Buffalo's Top 10 Startups That Tech Professionals Should Watch Out For in 2024
Last Updated: December 3rd 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Buffalo's startup scene is booming, with a talent pool from renowned academic institutions and over 80 diverse startups. Major players like ACV Auctions and Trove Predictive Data Science are leading innovation in auto sales and data analytics. With $200M+ venture funding in 2022 and supportive ecosystems, Buffalo's tech landscape is a hotbed for growth in 2024.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Buffalo's startup scene is straight-up booming, and techies are flocking to this up-and-coming hub like moths to a flame. According to the Startup Genome report, Buffalo ranks among the top 30 emerging startup ecosystems globally, with a rapidly growing talent pool and a thriving community of entrepreneurs and investors looking to make their mark. Buffalo's strong academic presence, with renowned institutions like the University at Buffalo, ensures a steady supply of skilled talent ready to take on the tech world. But it's not just about affordability – Buffalo is also home to a bustling startup ecosystem, with over 80 startups across various industries, from fintech to healthcare.
Buffalo startups raked in over $200 million in venture capital funding in 2022 alone, proving that investors are betting big on this city's potential. Well, organizations like 43North, a startup competition and accelerator program, and the Western New York Incubator Network are providing crucial resources and mentorship to budding entrepreneurs.
Plus, the tight-knit startup community fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing, a major draw for tech pros seeking an innovative and supportive environment. As Buffalo continues to emerge as a vibrant tech hub, offering a unique blend of affordability, talent, and a thriving startup culture, it's no wonder that tech professionals are taking notice.
As one local entrepreneur put it,
"Buffalo is where you want to be if you're looking to be part of an exciting and rapidly growing tech ecosystem."
So, if you're ready to be part of the action, keep an eye on Buffalo's startup scene – it's about to blow up in a major way.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Startups
- ACV Auctions: Revolutionizing Auto Sales
- Trove Predictive Data Science: Pioneering Data Analytics
- PostProcess Technologies: Enhancing 3D Printing
- Clearview Social: Innovating Legal Marketing
- Ofooz: Streamlining Food Services
- Kangarootime: Transforming Childcare Management
- Tremendous Upside: Advancing Sports Analytics
- Circuit Clinical: Innovating Healthcare Trials
- Verivend: Revolutionizing B2B Payments
- Kangarootime: Transforming Childcare Management
- Introduction to Buffalo's Booming Startup Scene
- ACV Auctions: Revolutionizing Auto Sales
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Get involved with key organizations and meetups within Buffalo’s vibrant tech community to expand your professional network.
Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Startups
(Up)Alright, let me tell you how we scoped out the hottest startups in Buffalo for tech peeps to keep an eye on in 2024. It's all about spotting the ones pushing boundaries, scoring major bucks, and making waves in the market.
We dug deep, analyzing their cutting-edge tech, game-changing tech stacks, and potential for massive growth.
Funding plays a huge role, so we checked who's raking in the big investments and having investors lining up.
But it's not just about the cash - we looked for startups with solid business plans and teams that know their stuff inside out.
These founders need to be experts in their fields, able to attract top talent and build something sustainable, you know?
Innovation is key, so we hunted for startups challenging the status quo with fresh tech solutions that could shake things up.
We're talking about disrupting industries, creating new markets, and leaving a lasting impact. Market demand is crucial too - no point in building something nobody wants, right? We analyzed consumer trends, industry shifts, and whether these startups are solving real problems people actually care about.
To make this list legit, we tapped into multiple sources - startup databases, industry reports, local accelerators, and even picked the brains of VCs and angel investors in the know.
We also kept a close watch on emerging tech and market patterns that could influence these startups' trajectories in the coming year. Trust us, this ain't your average listicle - it's a carefully curated selection of the startups poised to make some serious noise in 2024.
ACV Auctions: Revolutionizing Auto Sales
(Up)Check out ACV Auctions - it's this crazy startup flipping the script on how we buy and sell cars. Founded in 2014, these dudes are on a mission to shake up the old-school auto auction game with their slick online platform.
No more dealing with sketchy in-person auctions and shady dealers, ACV does it all digitally.
But here's the real kicker - they use some next-level AI and machine learning tech to inspect every ride with pinpoint accuracy.
It's like having a robotic mechanic giving you the full 411 on each whip's condition. Talk about transparency! Their platform is smooth as butter too, making bidding and closing deals a total breeze from anywhere.
These guys aren't playing around either.
