The number of people wanting to start a business has skyrocketed in Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Ahmed Elbaneh has seen the number of people wanting to open a business skyrocket since the pandemic, especially among people who have lost their jobs.

Its hundreds of clients — most of them immigrants — own clothing stores, a smoothie shop, video game stores, cafes and even a banquet center.

He sees the challenges and successes of newcomers to this country. Many want to work, he says, and are willing to work long hours to become business owners.