Road to LionCage - Young Entrepreneurs
2025-09-30 16:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Downingtown STEM Academy, 335 Manor Ave., Downingtown, PA, 19335
A Pitch Competition Especially for High School Student Entrepreneurs from Across Southeastern Pennsylvania!
Invent Penn State and the LaunchBoxes at Penn State Brandywine and Great Valley, are partnering with the Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) to present LionCage 2025.
New this year is Road to LionCage, a series of six small, intimate pitch competitions that lead to the LionCage Pitch Competition in the fall of 2025. The September 30 session is specifically focused on high school student entrepreneurs.
Details:

The program will kick-off with a dynamic and informative panel discussion featuring successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Moderated by Troy Podell – Downingtown Area School District, the panel includes Peter Hornberger – Penn State Abington, Jessica Hallahan – Journey To Yourself Consulting, and 2024 LionCage Young Entrepreneur winner, Aryan Patel. You will gain valuable insights, learn from their experiences, and get expert advice on taking your business to the next level.
5 to 7 entrepreneurs will pitch their idea, product or service. Each will have five minutes to pitch followed by three minutes of Q&A with a panel of judges. Our esteemed judges include Peter Hornberger – Penn State Abington, and Tom Burke – AOIC, LLC and i2n Board Co-Chair, plus others to be announced.
Two winners will be selected. Prizes: $500 to first place and $250 to second place. PLUS, the first place winner will automatically qualify for the main LionCage Pitch Competition on November 14 where participants compete for thousands of dollars in prize money.

If you are you a student entrepreneur from a high school located across the six-county community of southeastern Pennsylvania with a big idea for a startup company, then Road to LionCage is for you! We invite high school students who are current or aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for this special pitch competition!
This is your chance to:

Pitch your startup or idea in front of a live audience
Connect with real entrepreneurs and mentors
Win a spot at LionCage 2025, the region’s top pitch competition

Whether you’ve got a tech idea, a solution to an old problem, or a big dream, we want to hear from you. Bring your passion, your creativity, and your hustle.
September 30 Agenda:
4:00 p.m. Registration
4:15 p.m. Opening Remarks
4:30 p.m. Panel Discussion
5:15 p.m. Pitch Presentations
6:30 p.m. Winners Announced and Reception
Guests are welcome and encouraged to attend, cheer on their favorite entrepreneur, listen to an inspiring panel discussion, and make new connections with business and community leaders.
There is no cost to pitch or attend. Advance registration required.

About LionCage:
Now in its second year, LionCage is presented by Invent Penn State and the LaunchBoxes at Penn State Brandywine and Great Valley, and the Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) to support entrepreneurs and innovators across all of southeastern Pennsylvania.
Learn more about LionCage and a recap of the 2024 event.
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About i2n: The Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) is an initiative of the Chester County Economic Development Council. Our mission is to make southeastern Pennsylvania the best possible place for early-stage and technology-driven companies to start, grow, and thrive.

Hiring 101 for Agriculture
2025-10-02 10:00 - 11:30 | Chester County Economic Development Council, 737 Constitution Drive, Exton, PA, 19341, United States
Join us for the soft launch of our hiring toolkit, built to support the hiring needs of small agriculture businesses.

Come join us for a hands-on introduction of our hiring toolkit, to support the ins and outs of hiring for your small agricultural business! Whether you’re looking to expand your team or just starting out, this event will cover everything from creating job postings to conducting interviews. Don’t miss this opportunity to network with other ag business owners and gain valuable insights into building a successful team.

Barrels & Business Networking at Penns Woods Winery
2025-10-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Penn Woods Winery, 124 Beaver Valley Rd., Chadds Ford, PA, 19317
The Manufacturing Alliance of Chester and Delaware Counties (MACC/DC) along with the Women in Manufacturing – Eastern PA Chapter (WiM) and the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry (CCCBI) will gather together to network and collaborate at the beautiful Penns Woods Winery in Chadds Ford.
Connect with fellow manufacturers and industry partners while we enjoy light food and wine. Catering is provided in part by Aneu Kitchens.
Enjoy conversations and share success stories, learn about upskilling employees, and available grants.
Your ticket includes light fare and two beverages.

Thank you to our sponsor: Thomas

NOTES:
Ticket are limited so don’t wait to register! No walk-ins permitted.
Refunds up to 7 days in advance.

