Buffalo Power 100 / Most Influential Business Leaders

Overview

The Buffalo Business First “Power 100” (sometimes framed as a list of the most influential business leaders) is an annual, editorially curated ranking of the 100 most powerful and impactful leaders in the Buffalo/WNY region. It is produced by the Buffalo Business First newsroom, which selects honorees based on reporting, community impact and regional influence rather than a formal scored application. Organizations and individuals pay attention to it because inclusion signals significant regional clout and visibility in the local business community. The list functions as a credibility marker similar to other American City Business Journals power lists and is primarily editorial, not pay‑to‑play.

Eligibility Requirements

• Nominee must be a business, civic, nonprofit, or political leader with significant influence in the Buffalo/WNY region
• Nominee must be actively working in or directly impacting the Western New York community during the 2026–2027 list year
• Self-nominations and third-party nominations are accepted via the Buffalo Business First online form