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.
Looking Forward!
2025 MFG Summit – Tuesday, Oct. 28
Manufacturing is the Greater Reading region’s highest-priority industry, and this year’s Summit will bring together employers, partners, and training providers to share strategies for success. The half-day program features a keynote panel with BusinessPA (PA Department of Community and Economic Development) highlighting tools and incentives for business growth, retention and attraction.
Meet the Candidates – in a Casual Setting!
On Thursday, Oct. 30, GRCA and the Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS (R-BAR) are teaming up to host a casual, conversational mixer where community members can connect directly with local election candidates. Unlike a formal debate, this event is designed for genuine conversation and relationship-building – attendees can mingle with candidates, ask questions, and learn about their priorities in a relaxed setting.
Elevate Berks Presents: Business 101 Class
Turn your idea into a business in just 6 weeks. Join Elevate Berks at Berks LaunchBox and learn directly from regional experts. With guided sessions, hands-on workshops and one-on-one coaching, you’ll gain the tools to plan, market and launch your business with confidence. By the end, you’ll walk away with a completed business plan, a certificate and connections to local resources to keep you moving forward.
There is no cost to attend the course, but seats are limited.
LOOKING BACK!
Environmental Health & Safety Roundtable
GRCA is committed to providing data that is needed to make smart, forward-looking decisions. Our latest Economic Intelligence Report takes a closer look at employment, wages, housing and consumer activity in Berks County.
Highlights from Q2 2025:
- Labor force declined by 1,200; employment dropped by 2,300.
- Retirements are rising — 5,100 more workers over 65 since 2014 — with fewer mid-career replacements.
- Unemployment averaged 4.6% (below the long-term June average of 5.8%).
- Average hourly wages dipped slightly as higher earners retired.
- Median home prices surged nearly 15%, with new multi-unit projects permitted for the first time since 2023.
GRCA Advocates for Greater Reading Priorities on Capitol Hill
The GRCA team joined partner chambers from across South Central Pennsylvania for a day on Capitol Hill, highlighting the priorities of Greater Reading and the broader region. The delegation met with Representatives Dan Meuser, Scott Perry and Lloyd Smucker, followed by a discussion with Senator John Fetterman. The team also visited the Federal Railroad Administration, Federal Highway Administration, and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to advance conversations around transportation and energy.
This collaborative effort demonstrated the strength of our regional business community and our shared commitment to workforce, housing, transportation, and energy reliability.
2025 Building Berks Awards
On September 9, GRCA and over 180 community leaders celebrated investment, growth and development across 34 nominated projects. These projects represent:
- Over $186 million in investment
- More than 2,600 jobs
- Nearly 1.3 million square feet of development.
Every one of these projects is a win for the Greater Reading community. Read more about the 22 winning projects and more.