Member News ~ October 16, 2025
SEKISUI KYDEX welcomed local students and educators to their South Campus for Manufacturing Day
SEKISUI KYDEX hosted over 150 local students for Manufacturing Day, a national event dedicated to education about manufacturing career opportunities and improving public perceptions of manufacturing. Read on.
Indian Classical Dance Coming to the Weis Center - October 21st
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome the Nrityagram Dance Ensemble on Tuesday, October 21 at 7:30 PM at the Weis Center. For more information about this event, contact Lisa Leighton, marketing and outreach director, at 570-577-3727 or by e-mail at lisa.leighton@bucknell.edu. For more information about the Weis Center for the Performing Arts, go to Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter or search for the Weis Center on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube.
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble and Brewskis partner on Halloween event - October 24th
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble’s upcoming PlayTastings live play reading at Brewskis Coffee & Bar in Bloomsburg will cover both the sweet and scary parts of Halloween. Click here for more information.
MARC accepting bids for 2026 lawn care services - October 27th
The Montour Area Recreation Commission is accepting bids for 2026 lawn care services across several local recreation sites, including the Montour Preserve and Hess Recreation Area. Sealed bids are due by 6:59 p.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025, and will be opened publicly that evening at the Montour Preserve Environmental Education Center. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained online at www.MontourRec.com or by submitting a request in writing or by telephone or email to: Montour Area Recreation Commission, PO Box 456, Danville, PA 17821, 570-336-2060 or RStoudt@MontourRec.com.
Susquehanna Kids Launches Fall Fun Guide for 2025 Season
The Fall Fun Guide is back and better than ever! Included are farms, foliage, festivals, and so many other activities for the whole family to enjoy! Learn more by visiting this link.
Chevrolet of Bloomsburg's General Sales Manager Earns Mark of Excellence
Congratulations to Chevrolet of Bloomsburg’s General Sales Manager, Leon Tucker, on earning the Chevrolet Mark of Excellence Award for an amazing tenth year! This prestigious recognition honors Leon’s leadership, dedication, and commitment to both his customers and his team.
NSHR Honors U.S. Veterans with Dedicated Locomotives
The North Shore Railroad Company (NSHR) recently unveiled two beautifully painted locomotives, the “Veterans Unit” (LVRR 9052) and the “Memorial Unit” (LVRR 9050). These units are a moving tribute to America’s service members, past and present, and will run in regular service across NSHR’s lines.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely:
Halloween Happenings in Columbia & Montour Counties - October 16th-31st
October is filled with family-friendly ways to celebrate the season! From festive community gatherings to themed activities for kids, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a safe and fun Halloween close to home. Whether you’re looking for daytime outings or evening trick-or-treat fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the month. Click here for the collection of events.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces October Programs
The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum, 2 West 7th Street, is pleased to announce its programs for October 2025. View the full schedule here. For more information about these and additional programs, visit the-childrens-museum.org.
Senator Culver hosts STEM Expo for the 27th Senatorial District - October 18th
Senator Culver is hosting a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Expo for the 27th Senatorial District. The Expo will be held at the Danville Middle School on Saturday, October 18 from 10:00 to 12:00. Our goal is to promote educational equity in a family-friendly environment, where students of ages 6 to 12 can engage in hands-on activities, play, learn, and discover the exciting opportunities that STEM fields offer. View the poster here.
Good Samaritan Mission Celebrates 30 Years with Community Festival – October 18th
Celebrate 30 years of service with the Good Samaritan Mission on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11 AM–5 PM along the entirety of DL&W Avenue in Danville. Enjoy family fun with face painting, games, a Friendship Fire Company truck, and a Yeti cooler raffle, plus tours of the Mission. The day will also feature live music from Drive, Woody Wolfe, the Iron Ukulele Benders, and the Danville High School Band, along with food trucks including Me & You Chicken BBQ and DJ Gyros. Click here for more information.
