Funding Your Small Business in Pittsburgh

When it comes to finding a smart location for your startup, Pittsburgh has officially become a frontrunner. Whether your business is currently up and running or your “official” pan of action is currently scribbled on a napkin, funding will become your biggest obstacle sooner or later. Luckily, Pittsburgh is not only the City of Bridges, it is also one of the best locations in the United States for those seeking to build or expand their enterprise.

The following organizations are helping to stimulate the growth of Pittsburgh’s economy and want to fuel your ideas to success.

Launchpgh
Not sure where to begin when it comes to getting your small business off the ground? LaunchPGH is an excellent resource that features guides like Funding 101 that will take you through the process one step at a time. Whether your business is already established or still an intangible idea, Launchpgh has an array of resources that you help you figure out your plan of action. And if you already know what you’re looking for, checkout their database for options including crowdfunding, venture capital, grants, and tax credits.

Alphalab
This national accelerator program provides funding, mentoring, and educational resources to technology companies that are still in the early stages of development. Alphalab believes in providing a network of entrepreneurial support to foster the growth of great companies.

Twice annually, Alphalab selects 6-8 companies to partake in their program. Being selected enables each of these companies to participate in a 20-week program, receive mentoring and an office space, and funding for their startup. To learn more or apply, click here.

Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA)
This economic development agency is dedicated to creating jobs for Pittsburgh residents and uplifting businesses and neighborhoods. They achieve this by providing resources such as programs on financing, business expansion, housing construction and rehabilitation, and home purchasing and construction.
The URA’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provides assistance to stimulate business growth in the city. Their Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Fund provides up to $200,000 to startups and emerging technology based companies such as those focusing their energy on Life Sciences and Green/ Energy practices. To learn more about this organization’s loan programs visit them here.

Idea Foundry
Behind every great business is a backer who supports their vision. Idea Foundry has been helping accelerate innovation based businesses in entertainment, education, healthcare, and science for 14 years. Their most recent venture is a loan fund that will benefit startups focused on food systems and regional agriculture. Idea Foundry’s accelerator programs offer up to $10,000 in financial assistance as well as services including market research, business planning, and access to legal and accounting services.

Idea Foundry’s strength is in their personalized approach to stimulating small business growth. Their focus on sciences and social enterprises enables them to support startups that often have trouble finding funding. Their investments have supported local business invested in rejuvenating the community through education, communications, sustainability, and many more.