NEPA Alliance Co-hosts Chamber Day at Tobyhanna Army Depot

The NEPA Alliance and our affiliate, the Tobyhanna Defense Technology Partnership (TDTP) were proud to co-host Chamber Day at Tobyhanna Army Depot earlier this month. Senior leaders from county and regional economic development organizations and their board members were invited to this event to meet with Tobyhanna Army Depot leadership and get a firsthand look at what goes on behind the gates at the Depot.

Jeffrey Box, President & CEO of the NEPA Alliance and co-chair of the TDTP, was one of the featured speakers during Chamber Day and provided an update on the current goals of the Partnership. TDTP is a partnership of business, community and government leaders whose mission is to provide community-based support for Tobyhanna Army Depot, the largest industrial employer in the region. The Depot’s annual economic impact on Northeastern Pennsylvania is $2.4 billion. The Partnership was established by NEPA Alliance in the early 1990s to protect Tobyhanna from a series of base closures happening at that time. “We are shifting from a defensive mindset for the TDTP to offense” said Box. “The Partnership is aggressively looking at ways to bring more work to the Depot which will result in more good paying jobs here in Northeastern Pennsylvania.”

To learn more about the Tobyhanna Defense Technology Partnership and how you can support the Depot, visit supporttobyhanna.org.

NEPA Alliance staff will host a municipal funding forum event on Wednesday November 13^th, 2024 via Zoom.

For more information contact Tyler Day at (570) 891-4656 or tday@nepa-alliance.org. 

This month’s Membership Spotlight is Brock Construction Group, LLC. NEPA spoke with Brock Sambolec, President/Owner.

The mission of Brock Construction Group, LLC (BCG) is to provide affordable, sustainable and safe housing for all those in need, always prioritizing the needs of customers when making decisions. They are dedicated to maintaining their focus on this 'infinite' objective and attracting investors, management, employees, suppliers and others who will contribute accordingly. Customers value their altruistic-orientation, vision and their uniquely capable products for fulfilling their mission.

BCG can construct multi-level concrete complexes and emergency structures that provide for all security needs. These secure structures can be readily produced, disassembled and relocated anywhere in the world. These portable structures can incorporate built-in hydraulic systems to expedite their movement and transportation. Their advanced mold machines, the producer of these concrete structures, can be shipped in cargo containers, needing little to no assembly upon arrival, allowing for production to begin within days. Their trained veteran teams can facilitate the entire process on site.

Brock Construction Group can construct distinctive & affordable single home residences and multi-unit housing complexes. Their uniquely produced monolithic (seamless) concrete structures provide the owners/tenants with long-term sustainable affordability. The water & rodent-proof construction eliminates common moisture-related deterioration; and their concrete-embedded insulation & utilities (including conduits & plumbing for water, drainage, fire-suppression, radiant heating & cooling, and electric/communications), ensure minimal structural repairs; and their use of geo-thermal and solar technology dramatically reduces monthly utility expenses.

When asked how membership with NEPA help his company, Mr. Sambolec stated, “BCG has benefited significantly from its relationship with NEPA beginning approximately 7 years ago when it played a key role in helping BCG make critical connections in acquiring some valuable contracts and for its continuing assistance in reaching prospective organizations and partners, like last month's invitation to attend the Tobyhanna Industry Day, and their recent assistance in obtaining a business loan. Our membership is much appreciated.”

For more information please visit: brockcg.com

The Nonprofit Energy Makeover is a contest fueled by the Sustainable Energy Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to upgrade a nonprofit building to be more energy efficient at no cost to the winning organization. This program gives a nonprofit the chance to save on their utility bills by implementing the upgrades included in the FREE energy makeover and use those savings toward their mission.

The winning nonprofit organization, chosen for its inefficient building and for the good it does for the community, will produce dramatic energy savings. The money saved from high electric bills can be directed towards furthering the nonprofit’s mission. The main goal of the Makeover Contest is to promote energy efficiency and assist energy users in overcoming educational and financial barriers to a sustainable energy future.

For complete details, please click here.

NEPA Alliance is conducting its annual membership campaign.

