The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced the approval of the new Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) low-interest loans to support business growth and job creation.

PIDA approved $9,935,073 in low interest loans that resulted in $20,740,473 in private investment helping create 56 full-time jobs and retain 58 others in 2025.

"These PIDA loans will help businesses in Carbon, Lawrence, and Westmoreland counties to grow, create new jobs, and support existing ones," said Secretary Siger.

He continues, "The Shapiro Administration is laser-focused on transforming Pennsylvania into an economic powerhouse and PIDA loans give Commonwealth businesses the tools they need to help make that happen."

The approved projects included Lawrence County.

The Container Crafters, LLC, received a 10-year $400,000 loan at 5% interest through the Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation to purchase new machinery for its Shenango Township facility. The company, which produces rigid PET (polyethylene terephthalate) packaging and blow mold bottles, aim to expand production for the North American market. The $945,000 project is also backed by additional loans and the expansion is expected to create eight full-time jobs within three years.

For additional information about the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (DCED), you can visit their website here.