The Impact Harrisburg Initiative is expanding opportunities for small and diverse businesses across the Capital Region by helping them prepare for supplier diversity programs, government contracts, and corporate procurement opportunities.
Led by the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), the initiative brings together regional partners, public agencies, and business leaders to strengthen procurement readiness and connect small businesses with new contracting opportunities.
Over the past year, the initiative has focused on addressing barriers that often prevent Small Business Enterprises (SBEs) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) from competing for contracts. Through targeted workshops, partnerships, and networking opportunities, CREDC is helping local businesses better understand procurement processes and position themselves for long-term growth.
Through partnerships with organizations such as the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central PA, the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council, and the U.S. Small Business Administration, CREDC has helped connect entrepreneurs with the tools and relationships needed to grow and compete in new markets.
One of the initiative’s early successes was the City Project Opportunities Workshop, hosted at the CREDC offices in partnership with the City of Harrisburg. The session welcomed more than 40 attendees and provided practical guidance on the government procurement process, bonding and insurance requirements, and strategies for identifying subcontracting opportunities.
Building on this momentum, CREDC will continue offering programming designed to help businesses build procurement readiness and connect directly with decision-makers.
Upcoming Opportunities
Windows of Opportunity: Coaching for Impact Webinar
In partnership with Chase Bank, CREDC will host a virtual session on April 30, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM focused on supplier diversity and certification strategies. Participants will learn the fundamentals of supplier diversity programs, how to navigate government contracting, and how to maximize the value of business certifications.
The session is designed to help small businesses better position themselves for corporate and public-sector procurement opportunities.
Building Supplier Connections
CREDC is also partnering with Keystone Contractors Association and Novinger’s to host a buyer and supplier matchmaking event on May 6, 2026 from 3–6 PM at Novinger’s in Harrisburg. The event will bring together small businesses and larger regional companies seeking goods and services, creating intentional introductions between suppliers and procurement leaders.
Attendees will have the opportunity to build new business relationships, explore partnership opportunities, and gain insights from industry leaders while expanding their supplier network.
Building a More Inclusive Regional Economy
Programs like these are designed to ensure that businesses of all sizes have the knowledge, connections, and confidence needed to participate in the region’s growing economy.
By strengthening procurement readiness and creating new supplier connections, CREDC is helping to build a more inclusive and competitive business environment across the Capital Region.
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 (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.
