Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority Technology Development Grant

The Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority (BFTDA) Technology Development Grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), is a key funding mechanism aimed at accelerating technology-based economic development across Pennsylvania. Established under the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority Act, the BFTDA is one of the largest state-level technology investment programs in the United States. It operates through multiple avenues, including its Technology Development Grant, to provide strategic financial support for initiatives that foster innovation, promote the commercialization of research, and enhance Pennsylvania’s economic competitiveness through high-skilled job creation and technology integration. The Technology Development Grant targets not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions that propose statewide or regional strategies to advance technology use, drive innovation, and promote the development of high-wage, high-skill employment opportunities. Eligible technology sectors include, but are not limited to, information technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and materials, and alternative energy/environmental technologies. The program emphasizes the transformative potential of technology to stimulate business growth, empower communities, and build capacity across various industries and institutions throughout Pennsylvania. Funding may be used to support a broad range of technology-related activities, including entrepreneurial and business development, technical assistance to firms, promotion of Pennsylvania’s technology sectors, electronic access initiatives, community organization in specific tech sectors, applied research and commercialization collaborations, new product development, workforce development (including internships and apprenticeships), and curriculum and outreach efforts. The program specifically prohibits use of funds for facility acquisition or construction, international travel, or indirect costs. All grantees must secure a 1:1 match for requested funding, with at least 50% of the match in cash contributions. In-kind support may constitute no more than half of the required match. The application process is open on a rolling basis throughout the fiscal year and requires submission through the DCED’s Single Application for Assistance platform. Applicants must include key documents such as organizational background, statement of need, project mission, detailed work plan, engagement strategy, timeline with milestones, measurable deliverables, stakeholder support letters, and detailed budgets. A sustainability plan and a description of any prior project performance (if seeking continued support) must also be included. Applications are reviewed by DCED’s Technology Investment Office (TIO), which may request additional materials before recommending qualified applications to the BFTDA Board for approval. Once approved, awardees receive a formal funding commitment letter and enter into a grant agreement outlining the approved scope, budget, and match requirements. Ongoing monitoring is conducted by TIO staff, who evaluate project performance, match fulfillment, and compliance with contract terms. Non-performance or misrepresentation may lead to default and potential legal action. Annual reporting is mandatory and includes impact metrics such as job creation, business assistance, product development, and other performance indicators. For grants of $100,000 or more, a formal independent audit is required; smaller grants must submit a Grant Closeout Report within 30 days of project conclusion. The BFTDA reserves the right to release targeted solicitations to address specific regional or statewide technology needs. Although proposals are accepted year-round, funding is contingent on availability. The program encourages collaboration among stakeholders including Ben Franklin Technology Partners, Keystone Innovation Zones, universities, industry groups, and government agencies. This grant program plays a strategic role in Pennsylvania’s economic development ecosystem, aiming to position the state as a national leader in technology innovation and workforce readiness.

Ensure that no more than 50% of the required match is in-kind and provide quantifiable deliverables in the application.