Press Announcement:

CCED Wins Economic Development Award

 Award recognizes CCED for their superb economic development work during 2010

Carlisle, PA - The Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) recently recognized Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) with the prestigious honor of 2010 Economic Development Small Agency of the Year Award.

This award comes as recognition of the superb work performed by CCED during 2010.  This award is presented to the organization that provided the best display of innovation, implementation, and overall economic impact.  During 2010, CCED was able to attract more than $65 million in private sector investment into its economy by working with a variety of companies including Office Depot, Alacer Corporation, American Mint, Campus Door, Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN), and many others.  These projects not only generated further investment around the many communities that were impacted but also resulted in the creation and retention of hundreds of jobs.

Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director said, “We are very humbled and honored to receive this award.  However, our work is not done and we continue to be committed to achieving great results on behalf of Cumberland County and its constituency.” 

“The Board of Commissioners is delighted to see CCED receive this very prestigious award,” said Gary Eichelberger, Chairman of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners.  “Cumberland County has committed to building a results-driven, pace setting economic development operation to help ensure our future economic health.  Receiving this award underscores the importance we have vested in this effort and confirms the quality of work done so far to build a first class organization that will bolster our tax base and promote the livability of our communities.”

PEDA is the statewide association of local, state, corporate and non-profit economic development professionals.  PEDA’s mission is to promote sound economic development policies, provide leading edge economic development education, and nurture an effective statewide economic development network to foster the economic health of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; and business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania: Open for Business

A Luncheon Featuring Keynote Speaker, Secretary C. Alan Walker

PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED)

Secretary Walker will present the new DCED agenda under Governor Tom Corbett.  The Secretary will provide insight on the economic development policies undertaken by the Corbett administration to create a more business friendly environment capable of fostering business growth, investment, and job creation/retention.  The Secretary will also take questions from the public.

Moderated By RJ Harris of WHP 580

When: Tuesday, October 25, 2011 11:30AM to 1:30PM

Where: Radisson Penn Harris, Camp Hill, PA

Cost: $50 per person, $400 per table

Sponsorship Opportunities Are Still Available

Click here for program agenda

For registration and sponsorship information please contact CCED at (717) 240-7180 or judith@cumberlandbusiness.com

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; and business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania

Cumberland County Commissioners Approve QECB Resolution
Program aimed at encouraging energy conservation and investment

Carlisle, PA – More than 1,000 job seekers attended the June 6 Job Fair at the Radisson Penn Harris Convention Center that was facilitated by the Employment Taskforce of Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED).  Job seekers came from throughout 12 Pennsylvania counties, Maryland and New Jersey.

Sixty-five businesses and organizations from nine Pennsylvania counties and Maryland participated in this year’s Job Fair, making it the larger of the two job fairs facilitated by CCED to date.  CCED’s First Job fair was held in November 2010 at Cumberland Valley High School and also attracted over 1,000 job seekers from throughout the region and beyond.

Employers at the Job Fair offered a wide range of positions that encompassed the following areas:  Manufacturing/industrial, office professional, commercial/retail, media, finance, healthcare, hospitality, military and State Police.  Federal Government representatives were on-hand to help re-employ veterans.

Job seekers took advantage of an increased number of services available at the Job Fair including over 30 business professionals who were on hand to review resumes and cover letters.  Dress for Success of South Central PA gave wardrobe advice, brought their mobile unit, and were able to fit a number of job seekers with business attire for upcoming interviews.  The Cumberland County CareerLink office and representatives from Unemployment Compensation were also on hand to answer career-related questions.

CLICK HERE to download a list of participating companies.

“We offer appreciation to everyone who volunteered to assist job seekers at the June 6 event,” said Bob Manbeck, Employment Taskforce Chairman.  “Taskforce members worked for several months to organize a Job Fair that would meet diversified employment needs.  Every business and organization that participated in our event had to have at least one job opening.  We believe that was particularly advantageous for job seekers who attended from throughout the region and beyond."

CCED and members of the Employment Taskforce offer thanks to all the business and government professionals who volunteered their time to assist with coordination of the job fair.  The Premier Sponsor was CenturyLink.  Gold Sponsors included United Water and the Cumberland Valley Lodging Association.

