43North

So, what do investors REALLY think about the Buffalo startup ecosystem? We sat down with past 43North Finals judges and investors from our network to ask them just that. Spoiler alert: they’re pretty hyped about what’s happening here! “Big ideas come from all over… and it’d be a shame to overlook a place like Buffalo.” “Buffalo’s comeback is inspiring. The energy, the talent, the grit—it’s all here.” Thanks to all who shared their thoughts with us over the past year! Here's to a decade of growth, grit, and endless possibilities in our city. Let’s keep that momentum rolling, Buffalo! #43North #Buffalo #Startups (Lorine Pendleton Michael Hoeksema Sara Garson Jordan Levy Gary Vaynerchuk Gary Ginsberg Ben Lerer Bob Goodman)

We're proud to share that Pit Viper 360 by Bounce Imaging (Y3) has earned a spot on TIME's list of the 200 Best Inventions of 2024! This game-changing thermal imaging camera empowers first responders to tackle dangerous situations—from search and rescue to hazardous inspections—with real-time visibility into hard-to-reach areas. With six cameras and advanced sensor tech, the Pit Viper 360 combines accessibility with elite performance. https://bit.ly/4e9qV5D

CleanFiber is taking its mission to the next level with $20 million in DOE grants to expand production facilities across the U.S., turning recycled cardboard into high-performance, eco-friendly insulation. With a total of $75 million secured in 2024, the Buffalo-based company is leading the way in sustainable building materials and economic growth. https://bit.ly/4fmO71n

Learning from the best: ACV Auctions', George Chamoun inspires our semifinalists to build in Buffalo. We're grateful to George, a veteran of our WNY startup ecosystem, who generously donated his time to speak with our 2024 semifinalists during Finals Week. As one of the first leaders they met, he shared his transparent, honest journey as a founder and highlighted the importance of leaders prioritizing recruiting. We also appreciated his "30, 30, 30" approach to success – focusing on talent, management, and business fundamentals. It’s leaders like George who set the tone and drive Buffalo’s startup ecosystem forward. Thank you, George, for inspiring the next wave of innovators! #43North #FinalsWeek #Buffalo #Entrepreneurship #Startups ------- ✨ 2024 Semi-Finalists: 8B Education Investments, BosonQ Psi (BQP), Cache, Cactivate, Cosi Care, CoverRight FLUIX AI, FoodNerd, HeronAI, Lilo, NearWave Offerwell Rarebird, Inc., Spiky.AI, xPub (Techstars '23), Zeph Technologies

Reunited, and It Feels So Good! We couldn't celebrate 10 years of 43North without bringing our amazing portfolio alumni back together for an unforgettable reunion! This action-packed week included a welcome reception at Hartmans's, a Reverse Pitch and networking lunch, a tour of Tesla's Gigafactory, and sushi-making classes, with every moment designed to foster connections and inspire new ideas. The energy peaked as over 30 alumni founders took the stage to kick off this year's Finals with custom Oxford Pennants—showcasing the passion, creativity, and success within the 43North family. This milestone celebration was about more than just the events; it was a chance to reconnect with old friends, share stories of growth, and reignite the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in our community. #43North #AlumniReunion #FinalsWeek #Buffalo #Entrepreneurship #ThePowerOf10 _________ 📍 Hartman's Distilling Co., Seneca One, Southern Junction, Tesla, Fresh Catch Inc., Shea's Performing Arts Center, Oxford Pennant 👨👩👧👦 AMPAworks, BetterMynd, Bounce Imaging, Circuit Clinical, CoachMePlus, Dollaride, FLOX, Fundr, Guidesly, Immersed Games, Infiuss Health, Kangarootime, KAV, Kickfurther, Kredit Academy, Magnusmode, Mod Tech Labs, Otrafy, Peanut Butter, Plum, Rally OurBus, Stepwise, StoreCash, Strayos, Top Seedz Twipes, ACV Auctions, Verivend, Voiceitt, WeDidIt, Work Automated, CleanFiber, Zealot Interactive

Huge thanks to Aleron and a special shoutout to Scott Stenclik for sponsoring an unforgettable VIP Dinner at the stunningly renovated Buffalo AKG Art Museum! We couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate 43North Finals Week than by welcoming our judges, partners, sponsors, and alumni to Buffalo as we marked a decade of impact. It was all about great conversations and genuine celebrations with people who share our love for Buffalo and the entrepreneurial spirit that keeps this community moving forward. #43NorthFinals #Buffalo #ThePowerOf10 #Buffalove #AKGArtMuseum #ItsHappeningHere

Ever wonder what investors are looking for in a startup? To find out, we held a Reverse Pitch event at Seneca One during Finals Week! Instead of hearing from founders, we invited top-tier investors from our network to share their stories, investment strategies, and connections to Buffalo. What unfolded was an interactive discussion where founders from our portfolio had direct access to investors. Attendees got to ask their questions, develop an understanding of the market, and engage with VC’s who could potentially be their future investors. A big thank you to everyone who joined us and to the investors who shared their insights with Buffalo’s startup community! #43North #ItsHappeningHere #FinalsWeek #Buffalo #startups _____ 📍 Seneca One 🎤 Michael Hoeksema, Battery Ventures; Erik Hammer, Marquee Ventures; Shashi Srikantan, Level Up Ventures; Maggie Dorn, Motley Fool Ventures

On Tuesday evening of Finals week, we kept the momentum going with a special Cocktails & Conversations event, hosted by Aleron and Armory Square Ventures at 42N at The Flats. It was a perfect opportunity for the 43North ecosystem family to come together, connect, and celebrate our 10-year journey. We also debuted our limited-edition collaboration beer with 42 North, "43N x 42N: Beyond Boundaries," a toast to the relationships and partnerships that have shaped our success over the years. Here's to the power of collaboration and what’s still to come! (Aleron Group - Acara Solutions, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct, Armory Square Ventures, 42 North Brewing Company) #43North #ItsHappeningHere #BeyondBoundaries #FinalsWeek #Buffalove

What better way to reflect on this year's Finals week than with a HUGE thank you, Buffalo! From day one, we’ve thrived because of the unwavering support from New York State and the incredible passion of those who believe in Buffalo’s potential. It’s not just about investments and milestones but the countless hands that have helped lift us up, the voices that have cheered us on, and the behind-the-scenes champions who’ve been with us every step of the way. To our incredible partners, sponsors, board members, and every team member, past and present—your dedication has been invaluable. And to the unsung heroes—those who support us through your work, time, and belief in our mission—thank you. Together, we've built something truly special for Buffalo, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds. Here’s to the past 10 years and many more years of building, growing, and celebrating this vibrant city we all love. #43North #Buffalo #ThePowerOf10 #Buffalove #ItsHappeningHere _____ Full Article: https://bit.ly/3BK0A0k 📰 The Buffalo News Tom Wiley Stephen Meloni

Hard to believe it’s already been a week since we celebrated innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of Buffalo at 43North Finals. We’re beyond excited for the companies that received investment and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make on our community. A huge thank you to our sponsors, the Buffalo community, Portfolio Alumni, and all of our semi-finalists—you make it all possible. Together, we’re driving Buffalo’s resurgence as a hub for innovation and growth. Here’s to 10 years of growth, opportunity, and success! #Buffalo #43NorthFinals #Startups