Born and educated in Milan, Italy, Paolo Busti built a reputation in Dutch banks before becoming General Agent of the Holland Land Company in 1799 in the United States of America, where he received title to all company lands, represented Dutch investors, and could defend their interests in court. His foresight, business acumen, integrity, and honesty were important to the settlement of Holland Land Company sales and the development of western New York. Refusing to sell to speculators, he promoted sales to settlers through low prices, long credit, and necessary accommodations, believing their industriousness and enterprise would develop the area's resources. He donated land and money for churches, inns, courthouses, schools, roads, and the canal, appointed Joseph Ellicott as his local agent, and humbly declined having the settlement named for himself, recommending Batavia instead to honor the Dutch investors. His policies encouraged actual development, helped secure the region's place in industry and trade, and contributed to the basis for New York's rise as the Empire State.