KAV, a cutting-edge manufacturer of 3D-printed bike helmets, has officially relocated from Silicon Valley to Buffalo’s First Ward, bringing high-tech jobs and innovation to the region. The company uses advanced 3D printing to produce aerodynamic helmets that improve performance for cyclists, and it’s already begun expanding its local workforce. Founder Whitman Kwok cited Buffalo’s strong community, skilled labor pool, and cost advantages as key reasons for choosing the city as KAV’s permanent home.
43North played a key role in bringing KAV to Buffalo after the company was named a Year 9 winner in 2024, continuing its track record of attracting high-growth companies to Western New York.
President Colleen Heidinger called KAV’s relocation a powerful example of the region’s momentum: “If we can pull Whitman out of Silicon Valley, we can pull someone from anywhere.”
With daily operations underway and more hires on the horizon, KAV’s arrival is another win for Buffalo’s transformation into a hub for advanced manufacturing.
