HARRISBURG, PA — The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has announced a $3 million investment in two venture capital firms. The funds, awarded through the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority (BFTDA), will be directed towards early-stage technology companies within the state.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger made the announcement on Friday, highlighting the role of these investments in advancing the state’s position in the global economy. This latest funding round brings the total private sector investment in Pennsylvania since January 2023, under Governor Shapiro’s administration, to more than $1.2 billion.
“Our investments in high-growth, innovative industries and firms are helping position Pennsylvania to be an economic powerhouse,” said Secretary Siger. “Today’s awards will help support many worthy projects, including one that will expand healthcare access in underserved communities.”
The lion’s share of the award, $2 million, is slated for Sana Capital Fund I, LP, established by Sana Capital Partners, LLC. The fund, led by founder and Managing Partner Jason P. Torres, aims to improve healthcare access and quality of care for underprivileged individuals. Notably, Sana is a 100% Latinx-owned venture, located in Newtown, Bucks County. The award was possible through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Diverse Leaders Venture Program.
The remaining $1 million will go to Science Center Health Fund, LLC, which plans to invest in early-stage healthcare and med-tech companies. The fund will source deals via programs sponsored by the University City Science Center and will be led by Heath Naquin and Eli Velasquez. The BFTDA’s Venture Investment Program facilitated this award.
These investments reflect the broader mission of the BFTDA, one of the oldest and most emulated state technology development programs in the country. The BFTDA promotes an entrepreneurial business environment, advances technology innovation, and creates a technology-ready workforce.
This strategic funding could have far-reaching implications for Pennsylvania’s economic landscape. By investing in early-stage tech companies, the state can potentially foster innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Moreover, the specific focus on healthcare access and med-tech could help address critical health disparities, particularly in underserved communities.
However, the success of these investments will largely depend on how effectively these venture capital firms can identify, support, and grow promising startups. As such, this announcement marks just the beginning of an ongoing process, with the true impact of these investments likely to emerge over the coming years.
In the meantime, this initiative sends a strong signal about Pennsylvania’s commitment to nurturing its technology sector and building an inclusive, future-focused economy. As Secretary Siger put it, the state is positioning itself to be an “economic powerhouse,” and these investments represent a significant step towards that goal.
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