Event recap: It’s The Economy with Gary Keith

On March 12, Upstate Capital hosted a small, intimate gathering in Buffalo to hear Gary Keith’s outlook on the regional economy and the effect of COVID-19 on the Upstate New York investment ecosystem. Based in Buffalo, Gary Keith is Vice President and Regional Economist at M&T Bank. Gary provides economic research and analysis support to M&T’s executive management and commercial banking business units.

With the recent outbreak of COVID-19, many business leaders and investment professionals are left unsure of the depth of the immediate and lasting impact to our Upstate economy. Despite the unprecedented situation, Gary supplied insight into how the virus will affect business in the region. You can read more about Gary’s presentation in this article reported by the Rochester Business Journal, who had a representative in attendance at the event (paywall).

Upstate Capital is also adapting to the rapidly shifting dynamics related to COVID-19, and have decided to take Upstate Capital events online through at least May 1, 2020. Upstate Capital’s Executive Director, Noa Simons, said, “Adaptability is an essential skill for entrepreneurs, so while not ideal, we are excited to find out what unexpected benefits will be found in this opportunity to do things differently. Perhaps we will even find some that can be carried on into Upstate Capital’s future offerings.” Let’s come together, virtually, to continue to make Upstate New York a great place to live and do business. As Noa says, “Let’s work together to make 2020 a great year for the Upstate NY investment ecosystem and for all of us involved.”

You can check out all the event photos here. Please reach out to us if you’d like to get involved at info@upstatecapital.org. We’d love to hear your ideas on how to keep relationships thriving during a time of social distancing.

Upstate Capital members are invited to check out Gary’s slide deck he prepared for his presentation. Please click here (sign-in required).