Development in Focus is GRCA’s monthly recap of key economic development activities, advocacy initiatives and upcoming opportunities shaping Greater Reading. Each edition highlights efforts to drive growth, foster collaboration and support businesses, reinforcing our commitment to a thriving and connected Greater Reading business community.
Growth & Investment
$4.7 million in financing is in the pipeline through the PA Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and PA Catalyst Loan Fund, representing more than $16.3 million in total project costs.
Local Impact: Platte Research, located in Birdsboro, Pa. secured $200,000 for working capital loan through the Pennsylvania Catalyst Loan Fund to expand production of specialty coatings and laminates—an example of how local funding supports real business growth.
Reach out to Kayla Hayick Khayick@greaterreading.org to learn more about how GRCA’s can help you grow your business.
Economic Momentum across Greater Reading:
- Albright College dorm conversion approved, bringing new housing to Reading
- Berkshire Mall, a 60-acre property is under contract to Abrams Realty & Development
- BCIDA finalizes $5M TIF for 338 new housing units in Amity Township
- Broadcast District breaks ground on a mixed-use development that includes Whole Foods and 800 residences
- City of Reading receives $250K state grant for redevelopment of 50-acre former Dana site
- FM Browns, ByHeart, Rose Corporation and other entities apply for state. redevelopment grants for expansion
- Reading’s CRIZ establishes a ~$3.5M baseline, setting the stage for reinvestment
- The Pointe, a mixed-use building, opens in Douglassville
These projects reflect the growing confidence in Greater Reading’s market and workforce.
Looking to start a business?
Through Elevate Berks, GRCA convenes over a dozen partners helping entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Together, they deliver workshops, events and personalized support making Berks County a stronger place to launch and sustain a business. Explore resources at ElevateBerks.com>
What’s Next for Berks County’s Growth?
The County’s Imagine Berks Comprehensive Plan is shaping the next decade of development. At GRCA’s Business & Community Advocacy Council (BCAC) meeting, the County Planning Commission shared data-driven insights guiding decisions on housing, infrastructure, and land use.
Want to understand what’s being proposed and how it could impact your business, workforce and community? Read the full post>
MFG Summit
We were proud to host 160 attendees at the 2025 Manufacturing (MFG) Summit, bringing together manufacturers, educators and community partners for a day of insight and collaboration. Engaging discussions around generative AI, workforce development and innovation highlighted the strength and resilience of our regional manufacturing sector.
Civic Leadership in Action but Keep it Casual!
In partnership with the Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS®, GRCA hosted a Meet the Candidates Mixer, connecting local candidates with business and community leaders for open, nonpartisan dialogue on economic priorities and local governance.
Unlike a traditional forum or debate, this event was intentionally designed to be informal and conversational. Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with candidates, ask meaningful questions and build genuine connections in a relaxed, open networking environment. The event fostered transparent dialogue on priorities affecting Berks County’s future, from economic development and housing to municipal services and business growth.
GRCA and R-BAR were pleased to provide a platform that strengthened the bridge between the business community, engaged residents, and those who aspire to lead. Our collective civic health depends on informed relationships like these, built neighbor-to-neighbor, not just campaign-to-voter.
Thank you to our co-host, R-BAR, and to all members and community leaders who joined us.
