Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pa

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/NEP) is a nonprofit organization established in 1982 that promotes entrepreneurship and technology-based innovation across a 21-county region in Northeastern Pennsylvania. It provides investment capital and strategic business support to early-stage startups, established manufacturers, and business incubators. As a key initiative of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, BFTP/NEP is recognized as one of the most active seed-stage investors in the country. The organization focuses on three main areas: early-stage investment, manufacturing support, and ecosystem building. It offers funding up to $100,000 per round and $500,000 in total for technology startups. BFTP/NEP also provides consultative resources to established manufacturers to help them adopt new technologies and improve their practices. Additionally, it fosters a supportive business environment by connecting companies with experts, universities, and funding sources, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation in the region. BFTP/NEP is headquartered at Ben Franklin TechVentures on Lehigh University’s campus in Bethlehem, PA, with regional offices in Reading, Scranton, and Bloomsburg.

Fuels early-stage technology startups and manufacturing innovation in Northeastern PA through seed funding, business expertise, and university/industry ecosystem support.