The Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) is a program within the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC). The mission of the i2n is to support emerging growth businesses throughout their entire life cycle by leveraging the assets of our academic institutions and our partners to create a network of physical and virtual resources. Entrepreneurs are strategically connected with established professionals whose experience and knowledge become pivotal stops on an emerging company's roadmap toward success.

As a program of the CCEDC, i2n is the resources group designated to assist eligible companies in Chester County and Delaware County. Offering a comprehensive package of resources, services, and opportunities, i2n primarily serves emerging growth businesses in the life science, information technology and energy sectors that are eight years old or less. Through the facilitation of funding provided by diversified, private investors and public sources, the establishment of strategic network alliances, and the development of innovation centers, i2n expands upon the best practices in technology-based economic development. Read more

Local Entrepreneurs Supported in their Quest to Innovate

One of our early i2n innovation success stories is EvolveIP, founded by Guy Fardone. Let's hear directly from Guy as he shares his thoughts on how startups, like his, are supported by this community that nurtures a culture of innovation!

Prompting the Start-Up of i2n

To drive Pennsylvania's economic development, Keystone Innovation Zones were created (also known as KIZs). As a unit, and within a geographically defined 'zone', educational institutions, economic developers, businesses, capital sources and community leaders come together to implement an effective network of resources for startup companies in innovative industries. Through the advancement of these entrepreneurial organizations, new jobs result, stimulating economic and social growth throughout the state. In March 2012, the Chester County KIZ and the Delaware County KIZ consolidated, forming the Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n), now a Chester County Economic Development (CCEDC) initiative. i2n represents the resources group established specifically to support the entrepreneurial, innovative companies in Chester County and Delaware County.

Company Focus

Graduated i2n Company Finds Success

Fibrocell, an Exton based cell and gene therapy company will be acquired for $63.3M. It became a participating i2n company in 2012 taking advantage of the many network offerings that helped it grow. The company received a total of $100,171 in Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) tax credits as an i2n

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News & Events

i2n Welcomes New Board Member

  Carly Meyer Bentley, Vice President and Senior Private Client Advisor at Wilmington Trust brings a wealth of experience to the i2n board. Her network and business experience, particularly in

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Pitch Opportunity for Early-Stage Entrepreneurs

Do you have a new idea, product or service? The REV-UP Center for Entrepreneurship’s annual Lion Cage event presents an opportunity for early-stage entrepreneurs to pitch products and compete for

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