UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Invent Penn State LaunchBox & Innovation Network is advancing the University’s land-grant mission by delivering entrepreneurial resources, programming, consulting, coworking spaces and funding opportunities to communities across the commonwealth. With 23 locations statewide, the network ensures 96% of Pennsylvanians have access to innovation and entrepreneurship resources within 30 miles, helping make entrepreneurial dreams a reality in urban centers and rural highlands alike.
This past year, the network grew stronger by integrating two existing spaces: OriginLabs, a prototyping and fabrication lab in State College; and the Digital Foundry, a center for digital manufacturing and workforce development in New Kensington. These additions enhance the network’s ability to provide advanced technical training, hands-on innovation, and skill-building opportunities for entrepreneurs and students.
“The addition of OriginLabs and the Digital Foundry highlights the network’s ability to adapt and expand to meet the specific needs of Pennsylvania’s entrepreneurs,” said Brad Zdenek, director of economic development and student programs in the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization. “By equipping entrepreneurs with the hands-on training and prototyping capabilities these spaces offer, we’re enabling them to transform ideas into tangible products and bring their visions to life in impactful ways.”
In fiscal year 2023–24, the network supported 1,356 entrepreneurs, engaged 3,274 students, and directly facilitated the creation of 193 new jobs and 113 startups across Pennsylvania. Behind these numbers are inspiring stories: a Penn State student startup redefining the tax refund process, Penn State staff members launching an indoor drone footage company, and a veteran introducing a haircare line in Hazleton.
Each success story reflects the network’s ability to help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and bring their ideas to life — a mission further supported by the Penn State Law Clinics, which provide free legal and intellectual property assistance to entrepreneurs across the state. The Penn State Law Entrepreneur Assistance Clinic and Intellectual Property Clinic assisted more than 2,200 entrepreneurs with vital legal guidance to protect and grow their businesses.
These services, combined with accelerator programs, pitch competitions, mentorship, and funding opportunities, ensure the network meets the diverse needs of Pennsylvania’s innovators.
"The LaunchBox & Innovation Network has had another very successful year of delivering critical resources to entrepreneurs and communities across the commonwealth," said Annie Hughes, statewide coordinator of the network. "This success is a testament to the tireless efforts of our LaunchBox directors, whose passion and dedication have strengthened our statewide impact. Their work ensures that Penn State’s mission of driving innovation and opportunity reaches every corner of Pennsylvania."
By offering tailored support and creating a welcoming environment, the network helps entrepreneurs from all backgrounds have the resources they need to thrive.
“Our network is a catalyst for innovation and a driver of economic growth across Pennsylvania,” said James Delattre, associate vice president for research and director of the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization. “By fostering collaboration, creativity and inclusivity, we’re not only helping entrepreneurs succeed but also strengthening the communities we serve.”
According to Delattre, the statewide impact and effort of the LaunchBox & Innovation Network would not be possible without the generosity of donors, as well as the support of Penn State leadership and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Advocacy efforts are crucial to ensuring these transformative initiatives continue to thrive. Learn more about opportunities to advocate for Invent Penn State.
About Invent Penn State
Invent Penn State is a commonwealth-wide initiative to spur economic development, job creation and student career success. Invent Penn State blends entrepreneurship-focused academic programs, business startup training and incubation, funding for commercialization, and university/community/industry collaborations to facilitate the challenging process of turning research discoveries into valuable products and services that can benefit Pennsylvanians and humankind. Subscribe to the Invent Penn State monthly e-letter and follow Invent Penn State on LinkedIn and Instagram.
This project was financed in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community & Economic Development.