foundation, a charitable family foundation supporting the welfare and development of children in Western New York.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

Join Our Team!

October 14, 2015 by BNMCin Career Opportunities, Community6 Comments

The BNMC, Inc. is currently hiring a maintenance mechanic.
Maintenance Mechanic Job Description

The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) is pleased to announce a call for wp-contentlications for a Maintenance Mechanic. This person will perform a variety of equipment and systems maintenance duties necessary for the efficient and effective management of the Thomas R. Beecher Jr. Innovation Center and other BNMC owned properties on the campus.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Maintenance Mechanic will be required to provide a variety of support services including (but not limited to the following):

Sufficient experience to provide strong working knowledge of maintenance and repair practices and techniques
An understanding of building systems operations to include interior and exterior of buildings, roof, grounds, parking lots, Plumbing,HVAC, electrical, sprinkler system, building management software, troubleshoot problems and make repairs where wp-contentlicable
Daily repair and upkeep of properties
Respond to tenant requests in a timely, courteous and professional manner
Complies with all wp-contentlicable codes, regulations, governmental agency and Company directives related to building operations and work safety.
Performs assigned day-to-day repairs, emergency and preventive maintenance.
Completes maintenance and repair records as required.
Responds quickly to emergency situations, summoning additional assistance as needed.

Requirements

Able to pass a background check and drug screen,

Available to work during standard business hours and on-call basis

A Valid NYS Driver license

REQUIRED PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Mechanical maintenance experience of 5 years minimum in an industrial or multi-tenant commercial facility.
Strong mechanical and electrical skills required with some knowledge of plumbing and construction.

REQUIRED PERSONAL SKILLS:

Strong verbal and written communication skills
Pleasant, engaging, and confident demeanor
Ability to problem solve and prioritize work
Work effectively in a team environment
Resourceful in obtaining needed information and resources
Detail oriented
Capable of maintaining confidentiality
Willingness to continue education and training

Preferred qualifications:

Electrical or HVAC Journeyman
2 year degree
Strong computer and technology skills

Please forward resumes to employment@bnmc-old.local – posting closes on November 13, 2015.

BNMC, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Position includes excellent benefits. For more information on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, visit bnmc-old.local

City Officials Announce Tentative Agreement re: Long-Term Lease of Ellicott Goodrich Garage

October 13, 2015 by BNMCin Community, Employees, GO BNMC, Parking, Transportation7 Comments

Mayor Brown and Council President Pridgen have announced a tentative agreement between the City of Buffalo and the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus for a long-term lease of the Ellicott Goodrich Garage which, if passed, would allow the BNMC to build a new parking garage on that site which is adjacent to the Buffalo General Medical Center, Gates Vascular Institute/CTRC, and the Oishei Children’s Hospital and Jacobs School of Medicine (both currently under construction). This would add parking for patients, visitors, and employees to the current transportation system.

Where will the displaced parkers be temporarily located during demo/construction?

Parking occupancy overall the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus is currently at 70 percent, meaning we have ample additional parking to accommodate those who currently park at the Ellicott Goodrich Garage (EGG) in other locations. We have space in the Michigan Goodrich Garage (MiGo) to temporarily accommodate the parking needs of patients and visitors who are currently parking in the EGG. The MiGo is located on the northwest corner of Michigan Avenue and High Street, directly adjacent to the Buffalo General Medical Center (BGMC) and the Gates Vascular Institute (GVI), and provides relatively easy access via walking or shuttle to and from the hospital facilities.

The BNMC Transportation and Parking Project Management Group (including staff from the BNMC, Kaleida Health, UB, and Roswell Park) have been working diligently on a strategy to ensure that that all patients and visitors can easily be relocated to the MiGo, as the garage was built with this additional capacity during reconstruction in mind. Kaleida and BNMC will also operate a complimentary and wheel-chair accessible shuttle service to safely and efficiently move patients and visitors between the MiGo and BGMC/GVI main entrances. Valet services will also be enhanced at both the GVI and BGMC entrances to accommodate an anticipated increase in valet traffic.

