SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO
Kayakers enjoy an area stream. PA Wilds, a state program to promote outdoors recreation, is partnering with Ben Franklin Technology Partners to host a contest for innovative business ideas.
Entrepreneurs gathered at Bald Birds Brewing Co., Jersey Shore this week to learn how to be rewarded for a big idea.
“This is a really great opportunity,” John Sider, vice president of Business Development at Ben Franklin Technology Partners, said. “Even if you don’t win, we want to help you.”
Sponsors of the Big Idea contest were on hand to speak to entrepreneurs and to outline the competition’s ground rules.
The contest, challenging entrepreneurs to come up with innovative and commercial-wise approaches to their commercial ventures, awards a winning cash prize of $50,000 and is restricted to businesses with no more $1 million in sales revenues.
“We are really excited to bring the contest to the area,” Abby Peters, of Pennsylvania Wilds, said.
Deadline to enter the contest is April 18.
As part of the application process, businesses are expected to consider questions that include market opportunities, innovation description, potential customers, competition, economic development, and product financing.
“Even if you don’t win, we can take steps to bring your business idea to life,” Sider said.
Josh Bradley, regional manager, Ben Franklin Technology Partners, noted his organization was formed in part to keep technology in the state.
Its mission includes developing technology startups, supporting manufacturers as they apply new technology, and promoting communitywide infrastructure for business technology.
As part of a partnership with Ben Franklin, Pennsylvania Wilds is hoping to help spur economic development across its vast regional network.
“We are trying to connect,” LaKeshia Knarr, entrepreneurial ecosystem director, Pennsylvania Wilds, said. “We are mindful of how to promote the region.”
Penn State Small Business Center Director Tim Keohane noted the various services his organization offers entrepreneurs such as plan development, financial projections, bookkeeping, and market analysis/research.
“We are good facilitators for business and get them to the best resources,” he said.
Jenn Jones, technical advisor, Pennsylvania Technology Assistance Program, Penn State, noted her organization reaches out to small and medium sized businesses.
Services include pollution prevention, product development, and entrepreneurial assistance.
Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce President Jason Fink said he was pleased by the turnout of interest business owners for the event.
“It was specific to those who have ideas,” he said.
Source link
credite