Amanda Leightner

Amanda Leightner is an entrepreneur and entrepreneurial ecosystem builder. She is a native of Pittsburgh, PA and has lived in Rochester since 2007. In 2016, Amanda launched Rochester Rising, an online news site that amplifies the stories of Rochester entrepreneurs. Since that time, she’s told the stories of over 200 unique startups and innovative small businesses on Rochester Rising. Amanda is also the 2017 recipient of the R.A.V.E. Warrior Award from Rochester Economic Development, Inc. in recognition of her advocacy for Rochester’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. She also currently volunteers with Rochester Public School System’s INCubatoredu program, mentoring RPS juniors and seniors in lean startup development.