Message from the President/CEO
For more than 50 years, the country has marked “National Small Business Week” in May.

Even though this year’s celebrations have been postponed, now more than ever, we are recognizing the significance of small business in our economy.

The coronavirus pandemic has shaken most every business to its core, but small business has taken the brunt.

While getting Western New York in the healthy zone is our region’s top priority, the Chamber sees the importance of getting our business community prepared for the day we can slowly get back to work.

Read more .

NEW  COVID-19-Related Business Information  HERE .

View More COVID-19-Related Resources  HERE .
Speed Networking is Back!
Date: Wed., May 6

Time: 9:00 a.m.

Weekly Zoom videoconference with ProNet facilitators Paul Greiner and Allen Dembski.

Join us for Speed Networking!

Date: Monday, May 11

Time: 8:30 a.m.

Weekly Zoom videoconference offering uplifting and inspirational messages for a positive start to your week.

Tune in for some encouragement from Leadership expert Larry Mietus. Join us!

BUY LOCAL for Mom!
Health Insurance Update
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Special Enrollment Period Due to COVID-19:

If you are uninsured, you still have until May 15 to enroll in an Individual qualified health plan for either a May 1 or June 1 effective date. Let us connect you to plan options from WNY’s top three carriers - BCBS, Independent Health and Univera. 

During this state of emergency, all health plans provide no-cost COVID-19 testing, free medically necessary office/urgent care/ER visits related to COVID-19, and free telehealth services.

All plans from our carrier partners also feature robust doctor networks, free preventive care, wellness benefits, member discounts and pharmacy home delivery. 

  • Important noteThis is not a waiver of premium payment responsibility. If your group is unable to pay in full by June 1, 2020 coverage may be terminated. All other claims will continue to be paid as normal.
  • To arrange to defer premium payment, please contact us at the Amherst Chamber at healthinsurance@amherst.org or (716) 632-6905.
  • Full and partial payments are accepted, with e-payment tools available.

Please contact us at (716) 632-6905 or  healthinsurance@amherst.org  with your questions. The latest information from your insurer is below.



The Health & Wellness Challenge
is Back!

Independent Health and the Buffalo Bills are encouraging Western New Yorkers to stay active and connected by taking part in this spring’s Health & Wellness Challenge. This fun and engaging program kicked off on April 27 and is open to the entire community through June 7.

At a time when it’s become extremely important to manage your overall health and practice social distancing, the Independent Health and Buffalo Bills Health & Wellness Challenge incentivizes people to adopt healthy habits and provides helpful ways to do that – even at home! By moving more, eating wisely and drinking enough water, participants will earn points for a chance to win a variety of daily and weekly prizes, as well as the Grand Prize VIP Bills Experience, which includes:

·         Lunch and a private tour of the Sports Performance Center with Buffalo Bills defensive lineman Harrison Phillips

·         Buffalo Bills home opener prize pack with four game tickets, pre-game on-field passes, Bills gift bags and limousine transportation

Get healthy, get points, get prizes!
Health & Wellness Challenge participants can earn five points by achieving three main daily goals:

1.       Get at least 20 minutes of physical activity
2.       Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables
3.       Drink eight glasses of water

In addition to the daily goals, there are “extra points” challenges designed to push participants further and keep things interesting. Plus, by referring friends and family, participants can earn 10 extra points for each person who registers. Therefore, encourage your family, friends and neighbors to also take part so that you can stay connected with them by having friendly competitions and challenging each other. The more you do, the more points you’ll earn, and the greater your chance to win prizes.

It’s not too late to join this spring’s Health & Wellness Challenge. Visit buffalobills.com/thechallenge to get started today!
 Amherst Chamber of Commerce | (P) 716.632.6905 | (F) 716.632.0548 | www.amherst.org