South Central is one of the fastest growing, dynamic and productive regions in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The cultural makeup and business-savvy nature of our residents has produced a highly skilled, well-trained, dependable, and loyal workforce. In essence, we are one of the most productive in the state.  With a population of 1.9 million people there is access to skilled workers to power your operations.

This Region of Pennsylvania is strategically located close to major domestic and international markets. Within a 500 mile radius of the Region lies 40% of the United States population and more than 60% of Canada’s population. An extensive inter-modal transportation system of highways, railroads, ports and airports easily moves people and goods to these vital markets. Consider the opportunities when you are within several hours to a one-day drive from some of the richest consumer and industrial markets within the United States and Canada. No only are these vast markets, but doing business in the Region has never been easier.

We have world class resources to serve these business clusters:

  • Advanced Materials and Diversified Manufacturing
  • Biotechnology and Life Sciences
  • Health Care, Medical Research and Education
  • Information and Communication Technology
  • Business and Financial Services
  • Food Processing and Agribusiness
  • Plastics
  • Logistics
  • Printing
  • Technology Solutions and Support

Business Development Programs

South Central Pennsylvania offers a variety of incentive and financing programs that make it very attractive for businesses to locate here. The State’s recently approved Economic Stimulus Package provides new financing and incentive resources, in addition to our already extensive list of programs. Our economic development specialists will be glad to develop an attractive package to facilitate your expansion in South Central Pennsylvania.

Keystone Opportunity Zones

Pennsylvania’s Keystone Opportunity Zones (KOZ) are specifically targeted areas with a greatly reduced, or no, tax burden for businesses and residents. Businesses and developers that expand here will receive multi-year tax forgiveness from local governments, school districts and the Commonwealth. In total, more than 772 acres are included in the South Central Pennsylvania KOZ.

Business Support Programs

Pennsylvania boasts the largest number of active and successful state and federally funded business support programs including the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PENNTAP), the Ben Franklin Technology Partners, the Small Business Development Centers, Customized Job Training, the World Trade Center Harrisburg, the Workforce and Economic Development Network.

Manufacturing Assistance

South Central Pennsylvania continues to focus on manufacturing leadership and innovation. A powerful network of organizations, including MANTEC, PENNTAP, the Ben Franklin Technology Partners and the Manufacturers Association of South Central Pennsylvania, are available to partner with manufacturers.

Life Sciences Greenhouse

The Life Sciences Greenhouse, in close proximity to The Pennsylvania State University’s Milton S. Hershey College of Medicine and Medical Center, is one of only three such Greenhouses designed to assist biotechnology companies. The Life Sciences Greenhouse helps biotechnology innovators start new operations that will grow and prosper in the region’s emerging biotechnology cluster.

Foreign Trade Zones and HUB Zones

Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ) stimulate economic development by providing a climate that encourages growth for firms involved in international trade. The local FTZ is structured to reduce the cost of doing business in a global economy. Sub zones can be established for companies throughout the Region. HUB Zones also exist in various parts of the region, providing contracting incentives to companies that operate here and sell to the Federal Government.

Enterprise Zones

The Technology Corridor Enterprise Zone is located in South Central PA.  The zone includes the City of Harrisburg and Carlisle Borough, extending 65 miles from Harrisburg International Airport to Shippensburg. The Enterprise Zone Program assists private businesses by offering incentives and programs to meet their expansion needs.

Skilled Workforce

South Central Pennsylvania is one of the fastest growing, dynamic and productive regions in the State. The cultural makeup and business-savvy nature of our residents has produced a highly skilled, well-trained, dependable, and loyal workforce. In essence, we are one of the most productive in the Commonwealth.  The area includes a number of well respected post secondary schools.  South Central PA also includes two workforce development areas the Lancaster WDB, and SCPA Works.