2010 Archives
Harrisburg Market Keystone Innovation Zone Receives $85,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
HARRISBURG (November 3, 2010) - The Harrisburg Market Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) is one of the recipients of a $1.7 million grant issued by the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority, which is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The Harrisburg Market KIZ received $85,000 from the grant. The monies will support and benefit the activities of the Innovation Transfer Network which features technology transfer, product commercialization, entrepreneurial development and internships.
The Harrisburg Market KIZ was awarded its designation in 2004 by the Commonwealth and has provided services to companies since then in three geographic nodes listed below. Currently, eleven companies are designated as KIZ companies and are housed in these locations.
- Hershey Center for Applied Research
- Murata Business Center
- Downtown Harrisburg in the Veterans Building
The Harrisburg Market KIZ higher education partners joined with the Lancaster KIZ higher education partners in 2006 to create the Innovation Transfer Network (ITN) for South Central Pennsylvania. ITN is designed to support technology-focused economic development and the creation of high-tech jobs through its own efforts and in conjunction with partnerships established across the region. ITN is central to the future of the Harrisburg Market KIZ.
Since the ITN's inception, 45 discrete company/faculty interactions were facilitated by ITN staff for product research and data, market research and internships. ITN established a Seed Assistance Grant (SAG) program providing research grants of up to $10,000 and made 52 awards for projects close to commercialization, focusing on projects with for-profit companies. This investment has attracted over $5 million in extramural follow-up funding, representing a 10-fold return on investment (ROI).
"We have dedicated 6 ½ years on executing strategy our KIZ strategy, culminating with the formation of the ITN," stated Linda Goldstein, VP and COO of CREDC. "HRC/CREDC is proud to have been selected as a grant recipient from DCED. The monies will only enhance the current programs and services the ITN offers, which in turn, will benefit the region."
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry Counties by providing a unique blend of business, community and economic development and advocacy services under one roof to boost our economic vitality and livability as a region. HRC/CREDC has been accredited with four stars from the United States Chamber of Commerce.
