We suggest allotting 5-6 hours per week to complete program materials and prepare for the final pitch competition.
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WINNERS OF THE 2023
BIG IDEA CONTEST
Are you an entrepreneur with a passion for crafting or developing a product, process, or innovation related to the maker economy, outdoors and recreation, forest products, manufacturing, or technology? You could take home up to $50,000 to bring your BIG IDEA to life!
Winning up to $50,000 will go a long way in helping you further develop your BIG IDEA and infuse your new startup with much-needed cash. Beyond the cash prize, this contest offers a priceless chance to hone your pitching skills, immerse yourself in comprehensive business training, and network with influential figures.
As a BIG IDEA finalist, you’ll participate in a pitch training class, craft an impactful 2-page business summary, and guide your BIG IDEA through coaching sessions with Ben Franklin’s industry experts. The pinnacle of the journey is presenting your pitch deck at the grand finale event, where you have the chance to impress a panel of judges and demonstrate how your innovation can transform into a successful business.
WINNERS OF THE 2023
BIG IDEA CONTEST
Ignite Your Innovation: Dive into a community of like-minded creators and thinkers, ready to amplify your BIG IDEA. Prize Money: The winner stands to receive up to $50,000 in cash – a vital resource to propel your BIG IDEA to new heights. Network & Pitch Experience: Beyond the cash prize, gain invaluable pitch experience, and business training, and forge connections that last a lifetime.
If you’re located in Adams, Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Cumberland, Dauphin, Elk, Erie, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, McKean, Mercer, Mifflin, Perry, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Warren, and York. -, haven’t received previous Ben Franklin funding, and are ready to bring your visionary idea to life, this contest is tailor-made for you! Whether you’re shaping a new product, process, or innovation, if you’re on the path to commercialization and your annual sales revenue is below $1,000,000, we want to hear from you!
We’re on the lookout for scalable business models across various industries – from technology to manufacturing, forest products to green initiatives, and outdoor recreation.
Discover How Previous Big Idea Contest Winners Turned their Innovations into Reality
Scalable business models and ideas are prioritized. These can range across many industries. We particularly encourage innovators and startups in technology, manufacturing, forest products, green products and processes, outdoor recreation to apply.
No, only those who have not received funding from Ben Franklin prior are eligible.
he 2024 BIG IDEA Contest sponsored by PA Wilds is only accepting businesses or entrepreneurs located in Cameron, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, or Tioga County, PA.
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.
While cohorts range in size, there are usually 5 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 $50k total, distributed among the winners. Most contests award 1-3 winners. One lucky winner will receive an additional $2,500 People’s Choice Award.
Attendees at the final pitch competition vote live to award this $2,500 prize to their chosen finalist
Don’t let your groundbreaking concept go unnoticed. Apply today and let your innovation shine in the WILD places of Pennsylvania!
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.
200 Innovation Boulevard
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.
All Ben Franklin information is available in alternative media upon request.
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