Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro kicked off the process of developing a comprehensive economic development strategy for the state, the first in two decades, his office said on Tuesday.
During a visit to PennAir in York, Pa., Shapiro, Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger, and the Office of Transformation and Opportunity’s Chief Transformation Officer Ben Kirshner announced the state would be developing an innovative and aggressive economic development strategy that would serve as an assessment of the state’s areas of strengths coupled with an analysis of its barriers to growth. The goals and initiatives that come from the analysis would guide policymaking and investment decisions, Shapiro’s office said.
“Since taking office, I have made it clear that we’re going to plant a flag here in Pennsylvania and work to be the best,” Shapiro said. “That’s why, for the first time in nearly two decades, we’re developing a new, forward-looking strategy to ensure Pennsylvania becomes a national leader in innovation, job creation and economic development. This plan will help the Commonwealth create real economic opportunity, where all Pennsylvanians have access to family-sustaining jobs, strong and vibrant communities, and a high quality of life.”
Starting next week, the administration will start holding listening sessions with business and economic development leaders throughout the state. Those sessions will build upon meetings the administration held this summer and set the stage for the plan’s development.
The strategy will provide state leaders with plans to address how the state can simplify accessing programs and incentives available through DCED, streamlining processes for businesses, addressing the lack of “shovel ready” business sites, and encouraging the creation, growth and sustainability of small businesses in the state. The governor’s plan also calls for providing extra support in high-growth sectors like life sciences, agribusiness, manufacturing, technology and robotics, and energy.
“We know that in order to compete we need a government that moves at the speed of business and provides the business community with the predictability and speed to market they need to thrive,” said Kirshner.
Seth Bray, CEO of PennAir, a company that helps people in manufacturing and construction with pneumatics, hydraulics, and automation, said he was optimistic about the governor’s plan. “For years, our organization has witnessed Pennsylvania’s struggle to retain and attract businesses, often losing to other states. PennAir is honored to play a small part in an announcement that levels the playing field to make Pennsylvania not just a player, but a leader in today’s competitive economy.”
This week the governor also launched a new pilot program called Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites (PA SITES). The program, which began accepting applications this week, will provide at least $10 million in grant funding to conduct site assessments and prepare them for remediation to make them ready for businesses to relocate, expand, and create jobs.