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PA Governor Josh Shapiro tours Soltech Solutions

Established in 2004, the Southside Bethlehem Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) supports innovative early-stage companies in Bethlehem.

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The KIZ brings together a network of public, private, and educational partners to offer financing and technical assistance to startups, thus supporting the Southside as a "knowledge neighborhood."

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The Southside Bethlehem KIZ is an

International Economic Development Council (IEDC)

Gold Award Recipient; 2018

Does your business qualify for KIZ? 

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To qualify for KIZ status and benefits, your business must be: 

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  • Less than 8 years old based on FEIN assignment date

  • ​Located within the geography of the KIZ

  • Working to commercialize intellectual property

  • Part of a key industry in Pennsylvania's Economic Development Strategy​:

    • Advanced Materials / Diversified Manufacturing (AM/D<)​

    • Energy

    • Life Sciences

    • Robotics & Technology (including software-as-a-service)

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Meet all of the above criteria? Complete the KIZ Eligibility Form and reach out to us at info@bedco-pa.org!

What can KIZ provide for your business?

Tech Transfer Grants assist KIZ companies in bringing their innovative products or services to market. These grants occur in two rounds - you may apply for the second round after demonstrated success from the first: 

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  • Round 1: $15,000

  • Additional Rounds: Up to $25,000

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Read the full guidelines here.

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"The City has made great strides since the closing of Bethlehem Steel and is well on its way to full recovery from industrial decline, but this is a continuous process and cannot be done without a strong commitment to higher education. It is through such a commitment that the City can draw the inventors, innovators and entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

 

Innovation is defined as “the act of introducing new ideas, devices, or methods”. By fostering a highly-concentrated cluster of students, entrepreneurs, and start-up companies, Southside Bethlehem has effectively positioned itself as a catalyst for innovation.  

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While the incentives are important, the most important factors for entrepreneurs are a vibrant community, a pool of talented employees, and close proximity to customers and suppliers. There is something to be said for the vibe of a community and how that shapes perception. Based on this, we are confident that Bethlehem provides the necessary resources and lifestyle sought after by young, bright, tech-savvy entrepreneurs."

- Mayor J. William Reynolds, BEDCO Board President

Get in touch: info@bedco-pa.org

© 2025 by the Bethlehem Economic Development Corporation.

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