WINNERS OF THE 2024
TECHCELERATOR
Ben Franklin CNP invites Erie County residents to apply for the Erie County TechCelerator in partnership with ECGRA (Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority). The TechCelerator is a free, 8-week business accelerator built to move entrepreneurs from idea to action. Through expert-led sessions and weekly one-on-one mentoring, participants gain practical tools, strategic clarity, and real-world insight to launch or grow with confidence.
Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling an established business, the TechCelerator meets you where you are and equips you to grow, driving meaningful economic impact across Pennsylvania.
The program culminates in a live, judged Pitch Competition where founders compete for $15,000 in funding.
Over eight intensive weeks, selected participants will receive expert training and individualized support to turn their idea into a viable business. This is more than just a class — it’s a fast-paced startup launch pad.
We’re looking for bold ideas, tools being developed, and real-world solutions by innovators in Erie County. If your business is in the following areas, submit an application for your spot today.
This fully virtual program is designed to fit into your schedule while demanding serious effort and accountability. Expect to dedicate 3.5 hours per week, plus some independent work, over the course of eight weeks.
Cohort Sessions — 8 weeks, Tuesdays, April 7, 2026 – June 2, 2026
Live Sessions: (via Zoom)
1:1 Coaching: 60 min slot; flexible time options
Live Pitch Finale: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (via Zoom)
Over eight intensive weeks, selected participants will receive expert training and individualized support to turn their idea into a viable business. This is more than just a class — it’s a fast-paced startup launch pad.
Connect with content experts and fellow participants in interactive group sessions.
Receive personalized guidance to address your unique needs and challenges.
You’ll gain access to expert sessions in sales, marketing, finance, aging tech, and more.
You’ll receive tailored market research to help assess your opportunity.
You’ll get support with pro forma and financial modeling.
You’ll learn best practices to create a pitch deck, positioning you for future funding opportunities.
Applications are currently open.
Click the button to apply today.
TechCelerator is open to local entrepreneurs, grad students, professors, and university researchers located in Erie County, PA.
Your business must be located in Erie County, PA.
Classes are once per week for 8 weeks. You will also have a 1-hour one-on-one coaching session per week.
This program is offered at NO COST to entrepreneurs.
While cohorts range in size, there are usually 6-8 finalists selected per TechCelerator.
Participation in the TechCelerator will require 5-10 hours per week, so make sure you’re ready to commit.
This is a remote course, utilizing Canvas Learning System and Zoom.
Business Model Overview
Who’s your Customer? What’s your market?
What’s your Value Proposition
Customer Relationships – Get/Keep/Grow
Basic Financials – Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Cash Flow
Estimating Operating & Startup Costs
Revenue/Pricing/Costs
Funding Options
Basic Legal – Business Structure & Ownership
At the end of the program, participants have the opportunity to pitch their startups before a panel of judges who may award up to $15,000 in funding.
Firefighting Innovations: Franklin was instrumental in improving fire safety in Philadelphia. He organized the Union Fire Company in 1736, one of the first volunteer firefighting companies in America. He also invented a number of firefighting tools and techniques, including the Franklin stove’s design, which helped prevent fires by containing flames more effectively.