Entrepreneurship Initiative Approved Projects: Pennsylvania
PROJECT: Business Plan Competition for High Schools
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Partnership for Economic Education
Purpose: To develop an entrepreneurial training program and business plan writing competition for high school students in Appalachian Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$27,130 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$11,845 |
| Total: |
$38,975 |
Description: This project will involve 140 teachers and 3,500 high school students from Appalachian Pennsylvania in a statewide business plan competition. Participating teachers will be provided with curriculum training. Cash awards will be provided to regional and statewide student winners. The goal of the program is to change students' attitudes towards starting businesses and to develop entrepreneurial skills in the region's youth.
Completed outcomes of the project for the grant period include the participation of 36 teachers and 129 students in the business plan competition and the development of 75 business plans. Three awards were presented to business plan competition winners. A detailed evaluation of program activities was undertaken, with a focus on improving outcomes in subsequent years.
PROJECT: Business Plan Competition for High Schools, Phase II
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Council on Economic Education
Purpose: To increase entrepreneurial education opportunities in Appalachian Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$33,878 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$21,407 |
| Total: |
$55,285 |
Description: The grantee continues to offer a series of seven regional business plan competitions and one statewide competition for high school students. Teachers are trained in entrepreneurship and students develop business plans for evaluation. Winners are selected at both regional and statewide competitions, and cash awards are presented to winners.
Completed outcomes of the project include teacher training workshops with 67 teachers in attendance and 37 classes with 206 total students submitting 110 business plans. In addition, 163 business plans were written but not submitted for the competition. Therefore, project outcomes include the generation of 273 business plans which involved an estimated 499 students. The proposed project evaluation did not occur, so no demographic information about student participation (college bound, actual business starts, etc.) was collected.
PROJECT: Community Development Financial Institution Formation
GRANTEE: Economic Planning and Development Council of Pennsylvania
Purpose: To create a Community Development Financial Institution to provide capital to firms unable to secure traditional financing.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$257,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$64,250 |
| Total: |
$321,250 |
Description: During the grant period, the grantee successfully created the microcredit loan fund, leveraging ARC's grant with $380,000 in private support from one bank and four foundations. The Fund has reviewed business plans from 28 prospective micro entrepreneurs, four of whom have received loans from the fund totaling $100,000 resulting in the creation of 14 new jobs. The fund has also received certification from the U.S. Department of Treasury CDFI Fund program.
PROJECT: East Stroudsburgh High School Springboard Award
GRANTEE: East Stroudsburgh High School
Purpose: To recognize outstanding youth entrepreneurship education programs.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$2,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$0 |
| Total: |
$2,000 |
Description: The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education, developed the Appalachian Youth Entrepreneurship Education "springboard" Awards competition to recognize outstanding youth entrepreneurship education programs. Youth education programs—targeted to rural areas—often serve as a "springboard" for Appalachian residents to launch their own businesses, create jobs in their communities, and further diversify and strengthen the Region's economy. Six awards were provided to the best youth entrepreneurship education programs in Appalachia. Finalists have been recommended by an independent review panel and were selected by ARC to each receive a $2,000 grant award. The grant awards will enable the winning teachers to support continued work in youth entrepreneurship, and the school or parent organization receives a commemorative plaque. A teacher and a selected student from each finalist received these awards in Washington, DC, at the March 17, 2003 Annual Meeting of the Development Districts Association of Appalachia.
PROJECT: EnterPrize Business Plan Competition
GRANTEE: Catalyst Connection
Purpose: To expand entrepreneurship in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$25,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$125,068 |
| Total: |
$150,068 |
Description: The EnterPrize Business Plan Competition is a collaborative venture seeking to spur the launch of entrepreneurial ventures in southwestern Pennsylvania by creating a financial incentive for people with innovative business ideas to take the time and energy to shape them into viable business plans and new businesses. The specific area of focus this year was to recruit more teams outside of Allegheny County. Publicizing EnterPrize through local newspaper and local organizations was extremely successful. At least 15 percent of the audience at the kick-off event was comprised of those groups. Many of them have continued through the competition. The grant supported the expansion of the EnterPrize program outreach efforts to the entire southwestern Pennsylvania region. Approximately 20 percent of the companies that participated were outside of Allegheny County. Results from EnterPrize 2002-2003 include: attendance of 124 people at the kickoff event, 81 teams registered for the competition, 39 business plans were received for Phase I, 35 business plans were received for Phase II, and 25 business plans were received for Phase III.
PROJECT: Marketing Initiative for the Tool and Dye Industry
GRANTEE: Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning & Development Commission
Purpose: To stimulate the regional tooling industry.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$70,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$33,360 |
| Local: |
$37,000 |
| Total: |
$140,360 |
Description: This project will be divided into two stages. During the first stage, the grantee will develop PASourcing.com Web site as the Internet portal that serves the Northwest Pennsylvania region. The Web site will provide member networking functions and services, expert advice, technical resources, and a process by which companies can receive certification of their products and proficiency. During the second stage of the project, the grantee will pay for the National Tooling & Manufacturing Association of Northwest Pennsylvania to distribute a marketing guide of the regional tooling industry. Projected outcomes include the involvement of 40 participants. The project will also result in the retention of 100 existing jobs. Additionally, the grantee will serve 40 businesses.
