Brunel University of London graduate entrepreneur Lauren Bell has risen to prominence in the U.S. startup scene, winning $1 million in funding as one of five winners of the prestigious 43North startup competition in Buffalo, New York.
On 16th October 2025, the
43North Finals returned for its 11th year where founders from around the world took the stage to pitch for a shot at a $1M investment and the chance to grow their businesses in Buffalo.
Cosi Care, developed throughout Lauren’s final year studying BSc Design at Brunel in 2018, stood out among hundreds of international applicants for its innovative solution, universal appeal and practical impact.
The startup’s cutting-edge products provide rapid itch relief for children and adults suffering from eczema and other chronic skin conditions, an area often overlooked by traditional treatments.
They also won the People’s Choice Award at the competition, sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, adding an extra $25,000 in funding to their prize pot, highlighting both the strong community support and the clear product need.
The funding was provided by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, a key supporter of the 43North programme, which invests in early-stage, high-growth startups willing to relocate to Buffalo and contribute to its growing innovation ecosystem.
Since the very beginning, Cosi Care has gone from strength to strength. It all began in 2019 when Lauren was crowned a winner in Brunel University’s early-stage idea funding competition, the Venture Competition, securing £5,000 in the commercial category to help launch her entrepreneurial journey. That same year, Cosi Care continued its momentum by winning three major London funding competitions: the Mayor’s Entrepreneur Competition, the Santander Universities Competition, and the Tata Varsity Pitch.
Lauren shared “We’re so grateful to our stateside partners and the entire 43North team for believing in our vision. We’ve been blown away with the production of this event and programme. This marks an exciting new chapter for Cosi Care…we can’t wait to get started across the pond.”
A huge congratulations to Lauren, a true reflection of what innovative ideas, consistency and determination can achieve - we're beyond proud of her entrepreneurial journey so far and can't wait to see what the future brings for Cosi Care in Buffalo.
Explore Cosi Care here: https://cosi-care.com/
