ImpactFest Series
Connect with purpose-driven entrepreneurs & innovators making an impact
FIRST STOP: Spring 2026 (date TBD)
LOCATION: Shenango LaunchBox
Hope Center for Arts and Technology, Inc. (HopeCAT)
115 Anson Way Sharon, PA, 16146
ImpactFest: Elevating Purpose-Driven Innovators
ImpactFest is a traveling, half-day event designed to elevate and connect purpose-driven entrepreneurs, social enterprises, and impact ecosystem partners across Pennsylvania. Hosted at LaunchBox and Innovation Network locations statewide, each ImpactFest stop brings together local and statewide changemakers for a high-energy afternoon of learning, networking, and inspiration. Whether you're a social entrepreneur, student, community leader, or ecosystem supporter, ImpactFest gives you space to showcase ideas, cross-pollinate with others, and access resources that drive meaningful change. Here is what you can expect:
- Hands-on insights into what it means to build or support a social enterprise in PA
- Showcase of local and statewide ventures making real impact
- Keynote inspiration from a standout social entrepreneur or thought leader
- Interactive lunch-and-learn with Penn State professors and experts
- Raffle-style resource fair to explore services and support—attendees vote with tickets
- Networking with 50+ impact businesses, community leaders, elected officials, foundations, and more
- Happy hour extension sponsored by a local venue (free drink ticket included!)
- Low-cost admission ($20) with scholarships available to ensure access for students and locals
What is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is a mission-driven organization that reinvests its profits to further a social or environmental purpose. These ventures aim to solve real-world problems—like reducing waste, increasing access to healthcare or education, addressing food insecurity, or creating more equitable economic opportunities—through sustainable business models.
If you’re building something that benefits people, communities, or the planet, this event was designed with you in mind.
Check Out Our First Stop
Shenango LaunchBox
- Hope Center for Arts and Technology, Inc. (HopeCAT)
- 115 Anson Way Sharon, PA, 16146
HopeCAT, where education, mentorship, and inspiration converge to transform lives in this region.
Event Agenda
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Showcase + Keynote – Hear from local and statewide impact ventures and an inspiring keynote speakers
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- Lunch & Learning – Enjoy lunch while engaging with professors and experts on social entrepreneurship.
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- Networking & Resource Fair – Meet service providers, connect with peers, and use raffle tickets to explore support options.
3:00 PM – 3:15 PM
- Prize Announcements – Raffle winners announced (must be present to win!).
After 4:00 PM
- Optional Happy Hour – Keep the conversation going at a local venue with a free drink ticket.
Who Should Attend
This event is for:
- Founders of social impact businesses (for-profit and nonprofit)
- Students & educators interested in social enterprise
- Foundations, elected officials, and community leaders
- Economic development professionals and ecosystem supporters
Tickets + Registration Info
General Admission Cost
- $20 – Scholarships available for students and locals
- Includes lunch, all sessions, 3 raffle tickets, and happy hour drink ticket
Questions?
- Email: impactfest@psu.edu
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with purpose-driven innovators across Pennsylvania. Space is limited—reserve your spot at ImpactFest today.