PROJECT: Microenterprise Development for Appalachian Communities
GRANTEE: Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA)
Purpose: To to investigate, plan, develop, and implement microenterprise training programs based on the ASSETS model developed by MEDA.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$30,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$30,000 |
| Total: |
$60,000 |
Description: The mission of the project was to increase the capacity of community action agencies in the region to investigate, plan, develop and implement microenterprise development programs. MEDA worked with two community action agencies and one community development organization in Southwest Pennsylvania to develop a microenterprise development program. These organizations are Community Action Southwest, Fayette County Community Action Agency, and Southwest CDC.
During the period of January 2002 to December 2002, MEDA working with the three community organizations, completed a feasibility study and developed a workplan to work with Community Action Southwest and Fayette County CAA to implement the ASSETS Southwest Pennsylvania in 2003. MEDA and its project partners projected the creation of at least one business and two jobs during 2002. However, due to the longer period of program development than earlier anticipated, the accomplishment of this goal has been pushed back to 2003. MEDA and its local partners in southwest Pennsylvania will report on these accomplishment of these goals later in 2003.
PROJECT: Microenterprise Development for Appalachian Communities, Phase II
GRANTEE: Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA)
Purpose: To implement a microenterprise development program recommended by a previous feasibility study.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$22,500 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$15,000 |
| Total: |
$37,500 |
Description: This project builds on the feasibility study for microenterprise development programs that was funded by ARC and the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania (CAAP) in 2002. Based on the findings of the study, Fayette County Community Action Agency and Community Action Southwest endorsed the implementation of ASSETS by the Southwest Pennsylvania CDC. MEDA proposes to work with the Center for Entrepreneurial Assistance, CAAP, Fayette County Community Action Agency, and Community Action Southwest to investigate, plan, develop, and implement microenterprise training programs in Southwestern Pennsylvania based on the ASSETS model. ASSETS provides practical, experience-based business training from seasoned business people and professionals; connects program participants to business mentors; and provides networking and business promotion opportunities to its participants. Projected outcomes include the involvement of 22 participants, the creation of three new businesses, and the creation of six new jobs.
PROJECT: Montrose Country Store
GRANTEE: Montrose Restoration Committee
Purpose: To develop e-commerce capabilities and implement an educational program.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$24,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$12,000 |
| Local: |
$12,000 |
| Total: |
$48,000 |
Description: This project will continue operations for the Montrose Country Store, located in downtown Montrose. After six months of store operations, 40 independent artisans have participated and achieved about $80,000 in gross sales. The Applicant is now poised to develop e-commerce capabilities and begin its educational program. The Applicant's plan is to develop a Web site to not only showcase the local talent but to also generate revenue for artisans and increase economic activity to the area. Initial development will be done by a professional Web developer, with ongoing maintenance to be handled by the store manager and employees of the Montrose Restoration Committee. A major component of this project will be to deliver educational services to its customers and artisans. These services will include teaching artisans the skills needed to operate a small business with e-commerce capability and teaching store customers the arts and crafts skills of local artisans (e.g., spinning yarn, growing herbs, making pottery, etc.). The Applicant expects the store to become self-sustaining in two years by restructuring the artisan fee and commission schedule and reducing operating costs in order to bring operating expenses and income into balance. Projected outcomes include the creation of four new businesses and four new jobs.
PROJECT: Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance Entrepreneur's Day
GRANTEE: Northeastern PA Alliance
Purpose: To provide hands-on technical assistance and advice to individuals interested in entrepreneurship.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$19,250 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$5,768 |
| Local: |
$24,117 |
| Total: |
$49,135 |
Description: Entrepreneur's Day was developed utilizing the existing Team Northeastern and Northern Tier Pennsylvania Entrepreneurial Network Initiative (ENI). In order to complete the project successfully, relationships with CareerLink, the Department of Labor and Industry, Rapid Response Coordination Services, and Workforce Investment Boards in both Northeastern and Northern Tier Pennsylvania had to be established. Establishing these collaborative partnerships maximized services that serve those dislocated workers interested in participating in Entrepreneur's Day and receive technical assistance in starting a business, both traditional and home-based, through the various public provider programs.
Approximately 130 individuals attended the event to obtain information on starting a business and 61 individuals attended sessions throughout the day to listen to informative seminars, some of which were presented by entrepreneurs sharing their experiences in starting a business. Twenty-seven entrepreneurs took the time to register into the pabizhelp.com Web site and will receive mentors, and eight new Business Assistance Providers and/or Navigators signed on to assist entrepreneurs, bringing the total to 128. In addition, four referrals were given to the Luzerne and Lackawanna County Self-Employment Assistance Programs. Completed outcomes also included the creation of three new businesses and three new jobs.
PROJECT: Northeastern PA and Northern Tier Entrepreneurial Network Roundtable
GRANTEE: Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance
Purpose: To recruit service providers to a new entrepreneurial assistance network.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$20,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$27,197 |
| Total: |
$47,197 |
Description: The Northeastern PA Alliance and the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development formed separate Entrepreneurial Networks that jointly developed an interactive Web site (www.pabizhelp.com) and database system that links entrepreneurs with electronic-based mentors, or Navigators. In order to maximize the effectiveness of the system, the Networks decided to recruit and train more Navigators. During the grant period, the grantee conducted ten Roundtable events with approximately 400 attendees, planned and arranged seven mini-training workshops for Network Navigators and Business Assistance Providers, conducted two Core Team training sessions to improve system efficiency and effectiveness, and participated in seven seminars and/or video teleconference workshops. Completed outcomes included 100 businesses receiving assistance from Navigators and Business Assistance Providers, the creation of three new businesses, and the creation of three new jobs.
PROJECT: Penn Venture Partners Fund Operational Assistance
GRANTEE: Penn Venture Partners, LP
Purpose: To implement a microenterprise development program recommended by a previous feasibility study.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$50,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$300,000 |
| State: |
$300,000 |
| Local: |
$0 |
| Total: |
$650,000 |
Description: The grantee will operate a development venture capital fund, Penn Venture Partners, which will provide investment capital to growing businesses in the target region. The grantee will partner with Zero Stage Capital to manage this $25M investment fund. The grantee will directly provide technical assistance to prospective portfolio firms. This fund is partially capitalized by the Small Business Administration's New Markets Venture Capital Company program. ARC funds will provide staff support to help develop deal flow, evaluate prospective investments, provide technical support to get firms' deals ready, and monitor and support firms post-investment. The grantee expects to invest in 12 firms resulting in the creation of 450 jobs.
PROJECT: Plastic Business Resource Facility Feasibility Study
GRANTEE: Williamsport, City of
Purpose: To conduct a feasibility study for the Plastics Business Resource Facility.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$40,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$50,000 |
| Local: |
$0 |
| Total: |
$90,000 |
Description: The grantee requests $40,000 in ARC funds to conduct a feasibility study for the Plastics Business Resource Facility (PBRF). The PBRF will be a business incubator providing prepared space for plastics-related business start-ups and established firms. The PBRF will allow incubator tenants to gain access to cutting edge technology and equipment that will result in successful technology transfers and entrepreneurial growth. Specifically, the study will: 1) conduct a best practices survey examining incubator programs in communities that share similar economic and demographic profiles; 2) identify the infrastructure requirements that will be required to sustain the PBRF, including tenant space, equipment labs, and telecommunications; 3) examine a variety of profit and nonprofit management structures; 4) conduct a financial analysis to determine the capital and cash-flow needs of the PBRF; 5) prepare an action plan outlining the impact the PBRF will have on the local workforce; 6) estimate job creation and industry spin-offs; and 7) select an appropriate site for the PBRF and create an architectural/engineering plan.
PROJECT: SEDA-COG Furniture Making Venture
GRANTEE: SEDA-Council of Governments
Purpose: To support the revival of the Pennsylvania country furniture-making tradition.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$33,250 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$36,750 |
| Total: |
$70,000 |
Description: The project will establish business and employment opportunities related to revival of the Pennsylvania country furniture-making tradition, resulting in the creation of three new business ventures and three new jobs. These outcomes will result from design and market research, including prototype design, production, and concept testing. The project will address the business and employment needs of Central Pennsylvania through the establishment of alternative furniture-making enterprises that cater to niche markets. SEDA-COG will work with community leaders and established artisans to identify and provide assistance to a core group of traditional woodworking craftsmen in 3-5 communities in the SEDA-COG area.
PROJECT: SEDA-COG Marketing and Attractions Map For Valleys of the Susquehanna
GRANTEE: SEDA-Council of Governments
Purpose: To help regional tourist promotion agencies collectively develop a GIS map of the region, advertise, attend shows, and participate in marketing projects that normally would be cost prohibitive as individual agencies.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$20,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$21,047 |
| Total: |
$41,047 |
Description: The grantee will help the Valleys of the Susquehanna develop a GIS map of the region, advertise, attend shows, and participate in marketing projects that normally would be cost prohibitive as individual agencies, resulting in the creation of about 100 new jobs. The Valleys of the Susquehanna is a regional consortium composed of six tourist promotion agencies (TPAs) in the Northwest Pennsylvania Region. The Valleys will develop a detailed printed map and an interactive Web mapping application for use in regional tourism promotion and marketing activities. The TPAs will then distribute the maps throughout their service areas.
