DuBOIS — The North Central Pennsylvania LaunchBox and Penn State DuBois, in conjunction with Ben Franklin Technology Partners, have launched the BIG Idea Contest for aspiring entrepreneurs.

One doesn’t need to be an inventor, scientist, or historic statesmen like Ben Franklin in order to win this year’s BIG Idea contest. Ben Franklin Technology Partners is looking for tech entrepreneurs, developers, or small manufacturers who are creating innovative new products, processes, or software applications. It’s easy to qualify and even easier to apply. Visit BigIdea.BenFranklin.org for the details and entry form.

In addition to the money, the winner will receive:

• Access to seminars offered by Ben Franklin’s eMarketing Learning Center and the Clarion Small Business Development Center

• A free consult on applying for federal R&D grant money from the Innovation Partnership

• Executive business and technology growth services assistance offered by the Northwest Industrial Resource Center

For questions about the contest or application process, phone John Siggins at 814-865-2879 or email Jill Edwards at jilledwards@psu.edu

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Sept. 24.