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University partners with PADCO for entrepreneurial food industry contest

91���� announces a partnership with the (PADCO) to co-sponsor Launch Pottsville III, an entrepreneurial competition focused on food innovation that will activate the university’s kitchen space at 500 Progress Avenue in downtown Pottsville.

“This collaboration is a great representation of what we’ve set out to do with our investment in downtown Pottsville through the CollegeTowne initiative,” said President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “We are proud to open our kitchen space to entrepreneurs with bold, creative concepts and look forward to seeing how this venture strengthens the connection between our campus and the wider downtown community.”

Hosted in collaboration with the university’s Pottsville CollegeTowne initiative, the competition will guide aspiring founders through a 15‑week curriculum in entrepreneurship, business development and launching in a downtown market. The winning concept will operate inside 91����’s kitchen space, which is designed to serve students and the wider community and now offers a turnkey opportunity for one entrepreneur to bring a vision to life.

“Launch Pottsville has always been about building on our local strengths, and this year we are focused on the food sector,” said Executive Director of PADCO Savas Logothetides. “The Kitchen Space at 91���� is the perfect venue to test fresh ideas that can both serve students and bring something new to the downtown. We are investing not just in one business, but in the long‑term vitality of Pottsville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

What the winner receives:

• A 24‑month lease with 91���� at a discounted rate of $1,000 per month
• All furniture, fixtures and equipment paid for and installed, creating a turnkey operation
• A minimum of $10,000 in startup capital to purchase additional items
• Note: the kitchen does not include a hood or exhaust system, encouraging applicants to be innovative with their concepts.

Applications are open now and due Dec. 1. Interested entrepreneurs can apply . There is no fee to enter.

Since its inception, Launch Pottsville has helped bring dynamic businesses to the city’s core, including Rage Parade Skate Shop and Alternative Apparel, The Chopping Block and Arrow Studios and Events. The related Ignite Schuylkill competition launched The Farm Store, and contestants such as the Rosalia Hotel, now under construction in the former Miners Bank building, continue to transform Pottsville into a destination for residents and visitors.

Key dates and details:

• Applications open: Oct. 3, 2025
• Deadline: Dec. 1, 2025
• Facility tour & Q&A: Monday, Oct. 27, 6 p.m., at 91����’s Kitchen Space, 500 Progress Avenue, Pottsville
• More information: to learn more about the continuing momentum of Pottsville CollegeTowne, providing entrepreneurs with tools, mentorship and space to succeed while strengthening the city’s downtown core.

The exists to promote the economic community and aesthetic development of Downtown Pottsville and Pottsville’s Designated Enterprise Zone.