Launched in the Spring of 2005 and based in Erie, PA, Brain Gain, LLC is lead by its Founder and President, Mike Gildea. 

Brain Gain, LLC has managed or facilitated securing nearly 1 million dollars for clients’ via grants and sponsorships, including helping the Skate Erie Association secure two grants for $40,000.

Brain Gain, LLC is a PA certified professional fundraising solicitor and manages the PA Angel Network- state-wide membership network of angel groups investing in early stage businesses. 

Mike has a diverse and outcome based background that includes government, grant writing, fundraising, non-profit management, youth attraction/retention issues, entrepreneurship, human resources, community leadership, and angel investing.

Mike’s government experience is highlighted as the state-wide Director of then Governor Tom Ridge’s $12 million “Stay Invent the Future” initiative within the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).  Its mission was to retain Pennsylvania’s young people and attract additional young people to the Commonwealth.

Mike is a graduate of John Carroll University and is a member of the business advisory board of the Gannon University Small Business Development Center.  In addition, he is a member of Young Erie Professionals and was active in its development as well as in the development of the Pennsylvania Young Professionals.