Several of this year’s Inno Fire Award winners have roots in UB’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, advancing through programs offered by UB Business and Entrepreneur Partnerships. Jeca Energy Bars and Immersed Games both participated in the Cultivator program, which pairs early-stage founders with mentorship, market validation support and access to investment opportunities. Rarebird benefited from participation in StartupNY, leveraging state tax-based incentives and university affiliation to support its growth, while SelectFi has received backing from the Buffalo Innovation Seed Fund, a UB-affiliated early-stage venture capital fund that offers startup financing and strategic guidance. Together, these connections underscore how UB’s targeted programs help local innovators scale, attract investment and gain traction in competitive markets.
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