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

Congratulations i2n Company, VenatoRx Pharmaceuticals. Founders Named EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2018 Finalists

  Congratulations! EY announced that VenatoRx Pharmaceuticals’ founders Christopher J. Burns, Ph.D., President and CEO, Luigi Xerri, Ph.D., Chief Development Officer, and Daniel C. Pevear, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Biology and Grants Development have been named finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2018 Award in the Greater Philadelphia area.

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News & Events

TECH360 – October 18, Early Bird Registration until Sept. 21

  Register today for TECH360 to take advantage of early bird registration until September 21. TECH360 is a full day tech experience featuring tech education, leadership, innovation, and networking. Visit the

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Aspiring entrepreneurs take business ideas from concept to creation… in 54 hours!

Area entrepreneurs had just 54 hours to take a business idea from concept to start-up, during the Techstars Startup Weekend, held June 1-3 at West Chester University. The three-day event

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