43North

Apply to this 12-month accelerator in Buffalo, New York for the opportunity to receive up to $1,400,000 USD in startup funding and other benefits. This is the only business incubator we list that isn’t equity-free, but the rewards are so great (in exchange for only 5% equity!) that we had to include it.

Applications have closed for the most recent batch. Follow Lootstrap on Facebook for updates!

Award Amounts

  • One $1,000,000 USD grand prize
  • One $600,000 USD select prize
  • Six $500,000 USD regular prizes

Location

  • Buffalo, New York

Length

  • 12 months

Additional Benefits

  • A team of dedicated coaches and advisors
  • Free coworking space in Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus in downtown Buffalo
  • Networking events give you access to investors
  • Media exposure and marketing support

Who Can Apply

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old
  • Any industry except brick-and-mortar retail, hospitality, and real estate
  • Scalable idea with the potential for aggressive growth
  • English-speaking (program held in English)

Selection Criteria

  • Overall strength of team
  • Team’s knowledge of market
  • Viability of the product/service/technology
  • The product relative to the target market
  • Feasibility of revenue and financing plans
  • Overall assessment of the opportunity

Application Process

  • Online written application
    • Early application fee is $50
    • If you apply on deadline day the fee is $100
  • Semi-finalists give live video-conference pitches
  • Up to 20 finalists give in-person pitches in Buffalo, New York
  • Second round of live pitches to choose the 8 winners
  • The final 8 will compete for the grand and select prizes

Conditions

  • You must relocate to Buffalo for a least 12 months from the start of the program
  • 43North reserves the right to buy 5% equity for $100 any time in the next 10 years
  • Founders must be in attendance during the following:
    • Final selection rounds and program launch events
    • At least 2 business and 2 social mentorship events every month
    • Monthly meetings with the team of local advisors
  • Each founder must make appearances at local schools to speak about entrepreneurship
  • Make all the necessary reports to 43North regarding your company’s progress

43North Terms and Conditions

Post-Program Perks

  • Additional $400,000 to the most stand-out startup during the first year in Buffalo
  • Eligible to join START-UP NY for 10 years of freedom from NY state taxes
    • Includes both corporate and employee personal NY state taxes

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