Pennsylvania small businesses can benefit from several lesser-known programs available in 2025.

In February of this year, the administration of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro announced significant advancements in fostering economic growth, revealing that over billion has been allocated to small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing opportunities within the local business community, particularly for those historically underserved in the marketplace.

For small businesses looking to engage with state resources, the Pennsylvania government offers multiple avenues to aid in this endeavor. One key event is the Small Business Empowerment Summit, which drew more than 400 small business owners, government officials, and procurement specialists last year. This summit serves as a networking platform where entrepreneurs can connect with state resources and learn about programs like the Mentor-Protégé initiative, designed to simplify the procurement process for smaller firms.

During the previous summit, attendees were educated on Governor Shapiro’s Executive Order 2023-18, which prioritizes small and diverse businesses in state contracting. This mandate seeks to alleviate administrative burdens and ensure timely payments to these enterprises, addressing common cash-flow issues that often plague smaller businesses.

Participants like Suzanne Curran, who operates a women-owned staffing agency in Philadelphia, highlighted the event’s value in consolidating state resources into a single, accessible venue. The summit not only provided answers to pressing questions but also created essential networking opportunities.

Similarly, Leland Nelson, owner of a Pennsylvania-based hauling company, acknowledged the summit as a crucial first step towards networking with either government agencies or other businesses that offer vital services and partnerships.

Looking ahead, the next Small Business Empowerment Summit is expected to take place in the fall. However, the Department of General Services (DGS) and various state agencies will host educational seminars and partner with local chambers of commerce throughout the year to continuously promote business growth.

To further enhance their potential for state contracts, businesses are encouraged to attain certification as small, diverse, or veteran-owned enterprises. This certification grants access to a trove of opportunities, including specialized training, networking ventures, and marketing support from the DGS. Eligibility is capped at 100 full-time employees and an average revenue below million over three years, ensuring that aid targets businesses genuinely in need of assistance.

Additionally, the Shapiro administration is rolling out the Global Access Program, which offers 0,000 in funding designed to support eligible small businesses in Pennsylvania with their international marketing endeavors. This program aids in various logistical aspects, from trade shows to translation services, enabling local businesses to find new markets outside the U.S.

Overall, the initiatives set forth by Governor Shapiro’s administration aim to empower small businesses and foster economic diversity across Pennsylvania. The ongoing support from the DGS signifies a strong endorsement of the importance of diverse businesses in building a resilient economy. As Secretary Reggie McNeil stated, the metrics are in place to ensure timely payments to certified businesses, reflecting a strong commitment to accountability and support in the Commonwealth.