8 Startups From Around the Globe Selected To Pitch for Five $1 Million Investments
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the eight finalists for the 11th annual 43North startup competition, marking 11 years of entrepreneurial success in Buffalo — achieved by investing in innovative businesses and the jobs of the future. This year's finalists, from across the globe, span a diverse range of industries including AI, cleantech, healthtech and more.
“43North is a catalyst for the innovation that defines the spirit of Buffalo — moving the boundaries of technology and innovation across industries and continents,” Governor Hochul said. “These founders are creating jobs, pushing new technologies forward, and strengthening communities across Western New York. I congratulate this year’s finalists and look forward to our competition tomorrow at Shea’s Performing Arts Center.”
A team of nearly 30 venture capitalists from across North America, heard 15 pitches from the Semi-Finalists and selected the eight teams that will move on to the Finals event on October 16 at 6 p.m. at Shea’s Performing Arts Center — where they’ll compete for one of five $1 million investments and the chance to grow their businesses in one of the nation’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems.
The 43North accelerator offers more than funding — it provides mentorship, office space, access to a wide network of investors, and resources that help startups scale effectively. Over the past decade, 43North has invested in 74 companies, created more than 3,000 jobs globally and raised over $1 billion in capital.
43North President Colleen E. Heidinger said, “43North Finals is more than a pitch competition — it’s a celebration of ambition, innovation, and the spirit of community. From high-growth startups to Main Street businesses, we have so much to be proud of in Buffalo. On October 16, more than 3,000 people will fill Shea’s to be part of this moment. And for the founders on stage, it’s more than just a pitch — it’s the beginning of something bigger, and their first welcome into a city that rallies around bold ideas.”
Read the full press release here.