HARRISBURG, PA — Applications are now open for the fifth annual Small Business Accelerator Program, a free initiative held in partnership with Harrisburg University of Science and Technology’s (HU) Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) and M&T Bank. The program equips local entrepreneurs with the mentorship, training, and funding opportunities they need to scale their businesses and strengthen the economy throughout Central Pennsylvania.
The program will welcome up to 40 entrepreneurs for sessions held Wednesday evenings at Harrisburg University from April 29 through June 17. Participants will receive hands-on instruction in business planning, establishing credit, accessing capital, marketing, and branding, all culminating in a “Shark Tank”-style pitch competition where M&T Bank will award $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third place.
Since launching in 2022, the program has helped more than 120 small businesses across the hospitality, beauty, technology, professional services, and manufacturing sectors. It also earned the Catalyst Award from the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) for its positive impact on the region.
“Entrepreneurship has never been more important than it is today,” said Jay Jayamohan, Executive Director of the CIE at Harrisburg University. “In a world changing at unprecedented speed, programs like this ensure that bold ideas – especially from early-stage founders – have the support, mentorship, and ecosystem they need to become real businesses. At CIE, we are privileged to be a strong partner to M&T’s leadership in the community as they stand beside these entrepreneurs and help turn their ambition into lasting impact.”
In 2025, the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship received the Inspiring Programs in Business Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine. According to Insight Into Diversity, the award “recognizes institutions who are advancing inclusive excellence and belonging in areas such as accounting, economics, entrepreneurship, management, finance, marketing, hospitality management, international business, human resource management, and business administration programs.”
To take part in the Small Business Accelerator Program, applicants must: (1) have been in business for between two and five years, (2) have annual revenue between $50,000 and $500,000, (3) be at least 18 years old, and (4) reside in Harrisburg or the surrounding area. Qualified applicants will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Applications are due by April 10, 2026. To apply, visit MTB.com/HarrisburgProgram.
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ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
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