Developed in collaboration with community partners, the Plan presents a shared vision for the region’s economic future.
CENTRE COUNTY, PA – October 17, 2024 – The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC), alongside community partners and stakeholders, unveiled Centre County’s Economic Development Strategy at the Voice of Business Luncheon on October 9 at the Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center. Local and state leaders gathered to discuss the plan and its potential impact on the region’s communities.
CBICC Board president O.J. Johnston welcomed attendees and recognized the contributions of event sponsors, the CBICC Board of Directors, and local and state elected officials in attendance before introducing Greg Scott, President and CEO of the CBICC. Scott emphasized Centre County’s robust economic foundation and outlined the Plan’s goal to build upon existing efforts to drive economic advancement.
Scott summarized the extensive engagement process during the Plan’s development, noting over 150 interviews and meetings with stakeholders.
“With the support of the Centre County business community, we identified over thirty topics of interest for our Economic Development Strategy,” remarked Scott. “We categorized this collection of information into four key focus areas: Business Retention and Expansion, Targeted and Emerging Industries, Workforce and Education, and the Built and Natural Environment. Each of these areas contains actionable goals designed to guide our efforts in the coming years.”
Scott detailed each focus area, highlighting initiatives such as expanding services for small and emerging businesses, developing a sensor technology industry cluster, attracting specialized talent to the area, and addressing housing needs. Scott underscored common goals woven throughout: that each requires intentional collaboration across the community, and that all represent progress toward achieving a common vision for Centre County’s economic future.
Among the speakers, Dr. Neeli Bendapudi, President of Penn State University, highlighted the University’s role as a connector and supporter of regional business development. Centre County Commissioner Mark Higgins discussed local milestones and the government’s collaborative role in the Plan’s development.
“What excites me most about this plan is that it aligns perfectly with the ongoing efforts of Centre County Government to support businesses, foster growth, and create opportunities for all residents,” proclaimed Higgins, “Our work doesn’t end today. This plan marks the beginning of the next phase where the involvement and teamwork of all our partners will be critical to its success.”
Ben Kirshner, Chief Transformation and Opportunity Officer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania followed Higgins, highlighting alignment between Centre County’s Economic Strategy Plan and the state’s economic planning efforts. The event’s final speaker was Luke Bernstein, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, who further emphasized the significance of Centre County’s plan in statewide economic planning from the perspective of the PA Chamber.
Visit www.centrecountyforward.com to download the full Plan. Those interested can also sign up for a newsletter providing ongoing updates and milestones throughout the Economic Development Strategy’s rollout.
About Centre County’s Economic Development Strategy:
Centre County’s Economic Development Strategy is a comprehensive, collaborative plan representing the County’s shared vision for economic growth, resilience, and sustainability. Launched in October 2024 by the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County and the Economic Development Council, the Plan outlines strategic actions to streamline resources, develop workforce, and strengthen community engagement across all sectors. The Plan was developed with input from regional stakeholders, leaders, and community members from a diverse array of industries. Learn more at www.centrecountyforward.com.
About CBICC
The Chamber of Businesses & Industry of Centre County is a dynamic membership organization that champions the interests of private and public organizations ranging from technology and healthcare sectors to retail and service industries. As the region’s leading economic development entity, we are committed to cultivating a vibrant, innovative business landscape. We are focused on spurring economic development, stimulating job creation, and fostering innovation – the lifeblood of our local economy. Our steadfast efforts make Centre County an increasingly prosperous place to live, work, and conduct business. Learn more at www.cbicc.org.