Perhaps the best testimonials to that success are those outlined in the profiles contained in this and past issues of KEYnotes. While we take a moment to reflect on the past, I encourage you to take a look at the KEYnotes archives—a true testament to the hundreds of successes our client companies and partnering organizations have enjoyed over the past quarter-century. We are honored to be part of such an inspiring legacy of success.

On the Road to Success
Across the Commonwealth, BFTP continues to support and nurture innovative new companies that are bringing far-reaching technological advances in a variety of fields. In this silver anniversary capstone issue, you'll read about Applied Computational Technologies of Somerset County, a company pioneering new processes poised to revolutionize cancer treatments for millions of people. Cohera Medical of Pittsburgh—a spinout of the University of Pittsburgh—is making significant progress on a new bio-adhesive to benefit plastic surgery patients. Custom Processing Services of Reading has become an industry leader in micronizing materials for a myriad of clients and uses. Looking ahead, the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship is working with high school students in the greater Philadelphia region to ensure that the type of outside-the-box thinking that has made these companies successful is carried forward to the next generation.

“Genius without education is like silver in the mine.” —BEN FRANKLIN

Meanwhile, from a statewide perspective, we have been humbled by the outpouring of well-wishes and recognition from around the Commonwealth, the nation and world. We were also honored to have such highly respected elected leaders as Gov. Ed Rendell, former Gov. Dick Thornburgh and state Rep. Rick Geist join business leaders such as Austin Burke and Brenda Gavin to contribute their thoughts and reflections to our e‑newsletter throughout 2008, which reaches thousands of influential thought leaders throughout the state.

Recognition for 25 Years of Impact
We are thrilled with the recognition that BFTP has received from national and international economic development organizations. In May, BFTP received the 2008 Award for Excellence in Technology-Led Economic Development from the United States Economic Development Administration, which recognizes innovative economic development efforts of national significance. In October, BFTP was honored by the International Economic Development Council for outstanding achievement in the category of ''Technology-Based Economic Development." Both awards recognized the success of our client companies over the past 25 years. Most recently, our Northeastern PA regional center was named fourth best place to work in Pennsylvania.

Looking ahead to the next quarter-century, the technological challenges we all face are tremendous—as are the opportunities. In today's hyper-competitive environment, change is lightning fast. Those who are slow to adapt, innovate and lead find themselves on the outside looking in. BFTP will continue to focus time, talent, capital, knowledge and networks on the issues that matter most, including creating alternative energy sources, leveraging the power of bio- and nanotechnology, improving the state's aging infrastructure and more.

As we celebrate the past and move enthusiastically into the future, the most important thing to remember is that we do not do this alone. I want to thank those who have supported this program over the past 25 years and those who have worked with us to ensure the success of our regional offices and portfolio companies throughout the Commonwealth. These individuals and organizations are what make us the Ben Franklin Technology Partners.

Happy Holidays to all!

Terry Singer
Director, Statewide Affairs
Ben Franklin Technology Partners


BFTP is an initiative of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and is funded by the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority.