The Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania host its annual "Ben Franklin Venture Idol," Nov. 20, Innovation Institute, Ben Franklin TechVentures, Mountaintop Campus, Lehigh University.

The event is a cross between "Shark Tank" and "American Idol," but with entrepreneurs and investors instead of vocalists and celebrities.

Contestants were selected competitively. After two rounds of judging in the afternoon prior to the evening event, three start-up technology company finalists will be selected.

Following short critiques from a panel of investors, audience members will "fund" the companies, crowd-funding style. Ben Franklin will award $15,000 in real dollars to the companies based on the audience vote.

Approximately 225 guests attended last year's sold-out event which included pre- and post-event executive networking receptions.

Registration: nep.benfranklin.org