Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, bring energy to our communities, and help define what makes Greater Reading unique.
During National Small Business Week May 3 to May 9, we are highlighting the impact of small businesses and the work happening behind the scenes to support their growth.
Why Small Businesses Matter
- Small businesses play a major role in our region.
- They make up the majority of local employers.
- They support jobs and economic growth.
- They help shape our downtowns and neighborhoods.
When small businesses succeed, our community grows stronger.
Building the Foundation for Success
Strong businesses start with strong planning.
Through Elevate Berks, GRCA works with local partners who provide technical support to entrepreneurs and small business owners.
This includes help with:
- Business planning
- Financial projections
- Budgeting and cash flow
- Business strategy
These partners work directly with businesses to build a solid foundation, helping them prepare for growth and future investment.
Turning Preparation into Investment
Once a business is ready, access to capital becomes the next step.
GRCA connects businesses to financing that supports:
- Expansion
- Equipment purchases
- Property improvements
- Long-term growth
Recent examples include projects supported through the Pennsylvania Catalyst Loan Fund:
- LaFaver Family Farm (Hamburg)
Greater Berks Development Fund supported a $524,000 project with $180,000 in financing through the PA Catalyst Loan Fund to construct a new steer barn. This investment supports a growing, family-owned operation that provides locally raised, direct-to-consumer beef and other farm products.
- The Inn on Main (Oley)
A $550,000 loan through the PA Catalyst Loan Fund helped support the $1.1 million renovation of the former Oley Valley Inn. The property has been revitalized into a full-service restaurant, bringing new life and activity back to Main Street.
Celebrating Small Business Growth
Growth shows up in many ways: new storefronts, expanded teams and continued investment in our community.
In 2025, GRCA supported nearly 40 ribbon cuttings, marking important milestones for businesses across Greater Reading.
Each one represents progress.
Investing in Our Main Street Corridors
Small business growth is happening across Greater Reading, especially in our Main Street corridors.
Our community is fortunate to have vibrant business districts in Boyertown, Hamburg, Kutztown, Reading and West Reading. These corridors are home to many small businesses and serve as important centers for:
- Local shopping and dining
- Entrepreneurship
- Community connection
Supporting these areas helps strengthen both our local economy and the neighborhoods they serve.
A Connected Small Business Community
Small businesses do not grow alone.
GRCA helps connect business owners to:
- Resources and programs
- Local and state partners
- Networking and peer connections
Our goal is simple: make it easier for businesses to find support and keep moving forward.
When Is the Right Time to Get Involved?
For many small businesses, timing matters.
Joining an organization like GRCA can be valuable at different stages, depending on a business’s goals and capacity.
Some businesses join early to build connections and increase visibility. Others wait until they have more time and resources to fully engage.
Businesses often see the most value when they are ready to:
- Build relationships
- Increase visibility
- Develop their team
- Participate in programs and events
As a business grows and begins looking outward for new opportunities, membership can help support that next step.
How You Can Support Small Businesses
Small Business Week is a reminder that everyone plays a role.
Here are a few simple ways to support local businesses:
- Shop local whenever possible
- Share and promote businesses on social media
- Leave positive reviews
- Recommend businesses to others
- Be a repeat customer
Explore the GRCA Member Directory to find local businesses
If you are starting a business, growing one or looking to get more involved, GRCA and its partners are here to help.
You can get started by:
- Exploring the Elevate Berks website
- Learning about available financing opportunities
- Explore GRCA membership and find the right way to get involved.