PROJECT: Self Employment Opportunity Program
GRANTEE: Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission
Purpose: To provide self-employment assistance to unemployed or under-employed individuals in the Southern Alleghenies Region.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$55,450 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$126,195 |
| Total: |
$181,645 |
Description: The Southern Alleghenies Workforce Investment Board (WIB) has developed and established a program to provide self-employment assistance to unemployed or under-employed individuals in the Southern Alleghenies Region. This program is offered through the Team PA CareerLink system. SAPDC has successfully partnered with the WIB to extend this service to individuals who do not meet the income qualifications currently required by the WIB. The project will be sustained primarily by the continued commitment of the WIB. Projected outcomes include the involvement of 200 participants and the creation of 14 new jobs and 14 new businesses.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Assistance Network Initiative
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Purpose: To provide targeted managerial and technical assistance to entrepreneurs and support collaborative efforts to coordinate and improve the provision of assistance to entrepreneurs.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$522,342 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$6,218 |
| Local: |
$145,704 |
| Total: |
$674,264 |
Description: The grantee has developed work plans to strengthen entrepreneurial technical and financial assistance for seven regional economic development networks as a means to stimulate new business formation, identify new types of value-added services, and target market opportunities for new ventures. Training programs for economic developers are also a part of the grantee efforts to foster an entrepreneurial culture in Appalachian Pennsylvania, including a "train-the-trainers" program that focuses on the financial and technical resources available to small business and a program on the basics of business finance for incubator tenants.
Completed outcomes of the project for the grant period include the completion of seven regional marketing and support plans for entrepreneurial development and the hosting of 15 financial management seminars involving 300+ persons. Additionally, over 20 workshop sessions focusing on state programs for entrepreneurs attracted 600+ private participants.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Assistance Network Initiative, Phase II
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Purpose: To support the development of entrepreneurial enterprises in the region.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$552,105 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$102,170 |
| Local: |
$122,500 |
| Total: |
$776,775 |
Description: This project was Phase II of the TEAM Pennsylvania Entrepreneurial Network Initiative. In Phase II, the seven TEAM PA networks had the task of implementing all or a primary portion of their marketing plan developed in Phase I. Overall, the seven networks were responsible for the creation of 131 new businesses and 133 new jobs. In addition, 53 mentors and assistance providers were recruited, 111 clients received technical assistance, 251 people received entrepreneurial training, and four entrepreneurs received business loans.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Assistance Network Initiative, Phase III
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities in order to enhance the awareness of entrepreneurship in rural areas and increase the rate of new business formation and expansion.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$43,320 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$65,000 |
| Local: |
$90,000 |
| Total: |
$198,320 |
Description: This project was Phase III of a multi-phase entrepreneurial initiative undertaken by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (PA DCED). Phase I of the project resulted in the completion of seven regional marketing and support plans for entrepreneurial development and the hosting of 15 financial management seminars involving over 300 persons. In Phase II, the grantee expanded its training program to key members of the private sector that work closely with small businesses.
During Phase III the grantee, through the Ben Franklin Technology Center of Central and Northern Pennsylvania, conducted nine two-track financial management seminars throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The workshops attracted 319 small business participants. Seven seminars were held in the ARC region, while the additional two seminars were also marketed to ARC-based companies. The Ben Franklin Technology Center also facilitated the delivery of the Pricing Strategies, Sales Methodologies, and Supporting Software Products training. During the eight-session series, 267 attendees from 57 companies participated in the training. At the end of the series, seven companies availed themselves of one-on-one advisory sessions, which were offered to those desiring customized counseling.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Education Program, Phase II
GRANTEE: Team Pennsylvania Foundation
Purpose: To provide entrepreneurial education throughout Appalachian Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$211,749 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$167,828 |
| Total: |
$379,577 |
Description: This project represents the first phase of a three-year commitment to establish and implement an entrepreneurial education initiative. The six tasks undertaken by the grantee include: implementing the "REAL Program" in six counties, implementing the "Taking Charge Program" in Appalachian Pennsylvania, conducting an entrepreneurial summer camp at Seton Hill College, assessing and distributing information (through a Web site) about existing business and education partnerships, researching K-6 entrepreneurial programs, and providing evaluation and technical assistance. Completed outcomes of the project included conducting 11 teacher training workshops that impacted 151 teachers and 6,489 students. Additionally, the project created three new businesses.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Education Program, Phase III
GRANTEE: Team Pennsylvania Foundation
Purpose: To continue to provide entrepreneurial education throughout the Appalachian Region of Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$265,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$299,225 |
| Total: |
$564,225 |
Description: Six strategic tasks undertaken include: implementing the REAL, Mini-REAL, and Middle-REAL Programs with 16 Appalachian educational institutions; implementing the Taking Charge Program in Appalachian Pennsylvania; conducting entrepreneurial summer camps at both Seton Hill College and Clarion University; continuing REAL program evaluation by Carnegie Mellon University; maintaining a Web site; and continuing a revolving loan fund (RLF) for REAL students who are ready to start their businesses and need a small amount of start-up capital.
