Your Connection to a Network of Opportunities

Partners in Manufacturing

Catalyst Connection makes the most of its economic impact by working with public and private organizations, as well as not-for-profit agencies, to further the interests of manufacturers in our region at the local, state, and national level. We collaborate closely with these partners:

Innovation Works

As part of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners system, Innovation Works fosters manufacturing innovation to stimulate Pennsylvania's economic growth and prosperity. Catalyst Connection collaborates with Innovation Works to identify manufacturing companies seeking a competitive advantage through new technologies and products. Innovation Works provides grants to support the work; Catalyst Connection provides consultation, manages projects, and, when needed, helps identify third-party expertise and resources.  

Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Manufacturing Extension Partnership is a nationwide network of not-for-profit centers with nearly 350 locations across the country dedicated to providing small and medium-sized manufacturing companies with services they need to succeed. As a member of the network, Catalyst Connection enables even the smallest firms to tap the expertise of knowledgeable manufacturing and business specialists all over the United States.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) is a significant source of funding for Catalyst Connection. Catalyst Connection and DCED help manufacturing companies grow and improve regionally and statewide.  

Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center Network

The Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (IRC) Network is composed of seven private, not-for-profit economic development corporations. Catalyst Connection works in partnership with the IRC Network, whose mission is to help small and medium-sized Pennsylvania manufacturing companies improve their competitive positions, and to help them develop and implement world-class manufacturing practices. IRC Network centers share information, particularly about new methodologies that have proven successful for manufacturers in their particular regions. The centers also cooperate in developing new services of value to manufacturing organizations throughout the commonwealth.  

Pittsburgh Technology Council

Founded in 1983, the Pittsburgh Technology Council is the oldest and largest technology trade association in the United States, and a vital contributor to the creation, growth, and success of regional technology businesses. The council serves more than 1,300 member organizations. Its activities range from shaping public policy and providing advocacy to facilitating access to health benefits and networking. As a sponsor of the Council’s Advanced Manufacturing Network, Catalyst Connection is able to bring nationally known speakers and events to Pittsburgh, as well as represent manufacturing issues to the state and federal government on behalf of our clients.