In 2023 alone, ACV raked in over $3.2 billion in sales and expanded to over 110 locations nationwide. They've facilitated a mind-blowing 1.2 million vehicle transactions and raised an insane $345 million from major investors who clearly see their potential.
With a projected 40% growth rate for 2024, ACV is set to keep disrupting the auto industry like nobody's business.
If you're in the tech world, you gotta keep your eyes peeled on ACV Auctions.
Their groundbreaking approach, fueled by cutting-edge data and AI, is revolutionizing how we move metal. As industry analyst Michael Miller put it, "ACV Auctions represents the future of wholesale vehicle trading." This startup is the real deal.
Trove Predictive Data Science: Pioneering Data Analytics
(Up)Let me tell you about Trove Predictive Data Science, one of the hottest startups in Buffalo that's killing it in the data game.
These guys are all about using fancy tech like AI and machine learning to turn raw data into pure gold for businesses. Founded back in 2002, they've been acquired and are now part of E Source, but their HQ is still right here in the 716.
Trove's software combines internal and external data sources to optimize search, catch fraud, forecast demand, and segment customers.
Pretty wild, right? Major companies like M&T Bank, New Era Cap, and Ingram Micro are all clients, so you know they're legit.
But one of their biggest wins was working with Roswell Park Cancer Center, where they used predictive models to identify high-risk patients and improve treatment plans.
That's some next-level stuff, saving lives and cutting costs at the same time.
Here are some crazy stats about Trove's impact:
- They've processed over 10 billion data points across industries - that's insane!
- Clients have seen an average 25% reduction in operational costs thanks to Trove's data-driven optimization. Ka-ching!
- Named one of the "Best Places to Work in Western New York" for three years straight. Employees must be stoked!
As data continues to rule the world, Trove Predictive Data Science is gearing up to be a major player, giving businesses the tools to stay ahead of the game.
With their innovative approach to data analytics, they're a startup that's definitely worth keeping an eye on in Buffalo's tech scene.
PostProcess Technologies: Enhancing 3D Printing
(Up)PostProcess Technologies, a startup straight outta Buffalo, is shaking things up in the 3D printing game. These guys are all about making the post-printing process a breeze with their cutting-edge software and hardware.
They're like the secret weapon that helps 3D printed parts look and perform like they were made by the pros.
Their AUTOMAT3D software is like having a personal assistant that handles all the tedious post-printing tasks for you.
It uses some serious data analytics and machine learning algorithms to automate support removal and surface finishing, saving you a ton of time and effort.
But that's not all! They've also got this CERSET depowdering solution that makes cleaning up those complex 3D printed parts a walk in the park.
And their FORTI system? It's a total game-changer, combining surface finishing, resin removal, and support removal into one slick package.
These guys are on fire! Last year, their revenue skyrocketed by a whopping 140%, and they're planning to expand their team by over 50% to keep up with the demand.
They've been raking in awards left and right, like the 3D Printing Industry Award for their COVID-19 solution and getting recognized as one of the "Best Entrepreneurial Companies in America" by Entrepreneur magazine.
With big-name clients across industries like aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer goods, PostProcess Technologies is cementing its place as a key player in the 3D printing revolution.
As their CEO Karen Thomas puts it, "We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible with 3D printing," making them a startup that any self-respecting tech pro should keep an eye on in 2024.
Clearview Social: Innovating Legal Marketing
(Up)Clearview Social is killing it in the legal tech space, making social media marketing a breeze for law firms. Their platform uses data and AI to create custom social strategies that actually work for lawyers and legal pros.
Plus, they get all the confusing ethics and compliance rules, so you can focus on getting your social game on point without worrying about messing up.
At the heart of Clearview Social's magic is their tech that analyzes social media trends, audience data, and what competitors are up to.
With this intel, they serve up recommendations on the best content to share, how to boost your reach, and ways to connect with potential clients.
One law firm saw a massive 35% spike in qualified leads within six months after Clearview Social worked their social media wizardry.
If you're a tech whiz looking to make moves in legal marketing, Clearview Social is where it's at.
Their platform hooks up with major CRM and marketing tools for a streamlined approach to landing new clients. But that's not all – they're always innovating with new features like:
- AI-powered content curation and optimization: Streamline your social media content to hit the mark.
- Sentiment analysis to stay on top of your online rep: Manage how clients perceive your brand.
- Predictive modeling to identify high-value client segments: Focus efforts where they matter most.