Completed project outputs included: conducting eight teacher training workshops on "Taking Charge Learning Economics through Entrepreneurship" curriculum to benefit 117 teachers; conducting four in-service trainings for the REAL (Rural Entrepreneurship through Action Learning) Program; 45 teachers trained through the REAL Summer Institutes; participation by 51 PA students (8th–9th graders) in six-day Entrepreneurial Education summer camps conducted at Seton Hill College and Lehigh University. In addition, the grantee continued the implementation of an Entrepreneurial Evaluation study. Project activities also included maintenance of the PA REAL Web site and continued marketing and utilization of the PA Revolving Loan Fund for Entrepreneurs. Completed project outcomes include the creation/expansion of 55 businesses by REAL students. Active Pennsylvania REAL schools include 17 high schools, seven vocational technical centers, two post secondary institutions, and one Middle REAL (grades 6 to 8).
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (SEDA-COG)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities in order to enhance the awareness of entrepreneurship in rural areas and increase the rate of new business formation and expansion.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$81,827 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$39,543 |
| Total: |
$121,370 |
Description: The project was undertaken by the SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) and served the Northeast Pennsylvania Region. The grantee created the BusinessGrower.com Web site and database system, a business services system that serves entrepreneurs and healthcare-related businesses. With an enterprise development loan fund and several angel investment groups in place, the Network makes loans to, and investments in, several companies. During the grant period, the grantee added 13 new entrepreneurial assistance network (EAN) partners; launched the BusinessGrower.com Web site; developed a client tracking system; provided four EAN presentations to 74 individuals; and assisted 80 entrepreneurs, two clients of the Project Evaluation Team, and four microloan clients. Completed outcomes include the creation of four new businesses and four new jobs.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (SEDA-COG), Phase II
GRANTEE: SEDA-Council of Governments
Purpose: To fund the continuation activities of the SEDA-COG Entrepreneurial Network.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$48,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$48,000 |
| Total: |
$96,000 |
Description: This project is part of a multi-phase entrepreneurial initiative undertaken by SEDA-COG, on behalf of the Central Pennsylvania Entrepreneurial Assistance Network (the Network). Over the past several years, the Network has assisted more than 80 entrepreneurs at various stages of starting or growing a small business. In addition, members of the Network have worked together to conduct more than 30 information sessions throughout the region, reaching more than 400 entrepreneurs and public- and private-sector service providers. This project will support and expand the role of the EAN as it continues to promote entrepreneurship throughout the region. Specifically, this project will: continue to market and create an awareness of the services available through the Network; maintain the regional entrepreneurial Web site, BusinessGrower.com; produce a regionally-focused video of young entrepreneurs; market and support a regional youth leadership conference; work with the Geisinger Health System to develop "Geisinger Ventures" Grant funds from the SBA Micro-Loan Program, as well as processing and commitment fees, will be used to partially cover the cost of operating the Network.
Output Measurements: In conjunction with Network partners, conduct 10 targeted outreach sessions reaching 100 potential entrepreneurs. As a result of outreach sessions, actively assist 20 entrepreneurs, provide PAACA and SBA MicroLoan funds to three entrepreneurs, reach 200 high school and 40 college students through a youth conference. Outcome Measurements: two healthcare-related businesses started; two new jobs created.
Projected outcomes include the involvement of 363 participants and the creation of two new jobs and two new businesses. Additionally, the grantee will serve 123 businesses.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (SEDA-COG), Phase II, Supplement
GRANTEE: SEDA-Council of Governments
Purpose: To pay for additional costs associated with the production of a youth entrepreneurship video.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$3,500 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$2,000 |
| Local: |
$1,500 |
| Total: |
$7,000 |
Description: This grant will enable SEDA-COG to pay for additional costs associated with the production of a youth entrepreneurship video that will encourage high school and college students to consider entrepreneurship as a career path.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (North Central PA)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To fund the continuation activities of North Central Regional Entrepreneurial Network (NC/REN).
Funding:
| ARC: |
$56,636 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$13,100 |
| Local: |
$5,116 |
| Total: |
$74,852 |
Description: This project was Phase 3 of a multi-phase entrepreneurial initiative undertaken by the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission, on behalf of the North Central Regional Entrepreneurial Network (NC/REN). Entrepreneurs reported several unmet needs and gaps during the Phase 1 focus group sessions. To address these needs and gaps, the Network, during Phase 2, increased access by entrepreneurs to lenders, initiated the formation of an angel capital network, established a comprehensive client tracking system, and facilitated the completion of 172 business plans and the creation of 67 new businesses. In addition the NC/REN conducted six training sessions for small businesses that addressed various legal, financial, and business topics.
