The construction of the new Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing its goals for minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) participation.

To date, over $490 million has been disbursed to MWBE firms, representing the largest participation by such businesses in any public-private project in Western New York history. ([governor.ny.gov](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-bills-highmark-stadium-construction-surpasses-mwbe-participation?utm_source=openai))

Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the importance of this achievement, stating that local minority- and women-owned businesses have been instrumental in ensuring the new stadium is ready for the upcoming Bills season. She emphasized that this unprecedented participation is not just about building a stadium but about fostering generational wealth and setting a gold standard for inclusive public-private partnerships across New York State. ([governor.ny.gov](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-bills-highmark-stadium-construction-surpasses-mwbe-participation?utm_source=openai))

The project has awarded 304 contracts to nearly 140 MWBE firms, with 83 of these businesses based in the Western New York region receiving 216 contracts. ([governor.ny.gov](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-bills-highmark-stadium-construction-surpasses-mwbe-participation?utm_source=openai))

Buffalo Bills Vice President of Stadium Relations Penny Semaia expressed satisfaction with the project's progress, noting that through teamwork and intentional efforts, the goals were not only met but exceeded. She emphasized that this achievement reflects the organization's commitment to the community and the greater Western New York region. ([governor.ny.gov](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-bills-highmark-stadium-construction-surpasses-mwbe-participation?utm_source=openai))

The new stadium, set to open in time for the 2026 season, will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including a 360-degree canopy covering 65% of the seats, heated concourses, and the world's largest snow melt system. The facility is designed to accommodate approximately 60,000 fans, providing a modern and comfortable environment for spectators. ([governor.ny.gov](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-bills-highmark-stadium-construction-surpasses-mwbe-participation?utm_source=openai))