The Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship has officially launched its Buffalo campus, inviting prospective students to apply for the Fall 2026 intake. This marks a significant expansion, building on the success of its Rochester location established in 2023. The new Buffalo campus is proudly situated in the recently acquired One News Plaza, a spacious 160,000-square-foot building that Tom Golisano purchased for $10 million.
Mirroring the highly successful model in Rochester, the Buffalo campus will deliver an accelerated, non-traditional business education. This two-year program is specifically designed to equip students with essential practical business skills and invaluable real-world experience, all for an accessible tuition of $8,900 per year.
Tom Golisano’s Vision and Dedication to Western New York
Tom Golisano, the Institute’s visionary founder, is a celebrated entrepreneur and philanthropist with deep roots in the Buffalo area. His prior ownership of the Buffalo Sabres and a recent $50 million donation to Oishei Children’s Hospital (now bearing his name) underscore his profound connection to the community. The acquisition of One News Plaza further solidifies his substantial investment in advancing Buffalo’s educational and business environment.
Ian Mortimer, President of the Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship, expressed enthusiasm for the Rochester program’s proven track record. “Our first class graduated this past August,” Mortimer stated, “and we have clear evidence that the Institute’s approach consistently leads to successful business careers.” He emphasized that the Buffalo campus would extend these exceptional opportunities to students throughout Western New York.
Innovative Program Features and Curriculum
The Golisano Institute’s two-year business degree is meticulously crafted to rapidly impart practical knowledge and hands-on experience. Students will immerse themselves in the business world through a variety of internships and the engaging weekly “Speaking from Experience” series, where prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs share direct insights and foster valuable networking.
Beyond the core program, the Buffalo campus will also introduce a one-year Advanced Certificate in AI & Business. This forward-thinking course seamlessly integrates artificial intelligence competencies with core business principles, preparing students for the dynamic demands of the digital economy.
Strong Community Support and Scholarship Opportunities
The Institute’s establishment in Buffalo has been met with widespread acclaim from local business and political figures. Notably, Terry Pegula, owner of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, has generously committed to endowing ten scholarships for Golisano Institute students, stressing the critical need to equip more individuals with essential skills. Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz echoed this support, highlighting the Institute’s potential to enrich the region’s entrepreneurial landscape and revitalize downtown Buffalo. Andrew Goldner, founder of GrowthX, a prominent venture capital firm, characterized this expansion as a vital link, bridging Western New York’s business prospects with the Institute’s pipeline of emerging talent.
Application Process
Applications for the highly anticipated Fall 2026 intake at the Golisano Institute’s Buffalo campus are officially open. Aspiring students are encouraged to apply online via the Institute’s dedicated website. The program is specifically tailored for accessibility, welcoming individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds, with the ultimate goal of empowering future professionals with the essential skills for success in business and entrepreneurship. This new campus represents a pivotal moment for the Golisano Institute, significantly extending its influence and providing accessible, accelerated business education across Western New York.