Framework

1. Mission Statement

To ignite economic opportunity, support existing businesses, and create meaningful programs that empower Buffalo’s youth and families. Buffalo Horizons will focus on collaboration, innovation, and revitalization to ensure our community thrives for generations to come.

2. Simplified Structure

Instead of multiple committees, Buffalo Horizons will have 3 Core Focus Areas, overseen by a small, versatile board (5-7 members) made up of local leaders, entrepreneurs, and community-minded individuals. Each focus area will have designated leads but operate collaboratively.

3. Core Focus Areas

1. Business & Economic Development

Purpose: Support local businesses, attract new ideas, and promote entrepreneurship.

Key Initiatives:

Small Business Assistance Hub: Offer mentorship, workshops, and access to funding opportunities.

Reignite Past Projects: Reassess previous economic development efforts and adapt them with fresh ideas.

Local Marketplace Initiatives: Host events like "Buffalo Business Days" where local businesses showcase products/services.

2. Youth, Family, & Workforce Engagement

Purpose: Provide opportunities for youth, encourage families to stay, and align workforce skills with local opportunities.

Key Initiatives:

Youth Opportunities Program:

Develop partnerships with schools for career-readiness programs, internships, and apprenticeships.

Organize “Youth Innovation Challenges” to spark entrepreneurial interest.

Community Events for Families: Encourage family activities through affordable, engaging events (e.g., movie nights, local festivals, sports tournaments).

3. Community & Infrastructure Development

Purpose: Collaborate with local leaders to improve community infrastructure and ensure Buffalo is a place where people want to live and grow.

Key Initiatives:

Strategic Partnerships: Work with city, county, and state officials to advocate for improvements in broadband access, transportation, and housing.

Community Gathering Spaces: Support projects like parks, trails, and shared spaces to encourage recreation and connection.

Tourism Promotion: Highlight Buffalo’s rich history and natural beauty to attract visitors, supporting local businesses.

3. Core Leadership Roles

The Buffalo Horizons board will operate with flexibility, utilizing its members’ strengths to support all focus areas.

Leadership Roles:

Executive Director (or Chairperson): Provides overall leadership, vision, and public representation.

Business Development Lead: Focuses on small business support and economic programs.

Youth & Workforce Lead: Oversees programs for young people and families.

Community & Infrastructure Lead: Manages partnerships and improvement projects.

Outreach Coordinator: Ensures ongoing communication with residents, businesses, and government stakeholders.

Optional: Volunteers or part-time coordinators can assist with events, grant research, and community engagement as needed.

4. Key Projects & Quick Wins

1. Buffalo Business Roundtable

   • A quarterly forum where local business owners share challenges, ideas, and opportunities for collaboration.

   Youth Apprenticeship Day

   • Host a career and skills event, connecting students with local businesses for job shadowing, internships, or summer work.

   Buffalo Family Nights

   • Affordable community events (outdoor movie nights, food truck Fridays, or seasonal festivals) to engage families and boost local businesses.

   Tourism Enhancement Campaign

   • Launch a small, focused campaign to promote Buffalo’s historic sites, outdoor recreation, and events via social media and visitor partnerships.

   Project Revive

   Identify one past, unfinished or failed economic project (e.g., a vacant building, an unutilized program) and reimagine it with community input for quick implementation.

5. Funding Strategy

Local Partnerships: Seek sponsorships from local businesses, banks, and organizations that benefit from economic growth.

State & Federal Grants: Pursue economic development and rural revitalization grants.

Events & Programs: Generate revenue through ticketed events, business fairs, and small program fees.

Community Support: Build support through fundraising campaigns and public involvement initiatives.

6. Measuring Success

Buffalo Horizons will report on progress quarterly, ensuring transparency and accountability. Key metrics include:

Business Growth: New businesses supported or retained.

Youth Engagement: Number of students participating in programs and employment opportunities created.

Community Involvement: Attendance at events, community feedback, and local support.

Project Outcomes: Tangible results from past project revitalization or new programs.

7. Launch Plan

Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-3)

Host a community listening session to gather input and build momentum.

Appoint the core leadership team.

Identify quick-win projects to implement first.

Phase 2: Implementation (Months 4-6)

Launch 1-2 signature programs (e.g., Buffalo Business Roundtable, Youth Apprenticeship Day).

Secure partnerships and initial funding.

Phase 3: Growth (Months 6-12)

Roll out additional projects and establish sustainable funding streams.

Publish regular community updates to show progress and build trust.