The NEPA Alliance values the opportunity to work with all stakeholders in our seven-county region. Our goal is to provide the best possible community and economic development services to create and retain jobs in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Membership Benefits

• FREE Networking Reception Invite for One Person ($125 Value)
• FREE Use of Meeting Space
• FREE Member Spotlight
• Discount on NEPA Event Costs
• Discount on Business Loan (.5%)
• Discounted Economic Impact Analysis/Research
• Sponsorship & Marketing Opportunities

NEPA Alliance serves businesses, communities, and governments throughout seven counties and we need your assistance!

Our general annual membership starts at $295.

You can complete your membership online, including payment by clicking the button below.

Need more information? Visit our membership hub, or contact Donna Hritz at dhritz@nepa-alliance.org or call 570-891-4666.

NEPA Alliance has several loan programs available for small businesses located in Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill and Wayne counties.

These low-cost, low-interest loans offer reduced down payments and standard loan term maturities for machinery and equipment, land and building acquisition, construction and renovation. Loan rates are fixed and generally below the prime lending rate.

Eligible businesses include Manufacturers, Industrial, Agriculture/Agribusiness, Hospitality & Tourism Related Enterprises, Recyclers, Day Cares, Computer Related Services, Advanced Technology and Retail and Service Related Businesses. Other business sectors may also qualify.

To learn more about these loan programs, contact Stephen Ursich, Dave Nat, Donovan Klem, Ken Doolittle, James Urso, or Kristie Miller at 570-655-5581 or 866-758-1929.

Recently Funded Loans

Hotel – Philadelphia

• This NEPA BFC SBA 504 loan project was completed in partnership with Harvest for the purchase of commercial real estate and improvements.

Restaurant – Benton

• This NEPA BFC SBA 504 loan project was completed in partnership with Wayne Bank for the purchase of commercial real estate.

Restaurant – Swoyersville

• This NEPA BFC SBA 504 loan project was completed in partnership with Fidelity Bank for the purchase of commercial real estate and equipment.

Brewery – Hawley

• This NEPA BFC SBA CA loan was completed to provide the borrower funds for working capital.

Retail – Hawley

• This NEPA Alliance USDA IRP RLF loan was completed for the improvement of commercial real estate.

NEPA Alliance Business Finance Corporation is a state-wide CDC allowing for NEPA BFC to lend SBA 504 Loans to eligible small businesses located in Pennsylvania.

Financing Structure

A bank or other lender finances 50% of the project cost and takes a first lien position on the assets financed. The SBA 504 loan finances 40% of the project cost, up to $5.5 million, and takes a second lien position. The borrower then contributes a down payment of as little as 10%.

Small Businesses can receive:

• Subordinate Financing
• Up to 90% Loan to Value
• Up to $5.5 Million in SBA Financing
• Unlimited Total Project Cost

SBA 504 Loans offer:

• As Little as 10% Equity Injection
• Terms up to 25 Years
• Guaranteed Fixed Interest Rate

*Eligibility Criteria Apply*

To learn more about these loan programs, contact Stephen Ursich, Dave Nat, Donovan Klem, Ken Doolittle, James Urso, or Kristie Miller at 570-655-5581 or 866-758-1929.

CMMC Final Rule

The Department of Defense, DoD, has released the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Final Rule. All businesses that contract with any federal agency are required to follow certain cybersecurity guidelines. These guidelines are referred to as the CMMC guidelines. By following these guidelines, you are ensuring that your small business is protected against any cyberattacks, which is imperative to the success of your business’s relationship with any federal agency you would like to work with. There are a number of resources available to you if you are unsure where your cybersecurity stands. Project Spectrum is a comprehensive resource for small businesses that need assistance in following CMMC guidelines. The DoD's website has many resources as well. For more information, visit this link or contact the NEPA Alliance APEX Accelerator team by calling (570)-655-5581 option 2.

Source: Strengthening Small Business Cyber Defenses and the CMMC Final Rule, Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs

The APEX Accelerator is funded in part though a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense. Please give the Office of Small Business Programs your feedback on the NEPA Alliance Apex Accelerator’s performance.

