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Entrepreneur happy hour: Lessons in business ownership and leadership

As the largest regional chamber of commerce in WNY, we bring approximately 4,500 people together each year via an unprecedented number of events, meetings, and workshops. Designed to facilitate networking opportunities, encourage business development, support professional development, and drive business advocacy, there is a BNP event for every member of your organization. 

Entrepreneur happy hour: Lessons in business ownership and leadership

Monday, June 22, 2026 (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) (EDT)

Description

Businesses that leave a lasting legacy are built by leaders who can adapt to solve problems and create opportunities for growth. This free happy hour brings together business leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs for an exclusive conversation about what it takes to build and lead a successful business.

Through personal stories and insights, you’ll gain a firsthand perspective on entrepreneurship and long-term business growth through the experiences of local McDonald’s franchise leaders.

What you’ll experience

  • Lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership and business growth
  • Conversations about the opportunities and challenges of business ownership
  • Insights into building strong teams and developing talent
  • Opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with experienced business leaders
  • Networking with fellow professionals over food and refreshments in a relaxed setting 

Featured speakers

Abdul Mowla, Owner/Operator, McDonald’s 

  • Owner/operator of three McDonald’s in the Rochester area. Began his career as a crew member and advanced through senior leadership roles before becoming an owner/operator. 

Tiffany Bentham, Franchising Candidate Manager, McDonald’s 

  • U.S. Franchising Candidate Manager and Buffalo resident who is passionate about identifying future owner/operators and creating a more transparent and equitable path to ownership 

Program overview 

This intimate happy hour gathering combines networking, refreshments and a facilitated conversation with an experienced franchise owner. Guests will connect with other professionals interested in entrepreneurship, participate in an interactive discussion and hear personal success stories they can relate to their own careers and organizations. 

Event details

Date: Monday, June 22
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: BNP @ the cobblestone (79 Perry St., Buffalo, NY 14203)  
Cost: Free


Thank you to our event sponsor


Buffalo Niagara Partnership
79 Perry St.
Buffalo, NY 14203 United States
Event Contact
Katie Azelby
(805) 377-3698
Send Email
Monday, June 22, 2026 (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) (EDT)
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SHRM Credits

The Buffalo Niagara Partnership has officially been named an authorized Recertification Provider by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). With this certification, participants in our qualified educational trainings and other HR-related programming will now have the opportunity to receive Professional Development Credits (PDCs).

Learn more here