For more information about the event or a listing of employers who offered positions, contact Anthony P. Amadure, Business Development Specialist at 717-240-7185 or anthony@cumberlandbusiness.com

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; and business attraction, retention,

and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

Local Fulfillment Business Benefits from

Cumberland Small Business Loan Fund

Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) has approved Cumberland Fulfillment, LLC for a $20,000 loan through the Cumberland Small Business Fund loan program.  This working capital loan will allow Cumberland Fulfillment to grow its operations in the Mechanicsburg area.   

Cumberland Fulfillment is a service organization that provides order processing and fulfillment to online and direct mail retailers.  They also offer related services such as call center support, payment processing, inventory housing and control, dunning, and back-end website support and integration.  Cumberland Fulfillment also ships for retailers featured on the Home Shopping Network and are in the process of becoming a "recommended fulfillment provider" for the Network and its retailers.  "One of the biggest challenges for any new business is cash flow," stated Bob Costello, owner of Cumberland Fulfillment, LLC.  "When I learned of the lending programs offered by CCED, I made arrangements to meet with Angela Aldrich.  Angela and the entire team at CCED worked closely with me, guiding me through the entire loan process.  The result was a working capital loan at an attractive interest rate that allowed me the opportunity to build my business and make a positive contribution to the Cumberland County community."

The Cumberland Small Business Fund Loan program is available to small businesses throughout Cumberland County.  Omar Shute, Executive Director of Cumberland County Economic Development said, "This loan program has been critical to the development and support of small businesses and micro-enterprises throughout Cumberland County.  Since its inception, this program has assisted over 15 Cumberland County businesses recieve over $450,000 in economic development loans.  This financing has leveraged more than $2.5 Million in private sector investment and has contributed to the creation and retention of over 190 jobs."  

For more information on the Cumberland Small Business Fund Loan Program and other economic development programs available at CCED, please contact Angela Aldrich at angela@cumberlandbusiness.com or (717) 240-7183.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; and business attraction, retention, and expansion

on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

Five hundred dollars is not a lot of money in the grand scheme of things.

But to students who can't afford the training uniform needed to participate in the culinary arts, diesel technology or one of many other programs at the Cumberland-Perry Area Vocational Technical School, a donation like that to the school's uniform fund is significant.

Cumberland County Economic Development's Employment Taskforce on Tuesday presented a check for $500 to the school.  "This is our way of giving back," said Anthony Amadure, business development specialist at CCED.....

To see the full story please click-thru to the Sentinel article at:

http://cumberlink.com/news/local/article_afef594c-529a-11e0-9819-001cc4c03286.html

CCED and Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce

Announce Economic Development Partnership

Partnership to strengthen economic development efforts in the Carlisle area market

Carlisle, PA - Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) and the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce have agreed to a dynamic partnership in the delivery of economic development services. This powerful alliance will guarantee businesses greater accessibility and awareness of the newest economic development tools and services.

"CCED believes in partnerships, and partnering with the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber is a natural fit. This partnership will allow us to gain greater market penetration and enhance our market leadership position in the delivery of economic development services in Cumberland County", said Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director.

"The Chamber has been partnering with CCED since its inception. Our new partnership is only going to strengthen that relationship and truly help the businesses that we represent. The Chamber also has a partner in Carlisle Area Economic Development Corporation (CAEDC), our sister organization that oversees a community loan pool. Working with CCED more closely will not only enhance the existing relationship, but also expand that of CAEDC - by working more closely on potential projects and the funding of those projects," said Michelle Hornick Crowley, President of the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber.

This innovative partnership continues CCED's and the Chamber's tradition of delivering great service to the Cumberland County business community. One of CCED's main objectives is to assist businesses with economic development financing through its wide array of low interest loan programs which include the Small Business First and SBA 504 programs. The partnership with the Carlisle Chamber of Commerce will allow CCED to improve its level of program awareness and ability to market its services more effectively. In addition, the partnership will allow the Carlisle Chamber of Commerce to ensure its membership greater access to capital.

The development of this partnership will reinforce both organizations commitments to their missions. The mission of the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce is to be a catalyst that actively promotes and supports responsible economic growth in the Carlisle region while continuing to provide enhanced benefits for their membership, and a vibrant quality of life for the community. The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

To learn more about how CCED and the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce can assist your business please contact:

Don Coffee at CCED, 717-240-7181 or e-mail don@cumberlandbusiness.com   or
Donna Hunter at the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce, 717-243-4515

or e-mail dhunter@carlislechamber.org

PCN to Upgrade to High Definition Television with Assistance from CCED

Conversion expected to occur within the next 30 months

Carlisle, PA - Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED), through the Cumberland County Industrial Development Authority (CCIDA), recently awarded $3,400,000 in tax exempt financing to the Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN).  This loan will enable PCN, a not-for-profit corporation, to refinance existing debt, purchase equipment, and will allow them to fully upgrade to High Definition Television (HDTV) within the next 30 months.  The tax exempt transaction was completed in partnership with Graystone Bank and Thomas F. Smida of Mette, Evans & Woodside acting as Bond Counsel.
 

CCED Executive Director Omar Shute said, "CCED was delighted to work with and assist PCN in this very exciting project.  In 2010, we have approved more than $30 Million in economic development financing - a record for CCED - which reinforces our position as one of the premier economic development operations in Pennsylvania."  Further, CCIDA Chairman Kenneth Tuckey stated, "It is always encouraging to see organizations like PCN grow and invest in our region. We at the CCIDA are pleased to be a part of this development."

The HDTV conversion is part of PCN's strategy to continue its mission as a viable public service covering the politics and issues affecting all Pennsylvanians.  During this process PCN will be able to maintain all of its current staff and possibly expand in the future.  This project will solidify its future as a vibrant Cumberland County Company.  In addition, PCN President & CEO Brian Lockman said, "PCN has long been thought to be the nation's pre-eminent state public affairs network. This financing package, along with the continued support of Pennsylvania's cable television companies, will enable us to maintain our leadership position and allow us to continue  serving the people of Pennsylvania with quality non-commercial public affairs programming."

To check for eligibility and for further information regarding tax exempt financing and other financing programs available through CCED, visit our website at www.cumberlandbusiness.com or contact Omar A. Shute at 717.240.7182 or omar@cumberlandbusiness.com.

About Tax Exempt Financing

Tax Exempt Financing is a commercial loan between an eligible enterprise (as determined by the IRS code) and a bank, wherein the Industrial Development Authority plays a limited intermediary role.  All loan funds come from a bank who assumes all of the credit risk for the transaction.  In addition, all of the property improvements financed are subject to property tax which creates more revenue as the improvements increase the property's value.

This financing mechanism allows the bank to exclude the interest income it receives from the loan from its federal income taxes.  The bank is then able to offer a lower interest rate to the eligible enterprise (as determined by the IRS code). This limited exception to the federal tax code has been in place for decades and demonstrates our nation's interest in maintaining a healthy economy.

Our Mission Statement

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

First CV Job Fair is a Huge Success

1-in-10 job seekers find employment at event

CCED's Employment Taskforce is excited to share the results of the first Cumberland Valley Job Fair.  First, the Taskforce would like to thank the Cumberland Valley High School for providing such a great location for this event.  Their staff did a fantastic job in setting up the vendor room, refreshments, and made the whole event flow with ease.  Also, thank you to the Workforce Investment Board, Carlisle Tire & Wheel, and the West Shore Resort & Casino for sponsoring this event.

After-event surveys were conducted to help obtain an overview of the event's effectiveness and outreach.

• Over 1100 job seekers attended the event
• Job seekers travelled from 14 different PA counties and New Jersey to attend
• Eight individual newspaper were written by three local media outlets
• Four local TV stations broadcast live from the event
• Two local radio stations helped promote the event
• The attending businesses accepted over 1000 resumes
• Initial results show that at least 1 in 10 job seekers who attended were hired

These are incredible numbers and shows that the Cumberland Valley area will benefit from events such as these.  The Employment Taskforce is proud to offer such a needed service to local businesses and job seekers.  Results this strong go towards making a strong and stable economy which will continue to attract new businesses and create jobs.  The Taskforce is planning another Job Fair event in the Spring of 2011.