The Susquehanna Valley United Way Launches Diaper Dash - Through October 31st
This October, the Susquehanna Valley United Way is collecting diapers and wipes to help families across five counties keep their little ones clean, dry, and healthy. With support from community partners and businesses, including a major kickoff donation from Weis Markets, the month-long drive is already making a big impact. Throughout the entire month of October, donations can be dropped off at locations across the region, or made online to help purchase high-demand sizes. Every pack counts — together, we can ease the burden on families and ensure babies have what they need this holiday season. Learn more and find a map of collection sites at svuw.org/diaper-dash.
Nominate Your Favorite Trail - Through October 31st
Do you know of a trail that provides unique opportunities, encourages and celebrates diverse user groups or simply enhances your community? Nominate it for the Pennsylvania Trail of the Year! The Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee is currently accepting nominations for the 2026 Trail of the Year. Nominations will be accepted until October 31, 2025. Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of judges composed of Trails Advisory Committee members and judging will be based on the information gathered from this questionnaire and supporting materials. Questions can be directed to RA-explorepatrails@pa.gov. or call 717-772-3321. To nominate a trail for Trail of the Year, you must first Register.
Mini-Grant Funding Available for Outdoor & Trail Projects - October 31st
The 2025 Susquehanna Greenway Mini-Grant Program is now open, offering up to $10,000 to support projects that advance outdoor recreation, conservation, trails, and placemaking across 22 Pennsylvania counties, including Columbia and Montour. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and public entities, and applications are due by October 31. Learn more and apply at susquehannagreenway.org/mini-grant-program.
That’s Amore – New Member Highlight
Located at 105 W Main Street in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, That’s Amore has become a local favorite for its warm hospitality and menu filled with classic Italian comfort foods. From hearty lasagna and cheesy baked pasta to perfectly crisped pizzas and savory subs, every dish is made with care and tradition. Guests can enjoy their meals in a welcoming, informal setting, with options for outdoor seating, vegetarian selections, and a kids’ menu making it a perfect destination for families, students, and anyone craving authentic Italian fare.Internships Make It Happen! Building Pennsylvania’s Workforce, One Opportunity at a Time
Source: PA Chamber of Business & Industry
The Pennsylvania Chamber Foundation, believes that internships are more than just résumé builders—they are powerful tools for shaping Pennsylvania’s future workforce and economy. That’s why they were thrilled to recently launch their inaugural “Greatest Places to Intern in PA” awards, recognizing employers that are leading the way in providing exceptional internship experiences.
These award-winning employers are both large and small, span all regions of the Commonwealth, and represent various industries—but one thing they all share is a commitment to investing in the next generation. Together, they are helping students gain real-world experience, building confidence, and working to achieve our No. 1 goal – inspiring them to work, live, and forge a future in Pennsylvania.
“Congratulations to these employers for offering world-class internships that are preparing students for careers across Pennsylvania. By fostering internship opportunities, these employers not only strengthen the workforce pipeline but also increase the likelihood that graduates choose to build their futures right here in Pennsylvania,” PA Chamber Foundation President Luke Bernstein said in a press release announcing the winners.
Why Internships Matter
Internships are a cornerstone of the PA Chamber’s multi-tiered workforce development strategy, which is designed to attract and retain skilled, inspired workers across the state. Research from the Strada Education Foundation shows that students who complete paid internships:
- Earn more than $3,000 a year in their first-year post-graduation;
- Have greater confidence in their career paths;
- And are more likely to recognize the value of their education.
These benefits don’t just help students, they help employers, too. Internships provide a pipeline of talent, reduce onboarding costs, and allow businesses to shape future employees who are already familiar with their culture and expectations. Internships don’t just help students; they help employers, too. Hosting internships provides a significant ROI for employers – a NACE poll found that internships are employers’ top recruiting method and the best method for investing time and money – topping career fairs, on-campus visits, and even participation in campus panels. Internships also provide a pipeline of talent, reduce onboarding costs, and allow businesses to shape future employees who are already familiar with their culture and expectations.
Reversing the Brain Drain
Pennsylvania has long faced a “brain drain” challenge, with many graduates leaving the state for opportunities elsewhere. But we have the tools to turn brain drain into brain gain. Through partnerships with our world-class higher education institutions and diverse industries, we can reverse this trend.
“Expanding access to paid internships is a powerful way to educate and inspire future Pennsylvania workers, grow our population, and help employers meet workforce needs,” Bernstein added.
This vision is central to the Keystone Initiative, the PA Chamber Foundation’s long-term blueprint for economic growth. By scaling internship programs across the Commonwealth, we can build a stronger, more resilient workforce—and a brighter future for Pennsylvania.
A Call to Action for Employers
Businesses of all sizes and industries can—and should—offer internships. Whether you are a small business owner, a nonprofit leader, or a corporate executive, you have the power to shape the future of Pennsylvania’s workforce through internships that can be built to scale for your company.
Not sure where to start? The PA Chamber offers resources to help you launch and scale internship programs. Visit the Internships page to learn more.
Why It’s Important to Buy Local First
Source: Chamber Today
When you shop local, you do far more than get the items that you want quickly and conveniently. Buying local actually stimulates the economy in our community, helps benefit local schools and charities — and it even helps the environment.
Take a look at some of the many reasons why it's important to shop and buy locally.
Buying Local Keeps Money in Our Community
When you buy locally, the small business you're making your purchase from certainly benefits, but the benefits keep growing. A small business that does well is likely to hire more people, who then spend more money in the community.
Buying locally also pours money into the local institutions who need it. Taxes are paid locally, boosting the community's libraries, schools, and infrastructure. Local businesses are also more likely to donate to charities in the local community, helping make improvements that all can enjoy.
In fact, when independent think tank The New Economics Foundation compared similar purchases made at chain stores vs. those made with local businesses, the experts determined that buying locally puts double the money into the community than occurs when you make a purchase at a chain store.
Buying Local Is Better for the Environment
Whether you buy online or from a major chain store, it typically requires some major effort to get your item to you. Trucks have to haul products across the country, burning up fossil fuel and contributing to pollution.
In addition, products that have to be packaged for shipping typically end up requiring extra packaging to survive the journey intact. Compare buying, say, a pre-packaged set of nails at a big box store — with your purchase sealed in one of those packages that practically require power tools to open — to picking out just the nails you need at your local hardware store, with the friendly local owner popping them into a simple paper bag (or even into the bag you brought yourself). All that extra packaging typically ends up in landfills or the ocean, adding to environmental damage.
Buying Local Results in More Diverse Choices for Customers
When you go to one big box store after another, you'll see the same product choices, over and over. The only real difference is in price — and often that difference is a matter of pennies.
Buying locally is a whole different experience. Each small business in our community is unique, offering a true connection with customers and a real understanding of their visitors' needs. Think about the diversity of stepping into a local boutique to do some clothes shopping versus perusing the offerings at chain stores, which all seem to look the same. Local artisans and craftspeople can show off their wares and build a following when you shop locally.
In addition, local businesses are typically far more flexible, adjusting to meet the immediate needs of customers much more quickly than giant national chains can do. They can also do a better job of stocking the products our community members want, since they're part of the community.
Related to the previous reason to buy locally is the idea that those unique products lead to a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. No one goes to a big box store to browse or to enjoy recreational shopping. But when your local shopping district is filled with local retailers, you create a sense of self-image that help defines our community. Our unique businesses are something to be proud of, and when we all support them, they create a reason for other shoppers to come visit our community.
By supporting local businesses, we can also help entrepreneurship thrive, which adds to local prosperity and innovation. Every local retailer is one of our neighbors who has taken a risk to try to make our region a better, stronger place, boosting the economy and helping lift friends and neighbors into the middle class.
