At the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, Erie County's Office of Economic Development recognized a pressing gap in the region’s economic infrastructure: small businesses were not equipped for emergencies. Though the Office had long concentrated on industrial development and brownfield reclamation, the pandemic laid bare the vulnerability of local entrepreneurs. Many were unable to access critical relief funding simply because they lacked the necessary resources and preparedness.
In response, Erie County forged a new path—one centered on small business support. A coalition of community leaders convened as the Small Business Task Force, determined to create a lifeline for local enterprises. Their efforts culminated in the launch of WNY Be In Business, an online resource navigator designed to help business owners easily connect with tools, funding, and guidance.
But this was only the beginning. Recognizing the need for a broader, more integrated support network, Erie County expanded its mission. Today, that vision is embodied in the Erie County Business Hub—a unified platform built to serve as the central connector within Western New York's entrepreneurial ecosystem. While many organizations offer support to small businesses, the Hub fills a critical void by tying these efforts together into a seamless, holistic resource.
Small Business: A National Force
Between 2000 and 2018, small businesses were the cornerstone of American job creation—responsible for generating 9.6 million new positions across the country. By early 2025, the U.S. was home to over 30.7 million small businesses, many fueled by a desire for autonomy and career control. Nearly one in three entrepreneurs started their ventures to become their own boss.
However, the journey is often far from smooth. Many entrepreneurs cite access to capital as a major hurdle. A full 32% of small business owners identify this as their top concern, and 83% report earning less than $100,000 annually. Unfortunately, these struggles are reflected in business longevity: one in five fails within the first year, and half do not survive beyond five.
Building a Resilient Future
The Erie County Business Hub is designed to change this narrative. By connecting business owners with vital partners, funding streams, and curated resources, the Hub is laying a foundation for sustainable growth and long-term resilience. Through online platforms like WNY Be In Business and targeted outreach across social media, the county is equipping entrepreneurs with everything they need—not just to survive, but to thrive. This moment marks a turning point in Erie County’s economic legacy—an era of inclusion, empowerment, and innovation, driven by a shared commitment to small business success.