 |
| Since 1966, Fischione Instruments has offered innovative sample preparation instruments, advanced imaging technology and specimen holders for electron microscopy. |
The Commonwealth's landmark 2004 study "Manufacturing Pennsylvania's Future" confirmed that process and product innovation are the best ways for manufacturers to compete in today's market. With this in mind, Fischione Instruments returned to BFTP more than 20 years after it received one of BFTP's first investments in the southwest region.
Fischione has been making instruments for electron microscopy sample preparation for nearly 40 years. The emerging applications of nanotechnology have created a growing demand for these instruments. Fischione identified a potential product to conduct three-dimensional experimentation with the electron microscope. This product, having global demand, could triple the company's revenue within five years and add another 25 positions, doubling the number of staff.
Fischione has come full circle as they re-enter the invention stage, receiving yet another BFTP first: the company was recently named the first manufacturer to receive Ben Franklin's new Innovation Adoption Grant. The grant makes up to $50,000 available for established manufacturing companies to work with regional universities and other centers of excellence to apply new technology that directly relates to bottom-line improvement and job growth.
The company has partnered with the University of Pittsburgh's John A. Swanson Center for Product Innovation to work on product development for the new microscope. The grant will cover half the cost of the first phase of this project; the other half is covered by Fischione.
From the September/October 2005 issue
|