PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 11, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) --
WHAT: Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern
Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) is capping off their 20th
Anniversary with a signature event showcasing its
achievements and investments over the past two decades.
The event includes the release of a historical document
covering BFTP/SEP's evolution and work in Pennsylvania's
southeast region. Six exhibits are organized around key
characteristics of Ben Franklin the man as applied to
Ben Franklin the organization. They include: visionary,
inventor, partner, network builder, social architect,
and wealth creator.
WHO: Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern
Pennsylvania, Board Members, Partners and Staff.
Additional invited guests.
WHEN: Thursday, February 12, 2004
5:00 p.m. Reception
5:30 p.m. "Franklin Coming of Age" Exhibit Dedication
6:00 p.m. Open House
WHERE: Ben Franklin Technology Partners,
Southeastern Pennsylvania
1835 Market Street
Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19103
VISUALS: The interactive exhibit will include:
Visionary - This interactive exhibit will consist of an
Atomic Force Microscopy remote user demonstration.
Electrostatic contact nanolithography in thin film
electronic materials. Courtesy of the University of
Pennsylvania, the PENN Regional Nanotechnology Facility
is a full service materials characterization lab with
emphasis on the science and engineering in nanoscale
systems.
Inventor - This exhibit will showcase the technological
innovations of two regional companies specifically
highlighting innovative advances and products. Visitors
will be invited to interact with the demonstrations
available.
Wealth Creator - This exhibit will challenge the
assertion that money doesn't grow on trees. Comprised of
three artificial trees foliated with BFTP/SEP dollar
bills and a "risky business" gaming wheel at the table,
guests will be asked to take a spin and select among
seven items. "Where would you invest your dollar to grow
the region's economy?"
HIGHLIGHTS: Since its formation, Ben Franklin Technology Partners has
provided innumerable opportunities for regional growth.
Some statistics noted in the 20th Anniversary report
include:
-- Providing more than $110 million to more than 1,400
regional enterprises through various funding
mechanisms.
-- Investing $20 million in biotechnology research alone.
-- Maintaining an investment portfolio of approximately
130 technology companies, representing more than $20
million in direct investments.
-- Leveraged more than $10 million annually in
additional funding from other public and private
sources.
-- Seeded and invested in the creative ingenuity of more
than 170 regional entrepreneurs.
-- Worked with more than 160 established companies to
increase their competitiveness by solving product
development challenges and improving core processes.