The Employment Taskforce is a group of public/private organizations dedicated to the continued development of public and private resources to meet the new and growing workforce needs of Cumberland County.  If you would like to learn more about the Taskforce, join, or help to recommend events please contact:

Anthony P. Amadure, Business Development Specialist

Cumberland County Economic Development

717-240-7185 or anthony@cumberlandbusiness.com

CCED awards its first loan using the Small Business First program
Loan expected to be the first of many as a state certified Area Loan Organization

Carlisle, PA – Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) has awarded its first $200,000 Small Business First (SBF) loan to John and Diane Stamy.  This loan will allow the Stamy’s to purchase a new farm and expand their agricultural business.

Thanks especially to overwhelming support from the business community, chambers of commerce, economic development service providers, and county as well as municipal governments, CCED became a certified Area Loan Organization (ALO) in January of 2010.  As such, CCED became authorized by the Department of Community and Economic Development to process state backed economic development loans throughout Cumberland County, PA.  Loan programs available to ALO’s include among others Small Business First and the Community Economic Development program or CED.

“This loan symbolizes a milestone and represents a huge win for CCED and its supporters”, said Omar Shute, Executive Director of CCED.  “Our goal is to be the number one economic development lender in Cumberland County and we are on pace to accomplish that goal by the end of 2010.  We continue to attract investment to Cumberland County, help create as well as retain jobs, and deliver results for citizens and businesses in Cumberland County and the region”, concluded Shute.

The financing deal for the Stamy’s was accomplished thanks to the participation of Orrstown Bank.  Orrstown Bank is a very successful Cumberland County based full service financial institution with 21 branches throughout the region. In addition, Orrstown Bank has been a longtime partner of CCED and was a lending partner in the very first lending program developed by CCED – Cumberland Business First.  “Orrstown Bank continues to provide lots of small business financing through this challenging time and having CCED to partner with on Small Business First loans will help Orrstown do even more economic development deals in Cumberland County” said Jeff Gayman, Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer of Orrstown Bank. Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.’s stock is traded on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol ORRF.

The Small Business First loan program provides low-interest financing for land and building acquisition, construction, machinery and equipment purchases, and working capital.  Through Small Business First, CCED can provide loans for up to $200,000 and depending on the transaction rates can be fixed for as many as 15 years.  To check for eligibility and for further information regarding Small Business First and other financing programs available through CCED, visit our website at www.cumberlandbusiness.com or contact Don Coffee at 717.240.7181 or at don@cumberlandbusiness.com

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

Carlisle, PA (July 6, 2010) - Campus Door is once again setting the stage to grow in Carlisle.  After a remarkable start in 1995 through 2006, Damien Elias has breathed new life into Campus Door with assistance from Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) and the Governor’s Action Team (GAT).

Damien first approached CCED in November of 2009 looking for assistance to keep the company in Carlisle.   “They were looking for options that would allow them to stay in the area and we were able to provide a comprehensive list from which to choose.” stated Anthony Amadure, Business Development Specialist from CCED.  CCED reviewed a number of programs with Damien, including options on energy savings, financing, and workforce needs to showcase area resources and the benefits of staying in Carlisle.

“Campus Door was considering locations in at least 2 other states”, stated Omar Shute, Executive Director of CCED.  “We decided to work with the GAT right away for business incentives and assistance.  Getting GAT involved proved to be a key factor in moving their project forward as they constructed a competitive package which included almost a half-million dollars total in Opportunity Grant, Job Training, and Job Creation Tax Credit funding”.  The GAT package will allow Campus Door to purchase equipment, train their employees, and hold down their overall project costs.  “GAT has always been a strong and reliable partner when working on projects of this size and importance”, noted Anthony Amadure “and we thank them for their assistance."

“The state package was essential in our company being able to stay and re-open in Carlisle”, Damien noted.  “In the end we were all very happy to keep Campus Door in Carlisle.”  “The proposed 100 full-time, high-paying, high-tech positions are a much needed boost to the local economy.  This continues to add to the almost 400 jobs that will be created through two previous, high profile CCED projects announced earlier this year – the Office Depot and Alacer expansions.  We are delighted to help a local success story come back and contribute once again to our local economy,” stated Omar Shute.

Originally a lender of private student loans, Damien had to change the company’s focus due to new federal regulations.  In March, President Barack Obama signed a law that ends the practice of private banks lending federally subsidized Stafford Loans, which could potentially save the government more than $60 billion over ten years. The law took effect on July 1st.  This new focus will allow Damien to hopefully corner a new market by selling web-based software to banks and other lending institutions that make private student loans.  He hopes to be a lender again, but will be happy simply being a loan facilitator for now.

Campus Door’s upgraded and enhanced software platform will allow banks to offer private education finance solutions to their college-bound customers and to develop custom branded student loan programs to meet each lender’s education finance product needs.  The first lender to use the system in Virginia will go live the week of July 15th.  “We had to adopt a very different perspective this time, Damien said, as we now have to make loans for others instead of always being the lender ourselves."

After operating in Carlisle for over 10 years, the company was sold to Lehman Brothers in 2006 for around $100 million after handling loan requests in excess of $2 billion and employing around 300 people.   Lehman went bankrupt in 2008 during the financial collapse of mortgage backed securities and Damien was able to purchase the company back in 2009 for an undisclosed amount.  Now, with the help of ten new private investors, assistance from CCED and GAT, and an additional equity infusion of about $800,000, the company is poised to grow once again.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

CCED Announces Two New Loans
CCED provides business financing to two West Shore businesses 

Carlisle, PA - Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) announced today it has finalized financing for two West Shore businesses.  Land Logics Group, LLC. from the Borough of Camp Hill and Kessler’s Inc. from the Borough of Lemoyne will be assisted by CCED.  The financing will allow both companies to remain competitive and to grow.  Altogether, CCED will be lending $90,000 from its Cumberland Small Business Fund loan program.  CCED’s investment will also leverage further future investment from those companies into Cumberland County’s economy.

 “CCED is committed to supporting entrepreneurship in Cumberland County through our diverse array of financing programs which span several industries, lending amounts, and project needs. We are very excited about being able to finance Land Logics Group which is a woman owned business and Kessler’s Inc. which is a manufacturing company with a longstanding tradition in Cumberland County,” said Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director.

Established in 2003 by Sally B. Holbert, a Pennsylvania licensed Landscape Architect, Land Logics Group is a land planning, urban design and construction firm.  Land Logics Group expanded their services in 2009 to include specialty concrete construction and is a PennDOT qualified subcontractor.  The wide array of services offered through Land Logics includes among others Pedestrian Facilities design and construction, Regional Comprehensive Planning, Watershed and Source Water Protection Planning, Parks and Recreation Planning, Traditional Neighborhood Design, Conservation Subdivision Design, Collaborative Design Facilitation, Boundary Survey, and Topographic Survey.

Kessler’s Inc. started operations in Easton, PA in 1916, producing a smoked beef bologna known as Easton Bologna.  From humble beginnings, the company experienced success, grew, and moved to Lemoyne where sausage, bacon, hams, and frankfurters were added to their product mix.  Almost 100 years later, the company has become a well known brand and an asset to Lemoyne, the West Shore, and Cumberland County.  Today, the company has grown to become one of the top 200 meat processors in the United States employing a team of 40 employees.  Kessler’s markets smoked and fresh meats, sausage products, ham, bacon, deli items, and a wide variety of food products to a customer base of retailers, distributors, and foodservice operators.  Kessler’s is also known for producing and marketing the Nittany Lion franks.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

The Green Room to become newest Carlisle restaurant

Carlisle, PA - Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) announced today it will be financing a new restaurant in downtown Carlisle.  The Green Room will specialize in serving healthy food including locally grown and organic selections. “CCED is committed to supporting entrepreneurship in Cumberland County and we are very excited about being a partner with the Green Room,” said Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director.  He added; “this new business will contribute approximately 10 new jobs to the Carlisle area."

The Green Room is the first business venture for entrepreneur Patrick Andrews.  Patrick has thirteen years of experience in the restaurant industry including a management role at the California Café.  The Green Room will feature Chef Jason Turner.  Jason was the winner of the 2007 Iron Chef competition in Carlisle.  Patrick and Jason have developed an exciting as well as delicious menu that will become great additions to the downtown Carlisle experience.

To finance the Green Room, CCED partnered with Community First Fund and the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce.  The three economic development partners worked together and collaborated to make the project a reality.  The Green Room is set to open around mid to late March 2010.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

CCED to open office at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce

Carlisle, PA – Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) announced today that it will further expand into the West Shore by opening an office at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce effective immediately.  This move is part of the economic development partnership that was announced between CCED and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce last week.

CCED market research indicates that businesses prefer and can identify better with a local organization, resource, or partner.  Hence, businesses in the West Shore will now be able to benefit and achieve further convenience by having the option to work with a more local economic development partner instead of more remote options from Harrisburg or Carlisle.  CCED is confident this extra convenience, added with its great service and pricing structure, will make for a powerful combination that will benefit businesses in general.

“We have been looking to expand and to open a branch office in the West Shore for at least two years,” said Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director.  He added; “we want to be seen as part of their business community, expand our level of outreach, and improve our market awareness.  Opening a branch office at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce achieves our goals and addresses our business needs.  It just makes perfect sense.”

“The West Shore Chamber of Commerce is continually looking for ways to assist businesses in our area and is pleased to host this CCED branch to benefit our members and spread the word on CCED’s wide range of offerings,” said Kathleen Mangan, West Shore Chamber President & CEO.

By having a physical presence in the West Shore, CCED expects to be able to assist more West Shore businesses with economic development services.  CCED has a very comprehensive array of programs including business financing tools and low-interest loan programs such as Small Business First, SBA 504, and tax-exempt financing.

To learn more about how CCED and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce could assist your business, interested businesses are encouraged to contact Don Coffee at CCED at 717.240.7181 or via e-mail at don@cumberlandbusiness.com or Sandy Allison at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce at 717.761.0702 or via e-mail at sandy@wschamber.org.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

The mission of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce is to represent, promote and facilitate business for the community.

Dear friends:

Five years ago, we made an organizational commitment to become a certified Area Loan Organization (ALO) and Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). This commitment was an extension of our pledge to fully serve the residents and businesses of Cumberland County. A few months ago, we decided to apply to become a certified lender under those designations and worked with our stakeholders to submit an effective application with the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).

Becoming a certified lender would grant Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) access to Small Business First (SBF) and PIDA loans.  These programs offer low interest financing to businesses and target a variety of industries including manufacturing and hospitality. By adding our organization as an additional provider of the aforementioned programs, greater lending capacity would be achieved and businesses would benefit from a healthier level of competition resulting in improved service, better performance, and more competitive pricing.

Last week, with the participation of our legislative delegation and Carlisle Mayor Kirk Wilson, CCED had a very positive meeting with Governor Edward G. Rendell and the Secretary of DCED, George Cornelius. Our Governor and Secretary were impressed with the amount of garnered grassroots support for our application and agreed to work with CCED to award these designations.

The Central Penn Business Journal broke the story, which was confirmed by DCED. CCED wants to be respectful of the certification process and of DCED’s practices and prefers not to comment further until the full certification process has been finalized. Once the process has been finalized, we will be sharing with you more details about our plan to become the top County in terms of number of projects and amount of lending generated under those programs. To our scores of supporters including the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce, Shippensburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Mechanicsburg Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; local and federal Cumberland County legislators; Cumberland County Government including the Board of County Commissioners, the County Planning Commission, the Redevelopment Authority, the Cumberland County Controller; Municipal Governments; regional economic development service providers; and  scores of local businesses; we will always be eternally grateful for your support and vow not to let you down.

CCED is already a successful and experienced economic development lender that has already done millions of dollars in affordable business financing and is looking forward to using these additional new tools to create greater economic development opportunities. Without a doubt, this is great news for our County and business community. Achieving these designations is critical to the economic development efforts of Cumberland County, and we look forward to partnering with DCED and current provider – CREDC – to offer the very best to the Cumberland County business community.

Best regards,

 
 
Omar A. Shute
Executive Director
Cumberland Area EDC

Partnership to revolutionize economic development in the West Shore

Carlisle, PA – A new era for economic development has begun.  Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce have agreed to a dynamic partnership in the delivery of economic development services.  This powerful alliance will guarantee businesses greater accessibility and awareness of the newest economic development tools as well as services. 

“This partnership comes at the perfect time.  The economy has struggled to recover and as a result Cumberland County’s unemployment rate has doubled in the past twelve months.  In addition, CCED has been able to grow and expand its economic development services.  This partnership will help us deliver those new services faster to the West Shore business community thus creating more economic development and job opportunities“, said Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director.

