Editor’s Note: The PA Wilds Partner Opportunities blog is a monthly roundup of opportunities and resources that are offered by partners of the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship. Featured blog content supports Pennsylvania Wilds communities, small businesses and organizations. Regionally focused and time sensitive grant opportunities, technical assistance programs and professional development workshops are examples of the types of resources and opportunities that will be included in this monthly blog. Typically published the second week of each month, this series serves as a real time supplement to the annually produced PA Wilds Resource Guides, available at WildsCoPA.org/business-resources.

 

Spring term registration deadline for Northern Pennsylvania Regional College is January 6

Host: Northern Pennsylvania Regional College
Date: The application deadline for the Spring 2025 term is Monday, January 6, 2025.
Location: If interested in attending NPRC this spring, head online to bit.ly/NPRC_Apply

NPRC is thrilled to announce that beginning in January 2025, the institution is offering remote attendance options with live instruction for all academic courses. The College will also continue to allow students to attend their courses at one of over 25 locations across 10 counties. This will ensure that learners have a secure location with internet connectivity if this best serves them in their learning. The application deadline for the Spring 2025 term is Monday, January 6, 2025. NPRC was listed by Yahoo! Finance as the most affordable college in Pennsylvania and has guaranteed admission for anyone who has a high school diploma or equivalent. Becoming a student at NPRC is easy! All that’s needed is to create a free account, complete the NPRC application, and contact your high school and/or previous college and request transcripts to be sent to NPRC’s Registrar at [email protected] . NPRC inspires and serves a region of 10 counties in a way that is unique to regional needs. We are not just a college; we’re a second chance, a necessity, and an opportunity where learning and growth never stops. Once you become a student of ours, it will become clear why brighter futures begin here. The student services team is also available to assist you through the application process and can be contacted at [email protected]. If interested in attending NPRC this spring, head online to bit.ly/NPRC_Apply now to complete the application and start your journey towards the next chapter of your life!

 

Request for Proposals for Appalachian Leadership Institute due by January 10

Host: Appalachian Regional Commission
Date: Proposals are due by January 10, 2025. The contract period is August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026.
Location: Read the RFP here.

The Appalachian Regional Commissioner (ARC) is seeking proposals from organizations, including non-profits, institutions of higher education, and other stakeholders to work in partnership with the ARC Academies & Institutes team to execute the Appalachian Leadership Institute (ALI), a leadership development program for people who live and/or work in Appalachian and are passionate about helping their communities thrive. Proposals are due by January 10, 2025. The contract period is August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026. If you have any questions, please reach out to Academies & Institutes Program Manager Jessica Mosley at [email protected]. Read the RFP here.

 

USDA Forest Service’s Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program grant applications due by January 13

Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by January 13, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service’s Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program is accepting grant applications. To provide financial assistance to Indian Tribes, local governments, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits. Apply by January 13, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

 

Nature Conservancy Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program webinar on January 15, applications due February 7

Host: The Nature Conservancy
Date: A webinar on January 15 will provide more information about the grants. Applications are due February 7.
Location: Use the grant program’s mapping tool to determine if your project will take place in one of the eligible areas.

The Nature Conservancy is now accepting applications for its Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program. The program offers funding for non-profit organizations, municipalities, and other partners to engage in conservation efforts in the Appalachians. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for both fee and easement land acquisition projects. The grants will prioritize funding for projects in one of the Nature Conservancy’s focal areas. Use the grant program’s mapping tool to determine if your project will take place in one of these areas. A webinar on January 15 will provide more information about the grants. Applications are due February 7. To apply, use the grant program application.

 

ARC webinar for 2025 INSPIRE ROUND; NEPA free info webinar on January 16

Host: Appalachian Regional Commission
Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Zoom – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84977050408 Meeting ID: 849 7705 0408

The Appalachian Regional Commission has announced the 2025 INSPIRE Round. In addition to the key dates provided by ARC, there will be 2 additional webinars hosted by our colleagues at NEPA and SEDA-COG. These webinars will feature ARC consultants Eric Stockton and Jeff Schwartz speaking about how to strengthen your ARC INSPIRE Applications. Date & Time: Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 1:00pm – 2:15pm Host: NEPA Alliance Contact: Kurt Bauman Webinar details: Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84977050408 Meeting ID: 849 7705 0408

 

ARC webinar for 2025 INSPIRE ROUND; SEDA-COG free info webinar on January 23

Host: Appalachian Regional Commission
Date: Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Microsoft Teams – Meeting ID 213 557 806 385, Passcode 5cs7Vf2h

