University City Science Center

Port Business Incubators

Our world-class business incubator offers start-up companies more than just physical resources. It also surrounds emerging ventures with the other ingredients required to grow and be successful:

  • Proximity to the area’s academic institutions and research hospitals enables collaboration and resource sharing
  • Access to networking, educational, and business development programs
  • Access to Quorum
  • Collegial environment inspires conversation and collaboration among the 30+ Port companies
  • Grant-writing support
  • Marketing and public relations assistance
  • Connectivity with capital
  • Exposure to government agencies and policy makers
  • Wet and dry labs, open plan or individual offices, shared laboratory and office equipment

The Bullpen

The Port’s newest space, the Bullpen, is a co-working space with expansive views of West Philadelphia and north to the Main Line. The Bullpen is an ideal option for small startup companies requiring a desk, phone, high speed wi-fi and the camaraderie of other entrepreneurs motivated about growing their companies. In addition to a great view and the fellowship of other entrepreneurs, companies occupying the Bullpen enjoy the all of the benefits afforded to Port residents as noted above.

Give your Company the Greatest Chance for Success

Take advantage of the Science Center’s experience with business incubation. More than 350 companies have originated at the Science Center, and more than 50% of its graduating companies since 2002 remain in business. Since 2006, Science Center companies have collectively raised over $80 million in private capital and over $12 million in government funding that directly supported product development.

Access to Expertise
The Science Center’s Scientific Advisory Committee connects Port companies with a vast array of clinical and technical expertise and facilities. Current committee members include the senior research administrators (or equivalent) from academic, healthcare and research institutions, as well as from leading local companies in the life sciences and other industry sectors.

Connect to Capital
The Port serves as a home to several investment organizations such as:

To view a list of funding resources in the region, click here.

Port companies can also take advantage of the Innovation Partnership, which helps early-stage companies in Pennsylvania secure Federal funding for product development.

Access to Conference Rooms and Event Space
All Port companies have access to Science Center conference facilities, including the Quorum event space.

Access to Transportation
SEPTA buses and subways run through the campus, and the Port is only a short walk to regional rail and the Northeast Corridor Amtrak rail line. Philadelphia International Airport is 20 minutes away by train or car.