 | | As summer winds down, August can tempt us to ease off, but staying focused now is critical to setting the stage for a thriving fourth quarter. Unfortunately, the pace of today's world is so fast that losing any momentum could mean missed opportunities. The Chamber encourages members to take proactive steps to ensure a strong finish for the year. Assessing your financial position to identify areas for improvement and strategic adjustments now can optimize year-end outcomes and set a solid foundation for 2026. Another strong suggestion is to revisit your marketing strategies to ensure they align with your fourth-quarter goals. No one knows your business better than you, so adapt to current market trends to remain competitive and capitalize on new opportunities. Lastly, we encourage all members to invest in their talent. Prioritize employee training to enhance skills, boost engagement, and increase productivity. Investing in your team now delivers long-term returns and strengthens your business.
Beginning September 1st, the Chamber is looking to assist the business community through On-the-Job Training Grants to support businesses in Western New York. These grants will be available to for-profit and not-for-profit companies with two or more employees in Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, or Allegany counties. These grants could fund up to 50% of training costs and wages for full-time employees earning between $18 and $44.02 per hour. The program aims to enhance workforce skills, support employee development, and boost business performance. Eligible businesses must submit an application and training plan to potentially qualify for awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Visit Amherst.org/grants for more information. The business does not need to be a Chamber member to apply!
By acting decisively, businesses can build momentum and position themselves for success through the year's end. The Amherst Chamber of Commerce, unwavering in its commitment to support you, offers resources through our member education series, networking opportunities through various programming, professional development through our Emerging Business Leaders program, and numerous other outlets to help your business thrive.
A very hot topic currently is energy and the NYS The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. In partnership with the Clarence Chamber of Commerce and the Ken-Ton Chamber of Commerce, the Amherst Chamber of Commerce is pleased to offer an Energy Forum hosted by NOCO on Wednesday, September 24th, at Jazzboline at the Reikart House. They will share what’s coming in the future, address rising costs, review incentives and rebate...Read More
| | Nominations Open until 9/5/2025 |
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EBL Leadership Program Applications
Now Open for 2026
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The 2026 EBL Leadership Program includes an optional, complimentary 6-month membership for Toastmasters from April - October 2026 for those that would like to actively improve their communication and leadership skills through regular practice.
The Amherst Chamber Toastmasters chapter meets on the third Friday from 8-9am at the Chamber office.
| | Click the buttons below to view photos from recent EBL programs. | | |
Just Announced!
NOCO Energy Forum
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This year’s headlines make one thing clear: energy costs are rising—and fast. The trend is undeniable—utility costs are going up, and businesses must be prepared. Yet many lack visibility into the tools and strategies available to manage these expenses effectively.
During this session, participants will gain insight into the future of energy, including emerging technologies and clean energy solutions, learn more about the state’s climate plans and impact of recent federal legislation, and how businesses can utilize resources available to them through incentives and rebates. NOCO President & COO, Michael Casciano, will share how you can take the mindset that you control your business’ energy usage, then you can take the steps needed when it comes to where to use it, where you can save it, and how you can give yourself energy certainty.
Non-members welcome>Open to businesses.
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On-the-Job Training Grants
- Available for all industries, profit or not-for-profit!
- Open to most businesses with 2 or more employees
- Program Start: September 1st, 2025
- Program End Date: August 31st, 2026
- Population Served: Adult, Business
- Agency: Dept. of Labor
- Source Of Funding: State
Services Provided
To support small and medium-sized businesses with On-the-Job Training, wage subsidy, skills upgrading, and skills retraining. When a company invests in its employees through training that allows them to elevate their skillset, it provides the employer with resources to elevate their performance in their industry. On-the-Job Training grants can assist in the acceleration of promotable employees by alleviating some of the costs associated with retaining talent and attracting new talent.
Reimbursement
This is a reimbursement grant. With an On-the-Job Training application and approved training plan, a business can be reimbursed for up to 50% of training costs and 50% of wages. Business is required to pay for training and wages upfront.
You do NOT need to be an
Amherst Chamber of Commerce member!
