At Ben Franklin, community isn’t a backdrop. It’s the engine.
When leaders gather to compare lessons, share what works, and pressure-test ideas, innovation moves faster and farther. That’s core to our mission: catalyzing technology-driven growth and strengthening the regional economy. And Ben Franklin TechVentures® is where those conversations take shape.
We’d like to feature several of the wonderful gatherings we’ve hosted just this month—October 2025—right here at the top of South Mountain. We express our gratitude to our local and regional partners for choosing TechVentures for these impactful leadership conversations.
Satell Institute CEO Roundtable: Technology’s Role in Building Trust in CSR
October 2, 2025
Hosted by Ben Franklin Northeast CEO Angelo Valletta in partnership with the Satell Institute, this private executive roundtable convened senior business leaders to examine how technology can strengthen trust in corporate social responsibility initiatives. The discussion revolved around the impact of technology and AI, both positive and negative, and related ethical practices and considerations. Space was intentionally limited to support a candid, high-impact exchange.
SIM Philadelphia: From Hype to Reality—What CIOs Need to Know About Gen AI
October 22, 2025
Tech leaders gathered at TechVentures for a straight-talk session on GenAI beyond the buzz. Following opening remarks that framed a candid peer discussion, Dr. Kostas Hatalis, PhD, Founder and CEO at GoCharlie, shared current trends and practical implications. Regional CIOs compared real-world wins, challenges, and near-term priorities. This energizing event was organized by Franklin Green, Board Member and Marketing Chair for SIM Philadelphia, and Ben Franklin Northeast’s Chief Transformation Officer, Melanie Kohler.
Lehigh University SBDC: Equity Financing—Attracting Investment for Your Business
October 24, 2025
Entrepreneurs joined Ayesha Haider, Regional Manager for Ben Franklin Northeast, for a practical session on raising equity capital. Topics included debt vs. equity, sources and types of equity investment, requirements for obtaining equity, and how to craft an effective pitch. The workshop was organized by the Lehigh University SBDC.
Host Your Next Event at TechVentures
With configurable rooms, audio-visual systems, and light-filled spaces overlooking the City of Bethlehem, TechVentures is an ideal setting for executive roundtables, technical forums, and community education as well as larger catered soirees and galas. We’re proud to provide a beautiful venue in an award-winning building that supports serious conversation, real outcomes, and economic growth.
Interested in hosting at TechVentures? Call 610-758-5200 or email info@nep.benfranklin.org for availability and details.