Governor Shapiro Launches Main Street Matters for PA Small Business Week

Strong Focus on Small Businesses as Pennsylvania Celebrates Small Business Week

Governor Josh Shapiro has declared May 4-10, 2025, as Small Business Week in Pennsylvania, highlighting the importance of small businesses to the state’s economy.

The Governor has initiated the Main Street Matters program to breathe new life into the state’s downtowns, with a proposed budget of $20 million for 2025-26 to continue this effort.

Hamburg, PA – In a recent event, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger, alongside local leaders, took a close look at downtown Hamburg, Berks County, emphasizing the importance of supporting small businesses during Pennsylvania Small Business Week from May 4 to May 10, 2025. Secretary Siger also announced that Hamburg is the first recipient of the Main Street designation under the new Main Street Matters program, designed to bolster downtown business districts.

Governor Shapiro introduced Main Street Matters as a pivotal element of Pennsylvania’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy, aiming to rejuvenate downtown areas, aid small businesses, and strengthen local economies. Notably, 81 community projects have secured investments, including a $100,000 grant for the Downtown Hamburg Façade Improvement Program.

Through bipartisan efforts, Governor Shapiro secured a $20 million budget for Main Street Matters in 2024-25, with another $20 million proposed for 2025-26. Secretary Siger remarked, “Small businesses like the ones we visited today are key to a thriving downtown that improves the quality of life for our residents, and Governor Shapiro is fully committed to supporting them.”

The Main Street Matters investment will enable Hamburg’s revitalization group, Our Town Foundation, to enhance the downtown ambiance through façade repairs, signage upgrades, and more. Secretary Siger and local leaders visited several businesses that will benefit, such as the Art and Craft Gallery of Hamburg and Hazel’s Cafe.

Deena Kershner, Executive Director of Our Town Foundation, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Being awarded the Main Street Matters designation will enable Our Town Foundation to work with local businesses and expand on Hamburg’s revitalization efforts.”

Aaron Gantz, Vice President of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, added, “This investment contributes to the overall vitality of the Greater Reading region by supporting thriving commercial corridors that anchor local economies and encourage long-term regional growth.”

Small Business, Big Impact

Small businesses are a powerhouse for Pennsylvania’s economy, employing 2.4 million individuals through over 1 million businesses.

In 2022, 13,812 Pennsylvania small businesses exported goods worth $14.8 billion globally.

The local economy benefits greatly when $100 spent at small businesses translates to $48 staying within the community, compared to just $14 from big stores.

Beyond finances, small businesses enrich communities by providing unique identities and character to main streets and neighborhoods.

Real Economic Opportunity

Pennsylvania is ranked as the 7th best state to start a business, with continued efforts to enhance the business-friendly environment.

The Shapiro Administration has prioritized economic growth, new investments, and business support.

Business filing wait times have been reduced from 8 weeks to just 2 days, facilitating faster entrepreneurial ventures.

The Net Operating Loss (NOL) Deduction Limit has been increased, allowing business income reductions by up to 80% by 2029.

$500 million has been allocated to site development, fostering job creation and economic expansion.

$20 million has been invested in Main Street Matters, building on the Keystone Communities Program’s success.

These initiatives are geared towards creating opportunities for businesses and delivering better services and prices for Pennsylvanians.

Proposed 2025-26 Budget

Governor Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 budget continues the focus on economic growth, earmarking $20 million for Main Street Matters. Additional allocations include:

$12.5 million for WEDnetPA to address workforce gaps.

$50 million for bolstering the innovation ecosystem and stimulating life sciences job growth.

$10 million for AdvancePA tax credits to foster quality job creation.

$50 million investment in Housing Stock Restoration.

$10 million increase for the Act 47 Distressed Municipalities Program.

For more details and ongoing updates, visit the DCED website and follow their activities on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn. Use hashtags #PASmallBiz25 and #SmallBusinessWeek to join the conversation.