No existing MiGo parkers will be displaced from the garage, although employees will be asked not to park on those levels reserved for patients and visitors.

How are you mitigating additional employees parking in the neighborhoods during this time?

We do not expect any of the temporarily displaced parkers from the EGG to park in the Fruit Belt and/or Allentown neighborhoods. The vast majority of people who park in the EGG are patients and visitors of BGMC and GVI. We will continue to direct them to first-class valet services at the main hospital entrances as well as parking and shuttle options in the MiGo. In addition, the relatively low number of employee permit holders who currently park in the EGG will also be given access to the MiGo.

The BNMC continues to work to mitigate the impact of employee parking in the Fruit Belt. The BNMC and our partners are also in the midst of a Parking Study funded by the NYS Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) and NYS Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to help inform legislation and develop a model residential parking program in the Fruit Belt neighborhood. We are currently in the data collection phase of the Parking Study, working with Fruit Belt residents, institutional partners, and local elected officials to assess current employee parking behaviors and surveying residents to determine their unique parking challenges and needs. The BNMC staff hosted several events and went door-to-door to survey residents, churches and business owners; we expect to have results to share by November 2015.

How will this new garage fit into the BNMC’s overall parking strategy?

This new garage provides a dramatic increase in convenient parking and improved customer service for the growing number of patients, visitors, and employees on the Medical Campus, in particular within the Buffalo General Medical Center, Gates Vascular Institute, the new John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital and the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo. As a quickly growing Medical Campus in a dense and urban area, there is a critical need to ensure ample parking for patients and visitors while at the same time ensuring safe, efficient and sustainable transportation access for employees, students and neighborhood residents alike.

What is the timing for garage construction?

Demolition of the current EGG and construction of the new garage is expected to take 18-21 months depending on start date. The parking facility is expected to be partially occupied in May 2017 and fully constructed by November 2017. The contract will include MWBE construction goals.

How many spaces will this add to the BNMC parking system, and is it enough to accommodate the expected growth in the number of employees?

The EGG will expand from its current 892 parking spaces to just over 1,800 spaces. We are also in the process of acquiring additional off-Campus parking which will provide a modest increase to our overall parking inventory. It is the BNMC’s mission to work with our partners to develop a wide array of parking and transportation options to accommodate nearly all commuting needs for the entire BNMC population.

Currently, BNMC, with the assistance of its Transportation Project Management Group, has been exploring a number of nearby satellite parking options, including those on the NFTA Metro Rail line to the north and south.

In addition, we continue to work with our regional partners to manage and grow the GO BNMC commuter toolkit, an innovative program designed to provide employees with better access to healthier, greener and affordable transportation options.

Has GO BNMC been successful?

Yes, over the past three years we have developed several programs that have successfully encouraged drive-alone commuters to consider changing over to alternative modes of transportation (e.g. transit, carpool, biking, and walking). This includes incentive programs, educating employees about their options, and providing infrastructure improvements for safer and more efficient travel modes. Since launching GO BNMC, we have seen a 4% reduction in the number of employees driving alone to the Medical Campus. Moving forward, we are also seeing an increase in housing options in the downtown area, in the surrounding neighborhoods, and along the Metro Rail line. BNMC and partners are also working to create programs to encourage employees to live in these areas, which provide greater access to these alternative commuting modes and, in turn, dampen our on-campus parking demands.

USDA Awards Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus $25,000 Planning Grant

October 9, 2015 by BNMCin Uncategorized4 Comments

For Immediate Release
October 9, 2015

Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick, 716-866-8002 or skirkpatrick@BNMC.org

USDA Awards Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus $25,000 Planning Grant

Funding will Support the Development of a Farm-to-Institution Program to bring Local, Healthy Food Options to Medical Facilities

Buffalo, N.Y., October 9, 2015 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced that the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC) is the recipient of a $25,000 planning grant under its Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP). The grant is awarded as part of a program to support local and regional food systems as part of the USDA’s efforts to revitalize rural economies and communities.