“The West Shore Chamber of Commerce is very pleased to offer this valuable resource to our members, and are excited to partner with CCED on this initiative”, said Kathleen Mangan, West Shore Chamber President & CEO.

One of CCED’s main objectives is to assist businesses with economic development financing through its wide array of low interest loan programs including Small Business First and the SBA 504 program.  The partnership with the West Shore Chamber of Commerce will allow CCED unique access to the West Shore business community and hence the ability to market services more effectively.  “We are thrilled about this partnership,” said Shute.  He added; “we are confident this partnership will convert CCED and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce into market leaders in the delivery of economic development services to the West Shore business community.”

This innovative partnership is the first step in developing new ways of better serving the area’s business development needs.  In addition, with the help of this partnership, both organizations will continue to be true to their missions.  The mission of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce is to represent, promote and facilitate business for the community.  The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.  Through this partnership, both organizations have made a pledge to continue their unwavering commitment to the business community.

To learn more about how the CCED and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce could assist your business, interested parties are encouraged to contact Don Coffee at CCED at 717.240.7181 or via e-mail at don@cumberlandbusiness.com or Sandy Allison at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce at 717.761.0702 or via e-mail at sandy@wschamber.org.

Cumberland County businesses to benefit from lower costs to borrow funds

Carlisle, PA - Continuing with its commitment to the Cumberland County business community, Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) is announcing the lowest prices in the region to borrow funds through the Small Business First Program.  This will save Cumberland County businesses hundreds of Dollars compared to traditional options.  “Nobody in the region can do a Small Business First loan for less,” said Omar Shute, CCED Executive Director.  He added, “our low prices and exceptional service will provide a very hard to beat combination and will ensure first class service to Cumberland County businesses.”

The following pricing related to Small Business First is being announced by CCED:

Application Fee: $250
Closing Fee: 1% of amount borrowed
Document Preparation Fee: $650

Again, nobody in the region can provide Small Business First loans for less cost.  For Cumberland County businesses, this means that on a $200,000 loan, CCED can save a business as much as $1,500 in fees.  Without a doubt, this is a win for the Cumberland County business community and shows CCED’s commitment to business in Cumberland County. 
 
“CCED is a lean organization with diversified funding.  In addition, CCED has a wide variety of loan programs and services.  That has allowed us to build economies of scale and develop great pricing structures for Cumberland County businesses.  We are transferring those savings to our clients,” said Shute.  He added; “we are making capital available and helping ease the credit crunch that is affecting many.  In the past, it was common to see lending institutions financing up to 90% of the cost of a project.  This practice is now very unusual and lending institutions have been requiring borrowers to inject more cash into a deal to reduce their level of exposure.  With a program such as Small Business First, CCED can partner with a lending institution and offer subordinate financing.  Our involvement diversifies the risk and saves the borrower precious cash.  Hence, everybody wins.”

Small Business First provides low-interest financing for land and building acquisition and construction, machinery and equipment purchases, and working capital.  Through Small Business First, CCED can provide loans for up to $200,000 and depending on the transaction rates can be fixed for as many as 15 years.  To check for eligibility and for further information regarding Small Business First, contact Don Coffee at 717.240.7181 or via e-mail at don@cumberlandbusiness.com.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

Cumberland County Economic Development Welcomes Small Business First

Low-interest financing program now available to Cumberland County businesses

Carlisle, PA – Mission accomplished.  Last week, Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) completed its certification process with the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and is now an Area Loan Organization serving Cumberland County.  CCED would like to again thank the scores of businesses, legislators, local government partners, chambers of commerce, and regional economic development service providers for their support.

Small Business First is considered by many as the best small business lending program available at DCED.  This program offers primarily subordinate financing and works best in partnership with traditional lending institutions.  “Small Business First is the newest financing tool available at CCED.  We have programs available to serve almost any type of business and for almost any type of need.  Just check us out,” said Omar Shute, Executive Director at CCED.  He added; “in the past, it was common to see lending institutions financing up to 90% of the cost of a project.  This practice is now very unusual and lending institutions have been requiring borrowers to inject more cash into a deal to reduce their level of exposure.  With a program such as Small Business First, CCED can partner with a lending institution and offer subordinate financing.  Our involvement diversifies the risk and saves the borrower precious cash.”

