The Greater Berks Development Fund can assist projects by providing direct loans to an eligible business on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Kayla Hayick, Director of Lending and Business Outreach, for more information.
Examples of Past Projects:
Manufacturing/Industrial
Greater Berks Development Fund has had a long-standing relationship with Reitnouer, Inc. The company is a leading North America aluminum flatbed truck manufacturer with over 400 employees. In 2021, GBDF sold 66 acres In Ontelaunee Township, for the construction of a new Reitnouer facility. GBDF had acquired property in Ontelaunee with the goal of having industrially- zoned land available to assist Berks County companies that had a need to expand and the Reitnouer project met objective. The 468,000-square-foot manufacturing complex is nearing completion and occupancy is expected in early 2026.
GBDF, in partnership with the Berks IDA, provided $2 million in short-term loans, while Fulton Bank is supporting the construction and long-term financing. This $55+ million project is a significant investment in our community, with the expectation that an additional 200 jobs will be created.
GBDF is proud to support this project and looks forward to celebrating its official opening alongside the Reitnouer team and community.
City of Reading Projects
SuperNatural
Greater Berks Development Fund provided $700,000 in direct lending to the Super Natural Fresh & Produce project at 4th & Elm Streets, Reading. Located in a former City of Reading garage/maintenance facility, this property has been transformed into a new supermarket, café and wholesale distribution warehouse for other small grocers.
Led by Finanta, this $19 million project took over six years to be completed. New Market Tax Credits of $6 million were provided to support this development in a low-income neighborhood. GBDF is proud to have provided funding in the initial critical phase of the project.

Elks Club
Greater Berks Development Fund lent $400,000 to Shuman Development Fund to assist with the acquisition of the Elks Club property at 46 S. Fifth Street, Reading. The property is undergoing a historic restoration, as it is listed on the National Register. Future use of the property will be event space to complement the other Shuman Development Fund properties that are nearby.
In addition to the direct loan, in 2024, GBDF received a $500,000 Keystone Communities grant award to help Shuman Development Group offset the significant costs associated with the renovation of a blighted historic structure.

Reading Medical Center
Greater Berks Development Fund, in partnership with the Berks County Industrial Development Authority, provided $1,000,000 in short-term funding to Shuman Development Group for its Reading Community Medical Campus. Located at the former St. Joseph’s hospital site at 6th & Walnut Streets, the property is being transformed into a state-of-the-art medical hub. Shuman Development Group has secured long-term commitments for Penn State Health and Haven Behavioral Health to occupy a significant portion of the site.