In partnership with the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Ben Franklin Technology Partners is looking for innovators with BIG IDEAS located in Cameron, Elk, Forest, McKean, or Warren County, PA.
We’re looking for entrepreneurs who are developing or crafting a product, process or innovation related to the maker economy, outdoors and recreation, forest products, manufacturing and technology. If this sounds like you, don’t hesitate to apply.
Apply by Monday, April 24, 2023 at 5 p.m.
The 2023 BIG IDEA Contest sponsored by PA Wilds is only accepting businesses or entrepreneurs located in Cameron, Elk, Forest, McKean or Warren counties, PA. The 2024 contest will accept applications from Cameron, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter and Tioga counties.
Scalable business models and ideas are prioritized. These can range across many industries. We particularly encourage innovators and startups in technology, manufacturing, forest products, green products and processes, outdoor recreation to apply.
We welcome innovators with business ideas to apply. You do not have to have registered your business to apply, but you do need to plan to register to do business in Pennsylvania.
No. We take zero equity and charge no fees.
Not required, but recommended.
While cohorts range in size, there are usually 6-8 finalists selected per contest.
We suggest allotting 5-6 hours per week to complete program materials and prepare for the final pitch competition
The contest awards $50k total, distributed among the winners. Most contests award 1-3 winners. One lucky winner will receive an additional $2500 People’s Choice Award.
Attendees at the final pitch competition vote live to award this $2500 prize to their chosen finalist.
As part of a three-year initiative funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission, this is the second of three annual BIG IDEA Contests in collaboration with PA Wilds, focusing on counties in the Allegheny National Forest landscape of the 13-county region. The 2024 contest will accept applications from counties in the Dark Skies and Pine Creek Valley landscapes of PA Wilds.
We encourage those with disabilities to participate in our programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please phone our Erie office at 814-898-6547 in advance of your participation or visit.
© The Ben Franklin Learning Center | Privacy Policy | a program of the Venture Investment Forum,
A Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority Initiative.
5240 Knowledge Pkwy, Erie, PA 16510 - (814) 898-6547