The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) serves as the front-line advocate for business and community. We provide a bridge between business, community and government – helping our federal, state and local officials to acknowledge the challenges businesses face, while providing business-friendly solutions to regulatory, legislative and workforce issues. Through lobbying, testifying, developing key relationships, grassroots activities, tracking bills and regulation, we promote a Pro-Business Policy Agenda. GRCA will continue to work with our members and community to keep everyone engaged in the process to build our healthy, competitive business community.
Business & Community Advocacy Council (BCAC)
GRCA members have the ability to participate on the Business & Community Advocacy Council that meets on a regular basis and include special Issues Policy Committees along with community and alliance partners.
The Business and Community Advocacy Council (BCAC), hosted by the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), serves as a collaborative network for public and private business professionals to engage in impactful advocacy. BCAC focuses on educating members about the policy-making process, identifying emerging policy issues, and fostering active participation in local and statewide advocacy efforts. By promoting pro-business advocacy statements, BCAC empowers members of all sizes to navigate and shape the legislative landscape effectively. We do this by utilizing our Chamber’s Pro-Business Advocacy Statements to guide the collaboration and coalition building that leads our advocacy work.
Pro-business Advocacy Statements
Every two years, as Congress transitions, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) diligently develops and promotes robust Pro-Business Advocacy Statements. We evaluate member priorities through internal and external meetings and reviews. Member input is filtered back to the BCAC and the GRCA staff to establish the Pro-business Advocacy Statements. The promotion of these statements is a collaborative effort with other organizations/groups that are engaged in the BCAC, so we can align and speak with one voice and effectively use available resources. With the advent of the 119th Pennsylvania Congress, GRCA introduces a new set of statements emphasizing collaboration to advance transportation, infrastructure, and workforce development, enhance access to business funding opportunities, and cultivate a supportive local regulatory environment.
Budgets, Spending & Taxes
- Public Pension Reform
- Business Tax Reform
- State & Federal Budgets
- Streamlining Government Programs/Processes
Economic Development
- Emerging Industries
- Business Incentives
- Real Estate, Construction, Smart Growth & Zoning
- Broadband Infrastructure Expansion
- Agriculture, Tourism, & the Arts
Environmental Resources & Energy
- Regulatory Reform/Permit Process
- Energy & Utilities Infrastructure
- U.S. Energy Independence
- Energy Alternatives
Labor & Benefits
- Foreign Born Worker Requirements & Immigration
- Benefits & Healthcare Plans
- Labor Policy & Unemployment Compensation
Transportation & Infrastructure
- Efficiencies/Funding – Gas Tax Alternative
- Freight & Logistics
- Commuter Resources
- New Technology
- Berks Transportation Projects:
- Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority
- Reading Rail Station TOD
- 222 Bypass
Workforce, Education & Healthcare
- Talent Pipeline & Training
- Workforce Retention
- Education Requirements & Graduation Rates
- Apprenticeships & Funding
Advocacy & Community Leadership Series
Throughout the year, we offer numerous opportunities to attend events and actively contribute to advancing Greater Reading. Our six BCAC meetings serve as dynamic forums, fostering direct dialogue between members, legislative leaders, and elected officials on critical topics aligned with the Pro-Business Advocacy Statements. Signature events such as the Commissioner’s Update and State Legislative Forum promote meaningful discussions and benchmarking, sharing best practices for building more vibrant communities. Additionally, our new webinar series provides business owners and community members with accessible and informative updates on key issues.
Thank You Partners
Additionally, there are opportunities for our Partners to be engaged and recognized at special events and meetings with our Federal, State and Regional Chambers.
Take Action
Contact our Advocacy Department.