After eight weeks of hands-on mentorship, one-on-one coaching, and pitch practice, seven startups took the virtual stage on Thursday, September 18th, 2025, for the AgeTech TechCelerator Finale, competing for up to $15,000 in funding. First place, with a winning prize of $10,000 went to OP Clinical Innovations led by Dr. Sara Peterson of Mercer County. In second place, Dr. Max Justice and the Setas Eternal Living team won $5,000 in funding.
Hosted online by Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania (Ben Franklin CNP), the event marked the culmination of an accelerator program designed to fast-track companies developing solutions that help older adults live safer, healthier, and more independent lives.
“These founders are not just building companies, they’re building futures,” said Sherry Davidson, Ben Franklin CNP Director of Operations. “From mobility to mortality, they’re solving real problems that matter to families, caregivers, and communities.”
Why AgeTech Matters Now
The world’s population is aging at an unprecedented rate. By 2035, the U.S. will have more people over 65 than under 18. By 2050, two billion people worldwide will be over 60. Older adults are tech-savvy and driving trillions in economic activity, yet many needs around health, mobility, and daily living remain unmet—particularly in Pennsylvania’s rural communities. “AgeTech is one of our most urgent and underserved markets,” said Roger Dagen, TechCelerator Director and Entrepreneur-in-Residence. “We’re proud to support founders whose innovations put dignity and independence at the center.”
Meet the 2025 Finalists
The seven finalists represented a wide spectrum of innovations:
- OP Clinical Innovations (Mercer, PA): Software and 3D-printed prosthetics restoring dignity through lifelike, adaptive design.
- Entertainment Buddy LLC (Harrisburg, PA): A flexible phone holder with wireless charging, alarms, and hands-free controls.
- Simulations and Interactive Media (Indiana, PA): An AI-powered, emotionally intelligent content ecosystem for older adults.
- TalkingSick (State College, PA): Voice-analysis tool that detects early signs of respiratory illness via everyday devices.
- Arro AI (Harrisburg, PA): A secure, AI-powered knowledge platform for aging service organizations.
- Setas Eternal Living (Huntingdon Valley, PA): Makers of MyCoffin, a biodegradable, carbon-negative burial vessel.
- Nomo Innovations (Lancaster, PA): Smart Nightlight, a motion-sensing device that passively monitors and alerts caregivers.
A Celebration of Innovation
The Finale featured live pitches, audience engagement, and keynote remarks from Jennifer Gilburg, Deputy Secretary of Technology and Entrepreneurship for the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Finalists showcased six-minute presentations, demonstrating the art of storytelling, financial planning, and investor readiness. The event also highlighted the spirit of “coopetition,” with founders supporting one another while competing for the top prize.
Thank You to the Judges
Ben Franklin extends its sincere thanks to the distinguished panel of judges who carefully reviewed pitch decks, financials, and live presentations to determine the winners:
- Matthew Cooley, Business Unit CFO at Ericsson and Co-Founder of myAgeTechLab
- Dr. Eric Ian Farmer, Singer, Songwriter, Educator, and Board of Trustees Member at Foxdale Village Retirement Community
- Jacob Jones, Director of the Center for Family Business at Penn State Erie
Their expertise and thoughtful consideration made the Finale both rigorous and inspiring.
About the TechCelerator
The AgeTech TechCelerator built on the success of Ben Franklin CNP’s AgeTech Big Idea Contest and is part of a broader push to support innovations with both social and economic value. The program is funded through the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority and provided free of charge to participants. Learn more here.