Are you an entrepreneur with a BIG IDEA who is developing a product, process, or innovation related to the maker economy, outdoors and recreation, forest products, manufacturing, and technology?

Learn more at the PA Wilds 2024 Big Idea Contest Information and Q&A Session, hosted by the Potter County Commissioners, Ben Franklin Technology Partners, and the PA Wilds. Leave with knowledge on how to plan, pitch, and win $50,000 for your big idea!

This FREE event will take place on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Coudersport American Legion Post 192, 2 Buffalo Street, Coudersport, PA.

Register for the event here: bfcnp.org/amerleg192

What is the BIG IDEA Contest?

The BIG IDEA Contest is a regional competition for entrepreneurs to pitch their “big idea” for a chance to win cash prizes and entrepreneurial support. Finalists have a chance to bring home up to $50,000 which goes a long way in helping further develop their BIG IDEA and infuse their startup with much-needed cash. In addition to the cash, finalists will gain pitch experience, business training, and meet new contacts – which are equally as valuable as the prize money. Visit bfcnp.org/2024-big-idea for contest rules, FAQ, and to apply.

The winner will receive:

• Up to $50,000 in cash
• A chance to win an additional $2,500 in the People’s Choice Award
• An opportunity to pitch the business concept for a $10,000 Seed Grant from Ben Franklin
• A guaranteed spot in a business accelerator program offered by either Ben Franklin or Penn State’s LaunchBox network.
• Business mentoring and support by Ben Franklin’s Transformation Business Services Network

You qualify to apply if:

• Your business is located in Cameron, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, or Tioga County, PA.
• You have not previously received Ben Franklin funding or a cash prize from either a BIG IDEA Contest or a TechCelerator program.
• You plan to commercialize your innovation.
• You do not have more than $1,000,000 in annual sales revenue (as an established business).

About the BIG IDEA Contests: Since the start of the BIG IDEA contests, more than $2 million in cash prizes have been awarded throughout Ben Franklin’s 32-county footprint in central and northern Pennsylvania. The contest offers start-ups and entrepreneurs some much-needed seed funding, as well as business training, pitch experience, and industry contacts – often more valuable than the prize money itself.

About Ben Franklin Technology Partners: The largest seed investor in the region, Ben Franklin Technology Partners (an initiative of the PA Department of Community & Economic Development and funded by the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority) has been providing investment capital, business support services, and operational assistance to emerging tech-startups and small manufacturers for nearly 40 years. Learn more at cnp.benfranklin.org   

For media inquiries, please contact Karly Scala at karlyscala@cnp.benfranklin.org