International Trade Assistance News

Export Opportunities Business Lunch & Learn

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Blue Mountain Resort, Palmerton

Join NEPA Alliance, Carbon County Chamber & Economic Development, and the U.S. Commercial Service for a business roundtable discussion to learn about export opportunities to sell your products and services to the 95% of global consumers outside of U.S. borders. This roundtable will feature a trade resource panel on key export topics and provide insights on the spectrum of local, state, and federal agencies to help companies begin exporting or expand into new overseas markets. Speakers will also address issues most common to small businesses seeking international sales expansion and will introduce reliable contact and ready-to-use resources that will place participants firmly on the road to exporting success.

This event is free, but registration is required. 

Global Access Program Funding is Available

Pennsylvania has officially been awarded State Trade Expansion Program funds from the U.S. Small Business Administration. This means that the Global Access Program (GAP) is officially back! 

GAP provides up to $10,000 per award period to qualifying Pennsylvania companies to reimburse up to 75% of eligible expenses associated with specific export promotion activities. 

Applications are being accepted in the following phases:

Application Period 1

September 3, 2024 – November 15, 2024

• Activities Occurring: October 2024 – May 2025

Application Period 2

January 13, 2025 – February 28, 2025

• Activities Occurring: March 2025 – September 2025

Application Period 3

May 5, 2025 – June 27, 2025 (if funding allows)

• Activities Occurring: May 2025 – December 2025

Funding is limited and on a first come, first served basis! 

For more information on export development, contact Debbie Langan at dlangan@nepa-alliance.org or 570-891-4645. 

PennDOT Green Light – Go Program

Pre-Application Scoping Forms due by November 22

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is currently accepting pre-applications for funding through its Green Light – Go Program for 2025. Pre-application scoping forms are required and will be accepted until November 22, 2024. PennDOT will review and provide comments on the Pre-Application Scoping Forms by January 31, 2025. Applications can then be submitted from February 1 to February 28, 2025. 

The Green Light – Go Program is a competitive state program designed to improve the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. The total amount of funding available is $40 million. Funding can be used for a range of projects, including signal retiming, LED replacement, signal monitoring, modernization upgrades, study to remove unwarranted signals, and installation of innovative technologies. Municipalities, counties, and Metropolitan or Rural Planning Organizations are eligible to apply. A local match of 20% is required. More information can be found on the PennDOT website here.

The Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA) has partnered with PennDOT to offer the Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) training series in all seven NEPA counties: Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill, and Wayne. 

Traffic Calming

8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 12, 2024

Honesdale Borough Hall

958 Main Street

Honesdale, PA 18431

honesdaleborough.com

Traffic Signal Basics

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Archbald Borough Hall

400 Church Street#1

Archbald, PA 18403

archbaldboroughpa.gov

Winter Maintenance

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Delaware Township

116 Wilson Hill Rd,

Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

delawaretownshippa.gov

Traffic Signs Basics

Thursday, December 5, 2024

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wayne Township Building

10 Municipal Road

Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972

(570) 739-2629

waynetwpschuylkill.com

NEPA is scheduling Winter 2024/Spring 2025 classes. Please contact Daniel Yelito, Transportation Services Manager, at 570-655-5581 ext. 264 or email dyelito@nepa-alliance.org if you are interested in holding an LTAP class in your area. 

LTAP will also continue offering online classes, webinars and virtual drop-in sessions. To learn more about upcoming virtual offerings, visit the PennDOT LTAP website.  

NEPA Alliance Staffing Updates

The Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance has some exciting news to share!

Colleen Burns - Community & Economic Development Services Manager

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Colleen Burns to Community & Economic Development Services Manager.

Colleen will be responsible for the daily operations for the Nonprofit & Community Assistance Center offering client support of the Candid Foundation Directory Online and Guidestar platforms. She will also provide support for the Appalachian Regional Commission grant programs. Ms. Burns will provide consultations to nonprofit professional seeking to strengthen their organization and lead workshops related to grant seeking, grant writing, and corporate giving. Colleen was accepted in the 2024-2025 Lackawanna Leadership Core Program; she is a member of Carbondale Blueprints Community Project Team, and she received an IMPLAN certification for economic impact modeling. Ms. Burns earned her B.A. in English from Temple University.

