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.

Attend or host an event for Global Entrepreneurship Week; deadline October 18 to submit event

Host: Penn State University
Date: Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) Penn State is November 18-24. Submit an event by October 18
Location: Penn State campuses, as well as virtual options. Learn more at gew.psu.edu.

Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) Penn State is just around the corner, and we’re excited to invite you to participate in this dynamic celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation. This year, GEW will take place from November 18-24, 2024, and we are currently seeking events that align with the theme of ‘Entrepreneurship is for Everyone’. Some ideas for topics include but are not limited to: education, ecosystems, inclusion, or policy. Whether you’re a returning partner or new to the initiative, your involvement is valuable to Penn State. We welcome a variety of activities, including workshops, seminars, panel discussions, networking events, startup competitions, pitch contests, and more. Whether your event is in person or virtual, we encourage you to engage and help us build a vibrant entrepreneurial community. Plus, we’ll promote any event scheduled for November—just submit your details by filling out the form here. The deadline for event submissions is Friday, October 18th (if you need to submit later than this date, please do let us know), so please submit your event details at your earliest convenience. Learn more at gew.psu.edu.

Bicycling to Rural Economic Development & Restoration of the Watersheds of the Triple Divide meet at Denton Hill State Park on October 25

Host: Pennsylvania Environmental Council and DentonGo
Date: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Friday, October 25, 2024
Location: Lodge at Denton Hill State Park, US Route 6, Ulysses, PA, 16948

Progress & Planning for the “Ride the Wilds” Initiative & Triple Divide Trail System meeting is being held at Denton Hill State Park on October 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free and open to the public. Please bring your own lunch. Light refreshments provided. Questions? Contact the conference planners, Helena Kotala, Pennsylvania Environmental Council, at [email protected] and Allen Kerkeslager, Saint Joseph’s University, at [email protected].

Bicycling to Rural Economic Development & Restoration of the Watersheds of the Triple Divide meet at Denton Hill State Park on October 25

Host: Center for Rural PA
Date: 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on Wednesday, October 30
Location: Zoom meeting at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIqdOqqrjosEtJ3ICho_k6dJjzBIq6tO8m9

Join us for an engaging presentation and brainstorming session, and unlock solutions for our region’s workforce challenges! Workforce Solutions for North Central PA invites you to a thought-provoking presentation by Dr. Kyle Kopko, Director of the Center for Rural PA. On October 30th from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, we’ll explore critical insights into Pennsylvania’s demographic shifts, including: Slow population changes and a shift toward the Southeast; an aging and increasingly diverse population; challenges in post-secondary enrollment, tuition, and school fees; indicators of learning loss and graduation rates; youth employment trends and mental health concerns. This is not just a presentation… it’s a collaborative opportunity! We want your insights as we discuss the implications of this data on our workforce development system and brainstorm actionable solutions. Reserve your spot for this virtual (Zoom) meeting by filling out the form at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIqdOqqrjosEtJ3ICho_k6dJjzBIq6tO8m9

Susquehanna Greenway mini-grant applications due by October 25

Host: Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Date: Applications open for this round August 26, 2024 – October 25, 2024.
Location: Learn more and apply at https://susquehannagreenway.org/mini-grant-program/.

The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership is offering their mini-grant program August 26, 2024 – October 25, 2024. The grant maximum is $10,000 per request; required match is 1:1 composed of cash or non-cash match; 80% of funding available at time of contract; 20% of funding awarded upon completion and final reporting. 2024 Funding Categories: 1) Outreach & Education, 2) Wayfinding & Signage, 3) Trails & Active Transportation, 4) Temporary Placemaking Eligible Entities: Applicants must be a public entity (such as a county, municipality, or municipal agency) or a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization eligible to apply for DCNR-supported funding and registered with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charities (BCO). Learn more and apply at https://susquehannagreenway.org/mini-grant-program/.

North Central roadway safety issues online survey responses due by October 31

Host: North Central PA Regional Planning and Development Commission
Date: Survey feedback due by October 31.
Location: Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, and Potter counties. Fill out online survey at https://wikimapping.com/North-Central-Safety-Action-Plan.html.

North Central PA Regional Planning and Development Commission is engaging with the public to identify roadway safety issues across Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, and Potter counties. The feedback received will inform North Central’s ongoing Safety Action Plan to improve safety for motorists, transit riders, pedestrians, and cyclists alike, with the goal of reducing or eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries in the region. The online mapping survey is now open through the end of October. Use the survey mapping feature to tell them about yourself and the location and nature of your safety concerns here: https://wikimapping.com/North-Central-Safety-Action-Plan.html

PA Housing Finance Agency issues RFP for new construction/rehab of mixed-used projects

Host: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
Date: Deadline for proposal submission is 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1
Location: The RFP is located on PHFA’s website at https://www.phfa.org/mhp/developers/loans.aspx.

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency has issued a Request for Proposals for new construction, or the rehabilitation, of mixed-use projects seeking financial support. Funding will be provided through the Community Revitalization Fund Program. Mixed-use projects combine residential and retail/commercial space in the same building and often serve as a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization. The deadline for proposal submission is 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1. The RFP is located on PHFA’s website at https://www.phfa.org/mhp/developers/loans.aspx. The online application is accessible on the CRFP website at https://crfp.phfa.org. Questions may be directed to Shelby Rexrode at PHFA via email at [email protected].

