Just finished listening to Scott Noteboom with Yahoo!, who was the keynote speaker for the Partnership's 2010 Innovate Buffalo Niagara event and awards program this afternoon.
All I have to say is wow. What a tremendous story about how the assets we have in Buffalo matched the needs of Yahoo!s needs in regards to its new data center. Yahoo!'s innovation over the past few years to be more efficient, greener and aggressive in the marketplace led them to our region, and to hear him speak about Buffalo Niagara, his enthusiasm suggests that for Yahoo!, location here is not only a sound business decision, but exactly what they were looking for the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art, competitive data center. He cited our strong workforce, affordable cost of living and availability of hydropower as assets that attracted them here.
That's not to mention the weather! Our colder climate allows for tremendous efficiency in data center operations (less power needed for cooling servers!). Just a great story of innovation and how it can and does work in Buffalo Niagara - and very inspiring for us who work in economic development on a daily basis.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Jobsapalooza 2010
On January 5 we attended Jobsapalooza, the annual job fair presented by the University at Buffalo. We were there to promote our newly updated jobs website BuffaloNiagaraJobs.com. Approximately 2,000 job seekers came to network with about 70 employers. It was hard to catch our breath as we spoke to what seemed like a never ending line of people eager to learn more about what we were hiring for (view our openings here) and to learn more about the jobs website. As with several other job fairs I’ve attended in the past year, I noticed a higher representation of more experienced seekers versus college students and recent grads looking for employment.
It’s obvious there are many more job seekers than there are available jobs at the moment. At the Partnership, we try to mitigate this by actively promoting the region’s targeted industries, those sections of our local economy that have proven to show the greatest impact for growth. Getting the word out about opportunities in, and the skill sets required for these industries is a critical piece of what we do.
In this economy, many job seekers are open to transitioning into other careers but one challenge facing our region is the lack (at least perceived lack, from the many seekers I’ve spoken to) of training programs available for those who want to transition. ISciWNY is an excellent website to learn more about careers in the life sciences, and programs at the ECC One Stop, the BETC, and the EOC all provide resources on additional training and education.
Whether you’re looking for a job or looking to hire, we encourage you to use BuffaloNiagaraJobs.com to post your listings and resumes, and review the numerous educational and networking resources we have listed on the website. In this market especially, networking is the key component to obtaining leads and opportunities.
It’s obvious there are many more job seekers than there are available jobs at the moment. At the Partnership, we try to mitigate this by actively promoting the region’s targeted industries, those sections of our local economy that have proven to show the greatest impact for growth. Getting the word out about opportunities in, and the skill sets required for these industries is a critical piece of what we do.
In this economy, many job seekers are open to transitioning into other careers but one challenge facing our region is the lack (at least perceived lack, from the many seekers I’ve spoken to) of training programs available for those who want to transition. ISciWNY is an excellent website to learn more about careers in the life sciences, and programs at the ECC One Stop, the BETC, and the EOC all provide resources on additional training and education.
Whether you’re looking for a job or looking to hire, we encourage you to use BuffaloNiagaraJobs.com to post your listings and resumes, and review the numerous educational and networking resources we have listed on the website. In this market especially, networking is the key component to obtaining leads and opportunities.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
"State of Logistics" Event
Holding an event called "State of Logistics" and having 110 people attend is a pretty clear indicator that the logistics industry in Buffalo Niagara is vibrant and filled with opportunity.
Much thanks goes out to our panel - Jack Ampuja, Niagara University; Michael Diati, Speed Global Services; Larry Fontaine, Fontaine Transport; and Robert Rich, Roar Logistics - for sharing their time and expertise, as well as our strategic partners for the event: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and the Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals.
The Buffalo News did a nice write-up on the event - although in the print edition they neglected to mention that it was a Partnership-hosted event. Which is important, and not simply from a public relations perspective. By tapping into a resource that we have unique access to - the expertise and insight of our members - we are able to provide knowledge and direction to employers in the logistics industry that they can then use to prepare for 2010 and beyond. This is more than simply heralding that we hosted a good event (which is always good anyway - it was a great event!) - it's facilitating understanding among the employer community of the business development resource the Partnership can be for them. Whether it's target industries, workforce development, New York's regulatory environment... One of our most important roles in this community is making business-to-business connections - not only to share leads, but information. That's what yesterday's event was about. That's what our renewable energy event this spring is about. That's what the bulk of our programming is about.
In detail, yesterday's program focused on a number of topics specific to logistics companies - including cross border regulations, cost pressures in this economy and network optimization. The state of the economy has changed the way companies are looking at their logistics operations, and it's clear the ones who are doing a better job of it are the ones that are going to rebound with the economy into a much stronger position. Add to that the need to balance a company's "green" impact with both the cost of doing so and maintaining a high level of service. This is a pivotal time for many companies.
Bigger picture, one of the most interesting comments to me that came out of yesterday's session - the panel was reminded that every port in the U.S. faces the same regulations from Washington, and asked how we as a region can move beyond the discussion of regulations that "are going to be what they're going to be." The answer was that Buffalo Niagara is in a unique situation, in that our economy is truly bi-national. As a result, the sting of federal trade regulations - particularly those related to the border - is felt much harder here. That sentiment validates our hard work (and ultimate success) on WHTI and other border trade issues.
