Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that $10 million from the East Side Building Fund will be distributed to 35 commercial and mixed-use projects in Buffalo’s East Side. The funding is aimed at accelerating private building renovations and new development, with the goal of revitalizing commercial corridors throughout the area. The fund was first introduced by Governor Hochul in May 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to foster economic growth on Buffalo’s East Side.
“The East Side Building Fund awards represent the strategic deployment of resources our administration committed to better serve the needs of the community,” Governor Hochul said. “By easing the financial burden on property owners, we are directly investing in our commercial corridors, ensuring they are revitalized and better equipped to anchor and support East Side neighborhoods for years to come.”
The recipients include a range of businesses and organizations. Among them is Loads of Love, led by Brandi Barrett, which will construct a two-story mixed-use building featuring a laundromat, café, and affordable housing units. Legacy Developers, headed by Ellen Shareef, will create 29 affordable apartments and over 6,000 square feet of commercial space through an adaptive reuse project. Other awardees such as Styles of Man, Ladies of Charity of Buffalo, Phat Catz Restaurant & Bar, Doris Records, and Imperial Food Market will use funds for improvements like façade upgrades, energy efficiency enhancements, exterior renovations, and interior updates.
Brandi Barrett commented on the impact: “The commitment Governor Hochul has to the East Side of Buffalo continues to be reflected in moments like this! Her commitment to reinvest has ignited true change where transformational projects like Loads of Love can be a true reality. We are grateful to Empire State Development and their local team for not only understanding the need for essential services like a laundromat, but understanding our story, resonating with the barriers, and being problem-solvers and support along the way. Thank you, Governor Hochul, ESD, and the entire City of Buffalo!”
The fund is managed through a partnership involving Empire State Development (ESD), philanthropic groups, and community organizations. It provides grants along two tracks: Small Projects receive up to 90 percent coverage for conventional renovations with a maximum grant amount of $400,000; Anchor Projects can receive reimbursement for up to 50 percent of costs up to $2 million for major restorations or new construction.
Empire State Development President Hope Knight stated: “The East Side Building Fund awards represent more than just a capital investment — they are a milestone in Buffalo’s shared future. By partnering directly with these dedicated property owners, we are ensuring this funding sparks renewed economic vitality across the East Side’s commercial corridors.”
The initiative builds upon three previous ESD programs that have helped revitalize Buffalo’s East Side through capital support and developer training. Over 60 projects have previously received assistance from these efforts.
State Senator April N.M. Baskin remarked: “As 2025 comes to a close, it is welcome news to learn of the $10 million award from the East Side Building Fund. Governor Hochul and her team continue to demonstrate that Buffalo’s east side is deserving of significant funding to support economic development through infrastructure projects, housing availability, commercial space, energy efficiency, and facade improvements. Thanks to this collaborative effort with Empire State Development, philanthropic organizations, and community leaders, the start of the new year looks promising for our neighbors who remain committed to revitalizing these commercial corridors.”
State Senator Sean Ryan added: “This announcement reflects the kind of neighborhood‑driven investment the East Side needs. Investing in commercial corridors and supporting local property owners helps create jobs, expand services, and build community wealth in places that have too often been overlooked. Thank you to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for prioritizing these strategic investments that will empower residents, support small businesses, and fuel economic growth in Buffalo.”
Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said: “This is what commitment to reinvestment looks like. Empire State Development and the East Side Building Fund are helping to build communities back up by helping property owners invest in their properties. Improving East Side businesses and other properties helps to improve the entire City of Buffalo.”
Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz commented: “The new East Side Building Fund is already having a direct impact here in Buffalo, investing in projects that revitalize businesses and reinvigorate neighborhoods. Projects like these create stronger communities one building at a time and I thank Governor Hochul for her vision and commitment to making these investments in Buffalo.”
City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon said: “This $10 million investment is a powerful vote of confidence in Buffalo’s East Side and the small business owners and developers who are driving its revitalization. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to our city and to creating real lasting economic opportunity in our neighborhoods…”
Philanthropic partners also expressed their support for breaking down barriers faced by emerging developers while promoting equitable growth across local communities.
The Regional Revitalization Partnership (RRP) supports this initiative as part of its broader $300 million strategy targeting economic development across several Western New York cities including Niagara Falls and Rochester. The RRP involves public-private collaboration among state agencies such as Empire State Development as well as banks like M&T Bank and KeyBank, foundations including Ralph C. Wilson Jr., Five Star Bank and others.
Empire State Development serves as New York’s main agency responsible for fostering business growth statewide (more information). The agency manages regional councils focused on job creation initiatives while supporting broadband access through ConnectALL and workforce training programs.