Third Space Bakery: A Haven of Creativity and Community Empowerment

Nestled snugly on a corner in Garfield, Third Space is more than just a bakery: it’s a vibrant, community-focused business that brings together art, chemistry, and a passion for food. Founded by a group of dedicated bakers and creatives, this cooperative is redefining what it means to serve delicious artisanal baked goods and to serve the local community. With some support from Invest PGH, the bakery is flourishing, offering not just their products but a space where people feel connected and welcomed.

The Power of Collaboration

Chloe Newman, one of the bakery’s founders, has a unique background in art and chemistry, which shines through in her approach to baking. She fell in love with sourdough, captivated by its wild and unpredictable nature, and soon turned her passion into a business. Partner Erika Bruce caught the baking bug when she attended culinary school, adds high class and culture with her specialization in European-inspired cakes and pastries. Their combined skills join third partner Beth Taylor who has a deep background in food writing and a degree in food studies. Together, the three women give Third Space its special flavor, a blend of creativity, science, and heartfelt community care.

A Co-Op Model with Heart

From the outset, Third Space Bakery has embraced a cooperative model where employees can become co-owners after six months. This structure reflects their commitment to fair wages, worker empowerment, and long-term sustainability. This has allowed them to create a business where employees aren’t just workers, they’re future partners who have a direct hand in shaping the business.

The bakery also makes a point to give back to the community. They donate tips to local nonprofits each month, supporting organizations like Garfield Community Farm and the Assemble community space. It’s their way of ensuring that the bakery’s success ripples outward, positively impacting the neighborhood that so warmly welcomed them.

The team’s community involvement extends even further. They host classes that teach wide varieties of kitchen skills, making the bakery true to its name: a “third space” for learning and connection. They also collaborate with nearby businesses, including Trace Brewing and Two Frays, hosting pop-ups and beverage pairing events. These partnerships are a big part of the bakery’s mission to be a real part of the fabric of Garfield and its surrounding communities, connecting with neighbors and supporting other local businesses.

Invest PGH: Helping the Dough Rise

Invest PGH played its own small role in helping Third Space transform from a dream to reality. The bakery team had talent and vision, but like many startups, they needed financial baking. When the trio was seeking a location to begin their journey, they knew they needed more than their initial investment to cover costs like equipment and build-out for their chosen space in Garfield. That’s when they turned to Invest PGH, helping them secure the funding they needed to launch the business. The process wasn’t without challenges but Invest PGH was there to help ensure that the bakery had everything it needed when the doors were opened.

Innovating for a Bright Future

As they look ahead, the founders are excited about the possibilities that lie in store. From planning wood-fired pizza nights to hosting more community events, Third Space Bakery is brimming with ideas to make the most of their space and engage with even more people. One dream is to add a cover to their beautiful outdoor seating area to create an inviting spot year-round. They also plan to continue working with local vendors to offer unique pairings, like craft beer nights and wine tastings.

Reflecting on the journey, the founders shared that while building a bakery from the ground up has been challenging, the community support has been overwhelmingly positive. “One of my favorite moments was on opening day, seeing people sitting on the deck, enjoying the food, and connecting with another,” Beth shared. For Chloe, who previously worked solo, the collaborative, people-focused environment of Third Space has been a welcome change. “Working here with people I love, seeing familiar faces every weekend, it feels like home.”

With a little boost from Invest PGH, Third Space Bakery has transformed from a vision into a vital part of the Garfield community. If you find yourself looking for a place where incredible food and a welcoming atmosphere go hand in hand, Third Space is a must. With every loaf, pastry, and cup of coffee, they’re not just serving a community, they’re helping to build it.

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Find Third Space Bakery IRL & Online

 

• In Pittsburgh:
  5349 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15221

• Online:
  https://thirdspacebakery.com/

• On Facebook:
  @thirdspacebakery

• On Instagram:
  @thirdspacebakery

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Very Special Thanks

Once again, Invest PGH wants to thank Anna Brewer of Anna Brewer Productions for the bright and beautiful photography that supplemented this piece. We couldn’t do it without you. Well, we could but it would result in a bunch of weirdly off-center out-of-focus pictures taken on an old iPhone, so this is probably better.

