Transformation Business Services Network
TBSN offers hands-on assistance on topics like strategic planning, market validation, financial management, accounting and office set-up, human resource planning, and advertising strategies. Best of all, it’s all available at no charge!
Business Plan Contests
BIG IDEA Contest
Ben Franklin’s BIG IDEA contests allow budding entrepreneurs and small business owners the opportunity to take the first step in turning their ideas into a business reality – practically risk free. Learn More
Entrepreneurial Support & Training Programs
TechCelerator Business Startup Boot Camps
The 10-week TechCelerator programs provide pre-launch business and market research services. The program is designed to assist inventors, faculty, and very early-stage entrepreneurs in converting their business ideas and concepts into operating ventures.
The Learning Center
The training arm of the Ben Franklin program, the Learning Center offers our clients – and future clients, a variety of training seminars focused on the needs shared by all early stage tech companies.
Additional Funding Resources
SBIR/STTR Grants: Innovation Partnership
Funded in part by BFTP, IPART helps technology companies access federal research grants. IPART helps prepare high-quality grant applications, gets reimbursement for travel costs and training expenses, and provides assistance with commercialization.
1855 Capital:
A follow on funding opportunity available to companies affiliated with either Ben Franklin or Penn State University.
Erie Innovation Fund
Ben Franklin partners with the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority to make additional investment capital available to local entrepreneurs in Erie as well as established companies/manufacturers looking for new market opportunities. Funding is available for business owners and entrepreneurs.