When we all look for ways to buy local, we tell all our neighbors that we believe our community is worth investing in. We put our money into things we care about, including our local schools, and we enjoy a better purchasing experience overall personally. Shopping and buying locally is a win-win for you, for small businesses, and for our community as a whole.
Technological Integration and Data Security in Employee Benefits
Source: My Benefit Advisor
Technological integration in employee benefits management is crucial for enhancing efficiency, accessibility, and user experience. By leveraging digital platforms, employers can streamline the administration of benefits, allowing employees to easily access and manage their benefits information, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. This integration supports real-time updates, reduces administrative errors, and provides a seamless experience for both HR departments and employees.
However, with the increased reliance on digital systems comes a heightened need for robust data security measures. Employee benefits platforms often handle sensitive personal and financial information, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. A breach can lead to significant consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and a loss of trust among employees. For employers, a data breach can result in legal liabilities, regulatory penalties, and damage to the company’s reputation.
As a result, investing in advanced cybersecurity measures, such as encryption, secure authentication, and regular security audits, is essential. Ensuring data privacy and protection not only complies with legal requirements but also fosters a secure environment that reassures employees their personal information is safe. In this way, technological integration and data security are intertwined in maintaining an efficient, effective and trustworthy benefits system.
The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536
Member News ~ October 9, 2025
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce's 3rd Quarter Business Matters Edition Now Available!
The latest issue of Business Matters, brought to you by the Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce and the Press Enterprise, has landed! Inside this edition, you’ll find essential updates on regional business trends, local economic developments, and insights tailored for entrepreneurs in our area. Click here to access the online version.
The PA CareerLink® Hosts Virtual Employer Seminar: Mastering Crucial Conversations - October 15th
The PA CareerLink® will be hosting its Employer Seminar: Mastering Crucial Conversations on October 15th from 10-11 AM. This seminar explores proven strategies for mastering crucial conversations—helping you navigate difficult topics with confidence, foster understanding, and achieve positive outcomes without damaging relationships. Click here to view the poster and to register.
Halloween Happenings in Columbia & Montour Counties - October 16th-31st
October is filled with family-friendly ways to celebrate the season! From festive community gatherings to themed activities for kids, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a safe and fun Halloween close to home. Whether you’re looking for daytime outings or evening trick-or-treat fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the month. Click here for the collection of events.
HearingLife Celebrated New Ownership with Ribbon Cutting and Free Hearing Tests
HearingLife is proud to announce new ownership and celebrated with a ribbon cutting on September 19. The event marked an exciting new chapter for HearingLife as it continues its mission to make hearing health accessible for all. The full press release can be viewed here.
Knoebels Announces Next Park President & President Emeritus
Knoebels Amusement Resort, America's largest free-admission amusement park, is proud to announce the next chapter in its nearly century-long legacy. Following a shareholder decision, Brian Knoebel has been named the fourth president in the family-owned park’s history, succeeding his father, Richard ‘Dick’ Knoebel, who has served in the role since 1988. Read on.
The Susquehanna Valley United Way Launches Diaper Dash - Through October 31st
This October, the Susquehanna Valley United Way is collecting diapers and wipes to help families across five counties keep their little ones clean, dry, and healthy. With support from community partners and businesses, including a major kickoff donation from Weis Markets, the month-long drive is already making a big impact. Throughout the entire month of October, donations can be dropped off at locations across the region, or made online to help purchase high-demand sizes. Every pack counts — together, we can ease the burden on families and ensure babies have what they need this holiday season. Learn more and find a map of collection sites at svuw.org/diaper-dash.
