Empowering Our Region: Introducing the CEDS Taskforces

Dear Residents of South Central Pennsylvania,

Exciting news! The Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC is thrilled to share our participation in the South Central PA Region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) Taskforces. These taskforces, established at the end of 2023, are our latest endeavor to foster growth and resilience across our region—from Chambersburg to Reading.

Our mission is crystal clear: to break down barriers and promote economic, educational, and social progress by leveraging our region’s collective strengths. Through targeted efforts in infrastructure, workforce development, economic growth, and quality of life enhancement, we aim to build a brighter future for all.

Let’s take a quick look at what each taskforce is all about:

CEDS Taskforce 1: Economic Growth and Development

Focused on identifying opportunities for economic advancement, Taskforce 1 aims to propel our region’s economy forward through initiatives in higher education, small and mid-sized companies, tourism, and technology.

Participants:

· Harrisburg Regional Chamber/CREDC

· SCPa Works

· Dauphin County Economic Development

· Ben Franklin Technology Partners

· Shippensburg SBDC

· Kutztown SBDC

· MANTEC

CEDS Taskforce 2: Workforce Development

Dedicated to strengthening our workforce by addressing critical challenges in skill development, talent enhancement, workforce resilience, and industry-specific training programs, our taskforce is committed to fostering a skilled workforce essential for attracting and retaining businesses. We recognize that talent attraction and retention are paramount in today’s competitive landscape. That’s why our efforts extend beyond skill development to include initiatives aimed at talent enhancement and workforce resilience. By fostering strategic partnerships with educational institutions, job training programs, and industry leaders, we aim to ensure our workforce remains competitive and adaptable in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

Participants:

· Harrisburg Regional Chamber/CREDC

· SCPa Works

· Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation

· Franklin County Area Development Corporation (FCADC)

· County of Berks Economic Community and Development

· Manufacturers’ Association

CEDS Taskforce 3: Infrastructure Improvement

Taskforce 3 is all about optimizing our infrastructure to support sustainable development. We’re committed to enhancing transportation networks, expanding broadband access, and improving environmental sustainability initiatives. By investing in our infrastructure, we’re laying the groundwork for continued economic growth and prosperity in our region.

Participants:

· Harrisburg Regional Chamber/CREDC

· SCPa Works

· Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation

· York County Economic Alliance (YCEA)

CEDS Taskforce 4: Quality of Life Enhancement

Taskforce 4 focuses on enhancing the overall quality of life in our communities by promoting access to education, healthcare, arts, culture, and recreation.

Participants:

· Harrisburg Regional Chamber/CREDC

· SCPa Works

· Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation

· York County Economic Alliance (YCEA)

· Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation (CAEDC)

· Economic Development Company of Lancaster County

· Perry County Economic Development Corporation (Perry County EDC)

We invite you to join us on this journey of transformation and progress. Your input and engagement are essential as we work together to shape a brighter future for South Central Pennsylvania.

Ready to become a member?

We can’t wait to meet you!