Current News
For Immediate Release

Philadelphia, PA - September 3, 2003 - Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) recently signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with 16 area university administrations to provide entrepreneurs with increased access to federal funding, as well as assistance in their commercialization activities.

The MOU's formalize Ben Franklin's Technology Commercialization Network (TCN), a resource that links area universities and select non-profit research centers with regional companies to provide technical assistance, access to multi-disciplinary faculty teams and solutions to product development challenges.

Examples of TCN engagements include:

BMS Technologies Inc., Bucks County, and the Department of Physics - Temple University are analyzing and developing an Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) device prototype as well as perform decision and risk analysis for the product's market penetration strategy. OLED devices are the next generation of electronic images currently found in products such as cell phone displays and automotive dashboards.

Gentis Inc., Chester County, is working with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery - Thomas Jefferson University to generate feasibility data for generating 3-D cartilage tissue in vitro. Gentis develops biological and biomaterial based treatments to restore normal joint function by converting skin cells to cartilage cells.

Intellifit Corp., Philadelphia County, and the Electrical & Systems Engineering Department of the University of Pennsylvania have teamed up to investigate patents of prior art involving 3-dimensional radar holographic systems and present the company with a strength and validity report. Intellifit is an apparel technology company that uses radar to measure a customer's dimensions directly through clothing using a proprietary pattern software program.

KMiller Designs (KMD), Philadelphia County, has engaged the Plastics Manufacturing Center to aid its product development and manufacturing activities. KMD is developing a new type of dog treat with a mechanically adjustable "reward". KMD's product development challenge involves the development of a plastic part which is both durable and flexible.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) is dedicated to growing the region through science, technology and entrepreneurship. Now commemorating 20 years of innovation excellence, Ben Franklin provides entrepreneurs and established businesses the capital, talent, and expertise they need to compete. Like its namesake, Ben Franklin invests in, builds upon and delivers solutions that grow communities and create new wealth by supporting today's technological ideas and tomorrow's scientific discovery.