“The need for innovation in Pennsylvania has never been more important”: A look at Ben Franklin’s post-COVID impact
The issue of brain drain, or losing workforce talent, is a real concern for innovation hubs around the country. While there are a myriad of tangential concerns — cost of living, livability, schools — the problem boils down to one key issue: workforce talent goes where job opportunities exist. Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central […]
Giving first responders next-gen solutions to today’s emergencies
By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger ERTCA partner TECHLINE Technologies demonstrates methods for applying a loss-of-limb tourniquet at ERTCA event in Bradford County, PA. Photo: Provided. Eric Porterfield, CEO of the Emergency Response Training and Certification Association (ERTCA), a nonprofit housed at Innovation Park, credits a grant from the Ben Franklin Technology Center for helping him jumpstart his […]
Win up to $30,000 for your food or beverage innovation
Ben Franklin’s Food & Beverage TechCelerator is offering a 10-week virtual Business Boot Camp for entrepreneurs and startup companies developing scalable, innovative and technology-focused products and services in the food and beverage industry. The deadline to apply is Dec. 12. It’s big news for two reasons. “Ben Franklin Technology Partners, CNP has been providing the […]
Happy Valley startup presents ag breakthrough and wins BIG time
Ben Franklin Technology Partners recently announced the winners of its 2022 BIG IDEA contest. The 2022 contest focused specifically on agriculture, food and beverage industries. Eight finalists from across Pennsylvania had the opportunity to present their pitches to a panel of judges and one of those BIG IDEAs is based right here in Happy Valley. […]
Who will earn the next $10,000 TechCelerator prize?
Many local startups have gotten a jumpstart in Ben Franklin’s TechCelerator program. Currently, eight local entrepreneurial teams are in the process of completing the 10-week, business startup boot camp and preparing to pitch for a $10,000 prize. The group represents an exciting mix of emerging products and services including: industrial robotics, smart home platforms, data […]
TechCelerator winner improving path to addiction recovery
By Nikki Ciecierski Sharina Johnson (right) is pictured at the Ben Franklin TechCelerator program with Arcana Recovery co-founder Laura Arciuolo (left). Photo: Provided. There can often be shame in seeking help for addiction. Just ask Sharina Johnson. As a military veteran who struggled with addiction after coming home from Iraq, she said the military taught […]
The finalists in Ben Franklin’s Agriculture, Food & Beverage BIG IDEA Contest have been announced
Ben Franklin Technology Partner’s BIG IDEA Contest recently offered agriculture and food & beverage entrepreneurs, innovators and companies in Ben Franklin’s 32-county footprint the chance to pitch to win up to $25,000 in seed funding. This cash prize is designed to support every aspect of turning a business idea into a business reality. “This is […]
How apprenticeship programs help retain workers amid shortage
By David Rockower Credit: Pennsylvania College of Technology If you haven’t read about the labor shortage, you’ve more than likely experienced it firsthand at your favorite location restaurant or retail store, or even in your own firm. During a recent webinar sponsored by The Ben Franklin Learning Center, Shannon Munro shared details about what’s causing […]
TEAMology uses AI to make big impact on social, emotional and mental health and wellness
By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger Linsey Covert with TEAMology’s Ruby. Credit: Photo Provided If you’ve ever seen Pixar’s movie “Inside Out,” you may have already gotten a taste of how TEAMology helps children regulate and control their emotions. Founded in 2016, TEAMology is the brainchild of CEO Linsey Covert. As a grad student at Penn State, she […]
