$5 Million Will Be on The Line When Companies Face Off at Buffalo Business Battle
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the names of the 15 semi-finalists who are one step closer to securing millions of dollars in investments at the ninth annual 43North competition. The semi-finalists will meet in Buffalo the second week of October to pitch their ideas in the hopes of securing $1 million and an opportunity to grow their business in Buffalo – one of the nation's fastest-growing hubs for entrepreneurs. There are competitors coming from the U.K., Canada, California, and many other locations in the United States. The companies are focused on innovative solutions in a wide array of industries including, but not limited to, logistics, food service, manufacturing, health tech, financial services, and clean tech.
“43North's startup competition attracts the best and brightest entrepreneurs, and has positioned Buffalo and Western New York as a prime location where innovative and creative startups can thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “With the continued support of New York State, this year's competition has once again attracted highly innovative entrepreneurs from around the world – Congratulations to all semi-finalists and I wish them luck as they compete in Buffalo next month to take their businesses to new heights.”
It is a challenging task to narrow down the hundreds of applications to the top 15 companies. A group of more than 30judges carefully reviewed and compared the applications, met with founders, and made recommendations for the final selection. The winning five companies will join the ranks of some previous 43North businesses, such as ACV, an online car auction company that is now worth more than $2 billion and employs more than 2,000 people.
The 43North business accelerator is funded by New York State and will be receiving support from Empire State Development to continue operating competitions for at least three more years. This year, in addition to the five top $1 million awards, there will be a $25,000 People’s Choice award, funded by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and voted on by the live audience the night of the competition.