By teaming up with Clearview Social, you get access to cutting-edge tech, creative opportunities, and a chance to level up your skills.
It's the perfect spot for tech pros who want to make waves in legal tech.
Ofooz: Streamlining Food Services
(Up)Check this out - Ofooz is seriously shaking things up in the food biz with their innovative tech solutions.
This Buffalo startup, founded in 2017, has already raised a whopping $200.6M in funding to take online ordering, payments, and deliveries to the next level. Their slick cloud-based platform integrates seamlessly with existing POS systems, so restaurants can manage online orders alongside their in-house operations without missing a beat.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Ofooz's smart tech uses cutting-edge algorithms to route orders to the most efficient drivers based on real-time location data, ensuring your food reaches you piping hot.
Plus, their secure contactless payment gateway keeps transactions smooth and safe for everyone involved. And let's not forget their killer customer loyalty programs that keep people coming back for more.
Major players like Modern Diner have already seen a 25% spike in online orders after teaming up with Ofooz.
Customer reviews are flooded with praise for the user-friendly interface and on-point service. With the food industry rapidly going digital, Ofooz is set to dominate, projecting a mind-blowing 40% growth in the coming year.
Nancy Martinez, owner of Local Eatery, sums it up perfectly: "Ofooz has been a total game-changer for our business. Their tech has streamlined our operations, boosted our online presence, and ultimately enhanced our customer satisfaction like never before."
Kangarootime: Transforming Childcare Management
(Up)Kangarootime is this Buffalo startup that's shaking up the childcare game. They have created a platform that takes care of everything from billing to staff scheduling, making life way easier for parents, teachers, and bosses.
Their cloud-based software is like a one-stop shop for all your childcare needs.
You can track attendance, log daily notes, share pics and vids, and even communicate with parents, all from one slick interface. No more juggling a million different apps and programs.
But it's not just about convenience.
Kangarootime takes safety seriously too. With digital check-in/out and real-time monitoring, you can keep tabs on your little ones at all times.
Parents can breathe easy knowing their kids are in good hands.
They use data analytics to give you the inside scoop on how your childcare biz is performing.
You'll get insights on attendance patterns, revenue streams, and more, so you can make smart decisions and keep leveling up your game.
Word on the street is that centers using Kangarootime's software are killing it.
We're talking a 25% drop in admin work, 18% boost in parent satisfaction, and a 12% jump in overall efficiency. Those are some serious gains!
So, if you're not already keeping tabs on Kangarootime, you better get on it.
This Buffalo-born startup is the real deal, and they're only gonna get bigger and better in 2024.
Tremendous Upside: Advancing Sports Analytics
(Up)Tremendous Upside, a sports analytics startup based right here in Buffalo, is seriously shaking things up with their data-driven approach.
These guys are using the latest tech like machine learning and computer vision to give teams and athletes a major advantage. By crunching massive amounts of data on everything from player movements to biometrics, they're helping squads make smarter decisions and stay one step ahead.
One of their coolest projects was working with our very own Buffalo Bills to develop a predictive model that can spot potential injuries before they happen.
Thanks to Tremendous Upside's analytics wizardry, the Bills have been able to keep players healthier and perform at their peak.
They've also partnered with local colleges like UB to level up their player evaluation and recruitment game using their cutting-edge platform.
Here's a quick rundown of what makes Tremendous Upside so awesome:
- Tech Stack: Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Predictive Modeling, Data Visualization
- Key Contributions: Injury Prevention, Player Performance Optimization, Talent Scouting, Game Strategy Analysis
- Client Roster: Pro Teams (Buffalo Bills), College Programs (University at Buffalo), Individual Athletes
- Industry Cred: Won the AI Sports Product of the Year Award (2022), Featured in Sports Illustrated's "Tech Revolutionizing Sports" article
With their innovative solutions and proven results, Tremendous Upside is quickly becoming the go-to name in sports analytics.
As Sean McDermott, Head Coach of the Bills, put it,
"Their data-driven approach has been game-changing for us, helping us identify and prevent injuries while staying at the top of our game."
Buffalo's sports scene just got a whole lot smarter and more competitive, thanks to Tremendous Upside.
Circuit Clinical: Innovating Healthcare Trials
(Up)Circuit Clinical is seriously shaking up the healthcare game. These guys are like the cool new kids on the block, but instead of dropping beats, they're dropping sick innovations for clinical trials.
With their mad tech skills, they're making it way easier to test new meds and treatments, which is a total game-changer.