Nominate Your Favorite Trail - Through October 31st
Do you know of a trail that provides unique opportunities, encourages and celebrates diverse user groups or simply enhances your community? Nominate it for the Pennsylvania Trail of the Year! The Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee is currently accepting nominations for the 2026 Trail of the Year. Nominations will be accepted until October 31, 2025. Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of judges composed of Trails Advisory Committee members and judging will be based on the information gathered from this questionnaire and supporting materials. Questions can be directed to RA-explorepatrails@pa.gov. or call 717-772-3321. To nominate a trail for Trail of the Year, you must first Register.
First Keystone Community Bank and Corporation Announces New Senior Vice President/ Chief Operating Officer
Michelle M. Karas has been appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of First Keystone Community Bank (FKCB) and Corporation effective August 13, 2025. Click here to read more.
Chamber to Host Bloomsburg Mayoral Forum - October 2nd
The Columbia Montour Chamber is pleased to announce that it will host the 2025 Candidate Forum for the Bloomsburg Mayoral Race. The event will be held Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. on the first floor of the Mulberry Mill Complex, on 6th Street in Bloomsburg. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Click here for more information.
Bloomsburg Carpet Industries Inc. to Unveil New Logo for Anniversary in 2026 - October 5th
Now a third-generation, family-owned business, Bloomsburg Carpet will celebrate 50 years in business as the premier American carpet manufacturer. To commemorate this milestone, Bloomsburg Carpet is unveiling a new anniversary logo for use across digital and print platforms, which will be formally presented at the company’s biannual picnic on October 5th, 2025. To learn more, click here.
The Women's Center of Columbia & Montour Counties to Host Domestic Violence Simulation - October 6th
The Women's Center will be hosting In Their Shoes, a scenario-based, interactive experience grounded in real survivor stories. The event will be held at St. Luke's Church in Bloomsburg. Click here for more information.
Register for The Susquehanna Valley Rural Regional Healthcare Summit Sponsored by Geisinger - October 6th
This event, which will occur Friday, Oct. 24, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Pine Barn Inn, Danville, brings healthcare organizations together with community partners and local/state legislators to identify solutions to improve the health and vitality of rural communities including Columbia, Montour counties. Register here by October 6th.
Candlewood Suites Grand Re-Opening - October 8th
Candlewood Suites invites you to save the date for their Grand Re-Opening on October 8th at 4:45.
Service 1st Federal Credit Union and the CSIU Collaborate on Financial Services & You Seminar - October 15th
Service 1st Federal Credit Union in partnership with CSIU Work Foundations+ has announced that the Financial Services & You Seminar, aimed to educate individuals with disabilities, their families, friends and caretakers, will be held at CSIU, located at 911 Greenough Street, Sunbury on Wednesday, October 15 beginning at 9:30 am. To read more, click here.
Susquehanna Human Resource Management Association Hosts Virtual October Chapter Meeting and Educational Event - October 16th
Join SHRMA virtually from 7:45–9:00 AM on October 16th for The Culture Code: Unlocking a Thriving Workplace. Beck Moore, CEO of the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania, will lead this workshop on psychological safety, open communication, and aligning culture with mission and values. Participants will gain practical strategies to create a thriving, human-centered workplace that empowers teams and drives performance. Register by clicking this link.
Good Samaritan Mission Celebrates 30 Years with Community Festival – October 18th
Celebrate 30 years of service with the Good Samaritan Mission on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11 AM–5 PM along the entirety of DL&W Avenue in Danville. Enjoy family fun with face painting, games, a Friendship Fire Company truck, and a Yeti cooler raffle, plus tours of the Mission. The day will also feature live music from Drive, Woody Wolfe, the Iron Ukulele Benders, and the Danville High School Band, along with food trucks including Me & You Chicken BBQ and DJ Gyros. Click here for more information.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces October Programs
The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum, 2 West 7th Street, is pleased to announce its programs for October 2025. View the full schedule here. For more information about these and additional programs, visit the-childrens-museum.org.
