Harrisburg, Pa. – October 2025 – The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) has announced two new SBA 504 loan approvals that will help small businesses in Dauphin County grow and gain long-term property ownership. The projects, Kiddie Academy of Harrisburg and The Hershey Tavern, show how the SBA 504 program helps entrepreneurs move from leasing to owning while building stronger local communities.
Kiddie Academy of Harrisburg Invests in Its Future
ADC HBG Properties LLC, the ownership entity for Kiddie Academy of Harrisburg, received approval from the U.S. Small Business Administration on September 10, 2025, for a $1.9 million SBA 504 loan. This funding supports the purchase of 3901 North Progress Avenue in the Susquehanna Union Green Town Center in Susquehanna Township.
The total project cost of $4.63 million covers the purchase of a building that Kiddie Academy had leased since opening in August 2023. LINKBANK served as the third-party lender, and CREDC partnered with Seedcopa to guide the SBA 504 application and approval process. Together, they will finalize the permanent financing with SBA and LINKBANK.
By owning its property, Kiddie Academy will strengthen its long-term stability. The center will also continue offering reliable childcare and early education services for families across the region.
The Hershey Tavern Brings New Life to a Local Landmark
BP Sheehan Properties, LLC received SBA approval for a $495,000 SBA 504 loan to buy and renovate 300 South Hershey Road, the former site of The Manor Restaurant & Lounge in West Hanover Township.
The $1.21 million project will create The Hershey Tavern, a new dining and entertainment destination under BP Sheehan Properties, LLC. Operating companies The Hershey Tavern, LLC and BP Sheehan Hospitality, LLC dba Hershey Bistro will manage operations. M&T Bank is serving as the third-party lender, and CREDC worked with Seedcopa to secure SBA approval and financing.
When complete, The Hershey Tavern will enhance Hershey’s dining scene and contribute to continued community revitalization. It will also create new opportunities for local residents and visitors.
CREDC’s Role in SBA 504 Financing
“The SBA 504 program allows local business owners to invest in their future with stability and confidence,” said Anita Weikel, Economic Development Lending Officer at CREDC. “These projects, one in childcare and one in hospitality, show how this program drives business growth across our region.”
The SBA 504 program provides long-term, fixed-rate financing for small businesses to buy, build, or renovate owner-occupied commercial properties and purchase major fixed assets. As the regional Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) for Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties, CREDC helps local businesses create jobs, build wealth, and strengthen the regional economy.
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.
