Ben Franklin’s Business StartUP Boot Camps
Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern PA (BFTP/CNP) provides startup funding not only for tech-entrepreneurs and small manufacturers, but we also invest in innovative, entrepreneurial development programs that mentor and support emerging startups. With a large footprint comprised of areas with diverse needs, BFTP/CNP has developed a systematic approach to engaging with potential tech entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of their concept development.
Activities and programs that accelerate a region’s early-stage deal flow help create an environment that allows those who have considered starting a tech-business to explore the likelihood of success with the benefit of professional guidance. For example, emerging entrepreneurs who participate in our tech-startup Boot Camps, offered by the BF TechCelerators, are more likely to make an educated decision on how to move forward with their business concept and learn how to apply for startup funding.
With current locations in State College and Harrisburg – with more soon to come, the TechCelerators form partnerships with regional/local economic development initiatives to offer entrepreneurs, students, faculty members, and those just thinking about commercializing a new technology, the expert business startup assistance they need.
This includes weekly sessions or Boot Camps, that focus on the needs of the specific entrepreneurial make-up at each location. For example, software developers may have different issues than those who may be trying to commercialize a technology based on university-owned IP.
Successful participants receive stipends to assist with initial legal and accounting expenses and have the opportunity to pitch their business concepts to a panel of local professionals with the possibility of winning prizes totaling $10,000.
So, are you eligible to apply?
- Is your business in the concept or pre-revenue stage?
- Is there a technology component to your business idea?
- Can you attend a 10-week program, once a week?
- Are you planning to commercialize your business concept?
To date, nearly 90 startups have “graduated”, many of which are based on technology developed at Penn State University, and more than 160 new jobs have been created.
Additional program partners have been identified for the coming year and will include locations in the Johnstown/Altoona portion of our 32 county service footprint.
Are you interested in speaking with a Ben Franklin representative about the TechCelerator programs? Or maybe you’d just like to explore funding options for a business concept you’ve been thinking about? Click on https://cnp.benfranklin.org/apply .
Wondering what a graduation “pitch event” is like? Check out this video https://youtu.be/gS0Xcv5AWfI
