Launch Plan

The launch plan is divided into three key phases to ensure a smooth, organized rollout of Buffalo Horizons. Each phase focuses on building awareness, generating excitement, and demonstrating early impact to establish trust and credibility.

Phase 1: Foundation & Outreach (Months 1-2)

Goal: Build community awareness, establish leadership, and gather input for priorities.

Key Actions:

1. Form the Core Leadership Team

   • Finalize board members and assign roles for each focus area.

   • Define clear responsibilities and short-term goals for the leadership team.

2. Develop Brand & Communications

   • Finalize Buffalo Horizons’ logo, website, and social media platforms.

   • Create a consistent messaging framework, including the mission, vision, and key focus areas.

   • Design initial marketing materials (e.g., flyers, banners, and community emails).

3. Host a Community Kickoff Event

   • Organize an in-person launch event to introduce Buffalo Horizons to the community.

   • Share the mission, focus areas, and upcoming projects.

   • Invite residents, local businesses, government officials, and media.

4. Gather Community Input

   • Conduct surveys, listening sessions, and small focus groups to identify community priorities and needs.

   • Use feedback to align early initiatives with what matters most to Buffalo.

5. Launch Online Presence

   • Go live with the Buffalo Horizons website, featuring:

     • Mission statement, focus areas, and leadership team bios.

     • A timeline for upcoming events and key projects.

     • A “Get Involved” section encouraging community participation.

Phase 2: Early Wins & Engagement (Months 3-6)

Goal: Demonstrate early results, build credibility, and maintain momentum.

Key Actions:

1. Implement Quick Win Projects

   • Launch at least 2-3 Quick Win Initiatives from the “Key Projects” list:

     • Buffalo Business Roundtable: Engage businesses and identify opportunities for growth.

     • Youth Apprenticeship Day: Connect students with hands-on career pathways.

     • Family Movie Night: Host a fun, community-building event to foster local pride.

2. Highlight Progress

   • Share success stories, photos, and key milestones from the first initiatives via:

     • Social media platforms.

     • Newsletters to residents and businesses.

     • Press releases to local media outlets.

3. Engage Local Partners

   • Solidify partnerships with local businesses, schools, and government officials.

   • Begin conversations with potential sponsors and regional foundations to secure funding for larger projects.

4. Launch a Community Fundraising Campaign

   • Kick off the “Invest in Buffalo Horizons” campaign, encouraging residents and businesses to contribute to early initiatives.

   • Use crowdfunding platforms, local events, and outreach efforts to drive participation.

5. Track & Report Progress

   • Publish the first Quarterly Progress Report outlining early wins, lessons learned, and upcoming plans.

   • Use community feedback to refine initiatives and set goals for the next phase.

Phase 3: Growth & Expansion (Months 6-12)

Goal: Scale initiatives, secure funding, and demonstrate long-term impact.

Key Actions:

1. Roll Out Signature Programs

   • Scale successful quick-win projects into ongoing programs, such as:

     • Business Accelerator Program: Provide mentorship and resources for small businesses.

     • Buffalo Horizons Grant Program: Award micro-grants to businesses, youth initiatives, or community projects.

     • Heritage & Tourism Campaign: Promote Buffalo’s history, attractions, and local businesses.

2. Secure Grant Funding & Sponsorships

   • Finalize applications for state, federal, and rural development grants.

   • Solidify sponsorship deals with local businesses and regional partners.

3. Expand Community Engagement

   • Host regular town halls, workshops, and networking events to keep residents and stakeholders informed.

   • Launch volunteer opportunities for residents to contribute to specific projects.

4. Celebrate Progress & Impact

   • Host an Annual Community Celebration to showcase accomplishments, recognize sponsors and volunteers, and share plans for the next year.

   • Release a Year-End Impact Report with data, success stories, and a vision for the future.

Launch Timeline Overview

MonthAction1Form leadership team, finalize branding, kickoff planning.2Host community kickoff event, gather input, launch website.3Launch 2-3 quick win projects (e.g., Business Roundtable).4-5Share early results, engage sponsors, and start fundraising.6Publish first quarterly report, scale successful projects.7-9Roll out signature programs (Youth Apprenticeships, Grants).10-12Host community celebration, release year-end impact report.

Why This Plan Works

1. Community-Centered: Starts with community input to align efforts with local priorities.

2. Quick Wins Build Momentum: Early projects show tangible progress and build trust.

3. Scalable Growth: Focuses on creating systems and programs that can expand over time.

4. Transparency & Engagement: Regular reporting and events keep the community involved.

At Buffalo Horizons, our launch is just the beginning. By starting strong and staying focused, we’ll lay the foundation for sustainable growth, opportunity, and success—together.