By Holden Draper

Copyright hoodline

Buffalo is setting the stage for the 11th annual 43North startup competition, as Governor Kathy Hochul announced the semi-finalists set to duke it out for a cool $5 million in investments. On October 16, sixteen startups from a diverse mix of industries, including cleantech, AI, and health tech, will make their pitch at Shea’s Performing Arts Center. A lot is at stake, with each of the five winners walking away with a $1 million investment.

According to a statement from Governor’s Office, this year’s semi-finalists were culled from nearly a thousand hopefuls. The selection process involved input from over 100 venture capitalists from across North America. It seems Buffalo’s startup scene is burgeoning, and these events are more than just a one-off showcase – they’re a symptom of the persistent startup fever that’s gripping the Western New York region.

Not just a financial boost, the chosen few will gain mentorship, office space, and access to valuable investor networks. “43North continues to attract world-class startups that don’t just do business here, they plant roots and become part of the fabric of Western New York,” Governor Hochul told reporters. “I congratulate this year’s semi-finalists and look forward to seeing them take the stage on October 16, as they showcase the ideas that are shaping the future of New York State.” As per New York State’s backing and Empire State Development’s support, 43North has been injecting vitality into Buffalo’s economic landscape since its inception, helping to create over 3,000 jobs and raising more than $1 billion in capitalw, as reported by the Governor’s Office.

Among the notably diverse semi-finalists is the Buffalo-based Integral Health with its AI-integrated behavioral health platform, and San Francisco’s FelixFusion which aims to reshape the way mid-size vendors seize government contract opportunities. Meanwhile, Tukki.ai from Miami is leveraging both AI and expert support to streamline the immigration process. Colleen E. Heidinger, President of 43North, emphasized this point, saying, “The caliber of this year’s semi-finalists reflects the ever-evolving strength and momentum of Buffalo’s startup ecosystem.” Excitement is expected to peak at the finals, with a live audience also participating in the selection process through a $25,000 People’s Choice Award, as per the Governor’s Office.

For those interested in witnessing the future of innovation and entrepreneurship picking their spots in Western New York, the event is open to the public, though pre-registration is required.