You may have heard of 43 North. The group responsible for the world’s largest international business idea competition. Their primary focus has been to attract startup businesses with innovative ideas and have them set up shop here and call Buffalo home. But the focus of 43 North isn’t just about giving money away. It’s about promoting what we’ve got, fostering continued growth, encouraging public support and celebrating everything that makes Buffalo such a desirable place to be.

A wide variety of home-grown, brick-and-mortar small businesses are driving just as much growth and hype as the flashy out-of-town tech startups. And Hertel Avenue is as great of an example as any area in the region to demonstrate the great array of local entrepreneurs we have right here.

All on one drag, the variety of shops and uniqueness of their offerings is astonishing. And these snapshots are just a random sampling of many more. These places are putting their stamp on the city. And quite frankly, their success is vital to our success.

So next time you’re out and about, give a nod to those business owners. Give them your support – because they need you as much as you need them. And together, We Make Buffalo.