The planning grant will be used to conduct market research and develop a plan to promote local food procurement policies and practices on the Medical Campus. The goal of the planning process is to open new market opportunities to local small and mid-sized farms, as well as to increase the health and wellness of patients, visitors and Campus employees.

The BNMC partnered with Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest NY and Fork & Field Network to secure the grant, and will work with both organizations throughout the planning process. The grant, expected to last for a 6-12 month period, will fund research to determine current baseline levels of locally-sourced food used in Campus institutions, to research the possible supply levels from local farmers, to identify barriers faced by farmers in supplying to Campus, and to identify best practices from similar medical facilities across the country.

The BNMC will work with its member institutions across the Campus including the University at Buffalo (UB), Kaleida Health and Roswell Park Cancer Institute throughout the planning process, with the goal of developing and implementing a program within the member institutions.

According to Cheryl Thayer, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist at Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest NY, “New York State ranks as one of the top agricultural producers in the nation and yet we lag behind other parts of the country in connecting farms to hospital supply chains. Our goal is to be a leader in creating new models that will benefit local farmers and provide increased opportunities for healthy food options.”

Jonathan McNeice, Healthy Communities Planner at the BNMC added, “We believe that creating a local food procurement program can benefit local farms while improving nutrition and ultimately health, for patients, visitors and Campus Employees. This grant will help us significantly in learning more about our current practices and how we can work much more collaboratively with our local farm community.”

As part of the grant agreement, the BNMC will provide a 25 percent matching in the amount of $8,333 to the program. Healthcare Without Harm, a coalition of hospitals and health care organizations whose mission is to transform the health sector worldwide, without compromising patient safety or care, will provide additional research, training and mentoring for the planning phase.

For more information about the USDA awards, visit http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdamediafb?contentid=2015/10/0273.xml&printable=true&contentidonly=true

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

About Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest NY

The Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest NY (CCE HNY) team aims to increase investment and jobs in agricultural and food systems to enhance the viability of farms through expansion, value-added production, diversification, and distribution of locally produced farm goods.

About Fork & Field Network

Field & Fork Network is a food and farming organization. Our mission is to build capacity for a thriving regional food system in Western New York. We promote connections between consumers, food producers, and food buyers in the eight-county region. We strive to create a practical economic engine for local, sustainable agriculture and to provide our region with access to fresh, healthy food.

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Names Tamar Rothaus Controller

September 24, 2015 by BNMCin Uncategorized8 Comments

For Immediate Release
Contact: Susan Kirkpatrick

Skirkpatrick@bnmc-old.local/716-866-8002

Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Names Tamar Rothaus Controller

Buffalo, N.Y., September 22, 2015 – The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) recently announced the wp-contentointment of Tamar Rothaus as Controller for the non-profit organization that serves as the umbrella organization of the anchor institutions that make up the Medical Campus. Rothaus will oversee the accounting and human resource functions for BNMC.

Rothaus brings a wealth of experience in finance and administration to her new position. Prior to joining the BNMC, Rothaus was the Director or Finance and Administration for People United for Sustainable Housing (PUSH), Buffalo, where she designed, implemented and managed all finance, human resource and administrative functions for the community-driven social justice organization. She also served as Administrative Director for Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper and as Executive Director of the Massachusetts Avenue Project (MAP), Buffalo. Her experience also includes serving as the interim Executive Director of the Broadway Market Management Corporation, as the Energy Co-op Director with Boston Oil Consumers Alliance (BOCA), Boston, and as a Civil Rights Analyst with the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington D.C.

Rothaus holds a Masters of Business Administration from Yale University School of Management in New Haven, Connecticut, and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Government from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.

About the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. (BNMC)

Wine Down Wednesday

September 22, 2015 by BNMCin Uncategorized11 Comments

Working Together to Change Our City’s Future

September 3, 2015 by BNMCin Campus-wide, Community, Homepage7 Comments

Working Together to Change Our City’s Future

– Matt Enstice // blog –

As I walk through the Medical Campus and take in all of the construction buzzing all around me, I begin to think about what’s been accomplished and what’s next. Something always comes right to mind as I look back, and it might not be what you’d expect. When I think about what has been accomplished on our Medical Campus, my thoughts go to something far more important, to our community rather than buildings: a change in perception.