And hey, Anna is a borrower of ours too!

Armful of Flowers: How a Backyard Dream Bloomed

Meet Kelly Glover, co-owner and the heart and soul behind Armful of Flowers, a flower farm and shop on Mount Washington that’s as bright and full of life as the bouquets she creates. What began as a personal project in her own backyard has flourished into a full-scale farm, and Kelly’s story is just as colorful. The farm is tucked into a residential spot amid Mt. Washington’s urban landscape, making creative use of one of Pittsburgh’s iconic features: the sloped backyard. Despite the steep terrain, Kelly’s farm thrives, with carefully rotated crops and terraced plots that make the most of every inch of space, turning the challenging landscape into a blooming oasis.

From Backyard to Business

Kelly’s journey into flower farming is personal. She started out growing flowers for herself.

“I was actually, weirdly enough, growing my own wedding bouquet,” she says. And although her life took unexpected turns, her love for growing beautiful, unique flowers remained a constant. Eventually, she realized she had something special to offer.

It was her friend, and now Armful’s co-owner, Jessica Revis, who first recognized the potential in Kelly’s floral talent.

“Jess was like, ‘Kelly, I’ve never seen flowers grown in these colors or these varieties,’” Kelly recalls. That was the spark that Kelly had needed. From that small backyard patch, Armful of Flowers was born, and the rest, as they say, is history.

A Field of Unusual Flowers

One thing that immediately sets Armful apart is the wide array of unique and specialty flowers grown right on the farm. These aren’t run-of-the-mill grocery store blooms: Kelly focuses on growing varieties like zinnias, celosia, and dahlias, flowers that add both beauty and texture to any arrangement.

Kelly is particularly proud of her zinnias. “These are all colors of zinnias that you probably normally have never seen,” she says, pointing to her patch of uniquely bred blooms. “They’re very vintage-y, they’re very soft, with linen tones.” In fact, many of the flowers on the farm are part of a special breeding program from Floret Flower Farm in Washington state. Kelly had found Floret’s book, Cut Flower Garden, “…and I learned everything I know now from her,” Kelly explains.

Armful’s unique varieties include everything from celosia with its soft, velvety textures to dahlias, one of my favorites to enjoy and what Kelly referred to as her favorite flower to grow: “They are just the most stunning blooms,” she says, “and they will be very productive all the way through October, which is wonderful.”

Investing a Helping Hand

It’s Kelly’s passion and creativity that have driven the farm’s success, but growing a business comes with challenges. Invest PGH was able to lend a hand during the hardest point of the pandemic, providing Kelly with a Micro Enterprise – now SMAL – loan. It helped Kelly secure the farm equipment, inventory, and other supplies she would need to ensure her business could take root and it bloomed as big and bright as her flowers.

“We were able to start our first-ever garden center,” Kelly says. “People kept asking for it, and that boost helped us make it happen.” The loan allowed Kelly to invest in essentials like sustainable farming fabric and compost, which have been critical to the farm’s long-term growth. “Having that extra support allowed us to take the business to the next level.”

Community in Bloom

At its heart, Armful of Flowers is about community. From open-air flower markets to seasonal events like the farm’s wildly popular Flower Fest, Kelly’s goal is to create a space where people can enjoy the beauty of locally grown flowers and feel a connection to the farm, and to each other.

“We do something for every season,” Kelly tells me. “In the summer, we have sunflowers and marigolds, and in the fall, we do mums and corn stalks. For the winter, we’ve got garland, and this spring we had tons of tulips and daffodils.” The farm is also designated as a Monarch Waystation, filled with perennials that attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. “I just love seeing all the bees hanging out around the flowers,” Kelly says with a smile.

And it’s not just flowers. Armful hosts a variety of events throughout the year, bringing in local vendors and creating a true community hub. “Our Fall Fest [this year on October 6] is one of our biggest events. We close the street, we have about 30 vendors: axe throwing, stein hoisting – it’s so cool,” Kelly shares.

