For Immediate Release

WHAT:
Ben Franklin Technology Partners (BFTP), a program of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development which is governed by the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority, will present the Pennsylvania Technology Showcase highlighting Ben Franklin portfolio companies from across the Commonwealth at the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg.

The showcase will feature eight Ben Franklin-funded companies all of whom will be on hand to demonstrate and exhibit their technology and innovation, spanning the industries of bio/life sciences, IT, and advanced manufacturing.

WHEN:
Tuesday, June 7, 2005 at the Capitol Rotunda, Harrisburg, PA, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

WHO:
Companies presenting in the Technology Showcase are:

B. Foster & Co., Inc., Waynesboro
Product/Service:

B. Foster & Co., Inc. has created a low-cost rescue unit, which contains lighting, power, rescue tools, and air bags in a light, compact trailer.

Gentis, Inc., Philadelphia
Product/Service:

Gentis, Inc. is developing breakthrough technologies for orthopaedic treatments in the form of synthetic products for treating degenerated intervertebral discs of the spine and other musculoskeletal lesions.

Innovative Control Systems, Inc., Nazareth
Product/Service

Innovative Control Systems, Inc. has created a product which applies sophisticated computer technology to the car wash and quick lube business.

Omega Tools, Inc., Portland
Product/Service:

Omega Tools, Inc. has created equipment and tools that allow utility companies to locate and repair pipe leaks through an 18-ince vertical tunnel rather than a 4-foot by 4-foot, or even larger, trench.

Plextronics, Harmarville
Product/Service:

Using technology developed at Carnegie Mellon University, Plextronics has created a new generation of advanced materials that combine the functional benefits of electrical conductivity with the design, processing, weight, and cost advantage of plastics.

RedZone Robotics, Homestead
Product/Service:

RedZone Robotics develops, manufactures and deploys robotic and remotely-controlled mobile equipment that clean, inspect and rehabilitate pipes and tanks for the water and wastewater industries.

Spinworks, LLC, Erie
Product/Service:

Spinworks, LLC has created the SpyroCor, which is a silicon-carbide insert used in industrial gas furnaces, improving heat transfer and saving10-20% on fuel consumption.

Xcelis Communications, LLC, Wayne
Product/Service:

Xcelis Communications, LLC is developing and licensing innovative products and integrated wireless solutions for the Connected Home. Xcelis’ Unum™ Architecture, a cost-effective worldwide compliant communications system, is capable of integrating voice, data, IP, fax, wireless and video on a single platform.

WHY:
Ben Franklin Technology Partners (BFTP) is a state-funded economic development organization positioned strategically throughout Pennsylvania, with regional headquarters in the Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and State College. Focusing on the entrepreneur as the ultimate engine of growth, BFTP delivers vital resources to technology-driven enterprises by investing risk capital, providing hands-on technical and business expertise, and delivering customized solutions that draw on an extensive network of public and private resources, including universities, federal laboratories and research institutions.

Periodically, BFTP hosts The Pennsylvania Technology Showcase to recognize its companies. All presenting companies have had measurable success after BFTPs initial investments and epitomize how BFTP supports and executes the Commonwealth’s technology agenda, builds on regional strengths, capitalizes on new opportunities and addresses specific needs of diverse communities.