Man, that's one loaded question...
To sort of answer, the medical corridor is one of the truly dynamic (for buffalo) growth areas, and it was a combination of state and local resources that helped create a foundation that has attracted 50 private companies to that area. Another important state initiative is the historic tax credit which has helped developers restore some of Buffalo's fantastic architecture. If you haven't seen it, the next time you are back in town, stay at the Lafayette Hotel--you will be floored if you saw how decrepit it used to be. The water front is moving forward rapidly, which is a tribute to the community's input and stopping the idiotic Bass pro development. The city awarded Pegula and the Sabres the development of the Webster block (next to the arena) and they are building a complex that will include a hotel and several ice rinks. The old state Donavan Building next door is being refurbished into a hotel and retail space. In two years, downtown will be radically different in a very good way.
As a native Californian, I'm actually very happy fate brought me to WNY.
http://www.bnmc.org/innovation/private-companies-on-the-bnmc/
http://thehotellafayette.com/
http://www.buffalorising.com/2012/05/donovan-makeover-plans-get-city-ok.html
http://www.buffalorising.com/2012/06/just-three-proposals-for-prime-canal-side-site.html
http://www.buffalorising.com/2012/10/construction-watch-inner-harbor.html