TUONA (TRAUNA) BATCHELOR
Buffalo
Summary
Strategic economic development and community investment leader with 10+ years of experience designing and managing multi-million-dollar programs that expand access to capital, strengthen small businesses, and advance equitable economic growth. Proven track record delivering $35M+ in grant funding, building cross-sector partnerships with government, financial institutions, and community organizations, and implementing high-impact initiatives that drive measurable outcomes. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, program governance, workforce development, and navigating complex regulatory environments. Recognized for aligning public, private, and nonprofit partners to deliver scalable, community-centered economic solutions.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Business Assistance
Erie County Department of Environment & Planning
Buffalo
03.2020 - 05.2025
- Led county economic development initiatives supporting small business growth, workforce development, and equitable access to capital.
- Managed cross-functional teams and coordinated with financial institutions, CDFIs, and community partners to deploy investment programs that enhanced business growth.
- Designed and administered $35M in grant funding across COVID relief programs, supporting 1,399 small businesses while ensuring federal, state, and local compliance.
- Oversaw 375 commercial revitalization projects, enhancing neighborhood business corridors and contributing to long-term economic stability.
- Built strategic partnerships with financial institutions, community organizations, and workforce providers to expand access to capital and business support.
- Co-led economic and workforce strategy for Erie County’s Community Climate Action Plan, aligning workforce pipelines with emerging industries.
- Served as liaison to the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission, supporting workforce development and economic expansion in the regional film sector.
- Acted as Project Manager for ErieNet broadband initiative, expanding infrastructure access to support business growth and economic inclusion.
- Created a regional business resource platform that streamlined access to capital, technical assistance, and support services for small businesses.
Economic Development Coordinator
City of Buffalo – Office of Strategic Planning
Buffalo
11.2016 - 03.2020
- Developed and implemented economic development initiatives that enhanced support for small businesses, MWBEs, and underserved communities.
- Partnered with CDFIs and business support organizations to improve capital access and coordinate regional small business support systems.
- Supported design and launch of targeted grant programs directing investment to historically underserved neighborhoods.
- Created collaborative initiatives that strengthened business support provider networks and enhanced service delivery.
- Advanced MWBE participation in contracting and funding opportunities, expanding access to economic growth pathways.
- Established Buffalo’s first business resource center, connecting entrepreneurs to capital, mentorship, and technical assistance.
Western New York Regional Assistant
Office of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Buffalo
06.2011 - 01.2013
- Acted as liaison between federal leadership and regional stakeholders, supporting economic, policy, and constituent initiatives.
- Represented federal leadership in meetings with business, civic, and community stakeholders.
- Investigated constituent cases involving economic and civil rights matters and facilitated resolution.
- Managed regional office operations, scheduling, and stakeholder engagement activities.
Education
Master of Science - Urban Planning
State University of New York At Buffalo
05-2010
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
State University of New York At Buffalo
05-2007
Skills
- Community & Economic Development
- Community Investment Strategy
- Grant & Program Administration
- Public-Private Partnerships
- Workforce Development
- Strategic Planning
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Small Business Ecosystems
- Policy Implementation
- Program Governance & Compliance
- Cross-Sector Collaboration
- Executive Leadership
Websites
Honors And Recognition
- SUNY Erie Distinguished Alumna Award, 2025
- Black Achievers Award, 2021
- Business First 40 Under 40, 2020
Timeline
Director of Business Assistance
Erie County Department of Environment & Planning
03.2020 - 05.2025
Economic Development Coordinator
City of Buffalo – Office of Strategic Planning
11.2016 - 03.2020
Western New York Regional Assistant
Office of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
06.2011 - 01.2013
Master of Science - Urban Planning
State University of New York At Buffalo
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
State University of New York At Buffalo