Grant Parameters & Guidelines
- Business must be located in one of the 8 WNY Counties:
- Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, or Wyoming County
- Business can be for-profit or not-for-profit
- Business must have at least 2 or more employees
- Business must have been in business for more than 1 year
- Employees must be at least 18 years old
- Employees must work full-time (32 hours or more per week)
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Business After Hours at Canal Bank August 19th at 5pm
Open ProNet at The Cereal Social at Serendipity Labs August 21st at 8:30am
Lunch & Learn Unlock LinkedIn Part 2 August 21st at 11am
Open ProNet with Tech Savvy August 28th at 8:30am
LIFT Book Club Begins September 3rd: 8am, 12pm or 8pm
ProLIFT with Horizon Health Services September 4th at 8:30am
Lunch Mob at The 33 Speakeasy September 18th at 12pm
Toastmasters September 19th at 8am
NOCO Energy Forum at Reikart House September 24th at 8am
Lunch & Learn Question, Persuade, Refer on September 26th at 12pm
LIFTing as We Climb at Park Country Club September 30th at 5:30pm
The Event at Salvatore's Italian Gardens October 20th at 5:30pm
Check out photos from our recent events by clicking the buttons below!
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Interest Assessment Surcharge Eliminated | Businesses across New York will no longer be receiving annual Interest Assessment Surcharge (IAS) bills from the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul's FY26 State Budget. The historic agreement allocates funding to pay off the Federal Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund (UITF) debt and associated interest. | | | |
Payroll Audit Independent Determination (PAID) | Resolve wage and leave violations efficiently with WHD's PAID program. Self-audit, report issues, and ensure proper payment without litigation. | | | | For more information from the Department of Labor, contact Sarah Decker, Community Outreach and Resource Planning Specialist, at (518) 844-4178 or decker.sarah@dol.gov. | | |
Does a new career await you or someone you know?
See more at our Job Openings resource
Hiring? Members can post jobs in the Member Information Center
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The Alzheimer’s Association of WNY is always in need of day-of volunteers for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s to assist with food/beverage, Walk Route guides, registration/check-in volunteers, and set-up/clean-up crew. If anyone has specific requirements (in terms of mobility/must be stationary), that is not a problem!
The walk will be on Saturday, October 11th at the Buffalo Outer Harbor, Terminal B. Registration opens at 9:30 am with a ceremony at 11 am and walk at 11:15 am. Individuals who want to register for a Walk team (it's free!) can go to act.alz.org/Buffalo and anyone who is interested in volunteering can reach out to Kaitlyn Less at kcless@alz.org or 716-374-1247
We have a new Volunteer Opportunities page on the Chamber website! Learn about our nonprofit members and how you can give back by visiting the web page here.
| A Guide to Stress-Free Medication Routines | |
It’s important to take the right medications at the right time and in the right way. But juggling multiple prescriptions every day can be hard for many. The good news is that with some organization and support, you can set yourself up for success.
Chart the course
Make a list/outline of your medications that includes each prescription, over-the-counter drug, vitamin and dietary supplement. Record the name, dosage and when to take it.
Tips for tracking
Pill boxes, charts, calendars and medication reminder apps are helpful tools. Other ideas to stay on track with your medications include:
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Visual cues: Write reminders on sticky notes. Place them in areas of the house you see frequently, like your refrigerator door or bathroom cabinet.
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Color coding: Put colored labels on your bottles based on the time of day you need to take the medicine. For example, blue for morning and yellow for bedtime.
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Syncing your habits: If you can, schedule doses around daily events. Take your morning pills right after brushing your teeth.
Conversation is key
Keeping your doctor in the loop is an important step in the process. At appointments, you should:
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Talk about your routine. If you’re having a hard time following a medication schedule, ask about possible adjustments.
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Share your up-to-date medication list. Your doctor should know every medication and supplement you’re currently taking to watch for harmful interactions. Always keeping your list of medications with you also helps in an emergency.
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Bring up concerns. Mention any side effects you’ve noticed since your last visit. Your doctor might be able to change the prescription.
Managing medications is a daily commitment that helps you live your best life. Stay consistent and keep communication open. Your health is worth every effort.
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