Pennsylvania First Program (PA First)
The Pennsylvania First Program funds projects that drive economic impact and job creation in Pennsylvania through support for business growth, infrastructure, and workforce development.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted any time, subject to fund availability)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per job created or retained; grants, loans, and loan guarantees available; award size based on project and competitive review.
Summary: Supports business expansion, job creation, infrastructure, and workforce development projects that drive economic impact in Pennsylvania.
Key Information: Minimum private investment and job creation/retention required; highly competitive.
Description
The Pennsylvania First Program (PA First) is a flexible economic development funding tool aimed at encouraging increased investment and job creation throughout Pennsylvania. It provides grants, loans, and loan guarantees for projects that demonstrate substantial economic impact, either at the state or regional level. Eligible activities include job training, acquisition or improvement of land and buildings, infrastructure development, machinery and equipment purchase, environmental assessments and remediation, working capital, and site preparation. The program is designed to support business growth, attract new enterprises, and retain existing jobs, with a focus on leveraging private investment and creating high-quality employment opportunities.
