Marketing Solutions & Contract Readiness

A Buffalo State University certificate program is designed for existing entrepreneurs to expand and grow their business through contracts. The objective of this program is to help businesses to build their credibility and greatly increase their ability to conduct business with anchor institutions: large corporations, government entities, and prime contractors. Sessions run over 8 consecutive weeks. 

Program Outcomes: 

  • Develop and deliver an effective elevator pitch. 
  • Develop and deliver an effective 8-minute sales pitch with slides. 
  • One-page capability statement. 
  • Understand communication essentials and business readiness requirements to secure contracts (licenses, insurance, loan readiness & procurement). 
  • Learn and implement digital presence essentials (Google Business Profile, LinkedIn, Landing Page/Website). 
  • Professional headshot. 

For more information and registration details review the flyer or contact the Small Business Development Center at 716-878-4030. The next session starts January 14, 2026.  

 

Entrepreneurship 101 - Workshop Series

Four intensive workshops designed to provide essentials for starting your own business. Learn the essential start-up steps, funding sources & financial options, understanding financial statements, and more. 

Offered over four consecutive Monday evenings open to Buffalo State University Students and individuals looking to start their own business. 

For more information and registration details review the flyer or contact Bailey Brouillard at 716-878-3573 or by email: brouilbw@buffalostate.edu. 

Intro to QuickBooks for Windows

No time to read manuals? This half-day workshop webinar is for you!

You will be provided with step-by-step instructions for using the most common QuickBooks features. End the frustration and begin to understand. Learn how to set up your bookkeeping system, track and manage sales and expenditures, analyze financial data, and create reports. No prior knowledge of accounting is needed. 

This workshop will be offered Monday February 23, 2025. There is a $75.00 fee. For more information and registration details review the flyer or contact Dee Jones Davis at 716-878-4030 or by email: jonesdd@buffalostate.edu. 

Entrepreneurship in the Arts

Four intensive workshops in entrepreneurship will provide essential knowledge for creating and operating your own art enterprise. Learn how to develop your creative business in the studio arts, graphic and digital design, animation, film, music, performance, audio technology, theatre, dance, creative writing, communication, arts conservators, and other creative endeavors. 

Offered over four consecutive Tuesday evenings, the workshops will inform you about understanding your market; selling locally, nationally, and online; how to prepare a guiding plan; and the role of finance in your business. Presenters include experts in strategic business planning, insurance, trademark, and copyright law, finance, and e-commerce and marketing. 

Space is limited to 30 registrants. Sessions are not available individually or virtually. For more information contact the Small Business Development Center at 716-878-4030. 

KidBiz Market Training

The KidBiz Market is a small-scale entrepreneurial and educational program for 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th graders which culminates in an open-air market along bustling Elmwood Avenue. To be part of KidBiz and sell at the KidBiz Market, a child and supportive adult must attend the training session. Contact the Small Business Development Center at 716-878-4030 for more information.