Rendell Administration Announces $2.3 Million Boost for Research and Development, Commercialization
DATELINE: HARRISBURG, Pa. Jan. 29
HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania will grow its reputation as a home to groundbreaking technological innovation with the approval of $2.3 million in new investments.
Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Yablonsky said the funding, through the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority, will help stimulate economic development and boost job creation.
"As a key player in world commerce, it is Pennsylvania's responsibility to give our universities, private companies and entrepreneurs the resources they need to be at the forefront of these advancements," Yablonsky said. "Five years ago, Governor Rendell took office with the promise of transforming the economic direction of the commonwealth. By continuing to fund innovative research and creating a well-trained workforce through entities like the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority, that promise is being realized."
Projects approved today by the authority include:
The Center for Optical Technology at Lehigh University was allocated $1.3 million for operational and implementation expenses associated with the development of optical technology, specifically in the fields of biophotonics, optoelectronics and advanced all-optical materials and functionality.
Through the technology development grant program, $500,000 was allocated to Penn State Erie to operate and expand the Radio Frequency Identification Center of Excellence. The mission of the center is to advance the adoption of radio frequency technology and foster innovation to create strategic advantages and economic growth for Pennsylvania industry. The funding will be used for business assistance, applied research, workforce development, and outreach and awareness building activities.
In addition, three existing Keystone Innovation Zones received funding to continue their operations:
The Beaver County KIZ received $125,000. Coordinated by the Corporation for Owner-Operator Projects, the zone targets developments in the life sciences, information technology and advanced manufacturing industries. Among the zone's goals are continued growth and collaboration between educational partners, students and private business.
The Bucks County Biotechnology KIZ received $187,500 in second-year operating funds. Established in August 2006, the KIZ is helping to develop business and technology, primarily in life sciences and information technology. The goal of the new funding is to continue to grow these industries through job creation, infrastructure developments and outreach.
The York KIZ received $187,500 in funding for its second year of operations. The zone, which focuses on advanced materials, life sciences, information sciences and food sciences, aims to continue current efforts and create initiatives such as micro-grants for commercialization of new products.
Since 2004, the Keystone Innovation Zone program has enabled public and private stakeholders to work together and invest in their region through industry building, research and development, and job creation and retention. A cornerstone of Governor Rendell's economic stimulus package, the KIZ program was created to strengthen Pennsylvania's overall economy. Twenty-nine KIZs have been designated throughout the commonwealth.
The Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority is dedicated to fostering technological innovation, strengthening the commonwealth's economy, and creating and retaining good-paying jobs that require advanced skills. It also provides funding for a host of technology initiatives and supports four Ben Franklin Technology Partners throughout Pennsylvania which identify and provide technical assistance and capital to promising ventures. Since 2003, the authority has invested more than $242 million for projects across the state.
For more information on any of the authority's programs, visit http://www.newpa.com/ or call 1-866-466-3972.
CONTACT: Greg Morgan
(717) 783-1132
CONTACT: Greg Morgan of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and
Economic Development, +1-717-783-1132
Web Site: http://www.newpa.com/
http://www.state.pa.us/
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development