The TEC
The Technology and Entrepreneurship Center (TEC) is playing an important role in Indiana County’s efforts to support entrepreneurship and small business growth. Spearheaded by Dr. Erick Lauber, a leadership educator and entrepreneurship advisor, the TEC provides advisory services for startups, early-stage businesses, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Established in 2022, the TEC provides a modern, flexible workspace designed to support the success of new and growing businesses. Its programming focuses on firsthand training, access to business resources, and meaningful connections with experienced mentors. At the core of TEC’s success is its partnership with the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Ben Franklin Technology Program, and the Indiana County Office of Planning & Development’s financial services team, three key organizations that drive small business support throughout the region.
The IUP SBDC offers one-on-one consulting and technical assistance to entrepreneurs, including guidance on business planning, market analysis, financial forecasting, and regulatory compliance. This partnership ensures that TEC participants receive professional advice and the necessary tools to transition from concept to execution efficiently and with confidence.
Ben Franklin Technology Partners (BFTP) supports TEC by providing early-stage funding, mentorship, and commercialization expertise to local entrepreneurs. Through grants and investor connections, BFTP helps TEC clients validate ideas, develop prototypes, and scale their startups, making essential resources more accessible to rural founders in Indiana County.
The Indiana County Office of Planning & Development (ICOPD) further strengthens this support network by connecting businesses to financial assistance and funding resources. From small business loan programs to gap financing options, the ICOPD team works alongside TEC participants to address one of the most critical components of business growth: access to capital.
TEC’s flagship “Innovate Indiana Startup Boot Camp” program, now in its third year, is a clear example of these partnerships in action. The six-week initiative guides entrepreneurs through the business development process, providing structure, mentorship, and real-world insight from local and regional business professionals. The program culminates in a formal pitch event, where participants present their ventures to a panel of advisors and potential investors.
Dr. Lauber’s leadership brings a potent mix of academic knowledge as a former faculty at IUP and practical business experience as an entrepreneur himself. His mentorship helps participants apply proven strategies and connect with the broader business community.
For Indiana County’s business community, the TEC represents more than just a physical space—it is a collaborative platform that aligns economic development, education, and entrepreneurship. With the continued support of its partners, the center is positioned to help both new and existing businesses thrive in a competitive economy.
Business leaders interested in engaging with TEC—as mentors, partners, or supporters—are encouraged to connect with Dr. Lauber and the team to explore opportunities for investing in the region’s entrepreneurial future.
The following are upcoming training sessions available:
Digital Marketing for Small Business – July 29 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
The AI–Enabled Executive – August 12 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
eCommerce for Small Business – August 19 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Leadership Indiana County – September 3 – October 22 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Contact Information:
Technology and Entrepreneurship Center
665 Philadelphia Street
Unit 110
Indiana, PA 15701
724-464-7460
www.tecenter.org
Dr. Erick Lauber, Director
724-464-7460
info@tecenter.org