Pennsylvania Economy on the Rise

August 18, 2016

PHILADELPHIA, PA, USA - Statement from WTC Greater Philadelphia President Conlin on Pennsylvania's Economic Growth 

International trade continues to be a key driver of economic growth and jobs for Pennsylvania and the Greater Philadelphia Region. Garnering Business Facilities No. 10 ranking for exports is no surprise. As a proud partner with PA in providing trade counseling through the “ Bringing the World to PA” program, we helped companies in these counties generate over $125M in new export sales, made possible through this nationally-recognized export development program.

More recognition is listed in the announcement from the Commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development. The upshot? PA’s trade heart is healthy, with a strong beat towards growth in several sectors. This growth – a key driver of job creation state-wide – is exactly what international trade is meant to do. Americans should engage in, and learn about, the trade agreements that may be in jeopardy. Start here with the World Trade Center and join us at our next event to take part in the discussion.

Linda Mysliwy Conlin
President, World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia

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Pennsylvania Receives Recognition for Economic Success and Industry Sector Growth From the PA Department of Community & Economic Development

Harrisburg, PA - On August 1, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Dennis Davin announced that Pennsylvania received recognition for a series of accomplishments highlighting both economic success and growth statewide.

​Pennsylvania's economy rose from the 21st to the 19th largest in the world, excluding other U.S. states, making it comparable to that of Saudi Arabia. The economy is larger than Argentina and Switzerland.
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Additionally, Pennsylvania claimed top spots in Entrepreneur Magazine, which named State College among ‘The 15 Best U.S. Cities for Entrepreneurs’ for its vision and committed support, and across five key categories in Business Facilities’ Annual Rankings Report.

Five Top 10 Rankings
​PA claimed 5 spots on the top 10 lists, including No. 5 ranking in Infrastructure Upgrades demonstrating that the states vast infrastructure assets, which include ports, airports, rail, fiber networks and energy transportation networks, are keeping business moving.

Other rankings are as follows:

  • No. 6 in STEM Leaders, boasting high employment totals for STEM-oriented jobs
  • No. 6 in Top Manufacturing States, highlighting employment totals for manufacturing jobs
  • No. 7 in Biotechnology, offering support and assistance to biotech, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies and startups
  • No. 10 in Exports, securing one of the highest number of exports in 2015.

“Pennsylvania continues to be a global leader, known for innovation and advancement, and our rankings further illustrate our commitment to succeed. It’s an honor to be recognized for the hard work we do, but it is essential that we use this momentum to set our sights on achieving even more," said PA DCED Secretary Dennis Davin.

The Business Facilities ' Annual Rankings Report features the best of the best in several categories scrutinized by investors, site selectors, business owners, and other key economic development professionals.

To find a comprehensive list of Pennsylvania’s awards and rankings visit dced.pa.gov/awards-rankings.

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