As summer winds down, August can tempt us to ease off, but staying focused now is critical to setting the stage for a thriving fourth quarter. Unfortunately, the pace of today's world is so fast that losing any momentum could mean missed opportunities. The Chamber encourages members to take proactive steps to ensure a strong finish for the year. Assessing your financial position to identify areas for improvement and strategic adjustments now can optimize year-end outcomes and set a solid foundation for 2026.
Another strong suggestion is to revisit your marketing strategies to ensure they align with your fourth-quarter goals. No one knows your business better than you, so adapt to current market trends to remain competitive and capitalize on new opportunities. Lastly, we encourage all members to invest in their talent. Prioritize employee training to enhance skills, boost engagement, and increase productivity. Investing in your team now delivers long-term returns and strengthens your business.
Beginning September 1st, the Chamber is looking to assist the business community through On-the-Job Training Grants to support businesses in Western New York. These grants will be available to for-profit and not-for-profit companies with two or more employees in Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, or Allegany counties. These grants could fund up to 50% of training costs and wages for full-time employees earning between $18 and $44.02 per hour. The program aims to enhance workforce skills, support employee development, and boost business performance. Eligible businesses must submit an application and training plan to potentially qualify for awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Visit Amherst.org/grants for more information. The business does not need to be a Chamber member to apply!
By acting decisively, businesses can build momentum and position themselves for success through the year's end. The Amherst Chamber of Commerce, unwavering in its commitment to support you, offers resources through our member education series, networking opportunities through various programming, professional development through our Emerging Business Leaders program, and numerous other outlets to help your business thrive.
A very hot topic currently is energy and the NYS The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. In partnership with the Clarence Chamber of Commerce and the Ken-Ton Chamber of Commerce, the Amherst Chamber of Commerce is pleased to offer an Energy Forum hosted by NOCO on Wednesday, September 24th, at Jazzboline at the Reikart House. They will share what’s coming in the future, address rising costs, review incentives and rebates plus offer strategies for businesses to maximize their energy usage. Join us for networking, Q&A, and some valuable insights.
We are looking ahead to this fall when we host our signature event of the year, The Event - Celebrating Business Excellence, on Monday, October 20th, at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens in Depew. This prestigious awards ceremony honors outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals across Western New York for their contributions to the community. Nominations for the 2025 awards are open through September 5th, recognizing achievements in categories such as innovation, sustainability, and community service. We have historically sold out this event, and we once again anticipate that to be the case with over 400 business professionals in attendance, celebrating the region’s economic and civic leaders.
I want to make one final mention about our most successful Small Business Awards Luncheon & Showcase to date, which was held at the Buffalo Marriott Niagara. Following last year's record-setting turnout, we selected this new venue to elevate the experience for all participants. Our Small Business Awards is our only major event where members can directly showcase their products and services to attendees. Prior to the luncheon, a two-hour public networking event was held, during which members with showcase tables connected with hundreds of attendees. This vibrant exchange fostered valuable sales leads and, in many cases, sparked new business partnerships that promise to strengthen our local economy.
At our luncheon, we honored businesses and individuals whose outstanding contributions have made a meaningful impact not just on our community but also on their staff and the customers they serve. The 2025 award recipients are:
- Business of the Year: StaffBuffalo
- Family-Owned Business Award: Bridal Chateau
- MWBE Award: Strokes Painting and Contracting
- At Your Service Award: Share Kitchen and Bar Room
- KeyBank Sponsor's Award: TBrothers Renovations
- Friend of the Chamber: Larry Mietus, Speaking of Strategy
These recipients were incredibly honored and humble during their acceptance speech, and each acknowledged the benefits of belonging to the Chamber and how it helped them in their business growth.
I wish everyone an enjoyable remainder of the summer season. Please remember that the Chamber is always here for you, and my door is always open.