Innovation in Action: NW PA Founder Conversations
A Panel Discussion Featuring Entrepreneurs and Business Owners in Conversation with Brian Slawin, B.S., Ben Franklin Technology Partner Regional Director and Portfolio Manager
Innovation doesn't live in theory. Instead, it lives in decisions, risk and execution and the founders and their teams who adapt to change as they create long-term value. This dynamic and interactive panel convenes founders from the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern PA portfolio, and will explore how innovation drives growth, resilience and reinvention at both the company level and the community impact that has. This seminar is a candid look at how Northwest Pennsylvania innovators are laying the groundwork for the future by moving beyond buzzwords to examine how innovation actually happens and reveals what innovation looks like when ideas are turned into durable businesses by navigating uncertainty and designing models built to last.
As the United States reflects on 250 years of progress, this panel will focus on what comes next by reframing innovation as a daily discipline actively shaping the economic future of Northwest Pennsylvania. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of innovation as a lived practice that is actively reshaping the region's future.
This event is part of the JES's USA 250 Event Series, and part of the KeyStone Sparks series in partnership with Ben Franklin Technology Partners.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St. Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Wednesday, July 15th, 7:00-8:30PM
Admission: FREE
Brian Slawin, B.S., is a serial entrepreneur who discovers, invests in, and supports startup technology and small manufacturing companies throughout Central & Northern PA. Growing up in St. Louis – and beneath the flight path of Lambert Field – Brian’s lifelong obsession with all things that fly led him to become a Commercial Pilot, a Gold Seal Chief Flight Instructor, and an airshow pilot for more than 15 years. Now, as a Board Member of the Erie Regional Airport Authority, Brian combines his insights as a small business and start-up mentor in his work with other ERAA Board Members and the professional staff at ERI to support the forward progress being made at the Erie International Airport.
