Ben Franklin Technology Partners fuels startups

Photo: Provided.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern PA is an integral partner with Startup Alleghenies, making investments in tech-based startups in a 32-county footprint. It is the largest early-stage investor and supporter in the area, and has invested millions in tech startups in the past 40 years. Beyond the critical funding needed for these early startups, Ben Franklin also provides business and technical expertise and access to a network of resources that help businesses grow and succeed.

Ben Franklin comes alongside Startup Alleghenies to help lead with innovation and technology in addition to providing investment funding. Together they pour into the entrepreneurial ecosystem connecting entrepreneurs with the resources that best meet their business needs.

“Ben Franklin invests significantly in companies in the Alleghenies,” Debbi Prosser, Director of Business Development for the Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission, said. “And their investment goes far beyond funding. They work to help entrepreneurs develop their business plans, learn to pitch their ideas, and grow. We are happy to partner with this vital resource.”

Ben Franklin’s TechCelerator program gives entrepreneurs a no-cost opportunity to fully explore their ideas, connect with experts, develop their pitch, attend weekly classes and have an opportunity to pitch and win investment dollars. (Have a food or beverage business idea? Their next TechCelerator can help launch – and fund – your idea.)

The Big Idea Contest is an exciting event that targets a different region and industry each time it is held. They seek entrepreneurs that are developing a product, process or innovation and pitch to a panel of judges for an opportunity to win up to $50,000.

Ben Franklin Portfolio Manager José Luis Otero said that the collaboration helps individuals set and reach their business goals.

“The outlook of our regional economy growing depends on local businesses supplying their products and services outside of our immediate area, while creating jobs in our region” he added. “I collaborate with Startup Alleghenies to provide an educational platform and access to capital. Together we take innovation and technology to the next level.”

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.