DCED Promotes Pennsylvania as Top Destination for Global Investments

Spotlight on Pennsylvania: A Hub for International Business and Tourism

As Pennsylvania continues to position itself as a leading destination for global business and tourism, senior officials from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) are actively engaging with international partners. Their recent visit to Ireland signifies a strategic commitment to fostering economic ties and cultural exchange.

Secretary Rick Siger, alongside BusinessPA’s Chief Commercial Officer Aaron Pitts and Tourism Deputy Secretary Anne Ryan, are at the forefront of these efforts. Their agenda in Ireland includes discussions with representatives from nearly 15 Irish companies, aiming to attract investments and strengthen existing business relationships. The focus aligns with Pennsylvania’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy, which spans sectors such as manufacturing, life sciences, and advanced technology.

Pennsylvania's Economic Growth and Investment Opportunities

The Shapiro Administration has been proactive in attracting international investments, with over 22 global companies investing more than $93 million in Pennsylvania within the past year. Companies like Linde Gas & Equipment, Johnson Controls, and Trane Technology illustrate the Commonwealth's appeal, bolstered by a business-friendly environment and a skilled workforce.

"BusinessPA finds new and innovative ways to aggressively promote the Commonwealth," stated Chief Commercial Officer Aaron Pitts. "Being in Ireland provides us with a valuable opportunity to engage in person with new and existing international business leaders."

The economic exchange is not one-sided; Pennsylvania exported $663 million to Ireland last year. Irish companies have a significant presence in Pennsylvania, with 382 businesses supporting over 16,000 jobs. Ireland ranks as the Commonwealth’s ninth-largest trading partner, with a strong footprint in Foreign Direct Investment.

Promoting Pennsylvania Tourism: A Cultural and Sports Destination

In conjunction with the Pittsburgh Steelers’ historic game in Dublin, the Pennsylvania Office of Tourism launched a new Visit PA campaign in Ireland. The campaign, featuring vibrant murals in Dublin's Temple Bar, aims to highlight Pennsylvania’s rich cultural offerings and upcoming events in 2026.

Tourism Deputy Secretary Anne Ryan emphasized the shared cultural ties: “Ireland and Pennsylvania already share a deep cultural connection. With the Steelers here in Dublin, we’re strengthening that bond in a way that inspires trips to Pennsylvania in 2026.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Pennsylvania is set to host significant events, including the NCAA’s March Madness, the FIFA World Cup, and America’s 250th birthday celebrations. These events underscore the state's potential as "The Great American Getaway," a destination rich in sport, culture, and history.

For more details on Pennsylvania's economic and tourism developments, visit the DCED website and follow their updates on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.