Buffalo First educates the public, Main Street businesses and local policy makers about how their decisions directly impact Buffalo's environmental, social and economic health.  We believe that business is not an end in itself and that our choices (whether as individuals, consumers, organizations or businesses) always impact our communities and we can choose whether that impact is negative or positive.  We are all connected and we can grow—together.   

Any concerned nonprofit organization or community member is welcome to join Buffalo First.  Certain businesses can join as well.  

We carefully select only local independent businesses on the basis of whether they are helping to build a (1) local, (2) green and/or (3) fair economy in the Buffalo region.

1.        Local: how many generations the business has been family-owned in Buffalo; whether the business is in an endangered local-independent retail sector (ex. “mom and pop” toy stores, coffee houses, hardware stores, book stores, grocery stores); whether the business contributes to Buffalo’s unique culture and identity; whether business truly impacts the local economy; how the business regularly gives to local charities and causes; or whether the business uses locally-grown food or locally-produced goods. 

2.        Green: how environmentally sustainable the business is, for example: whether it uses: renewable energy, LEED design, zero-waste manufacturing, composting, re-use; or whether it uses short-distance, low-energy transportation or supply chains.

3.        Fair: whether the business is located in, owned by or employs low-income, communities of color or other under-represented communities; whether the business employs people with disabilities; whether workers receive adequate pay or whether the business's ownership structure is more community friendly (ex. cooperatives, worker-owned firms, fair trade businesses and credit unions).

All Buffalo First members proudly embody or embrace at least one of the qualities listed above.  Our mission is to connect and build this community of individuals, consumers, organizations and businesses and encourage them to think about their actions in a new impactful way.  We publicly acknowledge our members for improving Buffalo’s economy, environment and community and educate them about how they can do more.  Join us today.