Pennsylvania is aiming to expand its economic horizons as the Shapiro Administration kicks off its "Bringing the World to Pennsylvania" initiative, starting September 8 and running through September 19, according to an announcement by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This event will present Commonwealth companies with the opportunity to showcase their products and services to representatives from 13 countries, in an effort to boost exports and draw in international investment.
Throughout this timeframe, Pennsylvania businesses will encounter BusinessPA-approved reps from nations such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, potentially unlocking international markets for their offerings. Not only will this series of events foster export growth, but it will also allow local communities to exhibit their economic strengths in order to attract future investments. Secretary Rick Siger emphasized the strategy behind this move, stating, "The Shapiro Administration is helping our businesses compete and the Bringing the World to Pennsylvania statewide event is one more way we’re providing the resources they need to grow and thrive," in a statement outlined by the DCED newsroom.
The recent success of BusinessPA's International Trade & Investment team was also highlighted, with the team assisting 722 state companies in exporting goods valued at over half a billion dollars and attracting 22 international firms to invest in the Commonwealth. These accomplishments reportedly buttress thousands of jobs. Notably, the cities serving as hosts include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Erie among others, encompassing a diversified regional approach to Pennsylvania's economic outreach.
Looking forward, Governor Shapiro's 2025-26 budget proposal envisions injecting funds into programs designed to propel the state's economic strategy over the next decade. Proposals include several million allocated to workforce development, high-quality job creations through tax credits, and tax cuts to benefit corporations operating within Pennsylvania. Indeed, these financial and policy commitments are part of the larger goal of advancing the Commonwealth's competitive edge on the global stage. According to the DCED newsroom, Governor Shapiro has already facilitated "$25.2 billion in private sector investment, and creating nearly 11,000 new jobs since taking office."
Companies interested in joining the Bringing the World to Pennsylvania initiative are encouraged to engage with the event's offerings. For more information on participation opportunities and to gain insight into Pennsylvania's international business landscape, interested parties can visit the Bringing the World to Pennsylvania website.
