Harrisburg, PA – October 2025 – The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) continues to grow small business investment across Central Pennsylvania through the Pennsylvania Catalyst Loan Fund (PACLF). Supported by the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), this program helps entrepreneurs access affordable financing for expansion, real estate investment, and community revitalization.
Recently, CREDC reached three major milestones: the closing of Denim Coffee’s Harrisburg expansion and the approvals of Wheel Worx, Inc. and Holistic Pet Care, LLC (Abrams & Weakley General Store for Animals). Together, these projects show how the PA Catalyst Loan Fund drives small business growth and regional impact.
Denim Coffee Expands in Downtown Harrisburg
Denim Coffee Company, a Pennsylvania-based specialty roaster, recently received a $220,000 Pennsylvania Catalyst Loan Fund loan. The funding supports the build-out of a new café and bakery in the Menaker Building at 17 S. 2nd Street in Harrisburg.
The new café will complement Denim’s smaller shop at 401 Walnut Street. It will feature more seating, a meeting area, and an in-house bakery. With its tagline “Make Better Coffee,” Denim Coffee continues to deliver high-quality coffee to customers and wholesale partners.
This project, completed with LINKBANK, represents another investment in downtown Harrisburg. It also reinforces Denim Coffee’s commitment to local ownership and community gathering spaces.
Wheel Worx Builds New Facility in Mechanicsburg
Wheel Worx, Inc. was approved for a $400,000 PA Catalyst Loan Fund loan to help build a larger automotive wheel repair and restoration facility at 9 Old Willow Mill Road in Mechanicsburg.
Founded in 2005 by Carlos Vaca, Wheel Worx began as a one-person operation. Today, it employs about 20 people across three divisions: a wheel shop, a body and paint shop behind Bobby Rahal Honda, and mobile units that serve dealerships from State College to Lancaster.
The new facility will create space for growth and new jobs. CREDC partnered with LINKBANK, which provided matching companion funding to complete the project.
Abrams & Weakley Continues a Local Legacy
Holistic Pet Care, LLC, doing business as Abrams & Weakley General Store for Animals, received a $260,000 PA Catalyst Loan Fund loan to renovate its new home at 3712 N. 6th Street in Harrisburg.
Founded in 1985 by Beth Abrams and Judy Weakley, Abrams & Weakley became the region’s first natural pet supply store. Their mission was simple—offer healthy pet products and trusted advice. That vision built a loyal following and a lasting community presence.
Today, owner Kristen Zellner carries that mission forward as a woman-owned small business. She joined the company in 2005 and worked closely with Judy until her passing in 2009. Under Zellner’s leadership, the store continues to grow while staying true to its roots.
Renovations at the new location will allow for expanded retail and service offerings. Members 1st Federal Credit Union is providing the companion funding for this project. Abrams & Weakley plans to complete the move in early 2026.
Investing in Local Businesses and Communities
“CREDC is proud to partner with the Chester County Economic Development Council to bring the PA Catalyst Loan Fund to small businesses across our region,” said Anita Weikel, Economic Development Lending Officer for CREDC. “These investments help locally owned companies like Denim Coffee, Wheel Worx, and Abrams & Weakley expand, create jobs, and strengthen the communities they serve.”
Through the Pennsylvania Catalyst Loan Fund, CREDC connects business owners with funding that encourages growth, community investment, and long-term economic stability throughout Central Pennsylvania.
About the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
For 140 years, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC has served as the region’s catalyst for economic prosperity. The organization combines business, community, and economic development services to enhance the region’s vitality and livability. The Chamber is a five-star accredited chamber through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a distinction held by fewer than 1 percent of chambers nationwide. CREDC is the Certified Economic Development Organization for Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties.
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.
