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.
Pro-Business Policy Agenda
We evaluate member priorities through various interactive initiatives and surveys. Member input is used to establish the Chamber’s Pro-Business Policy Agenda developed by the Council along with the Standing Issues Committees and approved by the Chamber Board. We collaborate with other organizations/groups that are engaged in similar priorities, so we can align and speak with one voice and effectively use available resources.
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.
Issues Policy Committees (established every two years based on policy agenda)
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
Provides opportunities throughout the year to attend events and be engaged in moving Greater Reading forward. Our two/three Business & Community Issues & Policy forums provide a dialogue between members and leaders on relevant key topics. Our Commissioner’s Update and Local Officials Roundtable encourage dialogue and benchmarking with other communities on best practices in creating more vibrant communities. And our State Legislative Forum and Congressional Conversations create a forum for direct dialogue with our elected officials on issues of importance to business.
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 Government & Community Relations department.