A program based in Western New York is returning for an eight-year, and this time the prize money has been raised to $1 Million dollars.

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New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that applications are now being accepted for the 43North competition.  The program was founded by Empire State Development and the State of New York.  They have been hosting the annual startup competition which has invested $5 million per year to attract and cultivate high-growth companies in Buffalo, NY.

The big news this year, is that companies who apply are in line for the largest prize ever offered by the program. 43North will be selecting five seed-stage startups to receive an investment of $1 million each.  The winners will be selected during a live event at Shea's Performing Arts Center in Buffalo.  A panel of judges will consider pitches from ten finalists in a Shark Tank style final, and then select and announce the five winning companies on stage.

Governor Hochul said via a press release:

Since its launch in 2014, 43North has created a new epicenter of technology and innovation in Buffalo...Now, as we build back better than ever from the pandemic, 43North continues to revitalize this community and encourage the next generation of entrepreneurs and creators to build and participate in Buffalo's growth.

The winning businesses will join 43North's accelerator program, which according to the press release includes:

  • One-to-one mentorship, workshops, and access to a bank of consultant hours;
  • Access to recruitment support services to help them grow their teams in Buffalo;
  • Connections for business development;
  • Marketing and media relations support; Investor introductions

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