Lewisburg, PA – The Rivet at Discovery Space in State College has been awarded $42,675 through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Area Development Grant. This investment will support rural entrepreneurs through a new cohort-based professional learning program.
Dr. Michele Crowl of Discovery Space partnered with SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) to develop and submit the successful grant application.
“We’re excited to help rural entrepreneurs turn their ideas into thriving businesses,” said Dr. Michele Crowl, Executive Director of Discovery Space. “This program is about unlocking potential and building community.”
The initiative will help new and small businesses strengthen and expand their operations, providing a structured journey for participants to develop essential business skills, set financial goals, and create actionable business plans.
“This program focuses on equipping artisans, craftspeople, and small-scale manufacturers with essential business skills, promoting local small business growth and economic stability,” wrote U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson in a letter of support for the grant application.
“This investment will not only create new opportunities for local makers but also contribute to Pennsylvania’s broader economic development by strengthening small creative enterprises, fostering regional economic resilience, and ensuring that business resources are accessible beyond traditional urban centers,” wrote U.S. Senator John Fetterman in his letter of support for the grant application.
ARC funds will support staffing, equipment, and services to position The Rivet as a vital resource for rural entrepreneurs.
Photo available courtesy of Discovery Space.
Photo description: Two people work on a woodworking project at The Rivet in State College.
About ARC
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development partnership agency of the federal government and 13 state governments including Pennsylvania. PA’s Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) partners with ARC and the SEDA-COG Local Development District to identify and support projects that will build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in the Appalachian counties of Pennsylvania to reach socioeconomic parity with the nation.
About SEDA-COG
SEDA-COG is a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg and is one of seven Local Development Districts in Pennsylvania. SEDA-COG enhances the quality of life and economic advantage for residents and businesses in the 11 central Pennsylvania counties through its vital partnerships and initiatives.
SEDA-COG is a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg and is one of seven Local Development Districts in Pennsylvania. SEDA-COG enhances the quality of life and economic advantage for residents and businesses in the 11 central Pennsylvania counties through its vital partnerships and initiatives.