Good event - we look forward to the next one (and similar upcoming events for Buffalo Niagara's other target industry sectors).
Much thanks goes out to our panel - Jack Ampuja, Niagara University; Michael Diati, Speed Global Services; Larry Fontaine, Fontaine Transport; and Robert Rich, Roar Logistics - for sharing their time and expertise, as well as our strategic partners for the event: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and the Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals.
The Buffalo News did a nice write-up on the event - although in the print edition they neglected to mention that it was a Partnership-hosted event. Which is important, and not simply from a public relations perspective. By tapping into a resource that we have unique access to - the expertise and insight of our members - we are able to provide knowledge and direction to employers in the logistics industry that they can then use to prepare for 2010 and beyond. This is more than simply heralding that we hosted a good event (which is always good anyway - it was a great event!) - it's facilitating understanding among the employer community of the business development resource the Partnership can be for them. Whether it's target industries, workforce development, New York's regulatory environment... One of our most important roles in this community is making business-to-business connections - not only to share leads, but information. That's what yesterday's event was about. That's what our renewable energy event this spring is about. That's what the bulk of our programming is about.
In detail, yesterday's program focused on a number of topics specific to logistics companies - including cross border regulations, cost pressures in this economy and network optimization. The state of the economy has changed the way companies are looking at their logistics operations, and it's clear the ones who are doing a better job of it are the ones that are going to rebound with the economy into a much stronger position. Add to that the need to balance a company's "green" impact with both the cost of doing so and maintaining a high level of service. This is a pivotal time for many companies.
Bigger picture, one of the most interesting comments to me that came out of yesterday's session - the panel was reminded that every port in the U.S. faces the same regulations from Washington, and asked how we as a region can move beyond the discussion of regulations that "are going to be what they're going to be." The answer was that Buffalo Niagara is in a unique situation, in that our economy is truly bi-national. As a result, the sting of federal trade regulations - particularly those related to the border - is felt much harder here. That sentiment validates our hard work (and ultimate success) on WHTI and other border trade issues.
Good event - we look forward to the next one (and similar upcoming events for Buffalo Niagara's other target industry sectors).
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Partnership Resources Spotlight
The Programs, Tools and Services to Help Your Business Grow
Do you know all of the resources, tools, programs and opportunities available from the Partnership to help your business grow? The New Year is a great time to get re-acquainted with the Partnership and your membership benefits, to find out what there is to take advantage of, programs to get involved in, and new ways to connect with other members. Let’s take a look at two key resources.
Do you need assistance gathering information that will help you make better decisions about expanding your marketplace or business, breaking into a new market with products and services, or accessing employer information? Our Business Intelligence offering provides demographics, economic information and statistics, target marketing, business lists, research assistance and additional resources for specific business needs. To learn more, visit www.thepartnership.org/businessintelligence or contact Mary Burnett: mburnett@thepartnership.org; (716) 541-1721.
Buffalo Niagara, where industries thrive. We’re proud of the dynamic opportunities our regional industries provide. A broad spectrum of growing sectors include the life sciences, financial services and green tech, to advanced manufacturing, higher education and agri business. Our region is also home to 22 colleges and universities and provides local employers with the ability to choose from a diverse, educated and skilled professional talent pool. With our many resources and talent, it’s easy to see why we're a region where careers can thrive and businesses can grow.
The BuffaloNiagaraJobs.com is a FREE service offered by the Partnership for the employer community to post jobs quickly and easily. Connect with job seekers who want to live and work in Buffalo Niagara. There are great opportunities for 3rd party placement agencies to advertise within this site. For more information please contact Lisa Roy lroy@thepartnership.org with inquires. You can also email us general questions or concerns at info@buffaloniagarajobs.com.
Do you know all of the resources, tools, programs and opportunities available from the Partnership to help your business grow? The New Year is a great time to get re-acquainted with the Partnership and your membership benefits, to find out what there is to take advantage of, programs to get involved in, and new ways to connect with other members. Let’s take a look at two key resources.
Do you need assistance gathering information that will help you make better decisions about expanding your marketplace or business, breaking into a new market with products and services, or accessing employer information? Our Business Intelligence offering provides demographics, economic information and statistics, target marketing, business lists, research assistance and additional resources for specific business needs. To learn more, visit www.thepartnership.org/businessintelligence or contact Mary Burnett: mburnett@thepartnership.org; (716) 541-1721.Buffalo Niagara, where industries thrive. We’re proud of the dynamic opportunities our regional industries provide. A broad spectrum of growing sectors include the life sciences, financial services and green tech, to advanced manufacturing, higher education and agri business. Our region is also home to 22 colleges and universities and provides local employers with the ability to choose from a diverse, educated and skilled professional talent pool. With our many resources and talent, it’s easy to see why we're a region where careers can thrive and businesses can grow.The BuffaloNiagaraJobs.com is a FREE service offered by the Partnership for the employer community to post jobs quickly and easily. Connect with job seekers who want to live and work in Buffalo Niagara. There are great opportunities for 3rd party placement agencies to advertise within this site. For more information please contact Lisa Roy lroy@thepartnership.org with inquires. You can also email us general questions or concerns at info@buffaloniagarajobs.com.
Check Out Some Member Success Stories Via Video!
This video was produced by Bean Media Productions
www.beanmediaproductions.com
Email: Beanmedia@gmail.com
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
State of the State
From the business community's perspective, we can't complain about Governor Paterson's attitude and rhetoric in this afternoon's State of the State address. From the first words out of his mouth, where he asked the legislators before him to dispense with the unwarranted self-congratulatory accolades and get down to business, the Governor spoke frankly about the state's dire fiscal situation and the need for everyone in the room to support change no matter how painful.
We've talked in this blog extensively about our local governments under a control board being required to prepare 4-year plans and the benefit of doing so. It was particularly refreshing to hear the Governor announce that he's charged Lt. Gov. Ravitch to do the same for New York. Much of the background info the Governor had to go through (similar to the stories Unshackle Upstate often tells) - dealing with high cost of doing business, overspending and "mortgaging our children's futures" - stems from an absence of long-term planning from Albany. Of course, there's no requirement for long-term planning, and the way the state has torn through stimulus funding that will disappear at the end of this year is evidence that it hasn't been anyone's priority. That the Governor is taking a position on long-term planning is encouraging.
To his credit, the Governor gave Upstate some play - talking about our strengths such as strong communities and available housing. He spoke on the importance and vitality of "back office" opportunities in Upstate, which is one of our target industry sectors in Buffalo Niagara. Linking our back office opportunities specifically with downstate corporations that can take advantage is a smart approach.
While we certainly appreciate the tenor of his comments, like all of these speeches there are 212 other men and women in the room who have to agree to implement the measures he presented. The Governor boldly re-proposed a state spending cap, something Unshackle Upstate has supported. A number of his economic development proposals seem like positive actions - though it's always interesting to see what they look like after special interests, the legislature and the Department of Budget get their hands on them. Granted, we need to see a firmer position on no new taxes, reducing spending (not just capping it) and regulatory reform, and that's what our message will be for 2010 through the legislative session and right up to Election Day. But given the Governor's stances on what it will take to right the ship, it's no secret that we share a similar challenge with him - the state legislature.
We've talked in this blog extensively about our local governments under a control board being required to prepare 4-year plans and the benefit of doing so. It was particularly refreshing to hear the Governor announce that he's charged Lt. Gov. Ravitch to do the same for New York. Much of the background info the Governor had to go through (similar to the stories Unshackle Upstate often tells) - dealing with high cost of doing business, overspending and "mortgaging our children's futures" - stems from an absence of long-term planning from Albany. Of course, there's no requirement for long-term planning, and the way the state has torn through stimulus funding that will disappear at the end of this year is evidence that it hasn't been anyone's priority. That the Governor is taking a position on long-term planning is encouraging.
To his credit, the Governor gave Upstate some play - talking about our strengths such as strong communities and available housing. He spoke on the importance and vitality of "back office" opportunities in Upstate, which is one of our target industry sectors in Buffalo Niagara. Linking our back office opportunities specifically with downstate corporations that can take advantage is a smart approach.
While we certainly appreciate the tenor of his comments, like all of these speeches there are 212 other men and women in the room who have to agree to implement the measures he presented. The Governor boldly re-proposed a state spending cap, something Unshackle Upstate has supported. A number of his economic development proposals seem like positive actions - though it's always interesting to see what they look like after special interests, the legislature and the Department of Budget get their hands on them. Granted, we need to see a firmer position on no new taxes, reducing spending (not just capping it) and regulatory reform, and that's what our message will be for 2010 through the legislative session and right up to Election Day. But given the Governor's stances on what it will take to right the ship, it's no secret that we share a similar challenge with him - the state legislature.
Monday, January 4, 2010
The Importance of Networking
When we ask our members their biggest reasons for joining the Partnership, invariably one of the answers is "networking." There is no better way to meet people of course, but more importantly there is no better way for people to meet you. I always find guests who think networking is daunting, even scary. So think of it as connecting instead - it isn't a high pressure situation! There is no rule that says you must meet everyone in the room, no rule stating you have to spend ten minutes making idle chitchat in order to be polite. And while I don't suggest exchanging business cards while looking for your next target, I do suggest you remember everyone is at this kind of event for the same reason - to make connections that will be meaningful afterwards. Spend the right amount of time depending on the conversation and while you're there, spend your time with just that person. Find out what they do, what they offer, what you have in common, before diving in with your own resume. If you don't walk away with direct business, but helped them connect to someone else, that's what I call investment for the future. Connecting and networking are about making great impressions, not making an immediate sale. One of our most popular events for this is the Networking with a Twist, coming up on Tuesday, January 12th at the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. For a mere $15, we feed you and give you an audience with the same goals in mind - building their list of business connections (we like the recommendation of seven new people per event). If you still need a friendly face in the room, bring a friend for free! Register today at www.thepartnership.org/events.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)