By Ian Bush

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Nine local companies are getting a cash infusion. They’re investments from an organization that aims to support jobs and the economy in the Delaware Valley.

Piles of pennies invested might mean a lot more earned. Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania put up more than $1.4 million dollars, says information technology investment director Alan Kraus.

“(We) try to increase job creation in the region and create viable industry.” Like Horsham’s iMomentous, Inc., which helps firms recruit new employees and keep their existing ones happy.

In Wayne, Pa. “HealthQx is hoping to create a technology and big data analysis to help us find better doctors,” Kraus said.

Another company getting $225,000 million, QLIDA Diagnostics in Philadelphia, is working on tests for biomarkers — red flags to diagnose disease.

Ben Franklin is funded by the commonwealth. Over 30 years, the local group has invested more than $165 million.

To get your idea on their radar and to read profiles of other early-stage companies that are being seeded and supported, go to www.sep.benfranklin.org.