ABOUT MACC/DC:
The Manufacturing Alliance of Chester & Delaware Counties is an initiative of CCEDC and Delaware County Community College and is funded in part by the private sector with grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry through the Chester County Workforce Development Board (WDB)

TECH360
2025-10-15 11:30 - 17:00 | Penn State Great Valley, 30 E. Swedesford Road, Malvern, 19355, United States
Get ready for TECH360 2025! This years theme is AI for All.

TECH360 is a half-day tech experience featuring tech education, leadership, innovation, and networking. Join the area’s top companies, IT professionals, leaders, and managers to discuss how to best leverage the latest technology in today’s business climate.
Artificial intelligence is no longer a future possibility—it’s here, reshaping the way we live and work. This year’s theme, AI for All, explores how artificial intelligence is transforming every sector—from logistics to life sciences, finance to education—and every role, from frontline operations to the C-suite.
2025 speaker and agenda updates coming soon to TECH360pa.com.

11:30 a.m. Check in and Lunch
12:15 p.m. Speaker Sessions Begin
4:00 p.m. Appetizers and Networking

Would you like to connect with other technology professionals, reach new customers, or build new partnerships? With plenty of networking opportunities, TECH360 is a great place to make or re-establish those connections.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Capacity is limited. NO ONE WILL BE ADMITTED WITHOUT A RESERVED TICKET. Registration ends at noon on October 13th.

Refund Policy: Attendees can receive refunds up to 24 hours before the event. Contact smalloy@ccedcpa.com

ABOUT ITAG:
ITAG is an industry partnership dedicated to promoting Information Technology, Communications, and Technological Processes to all companies and individuals in Southeastern Pennsylvania as a means to become more effective in an increasingly sophisticated global marketplace. Visit https://itag.ccedcpa.com/ to learn more.
ITAG is a regional initiative of the Chester County Economic Development Council. ITAG is supported with grant funds from the PA Department of Labor and Industry through the Chester County Workforce Development Board and contributions from the private sector.

Road to LionCage - U.S. Military Veteran Founders
2025-10-15 17:00 - 21:00 | Greencastle Consulting LLC, 400 Chesterfield Parkway, Malvern, PA, 19355
Invent Penn State and the LaunchBoxes at Penn State Brandywine and Great Valley, are partnering with the Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) to present LionCage 2025.
New this year is Road to LionCage, a series of six small, intimate pitch competitions that lead to the LionCage Pitch Competition in the fall of 2025. The October 15 session is focused on U.S. Military Veteran Founders. Join us for an inspiring evening of pitches and camaraderie as we recognize the entrepreneurial spirit and leadership of those who have served our country with pride and are now building companies of today and tomorrow.
Details:

The program will kick-off with a dynamic and informative panel discussion featuring successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. You will gain valuable insights, learn from their experiences, and get expert advice on taking your business to the next level.
Five to seven entrepreneurs will pitch their idea, product or service. Each will have five minutes to pitch followed by three minutes of Q&A with a panel of judges.
Two winners will be selected. Prizes: $500 to first place and $250 to second place. PLUS, the first place winner will automatically qualify for the main LionCage Pitch Competition on November 14 where participants compete for thousands of dollars in prize money.

October 15 Agenda:
5:00 p.m. Registration
5:30 p.m. Opening Remarks
5:45 p.m. Panel Discussion
6:30 p.m. Pitch Presentations
8:00 p.m. Winners Announced and Reception
Guests are welcome and encouraged to attend, cheer on their favorite entrepreneur, listen to an inspiring panel discussion, and make new connections with business and community leaders.
There is no cost to pitch or attend. Advance registration required. No walkins permitted.
APPLY TO PITCH:
CLICK HERE for more details and an application. Note: This link is for applications only. Applications due no later than midnight, September 30.
ATTEND THE EVENT:
Click on the “Get Tickets” button. Remember, there is no cost to attend but advance registration is required. Registration closes at noon on October 14.
About LionCage:
Now in its second year, LionCage is presented by Invent Penn State and the LaunchBoxes at Penn State Brandywine and Great Valley, and the Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) to support entrepreneurs and innovators across all of southeastern Pennsylvania.
Click here to visit the LionCage website for more details and a recap of the 2024 event.

