The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) is pleased to announce that it has received a $25,000 grant from Truist Foundation. These grant funds will primarily be used to help improve the exterior and interior of existing businesses in downtown Reading. With Alvernia University’s CollegeTowne project underway in the heart of Reading’s commercial district, this grant will also help those surrounding businesses prepare for the influx of students and faculty members.
“GRCA has been meeting with Alvernia University representatives and other downtown stakeholders to explore opportunities to leverage the CollegeTowne project for other investment. The Truist Foundation grant will help existing businesses make improvements to their storefronts for new and existing customers,” said Jim Gerlach, GRCA president & CEO.
Details on how businesses may apply for the funds will be released in the coming weeks; however, property and/or business owners are encouraged to contact Aaron Gantz, senior director of economic development, at 610.898.7788 or agantz@greaterreading.org with their expressions of interest in the funding.
“We’re proud to partner with the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance to support our local businesses as we work to carry out our purpose to build better lives and communities,” said Alex Brame, Central Pennsylvania region president for Truist, speaking on behalf of the Truist Foundation.