Senator Culver hosts STEM Expo for the 27th Senatorial District - October 18th
Senator Culver is hosting a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Expo for the 27th Senatorial District. The Expo will be held at the Danville Middle School on Saturday, October 18 from 10:00 to 12:00. Our goal is to promote educational equity in a family-friendly environment, where students of ages 6 to 12 can engage in hands-on activities, play, learn, and discover the exciting opportunities that STEM fields offer. View the poster here.
Susquehanna Valley United Way Promotes Recovery Awareness Events
The Susquehanna Valley United Way is proud to support a variety of Recovery Awareness events this fall, offering opportunities for connection, education, and community support. Check out the full list of events and details here!
Free Workforce Training for Farms & Agribusinesses
Small-to-medium Pennsylvania farms and agribusinesses can now access free training and consultation through the AgWorks Program. Topics include hiring and retention, business operations, legal counseling, health and safety, and more at no cost. To participate, complete the intake form, which includes a brief survey that will help us understand the challenges that businesses face. For more information about the program, contact agworks@psu.edu. For more information about the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s training and services, visit their website.
Town of Bloomsburg Provides Updates on Current Projects
From paving Market Street to expanding recreation spaces and investing in solar energy, the Town of Bloomsburg is making steady progress on projects that improve daily life for residents. See what’s happening now (and what’s coming next) by checking out the full update.
Mini-Grant Funding Available for Outdoor & Trail Projects - October 31st
The 2025 Susquehanna Greenway Mini-Grant Program is now open, offering up to $10,000 to support projects that advance outdoor recreation, conservation, trails, and placemaking across 22 Pennsylvania counties, including Columbia and Montour. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and public entities, and applications are due by October 31. Learn more and apply at susquehannagreenway.org/mini-grant-program.
How a Government Shutdown Could Affect You and Your Business
Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber has consistently warned about the harm federal government shutdowns have on millions of Americans and businesses of all sizes around the country.
Here’s a look at some ways a government shutdown could affect you and the small businesses in your community—and what you can do to prepare.
Small businesses could lose $100 million in loan financing per day.
During past shutdowns, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) ceased some lending and investment programs, including stopping processing new loans for small businesses.
The effects on small business could be substantial. American small businesses could lose critical financing during a government shutdown. Small businesses without access to SBA financing would be less likely to purchase new equipment, hire new employees, or invest. Essentially, their plans to grow their business would be put on hold. They also would be likely to miss out on new business deals and opportunities.
This could have devastating ripple effects on other small businesses and the communities they support.
Make extra time for your vacation plans
During past shutdowns, there have been major impacts on both international and domestic travel.
If you’re planning to travel internationally this year, make sure you budget extra time to process and renew your passport. In past shutdowns, 200,000 U.S. applications for passports reportedly went unprocessed, and U.S. tourist industries and airlines reportedly sustained millions of dollars in losses.
Also, approximately 20,000 to 30,000 applications by foreigners for visas reportedly go unprocessed each day of a shutdown.
In case of a shutdown, it’s also a good idea to arrive extra early for flights (foreign and domestic) because the Transit Security Administration (TSA) may be short-staffed. If you’re planning on going to a national park, you’ll probably want to reschedule. In past shutdowns, national parks and other Department of the Interior (DOI) properties experienced major closures.
Expect more delays as infrastructure paperwork piles up.
A government shutdown can extend the length of time it takes for infrastructure projects to get through approval processes. Without funding for this paperwork being processed in an efficient manner, you could end up stuck in traffic.
A shutdown could also create delays in Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and DOI environmental reviews, including loans or grants and issuing of permits. This might delay large construction projects and other similar activities that require environmental permits.
If you depend on federal workers for your small business, your revenue could dip.
Not paying federal workers on time could cost the economy billions of dollars and leave American families in the lurch.
The situation is especially serious for federal government contractors who do not get backpay once a shutdown ends. Not getting a paycheck has a ripple effect beyond each family’s own finances and could mean local businesses take a hit, especially in communities with a heavy military or federal government presence.
