Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the eight finalists for the 11th annual 43North startup competition, which highlights Buffalo’s commitment to supporting innovative businesses and job creation. The finalists, representing a range of industries such as artificial intelligence, clean technology, and health technology, were selected from around the world.
“43North is a catalyst for the innovation that defines the spirit of Buffalo — moving the boundaries of technology and innovation across industries and continents,” Governor Hochul said. “These founders are creating jobs, pushing new technologies forward, and strengthening communities across Western New York. I congratulate this year’s finalists and look forward to our competition tomorrow at Shea’s Performing Arts Center.”
A panel of nearly 30 venture capitalists from North America reviewed pitches from 15 semi-finalists before selecting the eight teams advancing to the finals. The final event will take place on October 16 at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, where participants will compete for one of five $1 million investments and opportunities to expand their businesses in Buffalo’s growing startup ecosystem.
The 43North accelerator program offers more than financial support; it provides mentorship, office space, access to investors, and resources to help startups grow. Over the past ten years, 43North has invested in 74 companies, contributed to the creation of more than 3,000 jobs globally, and helped raise over $1 billion in capital.
“43North Finals is more than a pitch competition — it’s a celebration of ambition, innovation, and the spirit of community. From high-growth startups to Main Street businesses, we have so much to be proud of in Buffalo. On October 16, more than 3,000 people will fill Shea’s to be part of this moment. And for the founders on stage, it’s more than just a pitch — it’s the beginning of something bigger, and their first welcome into a city that rallies around bold ideas,” said 43North President Colleen E. Heidinger.
The accelerator is funded by New York State and supported by Empire State Development. This year’s event also features a $25,000 People’s Choice Award sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, which will be decided by live audience vote during the finals.
The eight finalists for 2025 are:
– Cellsense (New York, NY): Develops compostable beads from algae and cellulose to eliminate microplastics in fashion and cosmetics.
– Cosi Care (London, U.K.): Produces medical devices for instant itch relief and infection management for eczema and chronic itch sufferers.
– Floe (New Haven, CT): Offers smart, eco-friendly solutions for ice and snow management on roofs.
– Flye Connect (Tulsa, OK): Provides an AI agent marketplace for small businesses to hire AI agents for business tasks on demand.
– Integral Health (Buffalo, NY): Uses AI to integrate behavioral health with primary care for improved patient engagement and outcomes.
– Kinometrix (Alexandria, VA): Utilizes AI for real-time clinical decision support to help hospitals identify patient risk and reduce harm.
– RadEmploy (New York, NY): A radiology staffing platform using conversational AI to connect professionals with hospital systems.
– Tukki.ai (Miami, FL): Combines AI and expert support to help immigrants and companies manage visas and green cards efficiently.
The finals event is open to the public with limited tickets available at 43North.org. Those unable to attend can watch a livestream at 43north.org/livestream starting at 6 p.m.
43North invests $5 million annually to attract high-growth companies to Buffalo. Portfolio companies receive free incubator space for one year and access to mentorship and business incentive programs. The program operates with support from Governor Hochul, Empire State Development, M&T Bank Foundation, and other sponsors.
