​Innovate in PA 2.0 — A Civic Working Session

​Pennsylvania is refreshing its $100 million innovation funding bill.

​Innovate in PA 2.0 is the state's refresh of its original 2013 innovation funding legislation. As the bill moves toward the June 30 budget deadline, we think it needs amendments, and we want the right people in the room when that language gets written.

​The data is clear: founders in southwestern Pennsylvania currently see roughly 25 cents of every dollar appropriated in their name. The position is that number should be 75 cents. But we're not asking for that overnight.

​We're proposing a four-year glide path — a structured, accountable increase in the direct disbursement rate that gives institutions time to adapt while creating a legally binding commitment to founder-first capital allocation.

​75 cents on the dollar is the destination. The amendments define the road.

​But we're not coming with a finished answer. We're coming with data and a deadline — and we want this room to help write the language.

​Who should be in this room:

​Founders. Operators. Economists. Policy researchers. Legislative staffers. Journalists. Anyone who has studied, administered, received, applied for, or been denied funding through any of these four programs.

​And yes — if you work at BFTP, a Life Sciences Greenhouse, the Venture Investment Program, or the Commonwealth Financing Authority, you are welcome here too. We'd rather have your voice in the room than your lobbyist in Harrisburg.

​Schedule

​11:00 AM — Meet and Greet

​11:30 AM — Working session begins

​2:30 PM — Break

​3:00 PM — Working session resumes

​5:00 PM — Working session ends

​Rooftop after party (open to all)

​When

​June 20, 2026

​Where

​Field Day • 3706 Butler Street