From new investment and infrastructure improvements to workforce initiatives and business resources, economic development is moving forward across Greater Reading. In this quarterly update, GRCA shares regional developments, highlights from our work with partners, and connections with businesses and opportunities that support growth.
Reading Is Ready: Taking Our Investment Story to Market
Reading is experiencing real development momentum. In partnership with the City of Reading, GRCA is working to position the city for its next wave of investment.
The new Reading is Ready Investment Playbook brings together development opportunities, market data, incentives and resources to make the case for investment, and a new advertising campaign is taking that message to market.
Taking the Message Beyond Reading
Mayor Eddie Moran reinforced the “Reading Is Ready” message in Harrisburg at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, highlighting the city’s workforce, growth and opportunities for continued investment. The GRCA team was pleased to join the Mayor, business and community leaders in bringing that message to state policymakers.
GRCA also carried Greater Reading’s investment story into the regional conversation at Bisnow’s Philadelphia State of the Market, where Aaron Gantz moderated “After the Confetti: Philadelphia’s Pitch to Capital, Talent and the Country” before an audience of more than 500.
These efforts are raising Reading’s profile, strengthening regional connections and bringing new attention to the opportunities for investment and growth.
Regional Economic Development News
- PennDOT pledges continued push for Reading-Philadelphia passenger rail
- New Schuylkill River trail connecting Reading and Philadelphia opens
- Two Greater Reading High Schools Named Among 100 best in PA
- More than $10.2 million awarded to Berks County projects through gaming revenue
Advocacy
State Budget Conversation
In August, the Business Community and Advocacy Council (BCAC) welcomed State Rep. Jordan Harris, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, for a discussion on Pennsylvania’s state budget and its implications for workforce, housing, education, small business and economic development.
Manufacturing Legislative Roundtable
Hosted at East Penn Manufacturing, GRCA brought together manufacturers with Congressman Dan Meuser and State Rep. Jamie Barton for a conversation focused on manufacturing investment, workforce needs, business growth and the policies affecting one of Greater Reading’s most important industries.
Federal Conversations in Greater Reading
GRCA also hosted Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan for two discussions highlighting regional priorities: a housing conversation with the Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS® focused on supply and affordability, and a tour of the Broadcast District with SJC Ventures focused on redevelopment and investment.
Business & Community Advocacy Council (BCAC) Meetings
Friday, Dec. 11 | 8 a.m.
Reach out to Alex Roche, Director of Advocacy, to receive details about future meetings.
Financing
$1.59 Million Awarded to Berks County Projects
GRCA’s affiliate, Greater Berks Development Fund (GBDF), served as the applicant for three projects awarded funding through the 2025 Local Share Account (LSA) Category 4 program:
- $800,000 | Friend, Inc. Community Services: Renovation of a blighted Kutztown building into a social services center
- $688,709 | Schuylkill River Greenways Association: New Buttonwood Street trailhead and Schuylkill River Trail in Reading
- $104,328 | Opportunity House: Roof improvements at its N. 2nd Street facility in Reading
Financing Your Next Business Investment
Through its affiliate, Greater Berks Development Fund, GRCA administers PIDA financing for eligible businesses investing in real estate, equipment and other capital projects.
| 6.25% Fixed Rate For the full loan term | 5.25% Initial Fixed Rate First 5 or 7 years, depending on loan structure; rate resets afterward |
If your business is planning an expansion, equipment purchase or capital investment, this is an opportunity to access low-interest financing. Contact Kayla Hayick, Director of Lending & Business Outreach, to learn more.
Workforce + Talent
GRCA continues to connect employers with resources, expertise and partnerships that strengthen Greater Reading’s workforce and business competitiveness.
Building Stronger Internship Programs
At the Berks Internship Summit hosted at Kutztown University, GRCA facilitated a discussion on employer resources to help businesses establish and strengthen internship programs, creating more opportunities to connect students with local employers.
Positioning Greater Reading for Talent
Through Meet Greater Reading, GRCA is positioning the region as a place to live, work and build a career. Our profiles showcase local talent, career opportunities and quality of life to strengthen Greater Reading’s appeal to prospective talent and employers.
