New Initiative to Support Pennsylvania’s Small Businesses
Empowering small enterprises across Pennsylvania, the Shapiro-Davis Administration unveils 11 new Business Assistance Service Centers, aimed at fostering economic growth and empowerment for historically disadvantaged businesses.
Harrisburg, PA – A significant investment of $21,445,823, announced by Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger, marks the creation of 11 Business Assistance Service Centers in Pennsylvania. This initiative, under the Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program, aims to bolster small businesses by enhancing access to resources and promoting economic empowerment across the Commonwealth.
These centers will not only assist in securing capital but also provide technical guidance to enrich the capabilities of small businesses in Pennsylvania. “Small businesses are the backbone of Pennsylvania’s economy,” stated Lt. Gov. Davis. He emphasized the role of these centers in helping businesses expand networks and skill sets, thus bridging existing gaps.
DCED Secretary Siger noted, “Economic development is a team sport,” asserting the importance of partnerships in ensuring small businesses have the necessary tools to thrive. “Today’s announcement sends a clear message that the Shapiro-Davis Administration is here to support small businesses,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of this support, Senator Vincent Hughes remarked on the growth of the Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program, asserting that it will significantly impact both small business owners and the communities they serve.
The Business Assistance Service Centers will offer a range of services, including business counseling, accounting assistance, and training in employer responsibilities. To enhance accessibility, these centers will employ bilingual staff and provide translation services.
Funding Allocation for Business Assistance Service Centers
- $1,979,133 to Chester County Economic Development Council for multiple counties.
- $1,800,000 to Covation Center, INC for statewide support.
- $1,635,097 to Duquesne University Small Business Development Center for various counties.
- $1,222,500 to Greater Erie Economic Development Corporation for northern counties.
- $2,190,524 to Greenline Access Capital for southeastern counties.
- $2,156,887 to Lehigh University for eastern counties.
- $943,337 to North Side Industrial Development Company for southwestern counties.
- $1,948,736 to Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance for northeastern counties.
- $5,840,690 to Pennsylvania CDFI Network for a wide range of counties.
- $1,136,200 to Seton Hill University for western counties.
- $592,719 to Women’s Opportunities Resource Center for southeastern counties.
Each center will work in tandem with local organizations to maximize their impact. The full list of partner organizations is accessible online.
The administration’s efforts have led to a 45% increase in spending with Black-owned and Latino-owned businesses in two years, surpassing $1 billion in contracts with small and diverse businesses for consecutive years.
From the onset, Governor Josh Shapiro and Lt. Gov. Davis have championed economic development through strategic investments in development and infrastructure, expediting processes to benefit the state’s small businesses.
2025-26 Budget Proposal Highlights
- $12.5 million for workforce expansion via WEDnetPA
- $2 million to establish Career Connect for internship opportunities
- $10 million in AdvancePA tax credits for job creation
- $3 million for business attraction and marketing initiatives
- Accelerated reduction of the Corporate Net Income Tax (CNIT) by two years
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