Matthew Zayas
Matthew ZayasManager

Matthew is a Manager with Next Street’s Delivery practice. In his previous role with the City of Buffalo Matthew oversaw the MWBE certification and contract compliance programs. In his time with the City he facilitated an increase in minority and women owned business participation in public works contracts by 26% from FY21-FY22. This was accomplished through the amendment of existing contracting laws, bid process reforms, and the implementation of new internal bid review, reporting, and approval procedures. While working with the City he also participated in committees that developed frameworks for equitably distributing COVID-relief and ARP funding, ensuring that businesses and communities facing huge disadvantages received help at the moment they needed it.

Matthew has a BA in international trade from University at Buffalo and an MS in creativity and innovation from Buffalo State College, as well as a SUNY certificate in change leadership.

On working at Next Street

I’m passionate about centering economic development around small business growth. I was drawn to Next Street by the team’s natural collaborative and creative working style and felt that my experience working in government could be an asset to NXST.

Outside of Next Street

When he’s not at work Matthew can be found learning a new language, spending time with his daughter, or playing folkloric Dominican Music with friends.

Get to know Matthew

  • Foreign languages: Spanish, Japanese