There have been many articles recently from New York to Washington to Los Angeles about Buffalo’s ongoing renaissance. Those articles tend to focus on noteworthy physical developments that have taken place here — the cranes in the air, wind turbines churning, craft breweries and food trucks seemingly around every corner.

While those physical developments are remaking the look of our city, the true revolution is that more and more people are shunning the advice of “Buffaloathers” of past generations and choosing to make Buffalo their home. For instance, young college graduates have been rediscovering our city in the beginning of the new century in greater and greater numbers. Last fall the New York Times reported that from 2000 to 2012 there was a 34% change in the number of college graduates aged 25 to 34.

That said, I believe that the most prominent individuals who have chosen Buffalo are not millennials but Kim and Terry Pegula, and their decision is as large as any of the buildings I see rising up around the medical campus. They could have invested anywhere in the world but chose Buffalo, and it has helped transform the mentality of our city. We’ve gone from directing people to look for success outside of Buffalo to telling them, “Why would you want to leave Buffalo; you can succeed here!”

As the owner of Bills and the Sabres, the Pegulas have gotten rid of the attitude that just making the playoffs is something to be satisfied with — the goal is to win the Super Bowls and Stanley Cups. To that end, the Pegulas have outshined their rivals and attracted to the area world-class talent to play and coach for the Bills and Sabres.

Our community needs to follow in their footsteps and draw more of the best and the brightest to our area. Let’s attract more pre-eminent doctors, more first-rate researchers, more successful entrepreneurs and more leading businesses to our community.

Buffalo has always had the assets and infrastructure in place to become a vibrant city in which our people and businesses thrive. It is our turn now to make sure we have the people in place to utilize the buildings we are constructing to ensure our community is successful.

This has always been a focus for the BNMC, our vision is in fact “to attract the best and the brightest”. A combination of world-class facilities and a reinvigorated community that people want to be a part of will allow us to do just that

I am going to start to write more regularly on our MutualCity methodology that we believe is the model to help revitalize cities by leveraging the economic assets of anchors. In doing so I will also introduce you to our team members who are the ones leading the way with the implementation of MutualCity.

BNMC Access

August 25, 2015 by BNMCin Uncategorized10 Comments

BNMC Access
BNMC Access is a division of BNMC, Inc. which oversees the planning, implementation and day-to-day operations of parking and transportation systems on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. BNMC Access operates under the following guiding principles:

Provide ample and convenient parking for patients and visitors with a focus on exceptional customer service.
Develop a wide range of efficient transportation and parking options so that BNMC commuters have choices on how they get to work.
Encourage the use of alternative transportation modes (transit, carpool, bicycle, walking, etc…) so as to reduce traffic congestion and associated pollution, and utilize scarce land in more economically productive ways.
Support compact, transit-oriented, and walkable urban environments.
Improve quality of life in the surrounding neighborhoods and mitigate any negative impacts.
Strengthen partnerships and develop collaborative solutions to regional transportation issues.

BNMC Access History

Planning and implementation around improving transportation and parking systems has been occurring on the BNMC since its inception in 2002. Below is a summary of some of the more recent initiatives and highlights from over the past five years.

2010

BNMC and partners work with Howard/Stein-Hudson Associates and Walker Parking Consultants to develop the BNMC Comprehensive Transportation Study.
The BNMC Parking and Transportation Project Management Group (PMG) is formed by representatives from BNMC member institutions to implement recommendations from the Study and to coordinate parking, traffic, transit, bike/ped and transportation infrastructure improvements on the Campus.

2011

BNMC and partners at GObike Buffalo and Buffalo CarShare are awarded $206,180 in funds from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to initiate the GO Buffalo Community Transportation Program: a comprehensive public outreach campaign that worked to increase the mobility of the Allentown, Fruit Belt and BNMC communities alike through greater access to alternative modes and knowledge of job opportunities.

