Cumberland, Dauphin startup businesses recognized by Ben Franklin Tech

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Companies in Cumberland and Dauphin counties were among the entrepreneurial teams recognized recently by Ben Franklin Technology Partners at their TechCelerator Startup Bootcamp. 

Of the eight entrepreneurial teams, two were awarded prize money, including Workforce Consolidation Solutions (WCS) of Dauphin County. Founded by Ronnie Tillman-Hill and Alex Steele, the company provides eco-friendly employee transportation solutions, optimizes routes and reduces commute times, enhancing employee experience and workforce management, per a release. WCS gained the second-place prize of $4,500.

Among the entrepreneurial teams receiving $1,000 each was KeyHealth Analytics of Cumberland County. Founded by Mike Hancock, KeyHealth Analytics streamlines PA Medicaid physician enrollment through automation, maximizing efficiency and reduces costs and allowing healthcare providers to focus on delivering quality care.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners hosted a virtual pitch event on Tuesday for their TechCelerator Startup Bootcamp in State College. Eight entrepreneurial teams presented their business startup ideas to a panel of judges, friends, family, and other community members for a chance to win $10,000 to launch their business. According to a release, the 10-week business boot camp provides local entrepreneurs with a platform to kickstart their startups.

“Through expert-led weekly group sessions and personalized mentorship, participants refine their business models, financial strategies, and presentation skills, culminating in a compelling pitch presentation,” the release stated. “This program equips participants with the insights to gauge optimal startup timing and grants the chance to secure up to $15,000 in funding through a pitch before judges.”

First place of $5,500 went to TDAY Sports of Centre County, a social media marketing company targeting Gen-Z sports fans, TDAY Sports creates captivating content to fill the gap in sports media focused on younger generations.

Joining KeyHealth Analytics in taking home $1,000 each was Centre County’s Digital Evaluation Board, DementiAnalytics, PathQuester, and PlayPrint, along with Kustom King Traditional Archery of Blair County.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners is an initiative of the PA Department of Community & Economic Development and funded by the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority. The company has provided investment capital, business support services, and operational assistance to tech-startups and small manufacturers for nearly 40 years.