Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania is a technology-focused capital provider based in Philadelphia, founded in 1982 to advance the region's technology community. The organization funds and supports technology companies across Pennsylvania, especially in information technology, health, and physical sciences, investing substantial capital in early-stage and established ventures. It has invested over 170 million dollars in more than 1,750 regional technology companies and has launched university-industry partnerships to translate scientific discoveries into commercial products, while seeding regional initiatives that strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem and create jobs.

Jonathan Beschen

Investment Director

Anthony George

Analyst

Jennifer Hartt

Managing Director

Kathie Jordan Ph.D

Managing Director

Roze McDevitt

Analyst

Past deals in Design

Defend Your Head

Seed Round in 2015
Defend Your Head, based in Chester Springs, PA, specializes in innovative helmet technology designed to reduce head injuries in contact sports, military, and industrial settings. The company has developed a patented soft shell protective helmet called the ProCap, which enhances the protective capabilities of existing helmets. Unlike traditional helmets that primarily focus on internal padding, the ProCap utilizes a unique design that absorbs and dissipates energy, reduces the speed of impact, and deflects glancing blows. Independent lab tests have demonstrated its effectiveness in minimizing sports-related injuries. The ProCap is customizable in color, compatible with decals, and resistant to extreme temperatures, offering advantages over competitor products. Founded in 2013 after a merger that built upon earlier technology developed by private investors and physicians, Defend Your Head is led by John Roman, a former NFL player, alongside Frank Lytle, an experienced product designer, and Greg Lewis, a finance and marketing professional. The company anticipates launching its product in the market in late summer.

Superior Solar Design

Seed Round in 2014
Superior Solar Design LLC, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, specializes in the design and installation of turnkey solar electric and thermal heating systems for both commercial and residential clients. The company is notable for its innovative SolarPower Table, an off-grid solar-powered charging station designed for mobile devices and small electronics, which includes essential components like photovoltaic batteries, inverters, and solar panels. In addition to the SolarPower Table, which is suitable for various outdoor venues such as school campuses and parks, Superior Solar Design offers comprehensive services including solar system design, energy audits, load assessments, and installation of solar farms and water heaters. The company aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce electricity consumption through its tailored solar solutions.

Defend Your Head

Seed Round in 2014
Defend Your Head, based in Chester Springs, PA, specializes in innovative helmet technology designed to reduce head injuries in contact sports, military, and industrial settings. The company has developed a patented soft shell protective helmet called the ProCap, which enhances the protective capabilities of existing helmets. Unlike traditional helmets that primarily focus on internal padding, the ProCap utilizes a unique design that absorbs and dissipates energy, reduces the speed of impact, and deflects glancing blows. Independent lab tests have demonstrated its effectiveness in minimizing sports-related injuries. The ProCap is customizable in color, compatible with decals, and resistant to extreme temperatures, offering advantages over competitor products. Founded in 2013 after a merger that built upon earlier technology developed by private investors and physicians, Defend Your Head is led by John Roman, a former NFL player, alongside Frank Lytle, an experienced product designer, and Greg Lewis, a finance and marketing professional. The company anticipates launching its product in the market in late summer.
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