2012

BNMC completes the construction of the Michigan Goodrich Garage (2,036 spaces over 9 levels) to meet new parking demands and to help accommodate future campus growth.
BNMC expands the PMG to include regional transportation and parking planners, policymakers, and service providers to create the BNMC Transportation Management Association (TMA). The TMA is comprised of representatives from member institutions and the NFTA, GBNRTC, NYSDOT, NYSERDA, GObike Buffalo, City of Buffalo, and others.
The BNMC TMA is awarded $121,000 from NYS Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and NYS Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to advance Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies in order to increase the number of employees choosing to commute via alternative modes. The TMA’s TDM initiatives are branded as GO BNMC, which includes a comprehensive website where employees can seek out transportation information and sign up for various alternative transportation incentive programs (www.gobnmc-old.local)
BNMC is awarded $36,256 from the FTA for implementation of Guaranteed Ride Home, a program to provide employees of the BNMC who do not drive alone to work with a timely and inexpensive means of transportation in the event of a personal or family emergency.
BNMC and partners work with Greenman-Pederson, Inc and the SUNY Construction Fund to conduct the UB School of Medicine Parking Study, which includes a campus-wide parking analysis for year 2017 (including EIS for new Oishei Children’s Hospital).

2013

After the first year of implementing TDM strategies, GO BNMC successfully reduces the number of people driving alone to the Campus from 88% to 83%.
BNMC is awarded $249,852 for the operation of an Integrated Mobility Hub – a bicycle parking complex and resource center where visitors can seek out personalized information about their transportation and parking options and information about potential job opportunities on the BNMC (slated to open early 2016). The Mobility Hub will also become the new headquarters for GObike Buffalo and Buffalo BikeShare.
BNMC is awarded $162,600 from NYSERDA & NYSDOT for Advancing Smart Card Technologies for Integrated Multi-Modal Transportation, a project to coordinate the planning, development and testing of contactless smart card technologies for the integration of existing transportation and parking services on the BNMC. The program will serve as a step towards the creation of a more efficient, user-friendly and sustainable multi-modal transportation network.

2014

BNMC is awarded $84,051 from NYSERDA & NYSDOT to conduct a Policy Research and Feasibility Study of on-street parking in the Fruit Belt Neighborhood, exploring best practices and providing recommendations for the development of a model Residential Parking Benefits District, and/or other alternative strategies.
BNMC and National Grid are awarded $1 million from NYSERDA towards the construction of the BNMC Green Commons with $400,000 of which dedicated to the above-referenced Integrated Mobility Hub.
BNMC creates the Campus Ambassadors program to improve customer service and promote a safe, friendly and accessible Campus environment.

2015

BNMC partners with GBNRTC to develop a regional TMA dubbed GO Buffalo-Niagara.
BNMC launches the Neighborhood Parking Study with support from Steering Committee members composed of residents, organizations, and officials.
BNMC partners with NFTA to conduct a comprehensive study that will identify collaborative opportunities that can increase transit ridership.

2015-2017 Parking and Transportation Stats

Today the BNMC continues to work towards expanding our on-campus parking supply as well as developing satellite parking and transportation options for the campus population. Below is a quick snapshot of the current condition. We also have plans to add additional parking to accommodate the influx of employees as our current construction projects are completed over the next few years.

Current Conditions

The BNMC parking system is operating at wp-contentroximately 70% capacity.
Parking costs to employees range up to $89; this rate is at or below market rates downtown. Reduced rate parking options are also made available for part-timers.
Estimated current commuter mode share on the Campus is:
- 83% drive alone
- 8% carpool
- 2% Metro Bus
- 2% Metro Rail
- 2% Metro Bus and Rail (transfer)
- 2% Walk
- 1% Bike

Over 18% of BNMC projected 2017 population live within one mile and 8.5% within ½ mile of NFTA Metro Rail Stations (including Allen/Medical Campus Station).