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We’re Excited to Announce

Buffalo’s Startup Ecosystem is Entering Its Next Era

2026 will mark the final 43North competition, with programming continuing through 2027 for our final cohort.

Buffalo is ready for the next chapter, and the 2026 Finals will serve as the celebration of a planned evolution rooted in Buffalo’s success, opening the door to the next chapter of innovation, company creation, and long-term ecosystem growth.

What began as a bold effort, backed by New York State, including the Governor’s office and Empire State Development, has helped create the conditions for something bigger. Now, after more than a decade of helping build Buffalo into a nationally recognized startup hub, 43North is entering its next era!

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Pitch Your Buffalo

Buffalo is more than one voice. Add yours.

We’re getting ready to bring our next class of founders to Buffalo to pitch what’s next. Before they take the stage, we want to hear from the people who make this city what it is.

Share the story, moment, person, or place that captures Buffalo’s spirit.

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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, M&T Bank and others.

 

 

 

 

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

RadEmploy white and blue flag logo

Blog

RadEmploy (Y11) Quintuples User Base Six Months After Moving to Buffalo

RadEmploy is experiencing rapid growth. The healthcare workforce startup has grown its user base from 10,000 to 50,000, expanded into five states, increased revenue, and launched a $2 million pre-seed fundraising round, with 60% of the round already closed. Founded by CEO Joel Horsford, radEmploy connects radiology professionals with healthcare employers, helping organizations fill critical

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Blog

43North Portfolio Companies Hiring in Buffalo | June 2026

It’s officially June! Apply for a 43North portfolio company that’s hiring in Buffalo this summer. Want to stay up to date on hiring updates, application tips, and career resources? Follow us on social! Instagram  TikTok  LinkedIn ACV Auctions ⬅️ Automotive Marketplace Account Manager Software Engineer IV, Data + many more! CoverRight ⬅️ Health Insurance |

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Blog

43North Portfolio Companies Hiring in Buffalo | May 2026

It’s officially May! Apply for a 43North portfolio company that’s hiring in Buffalo this Spring. Want to stay up to date on hiring updates, application tips, and career resources? Follow us on social! Instagram  TikTok  LinkedIn ACV Auctions  ⬅️ Automotive Marketplace Engineering Manager, Research & Development Product Manager III + many more!     BetterMynd

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