State funding aims to help Lehigh Valley with its economic development
Millions more in state funding will be flowing for economic development. It was included in the $45 billion budget package signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in August.
"Frankly, we're not as competitive for some of these projects and for our ability to attract and retain companies with other states that were more engaged in economic development than Pennsylvania had been," said George Lewis with the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation.
Included is a 65% increase in the PA First program, the main fund for business attraction and development.
There's also a more than 20% increase in the Office of International Development, as well as increases in Manufacturing PA, Marketing to Attract Business, and Keystone Communities.
Lewis says the move shows a shift from state government.
"The realization that economic development today is far more than just attracting businesses to your area. It's making sure you have a prepared workforce," Lewis said.
There's more than $23 million for workforce training and vo-techs, $6 million in pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, and the state is using $400 million in federal infrastructure money for workforce development, making businesses eligible to receive up to $40,000 for each new worker they train.
"All those tools we have in our kit make our job easier and our competitive situation better," Lewis said.