GRCA’s work is rooted in relationships and a shared commitment to strengthening Greater Reading. Our team brings together people, businesses, organizations and public-sector partners to build connections, exchange ideas, solve challenges and create opportunities that move the region forward.
During the second quarter of 2026, that work resulted in new business opportunities, strategic investments, impactful programming, stronger partnerships and greater visibility for the Greater Reading business community. The highlights that follow demonstrate how GRCA continues to Advance, Connect, Engage and Champion our region.
Thank you to our members, investors, partners and the broader business community for your ongoing support and engagement. Your participation and commitment help make this work possible and contribute to a stronger Greater Reading.
Warm Regards,
Aaron Gantz, MPA
Vice President of Economic Development & Strategy
Advance
GRCA reduces barriers to business growth by connecting companies to capital, talent, data and decision-makers, helping employers expand, retain jobs and invest with confidence in Berks County.
- $4.4 million in funding is currently in the pipeline, totaling $30.2 million in total project costs through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA)
- Worked directly with over 70 Berks-based companies to identify opportunities, address challenges and connect businesses with the resources needed to expand and succeed. Ready to grow? Let’s talk!>
- GRCA submitted $1.8 million in grant requests on behalf of Berks County organizations. Supported over $11 million in competitive grant and funding applications through coordination, technical assistance and letters of support.
- Advocacy programs engaged 191 participants, serving 150 unique businesses. Additionally, through all GRCAs programs, events and meetings, GRCA connected more than 1,057 members of the business community with elected officials this quarter. Learn more about our advocacy work>
- Delivered 16 tailored workforce and professional development programs to 152 participants across 35 organizations, strengthening talent pipelines and supporting retention and internal advancement. Learn more about Training & Professional Development opportunities>
- Released the 2025 State of the Berks County Economy, highlighting key economic trends and reinforcing workforce and housing as priorities for long-term regional competitiveness. Read the report>
Connect
GRCA serves as the region’s business hub, strengthening relationships and long-term engagement across industries to ensure businesses are connected, informed and positioned to grow.
- Welcomed 29 new members, strengthening GRCA’s network of businesses and community partners.
- Celebrated 11 ribbon cuttings across diverse industries, supporting business growth and visibility across Greater Reading. Learn more about how we can support your next milestone>
- Recognized 27 member anniversaries of 20+ years, six being 50+ years reinforcing long-term business retention and community investment.
- Welcomed new and returning Economic Development Investors in support of regional business retention, expansion and attraction efforts. Join the movement>
Engage
GRCA brings the business community together to build connections, share practical knowledge and strengthen trust—through both large-scale events and targeted programs.
- Hosted 18 events with more than 1,686 attendees including:
- Our Annual Dinner with astronaut Mike Massimino, where more than 700 attendees networked, played in VR, took photos with robots and cheered on 70 local businesses for the Business Excellence Awards.
- Women2Women attendees delved into AI tools for hiring and getting hired, how food can be preventative medicine and cracked lobster claws at Lobsterfest. Our De Mujer a Mujer program welcomed Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz to talk about speaking with confidence, and our De Mujer a Mujer awards were presented to Auria Bradley, Jennasea Rodriguez and Katy Ogando-Canseco
- The Family Business Alliance went behind the scenes at Heeby’s and got a tour of its new expanded enterprises. Peer Group members held a joint session to hear about different generations in the workplace.
- Small businesses learned about streamlining processes with AI and how to communicate effectively.
- Our nonprofit leaders met for the first roundtable to discuss community calendars.
- Three sold-out Networking@Night events were held at LedgeRock Golf Course, First Commonwealth FCU and Reading Country Club
Interested in connecting with peers and businesses across the community? Check out GRCA’s event calendar >
Champion
GRCA amplifies the Greater Reading business community by increasing visibility for local companies, promoting regional assets and positioning the region as a competitive place to live, work and invest.
- An average of 192 member businesses were featured per month across GRCA platforms, increasing awareness, visibility and connection to customers, partners and talent. Through social media, Commerce Quarterly magazine and e-newsletters.
- GRCA’s launch of its new Member Map brings our membership community to life in a whole new way. This interactive directory helps increase member visibility, connect with fellow GRCA members and identify businesses within your service area. Explore the Member Map>
- Social media content continues to generate strong audience interaction, with engagement rates averaging 104%, well above typical industry benchmarks, helping extend the reach of business stories and regional opportunities.
- GRCA published its first Economic Development in Action story featuring Reitnouer Aluminum Trailers. This campaign racked up more than 2,600 pageviews, 29,000 paid and organic impressions and nearly 1,600 video views. View the story>
These results are made possible by the entire GRCA Team – Mark Dolinski, Leah Fassnacht, Aaron Gantz, Melissa Hassler, Kayla Hayick, Katie Johnsen, Steph Koch, Audrey Krupiak, Anna Lisa, Deb Millman, Alex Roché, Keith Stamm, Sally Stewart, Jackie Stiles, Denise Vaquero, Dallan Yoh and intern Gina Disarro. Meet the team>