DCED Newsletter | September 2025

This month’s newsletter highlights Pennsylvania’s strengths in manufacturing, tourism, film, broadband expansion, and innovation. From celebrating Manufacturing Day to advancing AI and closing the digital divide, Pennsylvania continues to build momentum for a competitive future.

As the nation’s 6th largest state for manufacturing, Pennsylvania’s industry is powered by innovative technologies — including AI and automation — and the incredible talent of our workforce. On October 3, Pennsylvania will be celebrating National Manufacturing Day by highlighting career opportunities for students. DCED programs like the Manufacturing PA Innovation Program connect manufacturers with university researchers and students to solve real-world industry problems. Apprenticeships and on-the-job training are also supported through the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career (MTTC) Program and the Foundation in Industry Training (FIT) Program. To learn more, download our Manufacturing Day Toolkit.

Tourism and film production are thriving in Pennsylvania. In 2024, tourism generated nearly $84 billion for Pennsylvania’s economy and supported more than 500,000 jobs. The PA Film Office reported that the 55 film productions awarded tax credits in 2024 contributed $1.16 billion in economic impact.

Additionally, Pennsylvania’s state parks saw a 30% increase in campground reservations after federal closures shifted demand, welcoming nearly 25 million visitors this summer. Looking ahead, the PA Tourism Office launched a new partnership with the World Champion Philadelphia Eagles to encourage fans to plan their next getaway in Pennsylvania. National recognition continues to grow as Bucks County earned a top ranking for fall foliage, and Lancaster’s Central Market was named the #1 historic market in the country.

BusinessPA hosted its annual Bringing the World to Pennsylvania tour, an event to support Pennsylvania companies interested in exporting. Participants met with BusinessPA’s network of 13 authorized representatives to discuss their international sales goals and growth opportunities in the global marketplace.

Meanwhile, the life sciences industry gained momentum with Apozeal Pharmaceuticals, GSK, and B. Braun announcing expansion plans in Pennsylvania. These projects build on the $25.6 billion in private sector investments and more than 12,400 jobs created under Governor Josh Shapiro’s leadership.  

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority announced provisional approval of nearly $800 million in BEAD grants earlier this month to expand high-speed internet access. After a seven-day public comment period, the BEAD provisional selections and final proposal were submitted to the NTIA on September 4. BEAD funds are expected to be approved and disbursed by NTIA by the end of 2025.

Armstrong Telecommunications, Inc. broke ground on a Broadband Infrastructure Program (BIP) project to expand their fiber optic network. Community broadband access is also growing through the CPF: Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, which recently supported new ADA improvements at the Carnegie Free Library of Swissvale.

AI Horizons Pittsburgh welcomed Governor Shapiro and DCED Secretary Rick Siger, along with tech industry leaders, researchers, and investors for a two-day summit on Pennsylvania’s role in shaping AI. The event explored applications across healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and more. As part of the event, Google hosted its first statewide AI Accelerator Workshop, providing 100 small businesses with hands-on training to boost productivity, cut costs, and drive growth.

Pennsylvania’s leadership in AI is further strengthened by BNY and Carnegie Mellon University’s $10 million partnership to advance AI technologies ensure responsible governance. Additionally, five PASSHE schools have joined the Google AI for Education Accelerator program, which offers students, faculty, and university staff with free access to AI training.  

Want to see the good news from your community featured on our social media channels or in our next newsletter? Let us know what’s happening in your area! Whether a new investment, business expansion, or community development, we’re here to help you celebrate. Send your updates (and a link to a news story, blog, or press release) to the DCED Communications Office.