Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania (BFTP/CNP) stands as a prominent early-stage capital provider and economic development organization dedicated to fostering innovation within its designated region. Based in University Park, Pennsylvania, BFTP/CNP focuses on investing in and supporting emerging technology-based companies and established small manufacturers. Their strategic investments span critical sectors including advanced manufacturing, information technology, life sciences, and cleantech, aiming to stimulate job creation and economic growth across central and northern Pennsylvania.

BFTP/CNP provides crucial early-stage capital, with typical first checks ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. These investments are structured as either equity or royalty-based agreements, and the organization generally requires matching funds from other investors or sources, ensuring a collaborative funding environment. Beyond financial capital, BFTP/CNP offers invaluable business expertise, mentorship, and access to a broad network of resources, helping portfolio companies navigate challenges and accelerate their growth. This comprehensive support system is vital for the success of nascent ventures and the modernization of small manufacturing firms.

The organization boasts a significant and long-standing impact on the regional economy. Since its inception in 1983, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania has invested over $110 million into more than 600 companies. These investments have acted as a catalyst, enabling their client companies to attract an impressive $2.6 billion in follow-on funding from other sources. This substantial leverage underscores BFTP/CNP's effectiveness in de-risking early-stage ventures and making them more attractive to subsequent investors, thereby contributing significantly to the vitality of Pennsylvania's innovation ecosystem.