HARRISBURG, PA – M&T Bank and the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is seeking up to 30 entrepreneurs to participate in its fourth Small Business Accelerator – a program designed to provide small business owners with the guidance and skills needed to build strong businesses, spur economic growth in the Capitol Region, and build generational wealth for their families.
Registration is now open for the six-week program, featuring sessions focused on business planning, establishing credit, accessing capital, marketing, branding, networking, and more.
The Small Business Accelerator Program launches May 7, 2025, with courses held each Wednesday evening at Harrisburg University. It will conclude on June 18, 2025, with a pitch competition and opportunity to win grants totaling $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $2,000 for third place – all funded by M&T Bank.
Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the program must complete an online application no later than April 12, 2025, and meet the following eligibility requirements:
- In business three years or less
- Annual business revenue of $350,000 or less
- Principal owner must be 18 years or older
- Small business owners must reside in Harrisburg’s Capital Region
Qualified applicants will be enrolled in the free program on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Now in its fourth year, the Small Business Accelerator Program has proven to be a catalyst for entrepreneurs looking to make a positive impact on our community,” said Nora Habig, M&T Bank’s regional president for Central and Western Pennsylvania. “By providing practical knowledge, mentorship, and key resources, this program helps small business owners strengthen their businesses and drive economic growth in the Capital Region. We’re proud to continue our partnership with the CIE to support the next generation of business leaders.”
Jay Jayamohan, Executive Director of the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, noted: “At CIE and M&T Bank, we believe every great business starts with a bold idea. Through our Business Accelerator Program, we empower diverse entrepreneurs to turn their visions into reality and their passions into success. With the right support and resources, innovation knows no limits.”
The Capital Region Small Business Accelerator Program launched in 2022, providing 40 small-business owners with free access to resources and education to grow their business. The 2022 program received the Catalyst Award from the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation for its impact on businesses in the area.
“We have seen time and again over the last few years how the Multicultural Small Business Innovation Program is fostering the next generation of Harrisburg’s entrepreneurs,” said Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams. “We are proudly diverse, and our business community needs to reflect its residents. M&T Bank and Harrisburg University are creating a business environment that will have positive impacts for generations.”
CIE’s Program Manager, MaDonna Awotwi, concluded: “Entrepreneurship is the backbone of our community, and programs like the Small Business Accelerator are essential in providing the resources and mentorship needed to turn ideas into thriving businesses. At the CIE, we are committed to fostering innovation and supporting diverse entrepreneurs in their journey to success.”
To apply for the Capital Region Small Business Accelerator Program, visit MTB.com/HarrisburgLab.
ABOUT M&T BANK
M&T Bank Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T’s principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services with a branch and ATM network spanning the eastern US from Maine to Virginia and Washington, DC. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the US and abroad by M&T’s Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information, visit MTB.com.
ABOUT THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) empowers innovators to build successful ventures, including Harrisburg University students and faculty as well as entrepreneurs in the community and region. In addition, CIE offers opportunities for partners to invest in important scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and academic research. In 2025, CIE was honored with the Inspiring Programs in Business Award from Insight Into Diversity.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University was recently recognized by US News & World Report as one of the nation’s most innovative colleges. HU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in the fields of science, technology, and mathematics. For additional information about HU’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).
