In the vibrant business landscape of Clinton County, seizing growth opportunities is paramount. Explore a range of tailored loans and grants designed to fuel your business potential and propel you towards success. With the right financial support, your business can thrive, contributing to the economic vitality of the community. Take the first step towards growth today.
1. Clinton County Enterprise Zone
The Clinton County Enterprise Zone is a program administered by the Clinton County Economic Partnership to encourage creation of quality jobs and capital investment along the I-99 corridor and in distressed areas of the County. The CCEZ program is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Loans will be made for improvements to facades; interior renovation; additions; the purchase of land and buildings for expansion of existing firms or the start-up new companies; the purchase and installation of machinery and capital equipment; working capital; and the payment of professional fees such as architects/engineers, surveyors, appraisers, accountants, attorneys, etc.
Contact: April Bittner – Phone: 570-748-5782 or Email: Coordinator@clintoncountyinfo.com
2. Live & Work Clinton County
Relocation Program
Eligibility: Qualified candidates must be employed full time on site or remotely. The new resident must earn no less than $16 per hour or accept a part-time position after retiring from a full-time position based on age or years of service. Temporary, grant funded, and short-term vacancies do not qualify. The relocating employee must move to Clinton County from an address that is no less than 10 miles beyond any Clinton County border. Applicant must be in the process of moving to Clinton County at the time of submission or have resided here after meeting all qualifications no longer than two weeks to be considered for relocation funding Both on-site and remote employment qualifies. Documentation substantiating qualifying expenses must be submitted by the employee to receive any financial incentive in the first year of program enrollment. Qualifying expenses include moving cost, supplies, moving company, gas (2 round trips), airline expenses (one way), rental fees, security deposit/first and last month’s rent, rental insurance, application fees, property purchase (land/house), appraisal, closing costs (not funded by any other city/county program), inspection, utility expenses, hook up fees (electric, cable, internet, etc.), gas, oil, propane fill (one time), furniture/appliances (as approved by the County), other expenses may be considered depending on the situation.
Contact: Matt Croak – Phone: 570-893-4080 or Email: mcroak@clintoncountypa.gov
3. The Clinton County Revolving Loan
The Clinton County Revolving Loan program is a county-based revolving loan fund with eligible uses such as land acquisition and development, plant construction, machinery and equipment, and working capital. Applicants must be located or planning to locate in Clinton County.
Contact: Mike Flanagan – Phone: 570-748-5782 or Email: ceo@clintoncountyinfo.com
4. Commercial Loan Program
The City of Lock Haven Commercial Loan program will offer a 3 percent interest rate on business loans up to $50,000. Eligible uses include working capital, machinery and equipment, and real estate and improvements.
Loans are only available to businesses within the City of Lock Haven.
Contact: Abbey Roberts – Phone 570-893-5903 – aroberts@lockhavenpa.gov
5. The Lumber Heritage Region
2024 Mini-Grant Program
The Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania Inc. (LHR) is now accepting applications for LHR’s 2024 Mini-Grant Program. Funding for the Lumber Heritage Region 2024 Mini-Grant Program is provided through the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Bureau of Recreation and Conservation (BRC) and therefore must adhere to all statewide rules and regulations. Eligible applicants for the program would include non-profit 501(c)3 organizations, municipalities, COG’s, Conservation Districts, Educational Institutions, and Housing and Redevelopment Authorities. The project must be located within the boundaries of the Lumber Heritage Region. Grant deadline Feb. 8, 2024 at 4 p.m.
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, having a strong online presence is crucial for the success of any business. Google, being the #1 search engine plays a pivotal role in connecting businesses with potential customers.
Boosting your Business
Here are ways to help boost your business:
1. Claim Your Google My
Business (GMB) Listing
One of the foundational steps is to claim and verify your business on Google My Business. This provides you with control over the information displayed in search results, allowing you to manage and update key details.
2. Complete Your GMB Profile
Ensure that your GMB profile is comprehensive. Provide accurate business hours, address, phone number, and a link to your website. High-quality photos can give potential customers a visual insight into your products or services.
3. Encourage Reviews
Positive reviews contribute significantly to your business’s credibility. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your GMB listing. Responding to reviews, both POSITIVE & NEGATIVE, demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction. (see photo)
4. Optimize for Local SEO
Utilize relevant keywords in your business descriptions, services, and posts to enhance local search rankings. Incorporate location-based terms that your target audience might use when searching for businesses in your industry.
5. Regularly Updated Information
Keep your business details up to date. This includes BUSINESS HOURS (not just social media posts), address, and contact information. Accurate and current information ensures that potential customers can easily find and reach your business.
6. Create and Share Posts
Take advantage of the Posts feature on GMB to share updates, promotions, and events. Regularly publishing content keeps your audience engaged and informed about your business.
7. Utilize Google Ads
Consider running Google Ads to increase visibility. Google often offers special promotions, such as free ads for nonprofits. This paid advertising can significantly boost your business’s exposure.
8. Explore Google Maps Features
Maximize the features available on Google Maps, including Q&A. Use this section to address common customer queries. Additionally, add attributes to highlight specific aspects of your business, making it more appealing to potential customers.
9. Implement QR Codes
Integrate QR codes into your business strategy. For example, place them at your checkout to encourage customers to leave reviews easily. This not only enhances your online reputation but also makes the customer experience more interactive.
10. Stay Active on Google
Regularly engage with your GMB profile. Keep information current, respond promptly to customer inquiries or reviews, and maintain an active online presence. Consistency in engagement contributes to a positive and reliable image.
By incorporating these strategies into your Google marketing approach, you’ll be on the path to boosting your business’s visibility, credibility, and success in the online realm.
Creative employee solutions: With the ever-increasing challenges of employment, it is important to be creative in staffing.
