Attendees at the final pitch competition vote live to award this $2500 prize to their chosen finalist.
Pennsylvania is home to a growing senior population, and we’re on a mission to make it the best place in the world to age. That’s why Ben Franklin Technology Partners created the AgeTech Big Idea Contest—to spotlight breakthrough ideas that help aging adults thrive.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, industry supporter, or just love a good pitch competition — this is your chance to be inspired and involved in the innovation happening right here in Pennsylvania.
Best part? YOU get to vote live for the $2,500 People’s Choice Award!
Exciting 5-minute pitch presentations from emerging startups
Insightful Q&A sessions with the judging panel
Live voting by YOU for the $2,500 People’s Choice Award
Up to $35,000 in total prize funding awarded to 1–3 winners
2023 BIG IDEA CONTEST WINNERS
Finalists in the AgeTech Big Idea Contest will embark on an incredible journey, working with expert mentors over four weeks to perfect their pitch and take it to the next level. This leads to a live virtual pitch event where a panel of judges will award up to $35,000 in cash prizes and valuable mentorship opportunities from the Ben Franklin team to help bring your idea to life.
But that’s not all—this experience could open doors to ongoing support through Ben Franklin’s TechCelerator program, where your big idea can grow into something truly extraordinary.
Take your business idea to the next level with up to $35,000 cash!
A chance to take home an additional $2,500, voted on by the audience!
An opportunity to pitch the business concept for a $10,000 Seed Grant from Ben Franklin.
A guaranteed spot in the TechCelerator business accelerator program.
Gain expert guidance from the Ben Franklin team to help your business thrive!
We’re on the lookout for scalable AgeTech business models that leverage technology to support the aging population.
Things like:
Mark your calendar with these important milestones from application to the grand finale!
Applications are now closed. Check back soon for details on the next BIG IDEA Contest! Questions? Please reach out.
Scalable business models and ideas are prioritized. These can range across many industries. We particularly encourage innovators and startups in the following technologies, to apply.
Innovations that improve quality of life for Pennsylvania’s senior citizens, including but not limited to:
We welcome innovators with business ideas to apply. You do not have to have registered your business to apply, but you do need to plan to register to do business in Pennsylvania.
No. We take zero equity and charge no fees.
Not required but recommended.
There are usually 6-8 finalists selected per contest.
We suggest allotting 5-6 hours per week to complete program materials and prepare for the final pitch competition
The contest awards $35,000 total, distributed among the winners. Most contests award 1-3 winners. One lucky winner will receive an additional $2500 People’s Choice Award.
Attendees at the final pitch competition vote live to award this $2500 prize to their chosen finalist.
Applications are now closed. Check back soon for details on the next BIG IDEA Contest! Questions? Please reach out.
All applications must be received via the application portal which will remain open until Thursday March 27, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
You may apply even if you haven’t yet registered as a business entity.
You may apply with more than one idea; but you must submit a separate application for each idea through the application portal.
Do not include full patent filings, drawing support letters or any other exhibits that you deem proprietary.
You must agree to complete all BIG IDEA Contest program requirements to be considered as a finalist.
Curious about the AgeTech Big Idea Contest and how it can help turn your vision into reality Watch the recording of our informational webinar to learn everything you need to know about the contest, eligibility, and how to apply.
Lightning Rod: Franklin’s experiments with electricity led to his invention of the lightning rod, a device used to protect buildings and ships from lightning strikes. His understanding of electricity and his invention of the lightning rod demonstrated both his scientific acumen and his practical approach to problem-solving.
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Suite 150, State College, PA 16803
The Ben Franklin Technology Partners is an initiative of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and is funded by the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority.
Ben Franklin Technology Partners/CNP actively seeks the value brought by diversity in entrepreneurship and business. We welcome participation by all in our investments, programs and services, and we strive for inclusiveness of all in interactions with our team, our clients and our prospects. Like our namesake, we embrace the uniqueness of the individual regardless of their background, personal history or path to us
We encourage those with disabilities to participate in our programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please phone our central office at 814-863-4558 in advance of your participation or visit.
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