Small Business First provides low-interest financing for land and building acquisition and construction, machinery and equipment purchases, and working capital.  Through Small Business First, CCED can provide loans for up to $200,000 and depending on the transaction rates can be fixed for as many as 15 years.

To check for eligibility and for further information regarding Small Business First, contact:

Don Coffee at 717.240.7181 or via e-mail at don@cumberlandbusiness.com.

The mission of CCED is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.

OFFICE DEPOT OPENS NEW COMBO FACILITY IN NEWVILLE, PA

600,000 Square Feet Facility Will Employ 250 Associates and Service
Office Depot’s Retail Store Locations and Business Solutions Division

Boca Raton, Fla., January 5, 2010 -- Office Depot (NYSE: ODP), a leading global provider of office products and services, today announced the opening of the Company’s new combination facility in Newville, Pennsylvania.  The building, which is located just outside of Harrisburg, is approximately 600,000 square feet and is designed to serve Office Depot’s retail store locations as well as its business customers.  The new approach will support Office Depot’s growing business, optimize total supply chain expenses, and utilize inventory more efficiently, while maintaining service levels and next-day delivery.

Office Depot first identified Newville as the optimal region to establish the combination facility based on its location as a transportation hub for the Company’s business and ability to offer efficiencies to service both retail locations and business customers. Additionally, a motivated work force and lower real estate expenses were important factors in the decision making process.

Office Depot worked closely with the Governor’s action team, Penn Township, officials and the Cumberland County Economic Development group in making the move possible, as well as SBLM Architects for architectural services and CBRE for real estate brokering.  The Newville location will be managed by Office Depot Senior Director Bob Zelis.

About Office Depot

Every day, Office Depot is Taking Care of Business for millions of customers around the globe.  For the local corner store as well as Fortune 500 companies, Office Depot provides products and services to its customers through 1,585 worldwide retail stores, a dedicated sales force, top-rated catalogs and a $4.2 billion e-commerce operation.  Office Depot has annual sales of approximately $14.5 billion, and employs about 42,000 associates around the world. The Company provides more office products and services to more customers in more countries than any other company, and currently sells to customers directly or through affiliates in 49 countries.

Office Depot’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ODP and is included in the S&P 500 Index.  Additional press information can be found at: http://mediarelations.officedepot.com.

Chambers of Commerce support is critical for application of state designations

08/19/09 – Carlisle, PA – Cumberland County Economic Development (CCED) has received full endorsement and support from area Chambers of Commerce to achieve Area Loan Organization (ALO) and Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) designations through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).  These designations will allow CCED to obtain equal access to programs such as Small Business First and PIDA.

The West Shore Chamber of Commerce voted today to support CCED and joined the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce, the Shippensburg Chamber of Commerce, the Mechanicsburg Chamber of Commerce, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in their support for CCED’s upcoming application.  The Chambers of Commerce aforementioned represent approximately 2,000 businesses.

“The West Shore Chamber’s strong support of this application is a result of careful examination and debate of the information available to both the Chamber’s Economic Development Committee and the Board of Directors.  The application from CCED would allow for increased access to funding and continued economic growth for Cumberland County businesses,” said Ed Messner, President & CEO of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce.  Michelle Crowley, President of the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce said “CCED is part of a not-for-profit corporation and serves as the catalyst for Cumberland County’s economic development policies.  CCED has a dedicated and highly qualified economic development staff and has done an excellent job representing the County’s best interests when it comes to growth and development".

CCED is very enthusiastic about its application and is certain that Cumberland County and the region will be better served by having more options to fulfill the financing needs of businesses.  CCED is already an experienced lender and achieving these designations will improve the current delivery of services as well as loans and will increase the amount of financial assistance that has been historically offered to businesses in the County.  In the region, as for the Small Business First program, Cumberland County has had only $6M worth of loans since 2000, which trails Franklin County at $21M, Dauphin County at $8.4M and Adams County at $7M.  As for PIDA since 2000, only three PIDA loans have been made in Cumberland County.

The mission of Cumberland County Economic Development is to be a catalyst for job creation; entrepreneurship; and business attraction, retention, and expansion on behalf of the citizens of Cumberland County and South Central Pennsylvania.