“Working for higher education and health related nonprofits, Colleen brings a wealth of expertise and experience. She is passionate about our mission, our communities, and the people we serve.,” said Kurt Bauman, Vice President, Community & Economic Development Services Division.

“Colleen has been a great asset to NEPA Alliance assisting nonprofits in the seven (7) county region. She has done a wonderful job with the ARC and IMPLAN programs and I am pleased to promote her to her new role.”, said Jeffrey Box, President & CEO.

She resides in Scranton.

Bella Ceccoli - Government Contracting Specialist

We are pleased to announce that Isabella Ceccoli has joined the NEPA staff as a Government Contracting Specialist.

Isabella will be providing technical assistance to clients and informational assistance to businesses regarding government contracting opportunities. Isabella will assist companies with their expansion and/or entry into contracting with federal, state, and local governments within the APEX Accelerator program.

“We are very pleased that Isabella will be joining our APEX Team, serving NEPA’s seven county region,” stated Jeffrey Box, NEPA President & CEO.

“Bella is a great addition to the NEPA Alliance APEX Accelerator team. She comes to us with a background in working in the community through volunteering and has extensive knowledge of small business from working for a family-owned small business”, said Kara Smith, NEPA Alliance APEX Accelerator Government Procurement Program Manager.

Isabella earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She resides in Dunmore.

Paula Terpak - Commercial Loan Portfolio Specialist

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Paula Terpak to Commercial Loan Portfolio Specialist.

“Paula will be responsible for assuring the quality and performance of NEPA’s expanding loan portfolio, including the day-to-day servicing needs of our loan clients, and assuring NEPA Alliance continues to maintain a high performing loan portfolio.”, said Steve Ursich, Vice President, Business Development Services Division.

“Due to Paula’s strong work ethic and initiative, she has proven to be valuable asset to NEPA Alliance over the years,” said Jeffrey Box.

She resides in Dupont.

Molly Sweeney - Government Contracting Specialist

We are pleased to announce that Molly Sweeney has joined the NEPA staff as a Government Contracting Specialist.

Molly will be providing technical assistance to clients and informational assistance to businesses regarding government contracting opportunities. Molly will assist companies with their expansion and/or entry into contracting with federal, state, and local governments within the APEX Accelerator program.

“We are very pleased that Molly will be joining our APEX Team, serving NEPA’s seven county region,” stated Jeffrey Box, NEPA President & CEO.

“Molly is a wonderful new addition to the APEX Accelerator team. With her degree in Business Administration, and experience in customer service, will be a great complement to the APEX Accelerator program. We are excited to have her join our team.”, said Kara Smith, NEPA Alliance APEX Accelerator Government Procurement Program Manager.

Molly earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She resides in Archbald.

Economic Impact Modeling Services

The NEPA Alliance Research & Information Center utilizes IMPLAN Modeling Software to determine the economic impact of projects. Using IMPLAN, NEPA Alliance can demonstrate the economic impact of a new business, income generated by tourism, economic contribution of higher education institutions, and more. NEPA Alliance offers Economic Impact Modeling Services to the community at a fee. To learn more, click here or contact Tyler Day at (570) 891-4656.

Don’t forget that NCAC Members receive access and assistance in accessing Candid's online Foundation Directory, the most comprehensive foundation database. With access to informative profiles of over 299,000 U.S. foundations, you’ll know exactly which foundation fits your programmatic needs, how much to ask for and where to go for more information. NCAC members can receive guided access to the Foundation Directory by visiting our in-office workstation any time during normal business hours. Don’t forget that we’re here to help with all your nonprofit needs! For more information on this service, as well as membership benefits, contact Colleen Burns, Community & Economic Development Manager.

Did You Know...?

Manufacturing is an economic driver in Northeastern Pennsylvania. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, manufacturing supports 47,680 jobs in the seven-county region. Approximately 13.4% of workers in Northeastern Pennsylvania are employed in manufacturing. This is higher than the statewide (10.1%) or national (9.1%) average of workers employed in manufacturing.

NEPA Alliance is proud to support our area’s manufacturers. Earlier this month, NEPA Alliance was pleased to attend and sponsor the annual Manufacturing Day event, hosted by our partners at the Northeast Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC).