Buffalo First is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation founded in 2006 as a coalition of local businesses committed to educating the public about the importance of a strong local economy. Today, Buffalo First exists to manage, support, and connect programs that fulfill our vision of a just and sustainable local economy.

For nearly ten years, Buffalo First’s most visible program, “Think Local First,” has taught consumers, businesses, and policymakers that upwards of 4 times more capital recirculates in the local economy when we buy from locally owned and independently operated companies rather than chains, creating jobs, strengthening communities, and fostering a self-determined and democratic local economy.

Buffalo First’s vision for a just and sustainable local economy goes beyond the concept of “buy local” to also champion entrepreneurial activity that is in harmony with the natural environment, and entrepreneurial activity that creates positive social impact for the people in our communities. Thus, we envision a “local, green, and fair” economy for Western New York, and the concept of a “triple bottom line” for business: people, planet, and profit.