One of Buffalo Niagara’s greatest assets, regardless of industry, is its academic institutions. The eight county region has 21 colleges and universities. Within 100 miles of downtown Buffalo, that number expands to 47.
One of the strongest outputs of that academic system is within the food processing and agribusiness industry. Below is a list of just some of the great programs offered from which companies expanding or relocating to Buffalo Niagara can hire talent from to grow their business.
Cornell University
Food Processing Development Laboratory (FPDL)- The FPDL offers a unique food product development and short-term manufacturing space that allows companies to perform research, develop new products, and start new food related businesses.
Department of Food Science- The food science undergraduate and graduate programs include biology/microbiology, chemistry, and nutrition in food and beverage properties. The Cornell Center of Excellence in Food and Agriculture Innovation serves as a hub to connect New York businesses with services they need for success.
Dairy Foods Extension Program- Includes dairy research and extension programs, milk processing from Cornell’s dairy herd. The program and licensed dairy processing plant actually supplies dairy products to the campus.
Brewing Program & Extension Enology Lab (CEEL)- Conducts fermentation in collaboration with researchers. Read our success story on Pressure Drop Brewing for the benefits of Buffalo Niagara in brewing. Oh, and our podcast with Head Brewer Karl Kolbe, too!
Alfred State College
Agricultural Technology Program- Alfred’s campus boasts a 5,300 sq. ft. green house. It’s also the only institution of higher education in the U.S. with both conventional and organic dairy systems on the same farm.
Agricultural Business Program- The campus’ 800 acre college farm also hosts the Center for Organic and Sustainable Agriculture (COSA).
“Alfred State provides companies a great opportunity to both attract talent and approach partnerships,” said Craig Clark, vice president of economic development at Alfred State College. “Our region is well prepared for the future of food processing.” Clark also heads up the Allegany County IDA.
Genesee Community College
Career Pathways Agribusiness Academy- A program for high school seniors interested in exploring agribusiness as a future career choice.
Food Processing Technology- See New York’s food and beverage supply chain assets here.
Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points (HACCP)- Prepares for the implementation and maintaining of a HAACP system
“Agribusiness is the foundation of the Genesee County economy particularly in dairy farming and food processing,” said Steve Hyde, Genesee County Economic Development Center president and CEO. “We are fortunate to have a great partner in our economic development efforts in Genesee Community College which provides a wide range of degrees and certificate programs that provides these businesses with a pipeline of well-trained and productive workers.”