Game Plan: Leveraging Federal Tax Incentives for Business Childcare Solutions
Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
With enhanced 45F, employers can lead on childcare—without becoming child care operators.
Empower your workforce with the enhanced Employer-Provided Child Care Credit (I.R.C. § 45F). The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Game Plan explains how employers, small-business consortia, chambers, and intermediaries can use new federal incentives to deliver child care solutions that attract talent, reduce turnover, and boost productivity—without becoming child care operators.
Why This Matters Now
- In 2026, the 45F credit expands significantly, making employer-supported child care more accessible and financially attractive.
- Small businesses can pool resources, and intermediary services are now an allowable expense—simplifying participation and execution.
- Employers can deliver outsized impact on recruitment, retention, and satisfaction for working parents.
At a Glance: The Expanded 45F
- Effective Jan 1, 2026
- Credit rates/caps: 40% up to $500k (general); 50% up to $600k (eligible small businesses; gross receipts < ~$31M)
- Qualified expenses: facilities, contracted slots, resource & referral (10%), intermediary/third‑party operator fees
- Small businesses can pool resources
- Claim via IRS Form 8882 (keep contracts, invoices, licensing)
What’s Inside
- Overview of expiring vs. expanded §45F + key FAQs
- The Big 3 Enhancements: higher caps/rates; small‑business pooling; intermediary eligibility
- Scenarios: large employer; small‑business consortium
- Action steps: organize, engage, connect, develop/monitor
- State credit snapshot (map + examples)
Who Should Read This
- CEOs, CFOs, CHROs, HR leaders
- Small/mid-sized businesses exploring pooled models
- Chambers and employer associations
- Licensed child care providers and intermediaries
Potential Business Impact
- Improved attraction, retention, and productivity among working parents
- Lower absenteeism and turnover
- Turnkey pathways via intermediaries and pooled purchasing
- Clear documentation roadmap to claim credits
Read the full article and download the game plan here.
Compliance Note: Consult your tax advisor before committing funds to ensure eligibility, documentation, and alignment with forthcoming IRS guidance. The IRS is expected to release additional guidance on the enhanced credit.
Local Chambers of Commerce Month
Source: PA Chamber of Business & Industry
Last week, Gov. Josh Shapiro issued a proclamation officially designating October 2025 as Local Chambers of Commerce Month in Pennsylvania, recognizing the vital role chambers play in supporting businesses and driving economic growth across the Commonwealth, and the work of the PA Chamber in collaborating with local chambers to advocate for a stronger business climate.
“Since its inception, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry has served and advocated for Pennsylvania businesses,” the proclamation says. “Our local chambers of commerce play a critical role in supporting the needs of our vibrant business community and are essential to the Commonwealth’s continued economic growth and success.”
“I commend Pennsylvania’s local chambers of commerce for representing thousands of businesses, and I am grateful for their invaluable role in ensuring our businesses, new and old, can continue to prosper here in Pennsylvania. I am certain their efforts to enhance our communities will continue to serve as an inspiration across the Commonwealth for many years to come.”
This month-long recognition – which PA Chamber Government Affairs Manager Aaron Riggleman worked with the administration to secure – highlights local chambers’ tireless efforts to advocate for their members, foster entrepreneurship, and strengthen the economic fabric of Pennsylvania’s communities. From hosting networking events and educational forums to supporting workforce development and public policy initiatives, chambers of commerce are a cornerstone of local prosperity.
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry joins Governor Shapiro in celebrating the contributions of local chambers and encourages all Pennsylvanians to engage with their local business communities throughout the month of October.
To read the full proclamation, click here.
Trombly Bros. Construction – New Member Highlight
Based in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, Trombly Brothers Construction, LLC is a family-owned company known for its dedication to quality work and dependable service. With a foundation built on integrity, hard work, and attention to detail, the company has earned a strong reputation for bringing both residential and commercial projects to life. From the first consultation to the finishing touches, they approach every job with professionalism and pride in their craft.