The Appalachian Regional Commission has announced the 2025 INSPIRE Round. In addition to the key dates provided by ARC, there will be 2 additional webinars hosted by our colleagues at NEPA and SEDA-COG. These webinars will feature ARC consultants Eric Stockton and Jeff Schwartz speaking about how to strengthen your ARC INSPIRE Applications. Date & Time: Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 11:00am – 12:00pm Host: SEDA-COG Contact: Betsy Lockwood Webinar details: Microsoft Teams Meeting ID: 213 557 806 385 Passcode: 5cs7Vf2h

 

PA Department of Community & Economic Development industrial sites analysis results virtual meeting on January 30

Host: Team Pennsylvania and the PA Department of Community & Economic Development
Date: Thursday, January 30 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom Link is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81041624692?pwd=0Cp7YF2MqRxA3B2rK6NeDn15PzSwQu.1

Team Pennsylvania and the PA Department of Community & Economic Development will host a virtual meeting on Thursday, January 30 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. to share information coming out of the industrial sites analysis, done in partnership with Deloitte Consulting. The virtual meeting is open to any interested party; however, the primary audience will be the broad network of economic development partners across the Commonwealth. Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81041624692?pwd=0Cp7YF2MqRxA3B2rK6NeDn15PzSwQu.1 No RSVP is needed.

 

USDA Partnerships for Aquatic and Watershed Restoration Program grant applications due by February 7

Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Partnerships for Aquatic and Watershed Restoration Program is accepting grant applications. USDA Forest Service is looking to address aquatic and watershed restoration needs and empower local communities and partners to assist with implementation of activities. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

 

USDA At-Risk Plants and Pollinators and their Ecological Conditions Program grant applications due by February 7

Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) At-Risk Plants and Pollinators and their Ecological Conditions Program is accepting grant applications. The agency is looking to ensure suitable ecosystems are sustained by restoration or maintaining species diversity and ecological productivity of at-risk plant species populations. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

 

USDA Revegetation with Native Plants Program grant applications due by February 7

Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Revegetation with Native Plants Program is accepting grant applications. USDA Forest Service is interested in potential partnerships to help collect, map, develop, monitor, and restore native plants, where needed. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

 

USDA Grassland Ecological Potential and Restoration Effectiveness Evaluation Program grant applications due by February 7

Host: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Date: Apply by February 7, 2025.
Location: Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Grassland Ecological Potential and Restoration Effectiveness Evaluation Program is accepting grant applications. This initiative aims to explore partnerships focused on grassland ecosystems while increasing awareness of their importance. Apply by February 7, 2025. Learn more at the USDA grants portal.

 

DEP accepting applications for 2024 Small Business Advantage Grant until March 21, 2025

Host: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Date: Accepting applications starting September 20, 2024, and will accept applications until March 21, 2025, or until the funds are exhausted for this fiscal year, whichever occurs first.
Location: Learn more here.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is accepting applications for the 2024 Small Business Advantage Grant. The program helps Pennsylvania small businesses cut energy costs by replacing equipment and appliances with more energy-efficient ones or reducing pollution and waste, reimbursing 50% to 80% of eligible project costs. This year’s maximum grant award amounts will vary from up to $7,500 to up to $12,000, based on the environmental impact of the project and whether the project location is in an Environmental Justice Area in Pennsylvania. Learn more here.

 

DCNR Community Conservation Partnerships Program grants accepting applications until April 2

Host: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
Date: Applications are due by 4:00 PM, Wednesday, April 2.
Location: Grant applications are only accepted through the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal.

The annual Community Conservation Partnerships Program grant application window is now open. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) oversees the grant program, which funds local recreation and conservation projects in communities across Pennsylvania. Last year, the program awarded more than $79 million to more than 300 projects statewide. Grant applications are only accepted through the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal. A portal tutorial video is available to help applicants learn about grant requirements and how to navigate the application. Applications are due by 4:00 PM, Wednesday, April 2.

 

Susquehanna Greenway Partnership Paddler’s Toolkit Workshop in Clearfield on June 7

Host: Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025; 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: River’s Landing Event Center, 139 W Market St Suite 200, Clearfield, PA 16830

The Paddler’s Toolkit Workshop on June 7, hosted by the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) and Pennsylvania Master Naturalist (PMN), will provide novice and veteran paddlers with new information and resources to enhance their next paddling adventure. Participants will complete a two-part educational workshop that will cover the ins and outs of preparing for and undertaking a paddling trip on the Susquehanna River. In the afternoon, participants will join SGP and PMN for an on-water experience to put newly learned skills into practice. The price of registration includes lunch and access to the full-day workshop plus informational material. Price to be determined. Look for more information at susquehannagreenway.org/event/paddlers-toolkit-workshop-clearfield.

 

Susquehanna Sojourn: Baker Run to Lock Haven on June 19

Host: Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025; 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Starts at Baker Run Canoe Access, Mill Hall

Join the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) on Thursday, June 19, 2025, as we discover the West Branch of the Susquehanna River Water Trail. Paddlers along this section of the river will experience a 14-mile route along the West Branch Susquehanna River from Baker Run to Lock Haven. Due to the length, this is an intermediate paddle, not recommended for first-timers. Look for more information at susquehannagreenway.org/event/susquehanna-sojourn-series-west.

