Penn State News

After a delay of more than four months, the Pennsylvania General Assembly has passed a 2025-26 state budget that includes level funding for Penn State’s general support appropriation. Including this year, Penn State’s general support funding has been held flat at $242.1 million for each of the last six fiscal years and has not increased since a 2% rise in 2019-20.

The Berks LaunchBox powered by Penn State has announced seven recipients of its IMAGINE Your Business grant, designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs accelerate their business growth. The program awards up to $2,000 to assist startups with prototyping, marketing, product development and other essential business expenses.

The Berks LaunchBox powered by Penn State recently announced the winners of its Idea TestLab Pitch Competition in an award ceremony held on Nov. 5. Renaissance Labs earned first place, HT Organic Solutions took second place, and Heintz Tax Service placed third. In addition, this year’s Advisor’s Spotlight Award was presented to Jen Kutchner and Ruby Rodriguez of the Gilded Page.       

Forensic handwriting expert Beverley East explored handwriting, authenticity and AI at a Nov. 17 Penn State Lehigh Valley LaunchBox event during Global Entrepreneurship Week.

For six decades, the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program has been a catalyst for economic growth, environmental stewardship and technological advancement across Pennsylvania. Reflecting on its 60th year, PennTAP is celebrating growing statewide impact and a leadership role in one of Pennsylvania’s most significant grant programs.