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Ryan Unger speaking on behalf of Crane Clean Energy

Support for Energy Development in Central Pennsylvania

The Harrisburg Regional Chamber voiced strong support for the Crane Clean Energy Center at a recent U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission hearing. This project presents a vital opportunity for Central Pennsylvania, bringing high-quality jobs, reliable clean energy, and long-term economic growth to our region. President and CEO Ryan Unger spoke on behalf of the Chamber, advocating…

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PA State Budget Update

Update on the Pennsylvania State Budget Process

The 2025-26 Pennsylvania state budget is now close to being two months late as legislators advance competing proposals in the General Assembly. On Aug. 11, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approved a bill to increase public transit funding, avoiding anticipated cuts in service, while also providing more funding for highway maintenance and construction and instituting…

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Pennsylvania Launches Micro, Midsize Business Programs

Micro and midsize businesses in Pennsylvania will now have more access to contracting opportunities with the Commonwealth through two new programs launched by the Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) on Wednesday, July 23. The new Micro Business and Midsize Business Programs will complement the Small Business, Small Diverse Business, and Veteran Business Enterprise programs,…

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U.S. Chamber Shares Updates on Tariff Policy

HARRISBURG, Pa. — On Tuesday, July 8, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and several regional chambers to provide updates on tariff policy and international trade developments.  The virtual webinar featured Isabelle Icso, executive director of international policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, who offered an overview…

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Jessica Shirley Headshot

DEP Launches SPEED Program; Shirley to Speak at Policy Pulse

HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has launched the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) program, aimed at improving permitting efficiency and supporting economic growth.  Announced June 30 by Secretary Jessica Shirley and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, SPEED allows applicants to pay for a DEP-approved third-party inspector to…

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PA state capitol building

PA State Budget Talks Continue as August Approaches 

HARRISBURG, Pa. — PA State Budget negotiations continue in Harrisburg as state officials work privately to reach an agreement on a proposed $51.5 billion spending plan.  The total spending amount remains a major point of discussion. The current proposal uses a portion of the state’s Rainy Day Fund to cover recurring costs. Lawmakers have not…

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CREDC Capital Campaign Builds Momentum: 67% of Annual Goal Secured

We’re excited to share progress on the 2025–2027 CREDC capital campaign and extend our sincere thanks to all who continue to invest in the future of our region. At CREDC, we refer to our supporters as Investors because their contributions are exactly that: strategic investments in our shared mission. Together with the Harrisburg Regional Chamber,…

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City Workshop Presentation

Impact Harrisburg Launches Workshops to Connect Small Businesses with Contract Opportunities

The Impact Harrisburg Initiative, with a goal of helping small and disadvantaged businesses compete for city and county procurement contracts, is making progress. Launched in January 2025, the initiative offers technical assistance and builds capacity to increase participation in procurement with the City of Harrisburg, Dauphin County, and other partners. Since then, it has taken…

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Bowmans Insurance Group Invests in Permanent Hershey Home

HERSHEY, Pa. – May 21, 2025 – The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) announced the approval of an SBA 504 loan for Bowmans Insurance Group (operating as Big Risk Partners, LLC) to purchase its longtime headquarters at 1120 E. Chocolate Ave. in Hershey. Owned by Tyler Reitz, Bowmans Insurance Group is a trusted local…

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Hidden Still PIDA loan closing

PIDA Loan Fuels Major Expansion for Hidden Still Distillery in Hershey

HERSHEY, Pa. – The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) successfully closed a $2 million PIDA loan on June 26, 2025. The loan will support the expansion of Hidden Still Distillery in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Founded by David Stein in 2014, Hidden Still is one of the largest producers of Pennsylvania craft straight bourbon whiskey, according…

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