Personal Branding for Leaders: Own Your Narrative
2025-10-22 11:30 - 13:00 | Chester County Economic Development Council, 737 Constitution Drive, Exton, PA, 19341, United States
Helping individuals clarify and communicate their value, presence, and purpose within the workplace and beyond!
*Lunch Provided

International Business Roundtable: Foreign Exchange & International Banking
2025-10-30 08:30 - 10:00 | Fulton Bank, 1 Penn Square, Lancaster, PA, 17602
Join the Pennsylvania Global Business Advisors (GBA) for a timely international business roundtable that cuts through the noise and delivers real-world insights on the shifting foreign exchange environment and international banking. This session is designed for globally-minded companies and the professionals who support them.
Engage in an exclusive conversation exploring key trends in foreign exchange and international banking, hosted by Fulton Bank and in partnership with The Lancaster Chamber! Join finance leaders and regional experts as we unpack currency market dynamics, cross-border payment innovations, and regulatory developments shaping the future of international finance.
Whether you’re navigating global expansion, managing FX risk, or seeking clarity on banking across borders, this session offers actionable insights and valuable connections.

GETT - Girls Exploring Tomorrow's Technology 2025
2025-11-01 10:00 - 14:00 | The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA, 19456, United States
GETT (Girls Exploring Tomorrow’s Technology) is an annual event for girls in grades 4-10 and their parents where they learn about career opportunities in a broad scope of STEM- related industries. The day is filled with exciting, enlightening, and experiential activities led by successful women in STEM fields. Explore hands-on interactive activities and discover new ways to connect your passions for science, technology, engineering, and math!
GETT began as a response to the under-representation of young women in STEM. Over 9,400 young women have been impacted by this program. This year – we celebrate our 25th Anniversary, and look forward to exceeding 10,000 young women impacted by the program.
Questions? Please refer to our About page first. If that does not answer your question, CONTACT US!
Interested in volunteering? Click HERE to learn more!
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED – TICKETS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR.
GETT 2025 Waiver: In an effort to capture the essence of this event, CCEDC staff will be taking photos/videos. By attending you consent to your voice, name, and/or likeness being used, without compensation, in photo/video for inclusion in any and all media, whether now known or hereafter devised, for eternity, and you release CCEDC and its initiatives, its successors, assigns and licensees from any liability whatsoever of any nature.
Food Samples and Allergies: Please be advised that some Expo Table Companies may include food samples in their activities and displays at the event. If anyone in your group has any food allergies or dietary restrictions, we strongly recommend that you exercise caution and inquire about ingredients before consuming any samples. CCEDC and participating companies are not responsible for any allergic reactions or adverse effects.
Please continue to check gettpa.org for updates.

Small Business Workshops
2025-11-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Chester County Economic Development Council, 737 Constitution Drive, Exton, PA, 19341, United States
Join us for these FREE opportunities to help get your small business off the ground or growing. Attendees may choose one of the following sessions:
Developing a Business Plan 1 & 2
This two-part workshop is designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to create a strong foundation for their -P-L-AN- business through a well-crafted business plan. Participants will learn o = the essential components of a business plan, including defining their vision, identifying target markets, analyzing competition, and outlining strategies for growth.We will also cover financial projections and operational planning to ensure the plan is both realistic and actionable.
Access to Capital
This workshop is tailored for business owners who want to better understand the different financing options available to them and how to determine which option best fits theirneeds. We’ll explore traditional lending sources such as banks and credit unions, as well as alternative options including micro loans, grants, crowdfunding, and venture capital. By the end of the workshop, attendees will have a clearer picture of the capital landscape and be better prepared to pursue the funding opportunities that will help their businesses grow.
Running a Profitable Company
This workshop is designed for business owners who want to take a closer look at the financial health of their company and learn how to increase profitability. Participants will explore practical strategies for managing expenses, improving cash flow, and identifying new revenue opportunities. By the end of this session.attendees will have a clearer understanding of what it takes to run a financially sound business and how to put systems in place that maximize both efficiency and profitability.

LionCage Pitch Competition - 2025
2025-11-14 08:00 - 17:00 | Penn State Great Valley, 30 E. Swedesford Road, Malvern, 19355, United States
The largest regional pitch competition in PA offering startups and entrepreneurs exposure, connections, and the chance to win cash!

Be Part of the LionCage Audience!
Join us as an audience member to cheer on the startups and entrepreneurs competing in the 2025 LionCage Pitch Competition! You’ll be inspired as we learn more about the innovators of tomorrow who are transforming their industries and our society. And you’ll make new connections with business and community leaders, investors, creators, and other entreprenuers across our regional innovation ecosystem.
Registration:
Ticket prices include breakfast, lunch, keynote speaker sessions, and awards reception with food and refreshments. Audience members can join us for the full day or for portions of the day.
NOTE: Guests under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult – a parent, family member, teacher or staff member. Must be age 21 to consume alcohol.
About LionCage:
Invent Penn State LaunchBoxes at Brandywine and Great Valley and the Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) present LionCage, a dynamic regional pitch competition to support entrepreneurs and innovators.
Prizes:
A total of $35,000 will be awarded to across the winners and runners-up of several categories. One winner be named “best of show” and receive $10,000!
Click here to visit the LionCage website for more details about the event.
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About i2n: The Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) is helping to make southeastern Pennsylvania the best possible place for early-stage, technology-driven companies to start, grow, and thrive.

Thank you to all of our supporters!

Engineering, Manufacturing, and IT Job Fair
2025-11-18 14:00 - 17:00 | Penn State Great Valley – Main Building, 30 E. Swedesford Rd., Malvern, PA, 19355
Overview

Meet hiring managers from top engineering, manufacturing, and tech companies at a job fair on November 18th at Penn State Great Valley.

Did you know? According to LinkedIn, only 20% of jobs are filled through online applications. The rest? Personal connections.
This event is your chance to make those connections.
Join us at Penn State Great Valley (PSGV) in Malvern for a dynamic job fair connecting local employers with job seekers in the fields of engineering, manufacturing, and information technology.
JOB SEEKERS
Are you:

A current student or recent graduate seeking internships or full-time employment?
An experienced professional looking for your next opportunity?

This job fair will connect you directly with employers hiring in:

Engineering, IT, and Manufacturing
Corporate roles in Logistics, Finance, HR, and more
Shop floor positions like Warehouse Workers, Forklift Operators, and Assemblers

Capacity is limited to 200 job seekers. Register now to secure your spot!
EMPLOYERS
Are you hiring for full-time roles or internships in:

Product Design Engineering
Process Engineering
Quality Control
Lean Manufacturing
Supply Chain
Data Analytics
Artificial Intelligence
Shop Floor Operations (Machinists, Welders, Assemblers, etc.)

Meet candidates from Penn State University, West Chester University, Immaculata University, Ursinus College, Chester County’s Technical College High Schools, and experienced professionals from the region.
Space is limited. Register for to reserve a table (up to 2 representatives per company).
AGENDA:
1:30 p.m. – Employer set-up
2 :00 p.m. – Job Seeker check-in begins
2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Job Fair (two rooms will be available at the venue to accommodate one-on-one interviews)
Thank you to our sponsor Penn State University!
HireOne, a CCEDC initiative, is a public/private partnership which provides employment services to the Health Care, Energy, IT/Communications, Life Science, Manufacturing, Financial Services, and Agriculture industries. The Manufacturing Alliance of Chester & Delaware Counties is an initiative of CCEDC and Delaware County Community College and is funded in part by the private sector with grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry through the Chester County Workforce Development Board (WDB)The Manufacturing Alliance of Chester and Delaware counties is a recognized Industry Partnership and free to join.

15th Annual Stakeholders Breakfast
2025-11-20 07:30 - 09:30 | The Desmond Hotel, One Liberty Blvd., Malvern, PA, 19355
SAVE THE DATE!
15th Annual Stakeholders Breakfast
Thursday, November 20
7:30 a.m
The Desmond Hotel, Malvern – a Doubletree by Hilton

Agenda:
7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. Registration & Breakfast
8:15 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Program Presentations

Please note that this event is by invitation-only for our valued investors, key partners, and event sponsors. If you are not an investor but interested in learning more about our Investor Program, please reach out to MaryFrances McGarrity at 610.321.8223.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please see details below or contact Tracey Oberholtzer for more information.

Holiday Networking with ITAG and MACC/DC
2025-12-03 17:00 - 19:00 | Chester County Economic Development Council, 737 Constitution Drive, Exton, PA, 19341, United States
Join us for a festive evening of networking with the ITAG and MACC/DC partnerships!

The Innovative Technology Action Group (ITAG) and the Manufacturing Alliance of Chester and Delaware Counties (MACC/DC) will gather together to celebrate the winter holidays and another successful year of the partnerships.

Join us to expand your business network at the Chester County Economic Development Council. Connect with other technology professionals, industry partners and manufacturers.
Listen to success stories and enjoy conversations about hiring and retention, connections made, educational events, upskilling employees, and available grants.
Your ticket includes light fare and first beverage.

Please help us to grow the ITAG and MACC/DC Partnerships by inviting fellow industry professionals to attend!
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Email mstack@ccedcpa.com (ITAG) or jlauckner@ccedcpa.com (MACC/DC)

NOTES:

Tickets are limited so don’t wait to register! We are expecting this event to sell out quickly. No walk-ins permitted.
If you are a manufacturer please click here to register.
Refunds up to 7 days in advance.
In case of inclement weather, you will be notified by email, after which time a new date will be communicated.

REGISTRATION:

If you are a manufacturer please click here to register.
If you are a technology professional / ITAG partner, please register HERE

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ABOUT ITAG:
The Innovative Technology Action Group (ITAG) is a regional initiative of the Chester County Economic Development Councildedicated to building a stronger more competitive tech industry and promoting Information Technology, Communications, and Technological Processes to all companies and individuals in Southeastern Pennsylvania. ITAG is supported with grant funds from the PA Department of Labor and Industry through the Chester County Workforce Development Board and contributions from the private sector. Visit https://itag.ccedcpa.com/ to learn more.
ABOUT MACC/DC:
The Manufacturing Alliance of Chester & Delaware Counties is an initiative of CCEDC and Delaware County Community College and is funded in part by the private sector with grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry through the Chester County Workforce Development Board (WDB)

Meet the Network & International Holiday Social
2025-12-03 17:00 - 19:30 | Greencastle Consulting LLC, 400 Chesterfield Parkway, Malvern, PA, 19355
Connect, celebrate, and toast to a global community of innovators with i2n & GBA!

Join i2n and GBA for a collaborative celebration as we bring our communities of entrepreneurs, global business leaders, innovative companies — and those who support their growth — together for meaningful connections!
i2n and GBA invite you to a special Meet the Network & International Social, where global business leaders, founders, and friends will gather to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the year! Hosted with our friends and colleagues at GreenCastle Consulting, you can expect meaningful conversations with new connections and old friends in a uniquely festive atmosphere that highlights the power of collaboration.
TICKETS:

i2n Partners, Supporters and Entrepreneurs, as well as GBA Ambassadors & Envoys, are welcome to attend at no cost.
Members of our new investment group, i2n Angels, are also welcome to attend at no cost.
For those who are not yet a part of one of the above groups, the cost is $25.00. Please register using the General Admission ticket.
If you are not sure, please contact Abby or Matt for clarity.

Appetizers, refreshments, plus great connections and conversations will be served!
Advance registration required. Registration closes at noon December 2.
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About i2n: The Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) is an initiative of the Chester County Economic Development Council. Our mission is to make southeastern Pennsylvania the best possible place for early-stage and technology-driven companies to start, grow, and thrive.
About GBA: For more than 35 years, GBA has been a trusted advisor for businesses across Pennsylvania seeking to grow globally, as well as international companies seeking to establish operations in PA. It is a private non-profit, consisting of professionals with expertise across a range of industries and services, including finance, law, accounting, logistics, manufacturing, technology, trade, and more.

22nd Annual Economic Outlook
2026-01-16 07:30 - 09:30 | Penn State Great Valley, 30 E. Swedesford Road, Malvern, 19355, United States
Join us for the region’s longest-running economic outlook event where we will identify the economic challenges and trends to come in 2026.

The 22nd Annual CCEDC Economic Outlook offers a fantastic opportunity for businesses and corporate leaders to gain insight into the global economy and financial markets as we head into 2026.
We are thrilled to announce that Patti Brennan (CEO, Key Financial, Inc.), and Dianne P. Manges (CFA, Senior Investment Advisor, Truist Foundations & Endowments Practice) return again this year to share their unique perspectives, as well as in-depth analysis and expertise related to the local, national and global economic landscape.
Be sure to register early to secure your seat—this is one event you don’t want to miss!
Join us at Penn State University Great Valley on Friday, January 16:

7:30 am – Networking and Breakfast
8:00 am-9:30 am- Program Presentations

Any questions? Please contact Tracey Oberholtzer, toberholtzer@ccedcpa.com.

PLEASE NOTE:

We look forward to seeing you at this in-person event.
Due to capacity limits, NO ONE WILL BE ADMITTED WITHOUT A RESERVED TICKET.
Tickets will not be sold at the door and must be purchased in advance of the event date.
