DCED Newsletter | March 2025

This month, Pennsylvania is driving economic growth with investments in workforce training, energy innovation, and international business expansion. Read on for updates on new funding opportunities, major business developments, and how PA is positioning itself as a leader in the evolving economy.

Governor Shapiro and Secretary Siger visited York’s Voith Hydro plant, one of the world’s largest hydro turbine manufacturers, to spotlight the Lightning Plan—a bold, all-of-the-above energy strategy. Alongside the plan, the Governor unveiled six new legislative proposals aimed at strengthening energy infrastructure, creating jobs, and lowering energy costs. 

Pennsylvania continues to attract major energy investments. Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Inc. (MEPPI) broke ground on its new $86 million advanced switchgear facility in Beaver County, an expansion supported by a $6.7 million state investment in 2024. This project will create at least 200 new jobs while retaining 806 existing employees—bolstering Pennsylvania’s role as an energy hub.

Businesses in the industrial sector can also benefit from the Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania (RISE PA) program, which is accepting applications through August 29, 2025. With $396 million in funding available, RISE PA supports projects that create jobs while reducing industrial and manufacturing emissions.

To further support workforce development in the energy sector, Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) has teamed up with the American Petroleum Institute (API) and Shell Polymers. Through this partnership, API is providing free access to its extensive industry standards library, while Shell is offering scholarships to increase enrollment in CCBC’s advanced
manufacturing programs.

Investing in workforce development is key to economic growth. Secretary Siger recently visited Adams County-based Rice Fruit Company to highlight the impact of the Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA), which provides funding to help businesses train and upskill workers. Governor Shapiro’s  budget proposes $12.5 million dedicated to WEDnetPA, closing critical workforce gaps.

Crispus Attucks York received $100,000 through the Manufacturing Training-to-Career (MTTC) program. This funding will support a seven-week manufacturing training program that helps 20 participants per year transition into apprenticeships and full-time jobs in the industry.

Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, Pennsylvania’s workforce development funding has grown by 50% in just two years—expanding training, internships, and apprenticeships to ensure businesses can access a skilled workforce.

Pennsylvania showcased its economic and creative strength at the 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference & Festivals in Austin, Texas. In a first-time partnership, the Amplify Philly Keystone House provided two days of programming and networking to promote PA’s tech, film, and creative industries.

Staff from Visit PA, BusinessPA, and the Pennsylvania Film Office engaged with more than 1,500 visitors to highlight the Commonwealth’s business climate and upcoming national events—including the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget includes $64 million to support this milestone and major sporting events.

This month we also saw business activity in Pennsylvania:

Secretary Siger hit the road this month, meeting with local chambers and economic development leaders in Lancaster, Schuylkill County, and the Lehigh Valley to discuss Pennsylvania’s economic strategy and how investing in innovation drives competitiveness and growth.

Since the Shapiro Administration took office, Pennsylvania has secured over $3.7 billion in private-sector investments. Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal builds on this progress, calling for $160 million in new and expanded funding to advance the state’s economic development strategy, strengthen communities, and address housing needs.

Pennsylvania has earned national recognition for its business-friendly climate. In Site Selection Magazine’s 2024 Governor’s Cup rankings, Pennsylvania placed:

These rankings reaffirm that Pennsylvania is a prime destination for businesses to launch, grow, and expand.

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.