The Shapiro administration met with New Cumberland small business owners to encourage investment in small businesses.
NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. — The Shapiro Administration is launching Small Business Week in Pennsylvania to encourage continued investment in community businesses.
On Friday, members of the Shapiro administration met with local leaders and toured some of the small businesses that make up New Cumberland.
One of the stops on the tour was Semoff’s Barbershop, a family-owned business that has been cutting hair for 96 years.
Third-generation owner Christopher Semoff said he has been able to stay in business for so long because of the continued support from his customers.
“Without guests, the four walls would be empty. Families come here and have a lot of fun,” Semov said. We’ve been cutting hair for five or almost six generations. ”
The Shapiro administration hopes to help Pennsylvania’s small businesses by allocating $25 million from the state budget to the new Main Street Matters program. The program will offer a range of grants available to local businesses and communities, including facade grants, micro-grants and streetscape improvements.
“Small businesses are the foundation of our economy and the foundation of our communities,” said Secretary Rick Siger, Secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development. “The goal is not only to help businesses succeed, but to help people want to be a part of the Main Street community.”
The Main Street Matters plan is part of Governor Shapiro’s overall $600 million economic development plan in his proposed 2024-25 budget.
Cynthia Washburn, owner of Oxford Hall Celtic Shop and Cafe, said investing in small businesses will ensure communities like New Cumberland can continue to thrive for years to come. Ta.
“New Cumberland got a lot of grants and people were able to do amazing things, and those things brought prosperity, jobs, and people to our communities,” Washburn said. he said.