During the grant period, this project brought more than 120 businesses together in a peer program called the Entrepreneur's Club. This program received the Innovation Award for Entrepreneurship from the National Association of Development Organizations. The Entrepreneur's Club members have endorsed the idea of paying a nominal membership fee to help cover the expenses of the Club. Completed outcomes include 58 new business start-ups, 58 new jobs created, 24 business expansions, 32 loans made to businesses, 9 training seminars conducted, 171 entrepreneurs in attendance at the training seminars, 64 business plans completed, and 2 marketing plans completed.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (North Central PA), Phase II
GRANTEE: North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission
Purpose: To fund the continuation activities of North Central Regional Entrepreneurial Network (NC/REN).
Funding:
| ARC: |
$45,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$5,000 |
| Local: |
$40,000 |
| Total: |
$90,000 |
Description: This is a multi-phase entrepreneurial initiative that, to date, has established a comprehensive client tracking system, and facilitated the completion of 303 business plans and the creation of 120 new businesses and 120 new jobs. Also, the Network provided 16 businesses with a total of $330,500 in loans. Based on the proposed workplan, the grantee will undertake the following tasks: 1. Provide a Comprehensive Program for Financial and Technical Assistance; Continue to pursue and recapitalize loan pools and to provide loan assistance services. 2. Provide Opportunities for Education and Training; Continue to provide targeted entrepreneurship workshops to entrepreneurs and community-based organizations. 3. Implement New Entrepreneurial Development Projects; Analyze the feasibility of an entrepreneurial eco-tourism incubator located in a State Park. 4. Coordination and Promotion of the Entrepreneurial Network; Network coordinator will be responsible for the administration, operation, outreach, marketing and promotion of the entrepreneurial assistance network.
Projected outcomes include: Increase e-commerce activity by 15%; 100 business plans completed; 8 marketing plans completed Output Measurements: 50 business start-ups; 50 jobs created; 25 business expansions.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Northeast PA)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities in order to enhance the awareness of entrepreneurship in rural areas and increase the rate of new business formation and expansion.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$81,827 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$26,700 |
| Total: |
$108,527 |
Description: This project was Phase 3 of a multi-phase entrepreneurial initiative undertaken by the Economic Development Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania (EDCNP), on behalf of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Entrepreneurial Network (Network). Entrepreneurs reported several unmet needs and gaps during the Phase 1 focus group sessions. To address these needs and gaps, the Network, during Phase 2, developed the PA Bizhelp website/database system (www.pabizhelp.com) and began recruiting business professionals (Navigators) to offer entrepreneurial assistance in exchange for the opportunity to gain potential new customers. The recruitment of business professionals focused on three categories: Capital Access, Business Planning Assistance and Site Selection. Entrepreneurs also reported these three categories as being the three most critical areas that impeded their business. During the Phase 3 grant period, the Network expanded its recruitment efforts to include entrepreneurs as well as business professionals by marketing and implementing the PA Bizhelp system. The grantee completed the following outcomes: registered 120 Navigators in the PA BizHelp web site, registered 67 entrepreneurs, assigned 20 entrepreneurs to Navigators for technical assistance, made 153 clients aware of the CDFI program, approved 3 loans, and closed 2 loans.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Northeastern PA and Northern Tier)
GRANTEE: Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$73,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$80,759 |
| Total: |
$153,759 |
Description: This project was a partnership between the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA) and the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission (NTRPDC). It built upon the common work completed by both development districts over the previous 3 years, including the launch of a shared website/database system called PA Bizhelp (www.pabizhelp.com). Completed outcomes include: registration of 32 navigators, 156 business assistance providers to perform client services for the Network, registration of 187 entrepreneurs, sponsorship of 17 workshops geared toward entrepreneurial development and Navigator and Assistance Provider system training, participation in 6 job fairs, and the creation of 3 new businesses and 9 new jobs. The commercialization phase, the next phase of the program, is crucial to achieving sustainability of this project.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Northern Tier)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities in order to enhance the awareness of entrepreneurship in rural areas and increase the rate of new business formation and expansion.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$72,865 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$32,052 |
| Total: |
$104,917 |
Description: The grantee has created the PA Bizhelp website and database system, a business services system that is expected to serve 200 entrepreneurs and result in the creation of 20 new businesses and 20 new jobs. Project activities include the recruitment of experienced business professionals and new entrepreneurs who will, respectively, provide and use the PA Bizhelp system services. As a result of this system, the above counties will finally have a single database and communications vehicle that allows them to more effectively serve small business clients and monitor their progress. Completed outcomes include the creation of 23 new microenterprises and 35 new jobs.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Northwest PA)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities in order to enhance the awareness of entrepreneurship in rural areas and increase the rate of new business formation and expansion.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$81,827 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$20,500 |
| Total: |
$102,327 |
Description: The project was undertaken by the Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning & Development Commission. The project serves 130 entrepreneurs, resulting in the creation of 15 new businesses and the expansion of 15 existing businesses. Phase 3 activities of this three-year project included expanding technical and financial resources to entrepreneurs; formalizing a client tracking system; implementing training programs for entrepreneurs; developing an EAN marketing campaign; and creating a regional entrepreneurial reference site. During the grant period, the grantee provided training in e-business, basic and advanced computer skills, venture capital and entrepreneurial skills to 120 new and existing business owners. The grantee also enrolled 12 families in the Family Savings Account program and recruited a member of the Youth Technology Enterprises group recruited to serve on the entrepreneurial assistance network. Completed outcomes include the creation of 23 new microenterprises, the expansion of 8 existing firms, the creation of 35 new jobs created, and the completion of Project START training by 25 persons.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Northwest PA), Phase II
GRANTEE: Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning & Development Commission
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$45,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$45,000 |
| Total: |
$90,000 |
Description: This project is a continuation of a multi-phase initiative undertaken by the Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning & Development Commission on behalf of the Northwest Pennsylvania Entrepreneurial Assistance Network (EAN). Outcomes-to-date include: 110 potential and existing entrepreneurs completed the Project START classes, 32 new businesses created, 8 small businesses expanded, and 48 new jobs created. In addition, $483,000 of SBA microloans were invested in 21 small businesses. This phase of the EAN includes the following activities: create digital stories featuring young small business owners; sponsor scholarships for young people in the region to attend summer entrepreneurial camps; and assist the growth of Junior Achievement or REAL programs in the region The SBA has agreed to provide the grantee with an additional $22,000 of technical assistance funds. In addition, the grantee will hire a consultant to pursue foundation funding and continue to encourage regional lenders to support the Junior Achievement program. Projected outcomes include the involvement of 228 participants and the creation of 6 new jobs and 6 new businesses.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Southern Alleghenies)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can increase the rate of new business formation and expansion in the Southern Alleghenies Region.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$76,653 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$16,366 |
| Local: |
$0 |
| Total: |
$93,019 |
Description: The project was undertaken by the Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission. The grantee provides mentoring, training, or referrals to potential and existing entrepreneurs and provide loans to additional entrepreneurs, resulting in the creation of new businesses and new jobs. During the grant period, the grantee recruited 13 businesses to receive mentoring services, recruited 38 mentors to provide assistance, initiated 10 new mentoring projects, and provided 51 entrepreneurial workshops attended by 556 persons. Completed outcomes include 42 business plans developed, 20 new businesses created, and 20 new jobs created.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Southern Alleghenies), Phase II
GRANTEE: Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$45,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$45,000 |
| Total: |
$90,000 |
Description: This project is a continuation of a multi-year initiative undertaken by the Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission on behalf of the Southern Alleghenies Entrepreneurial Assistance Network (Network). During the grant year, the Network will provide technical assistance to small and medium sized businesses. The technical assistance will include the expertise from many disciplines including areas such as Human Resource Management, Marketing, Financial Management, Growth Strategies, etc. In addition the Network will promote the Self Employment Assistance program to the retired citizens of the region through the Area Agencies on Aging. The grantee plans to operate the Network as a component of its ongoing business development program in the future, pending continued progress of the program. 10 new jobs. Additionally, the grantee will serve 10 businesses.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Southwest PA)
GRANTEE: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities in order to enhance the awareness of entrepreneurship in rural areas and increase the rate of new business formation and expansion.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$81,827 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$5,000 |
| Local: |
$15,457 |
| Total: |
$102,284 |
Description: The project was undertaken by the Southwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning & Development Commission. Phase 3 activities of this three-year project included: expanding technical & financial resources to entrepreneurs; formalizing a client tracking system; implementing training programs for entrepreneurs; developing an EAN marketing campaign; and creating a regional entrepreneurial reference site. During the grant period, the grantee updated, published and distributed the second edition of the Entrepreneur's Quick Guide, identified 18 regional resource libraries and provided them with $600 grants to procure entrepreneurial resources, sponsored the 4th Annual Entrepreneur's Growth Conference, and fielded 50 inquiries per month through its toll free phone number. Completed outcomes include 30 businesses created and 150 jobs created.
PROJECT: Team PA Entrepreneurial Network (Southwest PA), Phase II
GRANTEE: Duquesne University Small Business Development Center
Purpose: To create a collaborative public/private alliance which can stimulate new value-added services, new market opportunities, and regional market-driven activities.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$45,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$45,000 |
| Total: |
$90,000 |
Description: This project was part of a multi-phase entrepreneurial initiative that had already developed and implemented a marketing plan, distributed entrepreneurial resource reference guides, and developed toll free phone and web-based referral systems in partnership with the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance (PRA). During the current grant period the grantee updated, published and distributed the third edition of the Entrepreneur's Quick Guide. The SWPA EAN also provided an additional $300 to each of 18 Resource libraries for further expansion of their Entrepreneur's Corner. The feedback from the libraries has been extremely positive. Numerous libraries have expressed sincere gratitude for providing them with such an invaluable opportunity. The online Regional Funding Source Guide was developed and is currently fully functional and searchable. It lists 88 organizations with details regarding each of their respective funding sources. The ongoing regional education programs including area library affiliations will help the EAN in its expansion and sustainability efforts.
