About this programme
The Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) provides low-interest loans and lines of credit to businesses that commit to creating and retaining full-time jobs. It also supports the development of industrial parks and multi-tenant facilities.
The Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) oversees the program, but it doesn't process applications directly. Instead, applications go through a statewide network of Certified Economic Development Organizations (CEDOs), local groups that package and underwrite the loans.
A wide range of industries can use PIDA financing, including manufacturing, agriculture, research and development, hospitality, recycling, child day-care, retail, export businesses, and computer services.
How it works
PIDA finances a portion of eligible project costs. The maximum loan participation depends on what the money will be used for, the type of business, what other financing sources are contributing, and how many jobs will be created or retained.
Interest rates are set based on current market conditions rather than a fixed published rate, so applicants need to check with PIDA or their county CEDO for the current number.
Repayment runs up to 15 years for land, building acquisitions, and construction or renovation; up to 10 years for machinery and equipment; and 1 year (renewable) for working capital and accounts receivable lines of credit.
Eligible uses cover land and building acquisitions, construction and renovation, machinery and equipment, working capital, accounts receivable lines of credit, multi-tenant facilities, and industrial parks.
Who can apply
The business must commit to creating or retaining full-time jobs as part of the project.
A variety of industry sectors qualify, including manufacturing, agricultural, research and development, hospitality, recycling, child day-care, retail, export, and computer services businesses.
How to apply
- Contact your county's Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO); PIDA loans are packaged and underwritten through the CEDO serving the applicant's county.
- The CEDO reviews the project to determine fit with the program and explains the application procedures.
- Call the PIDA office at 717.783.5046 with questions, or consult the PIDA Guidelines and Fact Sheet on the DCED program page.
Documents you’ll typically need
- PIDA Guidelines document
- PIDA Fact Sheet
- Eligible Distressed Areas list, where relevant to the project location
Frequently asked
Who do I apply through for a PIDA loan?
You apply through the Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) that serves your county; CEDOs package and underwrite PIDA loans on the state's behalf.
What interest rate will I get?
PIDA does not publish a fixed rate; interest rates are based on current market conditions, so you need to check with PIDA or your county CEDO for the current rate.
Do I need to create jobs to qualify?
Yes, the business must commit to creating or retaining full-time jobs as part of the funded project.
What can the loan be used for?
Land and building acquisitions, construction and renovation, machinery and equipment, working capital, accounts receivable lines of credit, and multi-tenant facility or industrial park development.
How long do I have to repay the loan?
Up to 15 years for land and buildings, up to 10 years for machinery and equipment, and a renewable 1-year term for working capital and accounts receivable lines of credit.
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All 14 programmes in Pennsylvania →
Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.