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PARTNERS
PARTNERS
BUSINESS SERVICES PARTNERS
What is the difference between a Partner and Business Services Partner?
Elevate Berks Partners are typically non-profits, schools, and other types of entities that administer state and federal programs for small businesses and offer some or all educational, training or support services for free. Elevate Berks Business Services Partners are for profit entities who focus on supporting and growing small businesses and offer specialized services for a fee or in exchange for equity in your business.
WHAT’S YOUR PREFERRED WAY TO GROW?
Different local organizations offer services to businesses in different formats. Whether you are interested in one-on-one support, taking a class, becoming a member, or just looking for a space, we have got you covered. See a comprehensive list of services by delivery mechanism below.
ASSETS
https://assetspa.org | (717) 393-6089
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ASSETS is a 501(c)(3) and a community development financial institution (CDFI) that is transforming communities through entrepreneurship. ASSETS provides programming and services to Women and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) entrepreneurs in a safe and welcoming space to learn, collaborate, and grow together. As a CDFI, our primary function is to provide equitable access to capital by expanding economic opportunity for underserved people. Historically, women and BIPOC entrepreneurs have faced barriers to accessing social and financial capital. At ASSETS we work to level the playing field by providing educational opportunities and innovative solutions.
ASSETS cultivates entrepreneurial leadership to create economic opportunity for underserved communities.
Target Audiences?
Women and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)
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Services in Spanish?
Yes.
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Programs:
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Small Dollar Loan
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Small Business Loan
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Women's Business Center at ASSETS
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Idea Incubator
Ben Franklin Technology Partners​
Ben Franklin Technology Partners helps innovation and technology-based businesses launch and grow through financial investments and one-on-one support. Their mission is to promote, sustain, and invest in the development of the regional economy through innovation and partnering. For 40 years, Ben Franklin Northeast has been building an ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurial success by providing investment capital and business support to technology startups and established manufacturers.
Services in Spanish?
Limited.
Programs:
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Early-Stage Investment
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One-on-One Support
Berks Latino Chamber
The Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce works with Spanish businesses to access business training and expertise, network with each other, and gain visibility in the community. The Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to provide leadership and support for the economic development of the Latino business community of Greater Reading and surrounding communities in Berks County, Pennsylvania.
Coworking Space?
Yes. Access and use is donation based.
Services in Spanish?
Yes.
Programs:
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One-on-One Support
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Membership
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Trainings and Events
Berks LaunchBox
The Berks LaunchBox assists early-stage startups with accessing the tools and resources they need to launch and scale in the Berks County region. The Berks LaunchBox offers accelerator programs, mentoring, coworking space for startups, a makerspace with equipment for prototyping, and seminars focused on business development. The Berks LaunchBox is a partnership between Penn State Berks and Penn State Health St. Joseph.
Coworking Space?
Makerspace with prototyping equipment. Limited free coworking desks available.
Services in Spanish?
Yes, with limited hours.
Programs:
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One-on-One Support
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Intro to 3D Printing & CAD
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Idea Test Lab
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Penn State Law Clinic
KU Small Business Development Center
KU SBDC provides entrepreneurs with free classes and one-on-one support needed to start and grow a business. The mission of the Kutztown Small Business Development Center is to provide entrepreneurs and small business owners with the knowledge needed to make smart decisions and prosper. KU SBDC is a federal program hosted at Kutztown University.
Target Audiences?
Hispanic/Latino, Black/African American, Native American, Women, People with Disabilities, Veterans, rural, and all other populations
Services in Spanish?
One-on-One Support available in Spanish.
Programs:
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One-on-One Support
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Spanish Speaking Business Resource Center
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KU SBDC | WEDnet Partner
Lehigh Valley Angel Investors
Lehigh Valley Angel Investors search for, mentor, and financially invest in startup businesses. A group of about 50 accredited investors, the Lehigh Valley Angel Investors vet business ideas to identify entrepreneurs and small businesses that have the potential to scale. The group typically invests between $70,000 and $150,000 in exchange for equity in the business.
Services in Spanish?
No.
Programs:
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Early-Stage Investment
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One-on-One Support
O’Pake Institute
The O’Pake Institute offers a range of services to support entrepreneurs, as well as small and established for-profit and nonprofit businesses. The Institute’s experienced staff and mentor network, in collaboration with undergraduate and graduate students selected for the O’Pake Fellows Program, work directly with businesses to start or grow their ventures.
Coworking Space?
Low cost office space for startups in downtown Reading.
Target Audiences?
Startups and small businesses, nonprofits, student-led and faculty-led ventures
Services in Spanish?
Limited.
Programs:
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Business Incubator
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Project #6
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One-on-One Support