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Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania

At Ben Franklin Northeast, our mission is clear: promote, sustain, and invest in developing our regional economy through innovation and partnership.

Bethlehem, PA, USA

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Description

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/NEP) is a state-funded non-profit organization that provides investment capital and business support to technology-driven startups and established manufacturers in a 21-county region of Pennsylvania. Companies that are post-concept but often pre-revenue or in the early stages of commercialization. 
  • Method: Founders must first complete a Pre-Screening Form on the BFTP/NEP website.
  • Requirements: A summary of the technology, the market opportunity, the team’s background, and the potential for job creation in Pennsylvania.
  • Review: A regional manager is assigned to guide eligible companies through the formal proposal process. 

Eligibility

  • Geography: Must be located in one of the 21 counties of Northeastern Pennsylvania (e.g., Lehigh, Northampton, Lackawanna, Monroe, Luzerne).
  • Sector: Focus on Information Technology, Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing, and Energy.
  • Impact: A primary requirement is the potential for economic impact and job creation within the state. 

Process

  1. Inquiry: Initial screening to determine eligibility and fit.
  2. Proposal Development: Working with a BFTP manager to create a detailed business plan and financial model.
  3. Vetting: A rigorous review by a "Strategy Map" team of industry experts and external reviewers.
  4. Board Approval: Final funding decisions are made by the BFTP/NEP Board of Directors.
  5. Ongoing Support: Portfolio companies receive quarterly reviews and access to a network of business and technical experts. 

What an Applicant can Obtain

  • Capital: Investments typically range from $25,000 to $100,000 per year, with follow-on rounds potentially reaching a total of $450,000.
  • Incubation: Access to the Ben Franklin TechVentures incubator in Bethlehem or the Bloomsburg University incubator.
  • Expertise: Direct introductions to the "Solutions Network" of specialized consultants and university researchers.