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Ignite Buffalo

In 2017, Facebook partnered with the US Chamber of Commerce and research company Morning Consult to examine how small/medium-sized organizations use digital and social platforms to grow. The brand gauged America’s readiness for the future, identifying the digital skills that small businesses say they’ll need. Data points from Buffalo suggested that the thriving startup region of Upstate NY was particularly ripe for Facebook’s support.

In response to these findings, Facebook announced its investment in Ignite Buffalo: a mentorship and funding program to award $1MM to small businesses in eight New York counties. The winners would be announced via a special celebration at Facebook Community Boost’s Buffalo activation. We live-streamed this inspiring experience around the globe via Facebook for Business’s official Facebook Live channel and even set up remote voting so virtual viewers could participate.

Click to watch.