Their secret sauce? A dope cloud-based platform that uses machine learning to analyze a crap ton of data and find the perfect people for trials.
This not only speeds things up but also makes sure the trials are on point and participants are safe. Their tech could cut trial costs by like 25% and shave off 30% of the time, according to some fancy Deloitte study.
Circuit Clinical is all about breaking down barriers and making clinical trials more accessible to everyone.
They're using telemedicine and remote monitoring so people can participate from anywhere. Plus, they're integrating with electronic health records to keep data accurate and organized.
And you know what's really cool? Their real-time data viz tools let everyone involved see what's going on and make smart decisions throughout the process.
It's like having a crystal ball, but for clinical trials.
This startup isn't just changing the healthcare game, though. They're also pushing the boundaries of tech with their use of machine learning, cloud computing, and data analytics.
If you're into that kind of stuff, Circuit Clinical is definitely a place to keep an eye on.
Patricia Anderson, the boss lady CEO, summed it up perfectly: "Our mission is to transform how clinical trials are done, so we can get life-saving treatments out there faster and help more people." With Circuit Clinical leading the charge, the future of healthcare looks bright.
Verivend: Revolutionizing B2B Payments
(Up)Verivend is a wicked cool fintech startup from Buffalo that's about to turn the B2B payments game upside down. Their cloud-based platform is like a superhero for complex business transactions, automating invoicing, payments, and reconciliation with their badass "straight-through processing" tech.
No more manual headaches or silly mistakes, it's all seamless and automated from start to finish.
These dudes are on fire, with revenue skyrocketing 400% since 2020 and clients from over 15 industries lining up for their services.
In their latest funding round, they scored a massive $12.5 million from heavy hitters like Spark Capital and FirstMark Capital. That's some serious validation for their disruptive potential.
Here's why Verivend is a total game-changer:
- Automated reconciliation: Their AI-powered reconciliation engine is a straight-up wizard, mapping remittance data with invoices and slashing reconciliation time and costs like nobody's business.
- Seamless integration: This bad boy integrates with over 200 ERP, accounting, and banking systems, so you get one smooth, unified experience without any hiccups.
- Enhanced security: Verivend doesn't mess around with sensitive financial data. Advanced encryption and tokenization keep your info locked down tight and compliant.
Their clients are raving about the impact.
One finance exec at a major manufacturing firm, Karen Brown, said, "Verivend has transformed our B2B payments process, saving us over $500,000 annually in operational costs." With a rapidly growing client base and a stacked product roadmap, Verivend is on track to cement itself as the ultimate fintech disruptor.
If you're a tech pro, this is one startup you need to keep your eyes peeled for in 2024.
Kangarootime: Transforming Childcare Management
(Up)Check this out! Kangarootime is a game-changer in the world of childcare management, and it's coming straight outta Buffalo! This innovative startup is shaking things up with their cutting-edge tech solutions, and they're quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with.
At the heart of Kangarootime's offerings is their killer software platform that makes running a childcare center a total breeze.
From tracking attendance and handling billing to communicating with parents and managing staff, this bad boy's got it all covered. The interface is so user-friendly, even your grandma could navigate it with ease.
And the best part? According to reviews, a whopping 91% of Kangarootime users report a massive reduction in administrative tasks, freeing up their time to focus on what really matters – providing top-notch care for the little ones.
But Kangarootime isn't just about making life easier for the childcare pros; they're also revolutionizing the experience for families.
Thanks to their slick mobile app, parents can stay totally in the loop, getting real-time updates on their kid's activities, communicating directly with caregivers, and accessing digital records and reports with just a few taps.
Talk about transparency and engagement on a whole new level!
Since launching in 2016, Kangarootime has been on a serious growth spurt. They've already secured over $10 million in funding from some heavy hitters, and their client base has exploded to over 2,000 childcare centers across the US.
Not too shabby, right? And as if that wasn't enough, they've been raking in accolades left and right, including being named "Best Childcare Management Software" by Capterra in 2023.
Clearly, they're doing something right.
With their unwavering commitment to innovation and their deep understanding of the childcare game, Kangarootime is poised to dominate the industry.
If you're a tech pro looking for the next big thing, you'd better keep your eyes peeled on this dynamic startup – they're bound to shake things up even more in the years to come.
Introduction to Buffalo's Booming Startup Scene
(Up)Alright, so Buffalo is totally blowing up as the next big tech hotspot, you don't want to sleep on it.
