Seneca Nation drives $1.9 billion economic impact across Western New York

The Seneca Nation contributes nearly $2 billion each year to the Western New York economy, according to a new independent economic impact report presented Friday by Nation leaders during a meeting with state and local officials.

The findings, detailed in a report prepared by Meister Economic Consulting, showed that the Nation and its business enterprises contribute $1.9 billion in economic output, support 8,014 full-time equivalent jobs, and generate $542.7 million in wages throughout Western New York.

“The Seneca Nation’s continued presence and leadership in Western New York provides important fuel to the region’s economy,” said Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca. “Moreover, we provide for and help sustain the livelihoods of thousands of individuals and families who, like us, call this region home.”

The report identifies the Seneca Nation as the 12th largest employer in Western New York, providing 4,623 direct full- and part-time jobs across its government and business operations. The Nation’s spending with local vendors and suppliers supports thousands more.

While best known for its three casinos — Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino — the Nation operates 34 businesses across industries, including entertainment, banking, IT, retail, and professional sports.

“Today’s study confirms what we already knew: the Seneca Nation creates jobs and drives growth – all without taxpayer dollars or subsidies,” said Odie Porter, Seneca Nation Councilor. “Our goal is simple – keep building our future for Senecas and for Western New York, free of outside government interference. We’re not outsiders.”

“We don’t need to be lured into investing here,” he continued. "This is our home, and we’re not going anywhere. We’re going to make it better.”

The study examined the Nation’s economic reach across a 16-county region covering more than 11,400 square miles, encompassing much of the Nation’s ancestral homelands.

Earlier this year, the Nation expanded its investment in Rochester by acquiring the National Lacrosse League’s Rochester Knighthawks, securing the team’s future in the city.

“The Seneca Nation has helped move the Western New York economy forward in a significant way that few others can match,” the president said. “With each step we take and each investment we continue to make, the benefits we deliver to our people improve and the economic impact we have here in Western New York grows stronger.”

The meeting drew participation from a wide range of federal, state, and local officials, including representatives from the offices of U.S. Reps. Timothy M. Kennedy and Claudia Tenney, New York State Senator George Borello, and State Assemblyman Angelo Morinello. Staff members representing Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt, Senators April Baskin and Sean Ryan, and Assemblymembers Crystal Peoples-Stokes and Karen McMahon were also in attendance.

Local leaders included Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel, Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino, Salamanca Mayor Sandy Magiera, Erie County Legislator Lawrence Dupre, and Buffalo Common Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski.