From shipbuilding and steel to plastics, industrial manufacturing, advanced materials, insurance technology, education, and AI, innovation is woven into the fibers of Northwest Pennsylvania. From early industrial breakthroughs to today’s tech-driven entrepreneurship, this opening session, led by Ben Franklin Technology Partner Regional Director and Portfolio Manager Brian Slawin, explores the history of innovation in our region, why Pennsylvania has long been a national pioneer and how organizations such as Ben Franklin Technology Partners helps turn ideas into companies, jobs and opportunity.
With a focus on what it truly takes to build a resilient innovation ecosystem in 2026 and beyond, the discussion of the realities of changing economies, manufacturing transitions, workforce shifts and spotlight the milestones in manufacturing, energy, education and collaboration that continue to redefine what’s possible. Blending historical reflection with forward perspective, this opening session will highlight the birth and growth of innovation in Northwest Pennsylvania.
This is the first installment in the Keystone Sparks: Inventing the Next Pennsylvania three-part seminar series hosted by the Ben Franklin Technology Partners and the Jefferson Educational Society. From founding sparks to future breakthroughs, Keystone Sparks reviews the history of innovation in the nation, the commonwealth, and the region, and explores how northwest Pennsylvania is building America’s Next 250, connecting Northwest Pennsylvania’s story of innovation from legacy to possibility.
This event is part of the JES’s USA 250 Event Series.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Friday, March 13, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Admission: FREE, $5/person for Lunch
*If purchasing lunch, please register 48 hours in advance. Vegetarian option available. Thank you!
If you do NOT receive a letter from info@jeserie.org within 24-48 hours regarding your registration, please check your spam or junk folder. Thank you!
Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a full vacation, Erie Events brings the best of entertainment, sports, and culture right to the heart of downtown Erie. Managing five of Erie’s premier venues — Erie Insurance Arena, Warner Theatre, Bayfront Convention Center, UPMC Park and Rebich Investments Amphitheater. Erie Events hosts everything from national touring concerts and Broadway shows, to thrilling hockey games, baseball, conventions, and community celebrations.
Located at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, Two45 pays homage to the precisde moment in history that Oliver Hazard Perry bravely led the US Navy on the path to victory during the Battle of Lake Erie. As a tribute to our fair city, the restaurant offers upscale, traditional American cuisines with a focus on seafood and coastal fare. Chef's specialities include macadmania-crusted grouper filet, premium beef cuts, and bone in tomahawk pork chop. Private dining room available.
Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia believes that “there is always…local, an alternative, and a story.” They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift.
Five Iron Golf is Erie’s premier indoor golf and entertainment destination, blending top-tier technology with a vibrant, social atmosphere. Featuring state-of-the-art TrackMan simulators, a full bar and kitchen, and Duckpin Bowling, it’s the perfect spot to play, practice, or just hang out. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or swinging for fun, Five Iron Golf brings people together through golf, food, and great times.
Edinboro Community and Economic Development is a regional Edinboro area non-profit committed to fostering positive community-wide growth. Through economic and civic initiatives, the ECED seeks to empower the Edinboro community to effectuate targeted change to meet current needs and build regional resilience. Edinboro is a unique area where rural and urban values intersect, and the best "small town America" qualities shine.
Presented by the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture, Tony-nominated Broadway star and writer Melissa Errico reunites with America’s great piano man, Billy Stritch, for their fourth holiday season together—this time with a brand-new winter show, “The Secret Diary of Mrs. Santa,” on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Mercyhurst University’s Walker Recital Hall.
Explore the Erie Zoo, where every path leads to something new and exciting. From curious red pandas and playful otters to vibrant gardens and seasonal events, adventure awaits at every turn. Our habitats will bring you closer than you imagined to animals from around the world, creating wondrous and truly unforgettable moments. Your visit isn’t just about seeing wildlife—it’s about connecting with nature, discovering the unexpected, and making memories you’ll treasure for years to come.
Families can escape the cold at Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort, where it’s always 84 degrees and tropical. This Polynesian-themed destination features nine water slides, pools, hot tubs, a multi-level Tree House, and a massive arcade for all-day family fun. Recently ranked the No. 2 Best Indoor Water Park in the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best, Splash Lagoon is the ultimate cold-weather getaway.
From tailgating and birthday parties to travel sports and family reunions, Donatos is here to feed your whole crew! Right now, get four large 1-topping pizzas and three 2-liter bottles of Pepsi products for just $74.99! Use code 262 when ordering online or mention at either of our two convenient locations: Greengarden, on 8th and Greengarden or Harborcreek on Buffalo Road!
Local small business Sealed by Nature creates handcrafted skincare and bath products that blend natural ingredients with artistic design. Visit the shop to find thoughtfully made soaps, lotions, bath bombs, Valentine-inspired gifts, and floral creations — perfect for treating yourself or someone special. Sealed by Nature also offers hands-on workshops where visitors can make their own skincare and bath products in a relaxed, creative setting. From soap and bath bomb making to seasonal and themed classes, each experience is designed to be both educational and fun. Located at 318 W. Plum St. in Edinboro, PA.
Welcome to The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant and Tavern. We invite you to enjoy a unique dining experience on Erie’s Bayfront with our nautically inspired decor, a carefully crafted menu, and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay. With both indoor and outdoor seating right next to the bay, we want to be your destination of choice when you “just want to get away from it all” but without having to go far.
Stop by Port Farms to check out our on-site brewery, Poverty Knob! We offer hand-crafted beers and delicious sharable food year-round. The brewery is family and dog friendly with both indoor and outdoor spaces. We offer games, music and entertainment for all ages!
The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.
The Bicentennial Tower offers Erie’s best view in every direction, every season of the year! Take a quick ride up to the observation deck to enjoy the scenic and tranquil view of Presque Isle Bay. Now open for winter hours: Friday/Saturday/Sunday from 10 am - 6 pm. In December, don’t miss the tower lit in holiday colors!
If you live more than 50 miles from Millcreek Mall, stop by the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll receive a Guest Rewards Tourism Program Luggage Tag. Scanning the QR Code on it will reveal special offers from participating mall merchants. If you spend $200 or more that day, take your receipts back to the Customer Service Center and you’ll get a FREE $20 Mall Gift Card. You get rewarded just for shopping!
Discover the perfect way to experience dining and genuine hospitality across our family of restaurants. With the John Russell Hospitality Gift Card, you have the freedom to enjoy six local establishments — each offering its own unique atmosphere, menu, and commitment to quality service. Dine, drink, and savor the best of local flavors — all with the convenience of a single gift card.
UPMC Hamot is a 445-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania. It is a regional hub for specialized health care, including advanced surgical services, private intensive care suites, and the area’s only accredited trauma center.
Operating five unique venues right in the heart of downtown Erie’s entertainment and cultural district, there’s something for everyone.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
© 2026 Copyright VisitErie
Chances are, you are planning your trip to Erie. Why not download your free guide that's been put together right here, by those who know the region the best!