Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) is a prominent regional technology-based economic development organization headquartered in Philadelphia. Established in 1983, its core mission is to catalyze economic growth by providing crucial capital and strategic business expertise to early-stage technology companies and established manufacturers within the southeastern Pennsylvania region. BFTP/SEP plays a vital role in nurturing the local innovation ecosystem, focusing on sectors critical to future economic prosperity.

The organization primarily targets companies at their earliest stages of development, often when they are most vulnerable and in need of foundational support. Their investment model typically involves convertible debt with an equity component, designed to provide flexible funding while aligning interests with the founders. BFTP/SEP's investment scope spans a diverse range of high-growth sectors, including advanced manufacturing, healthcare IT, digital health, software, and biotechnology, among other emerging technology areas. This broad focus allows them to support a wide array of innovative ventures poised for significant impact.

BFTP/SEP boasts a substantial track record of fostering economic development and job creation. Since its inception in 1983, the organization has deployed over $280 million in capital across more than 2,000 regional technology companies. This significant investment has translated into remarkable economic returns; their portfolio companies have collectively generated over $30 billion in economic impact and created more than 37,000 jobs within the region. Furthermore, BFTP/SEP demonstrates a strong return on public investment, with an impressive $3.90 returned to the state treasury in taxes for every $1 invested by the organization. In 2023 alone, BFTP/SEP continued its active support, investing $11.3 million into 52 companies, underscoring its ongoing commitment to regional innovation.