The Keystone Innovation Zones (KIZs) are a part the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania' s economic stimulus package. KIZs are designated zones that are established in communities that host institutions of higher education. These zones are designed to foster innovation and create entrepreneurial opportunities. They do this by gathering and aligning the combined resources of educational institutions, private businesses, business support organizations, commercial lending institutions, venture capital networks (including angel investors), and foundations. The NPTI coordinates the Lackawanna and Luzerne County KIZs. Companies located within the geographic designations, less than eight years old and within one of the designated sectors may take advantage of tax credits, utilize the services of our local college students as interns and benefit from innovation grants.

Targeted Industry Sectors: These focus areas were selected as a result of either existing regional strengths in a particular sector, strength in university faculty expertise within a certain sector, or a strength identified by one or more of the region’s economic development organizations.

Healthcare/Life Science: Our region contains more than twenty hospitals and a handful of life science companies that are trying to create the family sustaining jobs needed to grow our economy.

Nanotechnology, Advanced Manufacturing & Plastics: NEPA is proud of the fact eight companies are currently working with the enabling nanotechnology and a vast array of manufacturing companies including more than twenty three plastics manufacturers offer employment in the region.

Information Technology/New Media: NEPA hosts many local and nationally recognized companies that specialize in e-marketing, e-retail and web development.

Back Office/Finance: Strategically positioned to attract and grow in the financial services industry, NEPA is home to a wide variety of financial services companies including banking, insurance and technical support.

Homeland Security: From small local companies to Fortune 500 companies, NEPA businesses continue to work with the Department of Homeland Security.