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DRIVE is proud to announce the launch of the Start-Up Business Revolving Loan Fund, a new financing program designed to help entrepreneurs across our region launch and grow their businesses.Made possible through funding from Geisinger, with Blueprint Development Corporation serving as the program's loan committee, the fund provides supplemental financing...
DRIVE and Focus Central PA are looking for a strategic fundraiser and relationship-builder to join our leadership team as Director of Fund Development & Strategic Partnerships.This full-time leadership role will build and manage a comprehensive fundraising program — cultivating corporate, foundation, government, and individual investors, developing sponsorships, and strengthening strategic...
DRIVE is actively improving land parcels and commercial properties in Central Pennsylvania to attract businesses. The Point Township site in Northumberland County was acquired by DRIVE and is being improved to better accommodate rail service for future buyers. This 101.73-acre site will be a tremendous value as a result of...
Partners Launch the Mount Carmel Revitalization Initiative to Advance Workforce Development, Community Revitalization, and Economic Opportunity MOUNT CARMEL, PA — A diverse coalition of local, regional, state, and national organizations has officially launched the Mount Carmel Revitalization Initiative, a long-term collaborative effort dedicated to strengthening the Mount Carmel Area by investing in its people, neighborhoods, businesses, and community assets. Through workforce...
Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg turns 100 this year, and it’s celebrating more than a birthday. In 2026, Knoebels was named the best theme park in the United States by TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards, making it one of the best things to do in the country...
The 2026 Focus Central PA Industrial Development Forum highlighted AI use and collaboration
May 4 2026The Industrial Development Forum, organized by Focus Central PA, brought together community leaders, business owners, site selectors, brokers, and partners to discuss economic development opportunities in the region. The goal of this event was to put everyone in one room to work toward growth.“If we want to attract investment, we...
The economic development team at DRIVE has published a report on the state of entrepreneurship in Appalachia. This report is three years in the making, the result of a collaborative effort with Building Bridges 2 Careers (BB2C) and the Bucknell University Small Business Development Center (SBDC).Amanda Craig-Bradley, Business Outreach Manager,...
Ben Franklin Technology Partners works with DRIVE to support manufacturers and entrepreneurs
Apr 7 2026Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeast Pennsylvania is a valuable partner for business development and expansion in the region. The organization helps manufacturing companies invest in process improvements while assisting entrepreneurs in their early growth stages.“One of the coolest things about our job is working with entrepreneurs when they are...
New York Times By Lydia DePillis: March 6, 2026, 5:01 a.m. ETAn aging population is drawing workers to medical and social care, creating reliable jobs and revealing weakness for the rest of the economy.It is an exceptionally difficult time to find a job in America, as employers work through a...
February 26, 2026The Shapiro Administration is investing over $3 million into the growth of the consumer ribbon and bow manufacturer in Berwick.Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has secured $40.4 billion in private sector investments and created more than 22,400 new jobs.Harrisburg, PA – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro announced the Commonwealth...
Governor Shapiro Announces New PA SITES Awards, Investing Over $31 Million in Seven Projects Across the Commonwealth to Create Hundreds of Jobs and Build More Shovel-Ready Sites for BusinessesFebruary 25, 2026Governor Shapiro created the PA SITES program after consulting with national site selectors to ensure Pennsylvania has more readily available,...
Under the leadership of the nonprofit, Sunbury’s Revitalization Inc. (SRI), the city of Sunbury in Northumberland County is investing heavily in community development, building up small business owners while attracting and retaining residents. Since 1986, SRI has been primarily a volunteer-driven organization. Recently, through a series of grants and support...
As part of America's 250th anniversary next year, America 250 Pennsylvania has been unveiling Liberty Bells in all 67 counties across the Commonwealth.MONTOUR COUNTY, Pa. — Canal Park in Danville was full of people early Tuesday morning as people gathered to see the unveiling of Montour County's custom-painted Liberty Bell,...
We’re proud to support Luzerne County Community College’s new Trailblazer Boutique, a resource helping students prepare for professional success by providing free business attire for interviews, internships, and new careers. As part of our new BizWardrobe initiative, DRIVE has collected and donated gently used professional clothing to help stock the boutique...
DANVILLE, PA — Two recent announcements from major employers in our region — the merger of Fabtex and a competitor and the acquisition of Techniserv, Inc. — reflect the endurance of the Susquehanna Valley’s manufacturing and technology landscape. Both moves demonstrate how local firms are adapting to new markets and...
DANVILLE — This week, a sign reading “Threadwell” was installed, marking the Danville facility formerly known as Fabtex.The signage change follows a merger between Fabtex and Quiltcraft Industries announced earlier this year, according to Eric Frantz, director of national accounts.Fabtex announced it would merge with its number one competitor, Quiltcraft,...
Pennsylvania sees more than 100 million visitors to its towns and cities every year, lured by the prospect of exploring its rich Colonial history, experiencing its vibrant culture, and basking in its picturesque natural landscapes. Although better recognized for popular urban hubs like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, the Keystone State offers...
DANVILLE — More than 20 Valley entrepreneurs were advised on how to jumpstart their business using artificial intelligence during a Wednesday morning StartUp Danville workshop and lecture.AI, as a tool, can tell your story more effectively and target your customers, Bernadette Boerckel, community outreach coordinator for Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit...
Talent retention is essential for any community’s growth, and the Residents Auxiliary is doing its part to help medical residents fall in love with Central Pennsylvania. The organization brings together doctors and their families through social events, support groups, clubs, and shared resources, supporting them through residency and the transition...