M&T Bank Emerging Entrepreneurs Program

CEL Emerging Entrepreneurs Class of 2024.

Class of 2024

Designed to assist historically underrepresented entrepreneurs grow their businesses to the next stage of development. 

The M&T Bank Emerging Entrepreneurs program is presented by the UB School of Management’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and is partially funded with a generous grant from M&T Bank.

The Emerging Entrepreneur program will help you move your company to the next stage of development. You will work with a mentor, attend biweekly business development seminars and networking events, and complete a revised or newly developed business plan.

Who Should Apply

You should apply to the Emerging Entrepreneur program if you:

  • Are the owner of an emerging business with annual revenue below $300,000
  • Wish to formulate clear objectives to guide the development of your business plan
  • Strive to learn and connect with organizations and resources - public and private - that can assist with the development of your business

To apply, you must own a business in the Buffalo-Niagara region. 

Application Process

We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2025 cohort

Learn More

To obtain program fees, request a brochure or learn more, contact the CEL at mgt-cel@buffalo.edu or 716-885-5715.