Ben Franklin Technology Partners

Ben Franklin Technology Partners (BFTP) is a prominent and long-standing technology-based economic development program operating across Pennsylvania. Established in 1983, its core mission is to foster innovation and economic growth by providing capital, knowledge, and networks to early-stage technology companies within the Commonwealth. BFTP functions through four regional centers, ensuring a localized approach to supporting startups and small businesses in diverse sectors such as information technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and materials.

BFTP primarily focuses on providing early-stage capital to promising technology ventures. Their investment strategy is geared towards companies that demonstrate high growth potential and the capacity to create significant economic impact within Pennsylvania. Typical initial investments from Ben Franklin Technology Partners range from $50,000 to $500,000, often serving as critical seed or Series A funding that helps companies achieve key milestones and attract further investment. Beyond capital, BFTP also provides extensive business support, mentorship, and access to a broad network of industry experts and potential partners.

With a history spanning several decades, Ben Franklin Technology Partners has built an impressive track record of contributing to Pennsylvania's innovation economy. Since its inception in 1983, the organization has invested more than $300 million into over 2,000 companies. This substantial investment has catalyzed significant economic activity, with BFTP-supported companies collectively generating over $30 billion in economic impact for the state. Their efforts have also been instrumental in the creation and retention of over 200,000 jobs, underscoring their vital role in Pennsylvania's entrepreneurial ecosystem. The program is widely recognized for its strong return on investment for the state, demonstrating its effectiveness as a public-private partnership.