After receiving over 50 applications from across the region, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania (Ben Franklin CNP) is thrilled to announce the six outstanding finalists selected for the 2025 Age Tech Big Idea Contest Finale. These finalists rose to the top after a rigorous review and scoring process by our expert judging panel. Each founder brings a bold, innovative idea aimed at solving real-world challenges for our elder population in Pennsylvania. Ultimately, the purpose of the contest is twofold: to help older adults age with greater ease and dignity, and to facilitate entrepreneurship and economic impact across the Commonwealth. Now, these finalists are ready to pitch for a chance at $35,000.
Meet the 2025 Big Idea Finalists:
- Paul Smith (Northumberland County) – KinNect
A plug-and-play communication platform designed for senior living communities, KinNect makes it easy for residents, families, and caregivers to stay connected. - Kevin Robert Duschl (Lancaster County) – Nomo Innovations
The Smart NightLight is a familiar device with a high-tech twist: it connects to Wi-Fi and sends alert texts if no motion is detected during key watch periods, offering peace of mind for families. - Sara Peterson (Mercer County) – OP Clinical Innovations
OP Clinical Innovations (OPCI) is a clinician-led manufacturer of custom orthotic and prosthetic devices, designed with care and precision to meet the needs of every patient. - Max Justice (Franklin County) – My Coffin
Setas Eternal Living introduces MyCoffin, the first biodegradable, carbon-negative burial solution grown from mycelium and designed to return nutrients to the earth—changing the way we think about legacy and sustainability. - Kevin Mekulu (Centre County) – Dementi Analytics
Using AI-powered, speech-based assessments, Dementi Analytics offers a groundbreaking mobile app for the early detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease—fast, accessible, and non-invasive. - Michael McShane (Centre County) – LION Mobile Clinic by Tailgate Health Ventures
Taking healthcare to the people, Tailgate Health Ventures delivers high-quality medical services directly to communities through an innovative “tailgate” model—meeting people where they are.
Over the next several weeks, these finalists will be hard at work—filming marketing videos, refining their pitch decks, and preparing to present their ideas during the virtual Age Tech Big Idea Finale on May 15th at 2:00 PM. At stake: a grand prize of up to $35,000 and the chance to win the People’s Choice Award of $2,500, voted on by the live audience.
Why Attend?
- Be inspired by some of the region’s most exciting innovators.
- Support your favorite founder.
- Learn how to craft and deliver a compelling pitch.
- Support Age Tech innovation that could help your loved ones
- And maybe—spark your own big idea.
With more than $37,000 in prizes on the line, this is one finale you won’t want to miss.
Register now to attend the Big Idea Contest Finale on May 15 at 2PM.
