Powered by Authenticity
Pints, Pucks, Ribs, and More! Investing in the Future of Batavia with Matt Gray
Small towns don't move forward on their own. They need people who see possibility, invest in ideas, preserve what matters and are willing to take action when opportunity presents itself. Matthew (Matty) Gray is one of those people in Batavia, New York. His journey wasn't mapped out years in advance. When Matty and his wife knew they wanted to return home to Batavia, they didn't necessarily know what that next chapter would look like. Then an opportunity with Alex's Place presented itself. The timing was right. Matty recognized the opportunity, took the chance and made the move. And that wouldn't be the last time. Years later, when the future of the local ice arena became uncertain, another opportunity emerged — this one with a deeply personal connection to Matty's family and hockey. Eli Fish Brewing would eventually become another chapter in his entrepreneurial journey and another investment in his hometown. Different opportunities. Different moments. But a common thread: being willing to act when opportunity arrives. In this episode of Powered by Authenticity , Matty shares the unexpected path that brought him here, what he's learned about entrepreneurship and the impact that can happen when people choose to invest in the places they call home. Because Batavia isn't unique in needing people like Matty. Small towns across the country and around the world need people willing to become active participants in their future. Revitalization isn't the work of one person, but it does require people willing to step forward. Opportunity can open the door. What matters is what we choose to do when it does. Thank you, Matty, for a fun conversation. It was such a pleasure to speak with you about your investments in our hometown. P.S. - of course we talked chicken wings!! And we had a unanimous vote on favorite wing flavor! Links to locations discussed in this episode: LinkedIn: Matthew Gray | LinkedIn Eli Fish Brewing Company | Brewery | 109 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020 Alex's Place | Fine Dining Steakhouse | Ribs & Seafood David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena
