Programs
LaunchBox & Innovation Network
The LaunchBox & Innovation Network, consisting of 21 LaunchBoxes and innovation spaces strategically positioned within Penn State campus communities, provides essential resources for entrepreneurs and innovators. These spaces offer specialized programs to facilitate the launch of Pennsylvania-based startup companies.
Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub
The Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub, a state-of-the-art facility located in downtown State College, serves as a catalyst for innovation, technology commercialization, and local startup support.
Startup Leadership Network
The Startup Leadership Network provides mentorship and expertise to faculty researchers from seasoned business professionals to aspiring entrepreneurs, facilitating technology development and market entry.
Penn State Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Since its establishment in 1997, the Penn State SBDC has been a pivotal resource for aspiring entrepreneurs in western Pennsylvania. Accredited by America’s SBDC, the program delivers high-quality consulting and training to empower business growth through education, information, and essential tools.
Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP)
PennTAP, the University’s statewide technical assistance program, offers comprehensive support to a diverse range of businesses across Pennsylvania. From energy assessments to university engagement, PennTAP’s expert advisors are committed to driving economic development across the state.
NSF I-Corps Site
Through the NSF I-Corps program, faculty researchers gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to translate their ideas into viable business ventures.
Inc.U Competition
The Inc.U Competition provides Penn State undergraduate student teams with the opportunity to compete for a $30,000 cash investment pool and additional support to successfully launch their startups.
Summer Founders Program
The Summer Founders Program grants $15,000 funding to Penn State student-founded startups, enabling them to pursue their small business aspirations during the summer months.
Cocoziello Institute of Real Estate Innovation
Dedicated to advancing the real estate industry, the Cocoziello Institute of Real Estate Innovation fosters collaboration and education across disciplines to develop sustainable solutions.
The Penn State Brand Academy
The Penn State Brand Academy supports student-athletes in navigating the complex landscape of name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities while providing access to quality educational programming.
Events
Invent Penn State Venture & IP Conference
One of the largest tech startup conferences in the Mid-Atlantic, the Invent Penn State Venture & IP (VIP) Conference is a showcase of ground floor investment opportunities in emerging and high-growth markets including IT, Ed Tech, Energy, Advanced Manufacturing, Biotechnology, Healthcare, B2B, and B2C, among others. This event is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking capital, investors sourcing new deals, and influencers who want a first-hand glimpse of cutting-edge innovations at Penn State and beyond. Drawing over 600 attendees, including 70+ startup ventures and 40+ investment firms from across the country, the conference also features educational panels, prominent speakers, and valuable networking.
Penn State Startup Week powered by PNC
Penn State Startup Week powered by PNC is a University-wide event for students that takes place every spring and brings leading minds in entrepreneurship and innovation to Penn State campuses across the Commonwealth. The weeklong event provides students and alumni an opportunity to gather as a community to discover, explore, experience, and celebrate entrepreneurship and innovation across the University. By connecting students with innovative alumni and industry pioneers who are achieving success in a variety of fields, Penn State Startup Week inspires students gain invaluable experience beyond the classroom and to strive to make an impact.
Global Entrepreneurship Week Penn State
Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) Penn State, managed by the Penn State Small Business Development Center (SBDC), partners with local business organizations in our Commonwealth campus communities to provide entrepreneurs educational and experiential opportunities on a variety of relevant topics with global impact. With specialized programming for women, veterans, and minority entrepreneurs, the week is filled with daily presentations, workshops, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities geared specifically to entrepreneurs, local startups, innovators, and anyone interested in thinking outside the box. GEW Penn State partners with Invent Penn State to help further their mission of economic development, job creation, and student career success.