DCED Newsletter | October 2025

From new site development and international partnerships to historic infrastructure upgrades and growing national recognition, October was a month of progress across Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s competitive edge continues to grow. A new report from Moody’s Analytics found that the Commonwealth is the only state in the U.S. Northeast with a growing economy—and one of just 16 nationwide. 

That strength is translating into real investment. In October, companies including Eos Energy, Mint-X, Imperial Systems, and Nichols Portland announced major relocations and expansions across Pennsylvania, committing hundreds of millions of dollars and supporting more than 1,200 jobs.  

Through PA SITES, Governor Josh Shapiro and his Administration have invested $113.6 million this year to prepare 29 shovel-ready sites that will keep Pennsylvania competitive for years to come. Area Development recently ranked Pennsylvania among the Top 20 Best States for Business—and the only Northeastern state to make the list—citing Pennsylvania’s strong economic performance and #1 ranking in Regional Economic Competitiveness by Site Selection Magazine.

From improving homes to revitalizing downtowns, Pennsylvania continues to invest in the places people call home. Governor Josh Shapiro has proclaimed October 30 as Pennsylvania Weatherization Day, a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who help families reduce energy costs and live more comfortably year-round. Through DCED’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), more than 550,000 homes have been weatherized—strengthening communities and improving quality of life across the Commonwealth.  

Pennsylvania communities are also seeing renewed energy downtown. One year after announcing a $62.6 million investment in support of Pittsburgh's downtown revitalization plan, the Shapiro Administration celebrated major progress at the partial reopening of the city's new and modernized Market Square. Earlier in October, $16.2 million in City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) funding was distributed to Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Tamaqua to redevelop underused properties, attract business, and create jobs. Reading and Erie, newly designated CRIZ cities, will begin receiving funds next year as their tax baselines are now established.  

DCED is also partnering with PennDOT to advance the Bayfront Parkway Improvement Project in Erie, connecting downtown and the waterfront. And through PA SITES, a new grant will support development of McKean Business Park, positioning the area for growth.

Pennsylvania is strengthening global business ties to attract investment and expand trade. In late September, Secretary Rick Siger led a DCED delegation to Ireland to promote the Commonwealth as a premier destination for business growth and tourism. Meetings with company leaders highlighted new opportunities and celebrated expansions by PM Group, Tate, and Kerry Group—collectively committing $46 million in private-sector investment in the state, underscoring the confidence international firms have in Pennsylvania’s competitive business climate.  

Expanding global partnerships also helps Pennsylvania companies reach new markets and grow their exports. This month, Astrobotic announced a collaboration with Norway’s Andøya Space to test lunar lander technologies, while the PA Drone Association signed an agreement with Lithuania to advance joint drone initiatives. These efforts reflect the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to building international relationships that drive innovation, investment, and long-term economic growth. 

Investments in our infrastructure continue to strengthen our economy and build up our global competitiveness. On October 10, Governor Shapiro joined officials in Pittsburgh to celebrate the upcoming opening of the new Pittsburgh International Airport terminal, a project that will modernize operations, enhance the passenger experience, and support regional growth.  

Across the state, PhilaPort continues to anchor Pennsylvania’s position as a logistics leader. It was ranked #1 in North America for productivity by the World Bank and S&P Global for the second year in a row, and recently purchased the 152-acre Mustin Yard site to expand cargo capacity and strengthen supply chains.  

In addition, PENNVEST announced a historic $547 million investment to upgrade and protect water systems in 23 counties—one of the largest funding commitments in its history. These collective efforts are creating a more resilient, connected Pennsylvania ready to compete in a rapidly changing global economy. 

As the nation prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Pennsylvania is capturing national attention for our history, culture, and hospitality. Building on a legacy of tolerance and freedom, the Commonwealth launched three new tourism campaigns to welcome diverse travelers—including Black, Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ communities—and invite them to explore all corners of Pennsylvania.  

Celebrating our shared heritage is central to the America 250 commemoration. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission unveiled 45 new historical markers highlighting people, places, and events that shaped the Commonwealth.  

Pennsylvania’s tourism assets continue to shine on the national stage: Pittsburgh was the only U.S. city named to National Geographic’s list of Best Places in the World to Travel in 2026, and Food & Wine ranked Lancaster’s Central Market as the #1 Historic Market in America—proving that Pennsylvania’s communities are destinations worth celebrating. 

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.