Buffalo
The startup scene in WNY is growing fast: no longer overlooked, no longer underestimated. At the Springboard Speaker Series, investors from across the country came to see firsthand the opportunities in Western New York that are alive, thriving, and ready for venture capital.
Investor Advice
At the Springboard Speaker Series, top investors shared their advice for founders: if you’re going to take the leap as an entrepreneur, you need strong conviction in what you’re building.
Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation Invests in Entrepreneurs
Dave Egner, CEO of the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, shares how Springboard was created to carry on Mr. Wilson’s entrepreneurial spirit, providing opportunities and funding to programs that help other entrepreneurs in WNY.
Springboard 2025 - 19 Ideas
Dan Gigante talks about what the 2025 Springboard prize funding will do for his organization.
Springboard 2025 - Bootsector
Jordan Walbesser talks about what the 2025 Springboard prize funding will do for his organization.
Springboard 2025 - Immunaeon
Adam Utley talks about what the 2025 Springboard prize funding will do for his organization.
Springboard 2025 - Jack Greco, Judge
Jack Greco talks about why he served as judge for the 2025 Springboard prize program and the importance of supporting entrepreneurs in WNY.
Springboard 2025 - Judge
Omar Bakht talks about why he served as judge for the 2025 Springboard prize program and the importance of supporting entrepreneurs in WNY.
Springboard 2025 - Kamel Patel, Judge
Kamal Patel talks about why he served as judge for the 2025 Springboard prize program and the importance of supporting entrepreneurs in WNY.
Springboard 2025 - Program Director
Chris Schoepflin of Main Light Strategies talks about how and why the Springboard program was developed.
Springboard 2025 - Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation
Paul Riser from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation talks about how and why the Springboard program was developed.
Springboard 2025 - The Foundry
Tamara Zantell talks about what the 2025 Springboard prize funding will do for her organization.
Springboard 2025 - The Foundry
Megan McNally talks about what the 2025 Springboard prize funding will do for her organization.
Springboard 2025 - Upstate Venture Connect
Olivia Goldstein talks about what the 2025 Springboard prize funding will do for her organization.
Springboard Speaker Series Recap: 9/25/25 – Nationwide Trends in Venture Capital
200+ founders, investors, and business leaders packed into Hydraulic Hearth to hear from top VCs across the country at the Springboard Speaker Series: Nationwide Trends in Venture Capital in Buffalo, NY. The future of entrepreneurship isn’t just on the coasts anymore; it’s happening right here in WNY!














