We are pleased to announce that the Amherst Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for On-the-Job (OJT) Training Grants, which are funded by the New York State Department of Labor. These grants present a significant opportunity for businesses to enhance their workforce. Launched on September 1, 2025, and running through August 31, 2026, these reimbursement-based grants cover up to 50% of eligible training costs and wages, with awards from $1,000 to $10,000 per application. Businesses can apply for up to two training programs, opening the door to a range of possibilities for your team's development.
Eligible organizations include for-profit and not-for-profit businesses with at least two employees that have been operating for over a year in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, or Wyoming Counties. Employees must be 18+, work full-time (32+ hours/week), and earn a minimum of $18 per hour. New hires and current staff are eligible; independent contractors are not. The grants target mid-tier roles to drive business growth.
Grants support training in areas like technology, management, or specialized trades, helping businesses retain talent, boost morale, and attract top candidates in a competitive market. To apply, visit amherst.org/grants to confirm eligibility, complete the OJT Grant Application with training details, and submit to grants@amherst.org. A Chamber representative will review applications within two to four weeks. Approved businesses conduct training by August 15, 2026, and submit reimbursement requests with receipts by August 31, 2026.
This opportunity is open to all eligible businesses, regardless of whether they are Chamber members. We believe in the potential of every business in our community and encourage you to visit amherst.org/grants for details and apply on a rolling basis to invest in your team’s future.
The team is gearing up for our signature event, The Event - Celebrating Business Excellence, on October 20, 2025, at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens in Depew. This prestigious annual event draws over 400 professionals to honor trailblazers who drive economic growth, innovation, and community impact in the Buffalo Niagara region. As nominations closed on September 5, 2025, the Chamber has unveiled its distinguished winners, spotlighting those whose achievements embody resilience and forward-thinking leadership.
Leading the pack is Kelton Enterprises, named Business of the Year. David and Allanna Beaton, proud owners of Kelton Enterprises, now employ over 1,100 people through their nearly 50 Tim Hortons stores. Their nomination underscores a lifetime of building their business and empowering local talent while fostering inclusive hiring practices. In the Commitment to Excellence category, Lippes Mathias takes the helm for its unwavering dedication to superior legal standards and helping its clients achieve favorable outcomes.
Walsh Insurance earns the Family-Owned Business award, lauding generations of stewardship in the insurance space for over 150 years in our community. For Community Stewardship, The Summit Center is recognized for transformative support services, empowering individuals with disabilities through advocacy and inclusive programs that strengthen community bonds.
Finally, Lynne Marie Finn, CEO of Broadleaf Results, an Aleron Company, is honored as Woman of Distinction for her visionary leadership and her unwavering support and commitment to many of the area's philanthropic causes. Thank you to M&T Bank for sponsoring The Event.
We have an incredible group of companies and people who are passionate about our Western New York community, and I hope you can join us. For more information, please click here.
As always, if you have any suggestions on how we can enhance your member experience, please remember my door is always open.