Governor Shapiro Proclaims Small Business Week, Supports Main Street Matters

Governor Shapiro Champions Small Businesses with Continued Investments in Pennsylvania

In a move to bolster Pennsylvania's small business community, Governor Josh Shapiro has declared May 4-10, 2025, as Small Business Week in the state. This initiative is part of a broader effort to invigorate the Commonwealth's downtown areas through the Main Street Matters program, a key component of Pennsylvania's long-term economic strategy.

Hamburg, PA – Rick Siger, Secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), recently toured downtown Hamburg, Berks County, emphasizing the importance of supporting small businesses during Pennsylvania Small Business Week. Hamburg has been recognized with the first Main Street designation, underscoring the state's commitment to creating vibrant business districts through the Main Street Matters program.

The Main Street Matters initiative, launched by Governor Shapiro, is a vital part of Pennsylvania’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy. Recently, the state announced funding for 81 community projects, including a $100,000 investment in the Downtown Hamburg Façade Improvement Program, aimed at revitalizing local economies and supporting small businesses.

Governor Shapiro secured $20 million for the Main Street Matters program in the 2024-25 budget and proposed another $20 million for the 2025-26 budget. “Small businesses like the ones we visited today are key to a thriving downtown that improves the quality of life for our residents, and Governor Shapiro is fully committed to supporting them,” stated Secretary Siger.

Hamburg’s revitalization efforts, led by the Our Town Foundation, will benefit from the Main Street Matters funding. The program will aid in façade repairs, signage enhancements, and lighting improvements to make Hamburg's downtown area more inviting. As part of this initiative, Siger and local leaders visited several businesses, including the Art and Craft Gallery of Hamburg and the AEC Market.

Deena Kershner, Executive Director of Our Town Foundation, expressed optimism about the program's impact, stating, “Being awarded the Main Street Matters designation will enable Our Town Foundation to work with local businesses and expand on Hamburg’s revitalization efforts.”

Small businesses are a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's economy, employing 2.4 million individuals across the state. In 2022 alone, 13,812 small businesses contributed $14.8 billion through international sales. Local economies thrive with small businesses, as $48 of every $100 spent is reinvested locally, compared to just $14 from large retail stores.

Economic Initiatives and Budget Proposals

Governor Shapiro’s administration is focused on creating a conducive environment for businesses. Pennsylvania ranks as the 7th best state for starting a business, partly due to reduced business filing wait times and increased Net Operating Loss Deduction Limits, which allow businesses to lower their taxable income significantly by 2029.

The proposed 2025-26 budget also includes:

• $12.5 million for WEDnetPA to address workforce gaps
• $50 million to foster innovation and life sciences job growth
• $10 million for AdvancePA tax credits to promote high-quality jobs
• $50 million for Housing Stock Restoration
• $10 million increase for the Act 47 Distressed Municipalities Program

These strategic investments aim to enhance Pennsylvania's competitiveness and make it a leader in job creation and economic development. Video, audio, and photos from today’s event can be found on the PAcast website.

For additional details on Pennsylvania Small Business Week or the DCED, visit the DCED website. Stay updated with the agency's news on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn, and use hashtags #PASmallBiz25 and #SmallBusinessWeek to support local businesses online.