Northern Pennsylvania Regional College offering online programs

Host: Northern Pennsylvania Regional College
Date: Enrolling now
Location: Online programs, more information available at regionalcollegepa.org/online-programs

Northern Pennsylvania Regional College is pleased to announce a partnership with ed2go, part of Cengage Group that has brought online programming to NPRC’s workforce development division. This partnership will serve as an opportunity for students to earn credentials and certificates in asynchronous and synchronous learning formats. Courses include AutoCAD, cybersecurity, human resources, Microsoft Excel, and professional bookkeeping and payroll management.  Whether someone is a high school student looking to develop skills for college; a busy parent hoping to provide a better life for their family; or a lifelong learner looking for a way to challenge themselves, these programs can help students achieve their goals at NPRC in a new way. For more information about ed2go and NPRC’s collaboration and offerings, please visit NPRC’s website under Non-Credit Online Programs.

 

PA Council on the Arts ​Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program

Host: PA Council on the Arts
Date: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis.
Location: Learn more at the PCA Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator page

The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and the PCA’s Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) partner organizations are pleased to make available the Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program. This program is designed to pair access to existing small business consulting services with $2,000 grants for creative entrepreneurs who aspire to start their own for-profit business or who operate an existing for-profit micro business. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis. Learn more at the PCA Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator page.

 

POWR Statewide Waterway Access Grant Mini Grant Program

Host: The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers
Date: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and awarded on a rolling basis.
Location: Learn more at the POWR SWAG announcement press release.

The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR) is opening the new Statewide Waterway Access Grant Mini Grant Program (SWAG). The grant program, supported by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is designed to help meet growing demand for non-motorized boating opportunities. The program provides grants of up to $30,000 to create new or improve existing access points along the region’s rivers, streams, and waterways.

 

Office rental space available in Greater Clearfield County Chamber of Commerce building

Host: Greater Clearfield County Chamber of Commerce
Date: Get in touch as soon as possible for tour if interested.
Location: 218 South Second Street, Clearfield, PA 16830; call Christy at 814-765-7567 for details.

Are you working from home but need a quieter office space without distractions? Could your new startup business use an affordable office space to meet with clients? Are you looking for an all-inclusive office within walking distance of downtown Clearfield? The Clearfield Chamber of Commerce building at 218 South Second Street in Clearfield has affordable office space available in the new year. Give Christy a call at 814-765-7567 for availability.

 

Office available for daily rental in Greater DuBois Area Chamber building

Host: Greater DuBois Area Chamber of Commerce
Date: Get in touch as soon as possible for tour if interested.
Location: 103 Beaver Drive, DuBois. Call 814-371-5010 or email Jodi August, Executive Director at [email protected].

Training Room (Smart Room) for rent at the Greater DuBois Chamber office located at 103 Beaver Drive, DuBois. Comfortably seats up to 16. Wi-Fi access, use of kitchenette, and restrooms. Chamber members rate is $25 ½ day, $50 full day. Non-Member rate is $50 ½ day, $100 full day. To reserve this room on a specific date, please call 814-371-5010 or email Jodi August, Executive Director at [email protected].

 

 

Submit your resources!

Organizations offering resources or opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits and communities in the PA Wilds are invited to submit information for potential inclusion in next month’s Partner Opportunities blog, which is posted to PAWildsCenter.org and shared in the PA Wilds Center’s monthly e-newsletter. The blog and e-blast are typically shared the second week of the month. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. the last Friday of month for consideration. SUBMIT RESOURCES

 

ABOUT THE PA WILDS

The Pennsylvania Wilds is a 13-county region that includes the counties of Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Potter, Tioga, Warren, and northern Centre. The PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Inc., is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to integrate conservation and economic development in a way that inspires the communities of the Pennsylvania Wilds. The PA Wilds Center promotes the region and its 2+ million acres of public lands as a premier outdoor recreation destination as a way to diversify local economies, inspire stewardship, attract investment, retain population and improve quality of life. The PA Wilds Center’s core programs seek to help businesses leverage the PA Wilds brand and connect with new market opportunities, including: the Wilds Cooperative of PA, a network of more than 600 place-based businesses and organizations, and the PA Wilds Conservation Shop, a retail outlet primarily featuring products sourced from the WCO. For more information on the PA Wilds Center, visit www.PAWildsCenter.org. To learn more about the WCO, visit www.WildsCoPA.org. Explore the PA Wilds at www.PAWilds.com. Find regionally made products at www.ShopThePAWilds.com. 

 

Media Contact

Britt Madera | Communications Manager

PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Inc.

[email protected] | 570-948-1051