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Welcome to the Delaware County Keystone Innovation Zone homepage. Within our website, you will find information on the industries on which we focus to foster economic development within Delaware County, as well as resources available to potential companies within our zone.
In 1999, Crozer-Keystone Health System and Widener University began a public/private partnership for economic development in the City of Chester by creating University Technology Park. The goal of this partnership is the creation of a knowledge-based economy in the region. It is in the spirit of such partnerships that University Technology Park serves to coordinate activities within the Delaware County Keystone Innovation Zone.
Take a minute to read the Coordinator's Message
A Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) is a state designated zone that has been established in communities which host institutions of higher education - colleges, universities, junior colleges and technical schools. These zones are designed to foster innovation and create entrepreneurial opportunities.
The Delaware County Keystone Innovation Zone is a series of distinct geographic locations comprised of the municipal boundaries of Chester, Marcus Hook, Trainer and Upland. Further, there are seven nodes which are site specific and include buildings at University Technology Park 2, The Wharf at Rivertown, The Silk Mills, Crozer-Chester Medical Center, Widener University and Villanova University. Currently these nodes are the specific locations where eligible KIZ companies must be located in order to receive benefits of the KIZ program. At this time, the Delaware County KIZ is in negotiations with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to expand the boundaries of the zone. Contact the KIZ Coordinator for more information.
The strength of locating or expanding a company within a KIZ is realized by combining the resources of educational institutions, private businesses, business support organizations, commercial lending institutions, venture capital networks (including angel investors) and foundations.
Whether you're a student or professor with a great idea, an early-stage company, or a business in need of a new idea, Delaware County is the place to work. A menu of resources including incubator, multi-tenant facility, research & development, workforce education, design center projects, and special priority financing are available to eligible companies starting up or locating in the Delaware County KIZ (Delco KIZ).
Finally, companies in the Delaware County KIZ may be eligible for up to $100,000 in PA Tax Credits and receive priority review for many state financing, training grant, and early-stage investment programs.