Buffalo Innovation Seed Fund

The Buffalo Innovation Seed Fund (BISF) is a $10 million early-stage, evergreen venture capital fund specifically designed to foster entrepreneurial growth within the Western New York region. Managed by Business & Entrepreneur Partnerships (BEP), BISF plays a crucial role in providing essential capital to promising startups. Its primary mission is to support the development of innovative companies that are either based in Buffalo or willing to establish a presence in the area, thereby contributing to local economic development and job creation.

BISF targets early-stage companies across a diverse range of sectors, reflecting the region's emerging strengths. Key industries of interest for the fund include advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and various software applications. This broad focus allows BISF to support a wide array of technological and business innovations, ensuring a varied portfolio that aligns with the evolving economic landscape of Western New York. The fund's evergreen structure signifies its long-term commitment to the region's startup ecosystem, allowing for continuous reinvestment of returns.

Since its inception in 2017, the Buffalo Innovation Seed Fund has demonstrated a consistent commitment to its mandate, having made approximately 20 investments as of 2023. This active investment pace underscores its role as a significant early-stage capital provider in the area. BISF typically provides initial checks ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, aiming to provide crucial seed funding that helps startups achieve key milestones, accelerate product development, and scale their operations. This strategic capital injection is vital for companies navigating the challenging early phases of growth.