The Department of Commerce is dedicated to supporting the growth of our innovation economy by creating events, opportunities and programs that benefit all Philadelphians. The Philadelphia Most Diverse Tech Hub (MDTH) initiative is one of our City initiatives that aims to position Philadelphia as one of the top—and most diverse—tech hubs in the nation. Since 2018, MDTH has invested more than $2.5 million in partner organizations committed to enhancing skills for our future talent pipeline, providing resources to startup businesses that have been historically disadvantaged, and helping minority-owned companies grow. 

WHY THIS EVENT SERIES?

The Tech Talks series, launched in August 2023, is an opportunity to convene the tech community in Philadelphia. The goal of each Tech Talks is to hold enriching discussions with tech businesses. Join us this year to:

  • Learn about and share available resources. 
  • Network with other technologists, founders, and tech partners. 
  • Discuss innovative ideas to grow and support the Philadelphia tech ecosystem.
  • Mix and mingle with like-minded businesses. 

UPCOMING EVENT

Join the Department of Commerce and the Mack Institute for Innovation Management at the University of Pennsylvania for Tech Talks: Bridging Academia and Innovation in Philadelphia’s Tech Hub. This event is set to explore and expand collaboration opportunities that are remaking Philadelphia’s tech industry into a diverse and dynamic hub of innovation.

Hear from City and Commonwealth officials about their take on Philadelphia’s tech ecosystem and how the University of Pennsylvania can help solidify the city’s future as a leader in innovation. We’ll also hear from Penn entrepreneurs about their contribution to the local ecosystem and the benefits of starting their venture in Philadelphia.

Event Details

Thursday, April 24 | 6:00 p.m.

8th Floor, Jon M. Huntsman Hall

3730 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Moderator

Dr. Valery Yakubovich, Executive Director, Mack Institute of Innovation Management

Panelists

  • Tempest Carter, Director of Strategic Tech Initiatives at the City of Philadelphia
  • John Swartley, Chief Innovation Officer, University of Pennsylvania
  • Jen Gilburg, Deputy Secretary for Technology and Entrepreneurship for the Commonwealth of PA, Department of Community and Economic Development, Commonwealth of PA
  • Steven Nichtberger, MD; CEO, Cabaletta Bio; Adjunct Professor, Healthcare Management; Senior Fellow, Vagelos LSM Program, University of Pennsylvania

Agenda

  • 6:00 PM – 6:05 PM: Welcoming remarks from Wharton’s Mack Institute
  • 6:05 PM – 6:10 PM: Welcoming remarks from the City of Philadelphia
  • 6:10 PM – 7:15 PM: Panel discussion
  • 7:15 PM – 8:00 PM: Networking