Section 400.11 - Ben Franklin technology centersA Ben Franklin technology center shall:
(1) Act to assist companies and regions to identify and develop local technology opportunities which make significant contributions to this Commonwealth's economy.(2) Offer businesses comprehensive assistance which may include, but not be limited to:(i) Development and strengthening of joint research and development efforts, including facilities for advanced technologies activities, equipment, personnel, land and related activities, which will lead to new technologies which will create or preserve jobs.(ii) Providing training and curriculum development related to advanced technology in order to provide a skilled work force to secure employment in advanced technology industries.(iii) Technical assistance and technology transfer activities on an areawide or Statewide basis to transfer research and development activities into the marketplace.(iv) Assistance through small business incubators, including, but not limited to, space services and technical assistance.(v) Market development, feasibility studies and other activities related to increasing jobs in advanced technology industries.(vi) Staff support for advanced technology councils or other mechanisms to encourage labor, business, university and government linkages in promoting advanced technology industrial diversification.(vii) Facilitate establishment of technology parks, which will serve as locations for facilities devoted to research and development and technology-intensive light manufacturing.(3) Represent a consortium of interest designed to meet the needs of businesses in their particular regions.(4) Be an independent nonprofit institution overseen by a regional board of directors comprising economic development, university and private industry participants, with at least 50% representation from private industry.(5) Complement and cooperate with every other center and shall make every effort to share expertise and clientele to develop a strong Statewide network.1993, July 2, P.L. 439, No. 64, § 11, effective in 120 days.