Bill > SB674

This bill establishes the Rural Coworking and Innovation Center Grant Program, administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), to support the creation and enhancement of coworking spaces in rural areas of Pennsylvania. The program allows entities like municipalities, higher education institutions, businesses, and nonprofits to apply for competitive grants up to $500,000 to construct, renovate, or equip coworking and innovation centers in rural counties or rural municipalities. The grants can be used to build or upgrade facilities, extend broadband services, or purchase equipment and security systems, with priority given to projects demonstrating comprehensive planning and maximizing economic development opportunities. Grant recipients must contribute matching funds or in-kind resources equal to at least 100% of the grant amount and commit to keeping the center open for either five or seven years, depending on the type of grant. The bill defines key terms such as "rural county" (as defined by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania) and "coworking and innovation center" (a facility providing infrastructure for remote work). Importantly, grant funds cannot be used for ongoing operational costs, and recipients must be prepared to return funds if they fail to maintain the center for the required time period. The program aims to support rural economic development by creating modern, technology-enabled workspaces that can attract and retain talent in rural communities.

Business and Industry

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=674