DCED Newsletter | March 2026
This March, Pennsylvania built on its progress with investments in downtowns and housing, expanded support for innovation and small businesses, and continued business growth and site development across the Commonwealth.
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Governor Josh Shapiro continues to support efforts to address Pennsylvania’s housing needs — including reforms to protect residents living in manufactured homes by limiting annual lot rent increases. These reforms are part of the Housing Action Plan aimed at making housing more affordable and accessible across the state.
Secretary Rick Siger also highlighted housing needs during a tour of Reading’s downtown neighborhood, emphasizing the importance of revitalization efforts that strengthen communities and support local economies.
In Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership celebrated a $3.3 million Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) investment to support the organization’s efforts to revitalize downtown Pittsburgh over the next six years.
The Shapiro Administration announced an investment of $425,000 in Harrisburg to support the growth and revitalization of downtown Harrisburg. The funding will be used to develop a Downtown Revitalization Action Plan and strengthen public safety.
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Investments in Innovation |
Innovation remains a key driver of Pennsylvania’s economic competitiveness. Companies like X-Hab 3D, a semi-autonomous 3D concrete printer manufacturer, are transforming construction possibilities for residential and military projects. Governor Shapiro’s proposed FY 2026-27 budget calls for investing $100 million through Innovate in PA 2.0 to help startups and manufacturers access the capital and workforce they need to grow.
Small and diverse businesses also received support through the Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance (HDBA) Program, which announced a $15 million investment to create ten micro-grant programs across the state. These new resources will help small businesses cover the costs of starting, expanding, and strengthening their operations.
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Business Growth in Pennsylvania |
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Program & Funding Opportunities |
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Mar. 23-25 – Site Selectors Guild Spring Conference, Atlanta, GA
Apr. 13-16 – Rapid Conference, Boston, MA
Apr. 13-16 – BPA National Home Performance Conference & Trade Show, Columbus, OH
Apr. 18-22 – IAMC Spring Forum, Little Rock, AR
Apr. 19-22 – PSATS Conference, Hershey
Apr. 27-29 – PEDA Spring Conference, Harrisburg
May 3-6 – SelectUSA Investment Summit, National Harbor, MD
May 6-7 – PHFA Housing Forum, Harrisburg
May 20-21 – NAIOP I.CON East, Jersey City, NJ
May 31-Jun. 3 – PSAB Conference, Hershey
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Open through April 30, 2026
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