HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) has announced the approval of a Small Business Administration (SBA) 504 loan to support the acquisition of the Cornerstone Coffeehouse, a beloved local institution located at 2133 Market St. in Camp Hill. The project secures the future of this cherished establishment while promoting economic growth and community engagement.
The new owners, JL BS Investments LLC, led by Caleb Watters and Ali Shover, will take over the operations of Cornerstone Coffeehouse. Watters, president of The Hershey Pantry Restaurant Group and Valley Bistro by HPG, brings extensive experience in managing successful dining establishments, positioning him to preserve and enhance the coffeehouse’s legacy.
For decades, Cornerstone Coffeehouse has been a vital part of Camp Hill’s cultural fabric. Under the stewardship of Sue and Al Pera, the coffeehouse garnered numerous accolades, including the Harrisburg Regional Chamber’s Catalyst Award for Small Business of the Year. Sue Pera has been a prominent leader in the local business community, serving as a past CREDC chair, a member of the Small Business Advisory Council, and a member of the Chamber Nominating Committee. Her dedication and vision have left a lasting impact on the region.
The SBA 504 loan program, known for its fixed-rate, long-term financing, is an ideal solution for small business acquisitions. This funding ensures that treasured local institutions like Cornerstone Coffeehouse remain community mainstays. With CREDC’s facilitation, the transition aims to preserve the coffeehouse’s welcoming atmosphere and high-quality offerings, with potential enhancements to broaden its appeal.
CREDC expressed its pride in supporting this significant milestone and its confidence in the positive impact the acquisition will have on the Camp Hill community. The organization extends best wishes to Sue and Al Pera in their retirement and to Caleb Watters and Ali Shover as they lead Cornerstone Coffeehouse into a new chapter.
About CREDC
The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) is the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and the Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) approved by the Commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development to perform economic development activities using Pennsylvania’s funding programs in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties.
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry Counties through bold leadership, visionary members, and powerful results. Building on its 130+ year history, the organization provides a unique blend of business, community and economic development, and advocacy services under one roof to boost economic vitality and livability across the region. The Chamber & CREDC is 5-star accredited by the United States Chamber of Commerce, a distinction achieved by less than five percent of chambers across the nation.