PROJECT: Women's Business Plan Competition
GRANTEE: Seton Hill College
Purpose: To increase the formation of success of women-owned businesses in the region.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$30,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$16,153 |
| Total: |
$46,153 |
Description: Seton Hill University's National Education Center for Women in Business launched "Writeldea" in March 2002 as a business plan competition for women in Southwestern Pennsylvania; including Westmoreland, Washington, Greene, and Fayette Counties. The competition was promoted to women-owned businesses, especially those with high growth potential. Local business representatives judged 20 business plans with one winner being selected in each of the four counties, receiving a grant of $6,250 each or $25,000 in total grant funding. Winners were announced and presented their cash prizes at The Center's inaugural networking event for women entrepreneurs, "Women & Co. The Center made arrangements through its business plan competition partners to do secondary announcements at key events in participating counties in the region. The secondary announcements provided additional recognition to the winners in their hometowns. Completed project outcomes included the creation of 4 new startup businesses and the creation of 4 new jobs.
PROJECT: Women's Business Plan Competition, Phase II
GRANTEE: Seton Hill College
Purpose: To increase the formation of success of women-owned businesses in the region.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$30,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$0 |
| State: |
$0 |
| Local: |
$16,153 |
| Total: |
$46,153 |
Description: The current project, WriteIdea, is a continuation of a Year 1 business plan competition in Southwestern Pennsylvania that resulted in 20 completed business plans and 4 winners who each used their $6,250 award to start their own self-employed ventures. The grantee will provide support and tools to increase the formation of success of women-owned businesses in the region. The competition will begin on March 30, 2003 and end October 31, 2003. WriteIdea is open to women-owned businesses that are start-ups or that have been in operation for a year or less. The judges will be chosen from the local business community and will determine a single winner for each of the four counties of Greene, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland based upon those entries that have the most growth potential. The winners will be announced in September 2003 and each winner will receive $6,250.
Additional technical assistance will be provided to the winners. In order to encourage strong participation in this competition, a special business planning seminar will be offered at various locations in the region in conjunction with the Women's Economic Development Outreach (WEDO) Tour. Technical assistance will be provided through the University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and St. Vincent SBDC. The grantee will promote this project through the Athena/Powerlink network which provides professional advisory panels to women-owned businesses to assist in business growth. The grantee's plans for sustainability include support from its regional network of 20 corporate and nearly 30 strategic partners.
PROJECT: Wood Industry Cluster, Phase I
GRANTEE: Northwest Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center
Purpose: To provide support for the second year of operations, training services and outreach for the wood industry cluster in north central and northwest Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$200,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$25,000 |
| State: |
$120,000 |
| Local: |
$55,000 |
| Total: |
$400,000 |
Description: In the first year, the Wood Cluster Initiative has directly assisted 16 companies with 21 separate projects. These projects have involved technical assistance with manufacturing processes, operational assessments, marketing assistance, and workforce development training. A synergy is developing around the Wood Cluster that shows promise for continued and increasing successes. Ongoing educational programs are being developed and provided. The tech-prep development shows unlimited, short and long-term potential for the industry. USDA, Rural Development is also expected to approve use of the Intermediary Revolving Loan Fund for wood cluster entrepreneurs. Funding has been requested for the 2nd year through several sources (including ARC) with an objective of attaining self-sustainability within a reasonable time frame (3rd to 5th year).
PROJECT: Wood Industry Cluster, Phase II
GRANTEE: Northwest Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center
Purpose: To provide continued support for the second year of operations, training services and outreach for the wood industry cluster in north central and northwest Pennsylvania.
Funding:
| ARC: |
$175,000 |
| Other Federal: |
$48,000 |
| State: |
$20,000 |
| Local: |
$132,000 |
| Total: |
$375,000 |
Description: In the second year, the Wood Cluster Initiative has directly assisted 122 companies in its Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group (AHUG) meetings. Training programs were held (train the trainer, how to deal with media, certified lumber grading, logger safety and business management) which assisted over 40 businesses. The project also established its systematic approach to career development in the wood industry for kindergarten through post-secondary education. A low-interest revolving loan fund has been established and $975,000 has been made available to value-added wood companies for the purchase of equipment. Technical training and assistance was provided to 43 companies, which represents over 3,000 employees. The NWIRC expects the project to attain self-sustainability within a reasonable time frame (3rd to 5th year). It is an overall goal of the NWIRC to continue with the hardwood cluster activities, the development of the K-13 career development curriculum, and the training and technical assistance programs.
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