DCED Newsletter | August 2025

This month, we’re highlighting major business wins, new infrastructure investments, national recognition for quality of life, and growth across Pennsylvania’s agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

This summer brought blockbuster investment news, including Amazon’s $20 billion plan to build high-tech AI innovation campuses across Pennsylvania. Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to permitting reform through initiatives like PA Permit Fast Track and SPEED — and the adoption of AI in government —are helping create a more competitive business climate. Coordinated investments in collaboration with local and private sector partners are producing positive results, particularly in our downtowns and main streets. Pittsburgh’s downtown revitalization is attracting both businesses and attention as a model for redevelopment — bringing in local companies like DeFer Coffee that are contributing to a robust and vibrant community.  

Infrastructure upgrades are also strengthening Pennsylvania’s position. Improvements at PhilaPort, new international direct flights at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), and expanded broadband access in underserved areas are delivering benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.  

Ag Progress Days in Centre County showcased the strength of Pennsylvania’s agriculture sector and Governor Shapiro’s historic investments in ag innovation. A new Team Pennsylvania Foundation report showed jobs growth in agriculture, particularly in food, beverage, and animal production. Clemens Foods recently announced a $130 million expansion in Montgomery County — reflecting this strong industry momentum.  

Manufacturing is also on the rise. Three companies benefited from a $6.3 million investment by the PA Industrial Development Authority to support their growth. Itoh Denki USA expanded its US headquarters in Luzerne County, while DYWIDAG US opened a new manufacturing and distribution location in Montgomery County. Pennsylvania Highlands Community College received a $40,000 Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career grant to prepare future workers, and Jeannette Industrial Park in Westmoreland County was awarded $750,000 by the Appalachian Regional Commission to modernize a key brownfield site.

A new Brookings study names Philadelphia a “star hub” and Pittsburgh as an “emerging center” for AI, recognizing both metros for top-tier talent and innovation. Pennsylvania is especially well-positioned in the field of physical AI — intelligent systems that sense, adapt, and act in the real world. Applications include autonomous vehicles, defense systems, manufacturing, industrial robotics, and next gen energy solutions.  

Companies like Burro AI and Precision Cobotics are helping to lead this growth, developing next-generation technologies while building career pathways through university partnerships and training programs.

Pennsylvania is busy preparing for America’s 250th birthday, with Bells Across PA bringing public art to all 67 counties, and America250PA’s new mobile unit delivering interactive exhibits with games and digital storytelling to community events, festivals, and fairs statewide. 

The Commonwealth is also earning national recognition as a great place to live. WalletHub named Pennsylvania among the top 10 U.S. state to live in, while Philadelphia earned USA Today’s title as Most Walkable City for the third year running. Livability included Pittsburgh and Bethlehem in their top 100 best places to live. Phoenixville topped Travel + Leisure’s list of most livable small towns. These accolades highlight Pennsylvania’s affordability, access to education and healthcare, and community safety. 

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.