Nanotechnology, or the development and research of technologies and products on an atomic and molecular scale, is one of the key economic drivers of the 21st center.

Today we are seeing a massive increase in nanotechnology-dependent products, including improved biosensors for detection of infectious disease, nano-catalytic approaches to fuel cells, and targeted drug delivery.  Nanotechnology is improving a wide range of technologies across pharmaceuticals, aerospace, medical devices, biotechnology, food processing, defense, and homeland security.

Ben Franklin is driving the region’s nanotechnology initiatives primarily through The Nanotechnology Institute™ and Mid-Atlantic Nanotechnology Alliance (MANA®).

Ben Franklin, The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University created The Nanotechnology Institute™ (NTI) in 2000 to coalesce the region’s efforts around this important technology.  This technology powerhouse is the region’s first multi-institutional partnership created to accelerate nanotechnology commercialization and company formation. The NTI has supported the development of more than 357 Intellectual Property assets, created more than 22 companies, executed 35 technology licenses, and attracted more than $200MM in public and private investment to the region. The NTI is funded by PA’s Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority.

The Mid-Atlantic Nanotechnology Alliance (MANA ®) is the nation’s first tri-state partnership created to advance nanotechnology. Together, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware are highlighting emerging opportunities, marketing the region’s capabilities, and attracting significant investments.