About
Supporting and building our local economy.
Lehigh Valley LaunchBox is an early-stage business accelerator program for entrepreneurs. It propels business concepts into startup companies with: microgrants awarded twice yearly; business development resources; ongoing education and programming; access to Penn State University legal clinic services; a safety net of advisors; and free coworking space.
- Business accelerator program
- Microgrants
- Business advice and mentorship
- Legal and intellectual property services
- Coworking space
Meet the Lehigh Valley LaunchBox
Our mission is to be the “hub” that connects local entrepreneurs to the support, resources, and facilities they need to build a sustainable and scalable business with a viable plan for growth.
Learn How You Can Support Lehigh Valley LaunchBox
Lehigh Valley LaunchBox relies on grants and private support to sustain its awards. Individuals can contribute to this effort and invest in the economic growth of your community. Giving opportunities are also available to support LaunchBox Ladies and the Teen Entrepreneur Challenge.
Penn State funded, but open to all.
The Happy Valley LaunchBox is a signature program of Invent Penn State, a Commonwealth-wide initiative to spur economic development, job creation, and student career success.
While initially funded by Penn State, we are open to all.
- Open to the public. No affiliation with Penn State is needed.
- All our services are no-cost
- We partner with other local economic development groups
- We are one of 24 innovation spaces across the Commonwealth
Meet the LaunchBox Team
Cindy Evans
Director
Cindy Evans is an experienced organizational leader with a strong background in entrepreneurship support, workforce development, and human resources. As Director of Lehigh Valley LaunchBox, she leads efforts to expand visibility, strengthen community partnerships, and deliver inclusive programming that supports early-stage entrepreneurs across the region. Cindy is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and actively works to expand networks and resources for underserved founders.
She brings more than 20 years of experience in program management, youth initiatives, educational programming, and human resources, having previously served in key leadership roles at Penn State Lehigh Valley, the Lehigh Valley Workforce Investment Board, Sacred Heart Hospital, and HCR Manorcare. Cindy holds a master’s degree in Human Resource Development from Villanova University and multiple professional certifications. She is widely recognized for her collaborative approach, strong communication skills, and commitment to empowering individuals through education and opportunity.
Tiffany Valdes-Madera
Business Development Coordinator
I am an alumna of City University of New York (CUNY) City College and School of Professional Studies (SPS) holding a Bachelor's degree in Communications complemented by a minor in Cultural Studies. My journey with the Penn State family commenced in June 2021, where I assumed the role of Lehigh Valley Campus Faculty Affairs Coordinator.
I got promoted in August 2023 to the position of Business Development Coordinator for the Lehigh Valley LaunchBox program. My contributions extend beyond my core responsibilities, as I embark on my second year as a member of the Penn State University Staff Advisory Council (USAC), while also co-chair of the USAC DEIB committee.
Fun Fact: Public speaking makes me very nervous, yet I was CUNY SPS Commencement Speaker for my graduating class.
Sponsors
Interested in sponsoring Lehigh Valley LaunchBox programs and events? Contact Cindy Evans - cindyevans@psu.edu