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43North runs an accelerator program and invests $5M annually to recruit high-growth companies to Buffalo, NY.

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Who We Are

Since 2014, 43North has invested $5 million annually into growing Buffalo's startup ecosystem.

With a unicorn and publicly-traded company among our ranks, and several others on the rise, we’re co-investors with VCs like Bessemer, Iconiq Capital, and Rise of the Rest to name a few. 43North’s mission thrives with the support of our dedicated sponsors, including New York State, Empire State Development and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation.

 

 

 

43North Finals

The stage is set at 43North Finals

Each year, 43North Finals is the grand finale of our rigorous selection processes, where five companies secure $1M each and a spot in our next cohort. In this public event, over 3,000 Buffalo community members witness entrepreneurs battle on stage to become one of Buffalo’s next hot startups.

INVESTING IN BUFFALO'S FUTURE

Get involved with 43North.

FOR FOUNDERS

Scale your business with 43North's funding and immersive accelerator program.

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FOR INVESTORS

Join us in boosting startups through referrals, mentoring, demo days and more.

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FOR JOBSEEKERS

Looking for a job at a 43North portfolio company? Check out our job board. 

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OUR PORTFOLIO

A diverse, industry-agnostic portfolio.

ACV Auctions

Y2 (2016) 43North Finalist

ACV Auctions is the nation's leading wholesale automotive auction marketplace for buyers and sellers.

Squire

Enterprise, Y4 (2018) 43North Finalist

The leading barber business management system made for barbers, shop owners, and their communities.

Top Seedz

Consumer Products, Y7 (2022) 43North Finalist

Award-winning seed crackers and seeds made from simple ingredients. USDA Organic, gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free.

Guidesly

Enterprise, Y9 (2024) 43North Finalist

Guidesly is a SaaS platform for outdoor guides to manage their business and connect to people looking to book trips and activities.

Kangarootime

Edtech, Y4 (2018) 43North Finalist

All-in-one childcare management software.

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News & Podcasts

The Latest News

Blog

HeronAI Taps Buffalo Talent to Accelerate Growth After 43North Win

After winning $1 million in the 2024 43North Finals, HeronAI didn’t waste time getting to work in Buffalo. CEO Daphne Pariser relocated in January, and within weeks, the company made its first local hire. Today, HeronAI has seven employees — four of them based in Western New York, including several University at Buffalo graduates working

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Blog

From Funding to Founder Support: How 43North Helped Guidesly Thrive

When David Lord moved Guidesly to Buffalo after winning 43North’s startup competition, he gained more than just funding. He gained Buffalo and 43North as a strategic partner.  Since relocating in early 2024, Guidesly has raised $9.5 million, launched a patented AI tool, and doubled its Buffalo-based team. But according to Lord, it’s the support from

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Blog

Bounce Imaging (Y3) Expands Defense Reach with Life-Saving Tech

Bounce Imaging (Y3) is scaling rapidly following a major deployment with a NATO ally and expanded work with U.S. Special Operations Command. The company’s 360° throwable camera—designed for use in high-risk environments—has become a critical tool for tactical teams, helping them assess threats before entering a room. For founder Francisco Aguilar and the Bounce Imaging

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