
We always say Happy Valley is “resource-rich.” But resources don’t create success unless you plug into them.
This summer, treat this ecosystem like what it really is: a Commons, built for local entrepreneurs, funded by public and private investment, and made powerful through participation. The success of Philipsburg and companies like APP shows what’s possible when you say yes to support, space, and shared expertise.
Where to Start, Who to Call, and What You’ll Gain
Startup Support & Funding Connections
- Ben Franklin Technology Partners – Funding, mentors, bootcamps
👉 https://cnp.benfranklin.org - Invent Penn State – Startup support, prototyping, events
👉 https://invent.psu.edu - Happy Valley LaunchBox powered by PNC Bank – Free coworking, legal help
👉 https://launchbox.psu.edu
Manufacturing & Industrial Innovation
- IMC (Innovative Manufacturers’ Center) – Operational excellence
👉 https://imcpa.com - PennTAP (PA Technical Assistance Program) – Energy savings & sustainability
👉 https://penntap.psu.edu
Funding, Sites & Business Infrastructure
- MVEDP (Moshannon Valley Economic Development Partnership)
👉 https://mvedp.org - CBICC (Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County)
👉 https://cbicc.org - SEDA-COG – Loans, exports, government contracts
👉 https://seda-cog.org - CTIDA (College Township Industrial Development Authority)
👉 https://collegetownship.org - 1855 Capital – Venture capital tied to Penn State innovation
👉 https://1855capital.com
Entrepreneurial Community & Peer Networks
- CREN (Centre Region Entrepreneurial Network)
👉 https://cnp.benfranklin.org/programs-resources/centre-region-entrepreneurial-network/ - WiNGs (Women’s Network Group)
👉 https://www.wngs.org - Bellefonte SpringBoard – Coworking + startup support
👉 https://bellefontespringboard.com
Training & Consulting
- Penn State SBDC (Small Business Development Center) – Free consulting
👉 https://sbdc.psu.edu
Downtown Development
- Downtown State College Improvement District
👉 https://www.downtownstatecollege.com
What You’ll Gain
- Trusted advisors and expert mentoring
- Capital and funding access.
- No-cost resources: coworking, legal, prototyping.
- Strong networks and entrepreneurial community
- Site readiness and workforce connections
Want to take the first step? Start with LaunchBox or Ben Franklin — they’ll plug you into everything else based on where you are and where you’re going.
One Response
Thanks for sharing IMC’s information