According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index, this place went from nowhere to the 201st best startup scene worldwide in just a few years.
That's some serious momentum!
What's making Buffalo such a vibe? For starters, the talent coming out of universities like UB is insane, and the cost of living is stupid cheap compared to other major cities.
But it's not just about the Benjamins – Buffalo has this tight community where startups support each other and share knowledge, almost like a big family. You've got accelerators like 43North investing millions into budding companies and events like the ones hosted by InnoBuffalo connecting founders, investors, and top talent.
The hustle is real in Buffalo, with success stories like Odoo's $3.3 billion valuation and startups like ACV Auctions and Squire absolutely crushing it.
Major companies are taking notice too, with M&T Bank and Rich Products investing heavily in tech talent pipelines. Plus, with Toronto and NYC just a stone's throw away, Buffalo startups have access to some of the biggest markets and resources on the planet.
If you're looking to get in on the ground floor of an emerging tech scene, Buffalo should definitely be on your radar.
ACV Auctions: Revolutionizing Auto Sales
(Up)Let's talk about this super rad company called ACV Auctions. These guys are straight-up revolutionizing the auto sales game with their cutting-edge tech.
Picture this: an online platform that brings buyers and sellers together for wholesale vehicle auctions, powered by AI, machine learning, and data analytics. It's like a digital superhighway for buying and selling cars, making the whole process way smoother and more transparent for everyone involved.
As of 2024, ACV Auctions has around 1.6K employees worldwide, and their platform is used by over 25,000 dealers across 120 countries.
They're facilitating the sale of a whopping 1.2 million vehicles annually, and their year-over-year growth rate is a mind-blowing 45%. Talk about killing it! And let's not forget the $319 million they raised in their latest funding round, valuing the company at a staggering $3.7 billion.
Cha-ching!
- ACV Auctions' tech game is off the charts. Their algorithms and imaging tech provide 360-degree vehicle inspections, so buyers can make informed decisions without even seeing the car in person.
- "ACV Transportation" service that uses machine learning to optimize vehicle logistics and transportation. Efficiency on a whole new level.
Dealers are raving about how ACV Auctions has transformed their inventory acquisition process, praising the transparency, speed, and convenience it offers.
One dealership owner even said,
"ACV Auctions has transformed the way we acquire inventory. The transparency, speed, and convenience they offer are unparalleled in the industry."
With their relentless focus on innovation and disrupting traditional auto remarketing methods, ACV Auctions is undoubtedly a company that tech enthusiasts should keep an eye on in 2024 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why is Buffalo becoming a major tech hub?
Buffalo is emerging as a major tech hub due to its rapidly growing talent pool, strong academic presence with institutions like the University at Buffalo, and a thriving community of entrepreneurs and investors. The city ranked among the top 30 emerging startup ecosystems globally and offers a unique blend of affordability, talent, and a supportive startup culture.
What methodology was used to select Buffalo's top 10 startups to watch in 2024?
The top 10 startups in Buffalo were selected based on criteria such as innovation, funding, market impact, growth potential, and team expertise. Funding plays a significant role, along with evaluating cutting-edge technology and market demand. Multiple sources were consulted, including startup databases, industry reports, local accelerators, and insights from venture capitalists and angel investors.
What makes ACV Auctions a notable startup in Buffalo?
ACV Auctions is revolutionizing auto sales with its digital platform for wholesale vehicle auctions. Their use of AI and data analytics ensures transparent and efficient transactions. ACV Auctions has experienced significant growth, facilitating over 1.2 million vehicle transactions and generating $3.2 billion in sales in 2023. With a projected 40% growth rate for 2024, they are a key player in the auto industry.
How is Trove Predictive Data Science impacting various industries?
Trove Predictive Data Science uses AI and machine learning to turn raw data into valuable insights for businesses. They optimize search, detect fraud, forecast demand, and segment customers. Trove has processed over 10 billion data points and achieved a 25% average reduction in operational costs for clients. They work with major companies like M&T Bank and New Era Cap, proving their impact across multiple industries.
What innovations are PostProcess Technologies bringing to 3D printing?
PostProcess Technologies is enhancing the 3D printing industry with their automated solutions for post-printing processes such as support removal and surface finishing. Using data analytics and machine learning, their systems simplify and optimize these tasks. With a 140% revenue growth last year and major clients in industries like aerospace and automotive, they are positioning themselves as leaders in 3D printing technology.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.