Finalists Will Meet in Buffalo, Vying for One of Five $1 Million Investments
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced 15 finalists for the eighth edition of 43North's annual startup competition. The finalists will meet in Buffalo at the end of October to pitch their ideas in the hopes of securing $1 million and gain the opportunity to grow their business in Buffalo - one of the nation's fastest-growing tech hubs. Most of the finalists originate from across the United States, with one coming from as far as the United Kingdom. They cover a wide array of industries, including but not limited to health tech, financial services, and clean tech.
"Since its launch in 2014, 43North has created a new epicenter of technology and innovation in Buffalo," Governor Hochul said. "The success of 43North has sent a message to entrepreneurs around the world - New York State is home to the jobs of the future. I am proud to announce the 15 finalists of this year's 43North competition and look forward to welcoming them to the energized startup community that is Buffalo."
To narrow down the contenders to the top 15 companies, 43North implemented an extensive diligence process that began in July 2022. The process was led by Kevin Siskar, Vice President of Portfolio and Selection at 43North, who, along with more than 80 judges, reviewed hundreds of applications, met with founders, and made recommendations on selection.
The competition is part of New York State's $37.04 million Buffalo Billion initiative with funding supported by the New York Power Authority. This year, in addition to shifting to five $1 million awards, 43North also shared news of new production elements including live music from Buffalo's very own local band Farrow that will accompany the Finals program.
Over the past seven years, 43North has invested in a diverse, industry agnostic portfolio of 59 companies, 44% of which have founders of color and 28% having female founders. Earlier this year, 43North reported that its portfolio companies had collectively created more than 1,000 jobs in Western New York. Over 60% of 43North's portfolio maintains a material presence in Buffalo.
43North Finals is free to attend, but registration is required. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Free tickets for 43North Finals taking place on October 20 at 6pm ET at Shea's Performing Arts Center can be reserved at 43North.org.
43North President Colleen E. Heidinger said, "We're excited to reach this milestone in our selection process and eagerly await the opportunity to get to know these 15 companies as they make their way to Buffalo. These next phases in the judging process are pivotal and thrilling steps which give our community an opportunity to get in on the action as we get down to selecting our year eight cohort."