Renovo Community Trade Association (RCTA) Small Business and Entrepreneur Expo on November 14; registration due by October 25

Host: The Renovo Community Trade Association (RCTA)
Date: Event on November 14, 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM. Register by October 25 here.
Location: Bucktail High School, Renovo, PA

The Renovo Community Trade Association (RCTA) would like to cordially invite you to the first “Small Business and Entrepreneur Expo” on November 14, 2024, 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM, at the Bucktail High School in Renovo, Clinton County, PA. The RCTA has been in existence since the 1940’s. Over time it has evolved and in recent times partners with Clinton County Economic Partnership to rebuild Western Clinton County. This event was created to entice local residents county wide to learn how they can start a small business and capitalize on the growing tourism market and increase the economic revenue in the Renovo area and across Clinton County. During the evening/public portion, we would like to offer “breakout” sessions lasting 30 minutes that you can offer a presentation on your specific area. Tables and chairs will be provided. We will provide refreshments and a dinner for all exhibitors. There is no charge to participate. Register by October 25 here.

USDA Forest Service Eastern Region accepting application for grants supporting forest restoration work on non-federal lands, due November 15

Host: The USDA Forest Service Eastern Region
Date: Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by November 15, 2024.
Location: Learn more about the program and how to apply for this and other grants www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r9/workingtogether/grants/.

The USDA Forest Service Eastern Region is now accepting applications for grants that support forest restoration work on non-federal lands. Landscape Scale Restoration grants provide vital benefits to the American public, supporting projects that reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, improve water quality, restore wildlife habitat, and mitigate damaging insect and disease infestations. Eligible organizations include state and local government agencies, Tribes, nonprofit organizations, and universities. There is an additional national Landscape Scale Restoration grant opportunity for federally recognized Tribes. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by November 15, 2024. Additional draft deadlines are outlined on the website. Visit the State, Private, and Tribal Forestry Competitive Grant Opportunities website to learn more about the program and how to apply for this and other grants www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r9/workingtogether/grants/.

PFBC Boating Facility Grant Program applications due by November 30

Host: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Date: Deadline for applications is November 30
Location: Learn more at https://www.fishandboat.com/About-Us/Grants/Pages/BoatingFacilityGrantProgram.aspx.

The PA Fish and Boat Commission’s Boating Facility Grant Program is open and accepting applications till November 30. Grants cover up to 50% of costs for land acquisition, project design and engineering, development, expansion, and construction of public recreational boat access facilities. Eligible activities include the rehabilitation, expansion or construction of new boat ramps, bulkheads, courtesy floats, access roads, parking areas, restrooms, signs and localized landscaping. All construction activities must benefit and directly support recreational boating. Learn more at https://www.fishandboat.com/About-Us/Grants/Pages/BoatingFacilityGrantProgram.aspx.

Tioga County residents encouraged to receive Emergency Medical Technician training; registration deadline December 23

Host: Northern Pennsylvania Regional College’s Workforce Development Department
Date: The course will start January 6, 2025, and will continue every Monday and Wednesday through Wednesday, June 25 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Registration will close on Monday, December 23 unless the course is filled prior to this date.
Location: Refunds possible for Tioga County residents. To register for this opportunity and for more information, visit NPRCEvents.org.

Northern Pennsylvania Regional College’s Workforce Development department is providing an opportunity for Tioga County area residents to receive training to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). The cost of this course is $350.00, and refunds are possible for Tioga County residents upon successful completion of EMT course. Tioga County Emergency Services should be contacted for further information. Residents from outside of Tioga County are also welcome to sign up for the class. Before beginning the course, students are required to complete a placement test to determine class eligibility. The course will begin on Monday, January 6, 2025, and will continue every Monday and Wednesday through Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. The class will meet at the Mansfield Hose Company located at 381 South Main Street in Mansfield. The course is open to up to 24 individuals and registration will close on Monday, December 23 unless the course is filled prior to this date. To register for this opportunity and for more information, visit NPRCEvents.org.

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.

Tourism and recreation survey for residents of Cameron, Elk, Forest, McKean, or Warren counties (Allegheny National Forest region)

Host: West Virginia University, with local partners
Date: Survey open
Location: Only for residents of Cameron, Elk, Forest, McKean, or Warren counties.

Your opinion matters! If you are a resident of Cameron, Elk, Forest, McKean, or Warren counties this is your chance to share your thoughts and opinion on recreation and tourism development in and around your community! This survey will be used to improve policy makers’ understanding of residents’ attitudes and opinions toward tourism in the Allegheny National Forest region, help them determine future tourism development opportunities, and provide recreation/tourism leaders the opportunity to learn about and respond to public opinions. This survey was developed by West Virginia University in partnership with the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Penn State University, University of Vermont, University of New Hampshire and the Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development and is funded by a grant from USDA. Click here for the 5- to 10-minute survey: https://wvu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_87IAnZ0IFwnM5Bs

DEP accepting applications for 2024 Small Business Advantage Grant

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.

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