startup acceleration

Sellable tax credits for early-stage companies.

About the Keystone Innovation Zone

An initiative of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, the Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) tax credits offer early-stage tech and life sciences companies up to $100,000 annually in sellable tax credits from a statewide pool of up to $15 million. As the fiscal agent and coordinator of the University City KIZ, the Science Center can help your company tap into this resource.

Find out how you can apply

Eligibility Requirements

Less Than 8 Years Old

Companies participating in the program must be for-profit and in operation for less than eight years. The “birthday” of a company is considered the date of issuance of its EIN number.

Located in the Geographical Boundaries of a KIZ

The Science Center oversees the University City Keystone Innovation Zone, but in total, there are 28 zones across the commonwealth. Companies must operate out of the geographical boundaries of one of these zones to qualify.

Developing IP in Emerging Technology Sectors

Companies must have their own intellectual property (not just utilizing technology) in an emerging technology sector.

Complete Semi-Annual Reports

All participating companies must complete reports on a semi-annual basis. These reports are separate from the KIZ Tax Credit application but a requirement to be considered for the tax credit.

100

Companies have received KIZ Tax Credits

$18M

Leveraged by University City KIZ Companies

Program FAQs

Each KIZ consists of nonprofit and academic partners that are stakeholders in their community’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In addition to the Science Center, University City KIZ partners include Drexel University, Jefferson University, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of the Sciences, the Wistar Institute and BioAdvance.

There are 28 KIZs across the commonwealth. Each zone has a designated Coordinator that works as a liaison between the commonwealth and KIZ companies, and ensures companies are in compliance with the program requirements. The Science Center does not receive state funding to administer the program nor a percentage of tax credits awards - it is strictly a volunteer role.

Your tax credit total is based on revenue attributable to your location and activity within the KIZ. If your tax returns show there’s revenue associated with your Philadelphia office and there’s year-over-year growth, you may apply. If your revenue is associated with an out-of-state office, you are not eligible for a KIZ Tax Credit.