Dreams of Growth

As for the future, Kelly has big plans.

“I’d love to make this space into a community hub where local businesses can come together, kind of like a co-op,” she says. Her dream is to create a multifunctional space for workshops, small events, and even more local collaboration. “I imagine there being little bistro lights and big farm tables with wheels on them. It would be this multifunctional space. I want it to be a space where our community can come in and be proud to bring their families, to soak it in. I found such escape in flower farming.”

With each passing season, Kelly’s dream grows a little closer. Thanks to her passion and dedication, and a little help from Invest PGH, Armful of Flowers is a thriving, beautiful business – and it’s just getting started.

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Find Armful of Flowers IRL & Online

 

• In Pittsburgh:
  608 Virginia Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15211

• Online:
  https://www.armfulofflowers.com/

• On Facebook:
  @armfulofflowers412

• On Instagram:
  @armfulofflowers

• On TikTok:
  @armfulofflowers

Be There or Be Square

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Very Special Thanks

Once again, Invest PGH wants to thank Anna Brewer of Anna Brewer Productions for the bright and beautiful photography that supplemented this piece. We couldn’t do it without you. Well, we could but it would result in a bunch of weirdly off-center out-of-focus pictures taken on an old iPhone, so this is probably better.

And hey, Anna is a borrower of ours too!

Radio Skateshop: Keeping Skate Culture Alive and Kicking in Pittsburgh

Tuning in to Radio Skateshop

If you haven’t heard of Radio, it’s high time you did. Tucked into Bloomfield, this vibrant little hub is more than a store, it’s a cornerstone of the skate community. I recently sat down with Eric Calfo, one of the shop’s owners, to dive into the state of the culture in Pittsburgh and see how Invest PGH played a crucial role in making skate dreams a reality.

From Humble Beginnings

Eric’s journey into skateboarding began back in the early 2000s, as it did for many of us.

“I was a Tony Hawk kid,” I told him, myself inspired by the revitalized, and by then booming, skate culture highlighted in iconic video games like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. Eric had played the games too, and while my own skate injuries took me out of the game early on, Eric stayed with it. He reminisced about the early days when a local skate park became his second home.

Fast forward to adulthood, and Eric found himself at a crossroads, as many did during the pandemic. With a background in substitute teaching, the switch to online learning pushed him to reevaluate the path his career had taken. That’s when the idea of the skate shop resurfaced.

Creating a Skate Haven

Opening an admittedly niche business during the pandemic might seem daunting – and it was. But Eric, and his friends and co-owners Dan Peindl and Nick Teodori, were up for the challenge. October 2020 marked Radio’s soft opening, and despite the uncertain climate, the shop quickly became a local favorite.

“We believed in skateboarding, and we believed in what we could do with it,” Eric says.

The shop itself reflects their many labors of love. From hand-built racks to a beautiful curated vintage aesthetic, every detail reflects the passion and creativity of its owners. It’s not just a place to buy skateboards, it’s a community hub where skaters of all ages and backgrounds can come together.

Radio x Invest PGH

Starting a small business is not a small feat, especially during a pandemic. This is where Invest PGH lent a hand.

Eric spoke highly of the support he received: “We didn’t have the capital to get this going, so we definitely needed help.” Through Invest PGH, Eric and his partners were able to secure the resources they needed to turn ideas into actuality. Radio received a Micro Enterprise Loan – now called SMAL – that was used to purchase inventory. You know, the important stuff, like decks, wheels, and, of course, t-shirts. It also helped them to begin to craft the shop into the aesthetic masterpiece it is today. But the support was more than financial – it was a network of resources, and a group of people who believed in the Radio vision.

Skate Culture in Pittsburgh

Skateboarding is alive and well in Pittsburgh. Eric notes a surge of interest, especially during the pandemic, as people sought out new outdoor activities. The shop has seen a mix of seasoned skaters and enthusiastic newcomers, including kids picking out their first board.

“Seeing young kids come in with their parents to get their first boards is the coolest thing,” Eric shared. It’s about more than just skating; it’s about giving people a sense of freedom and an outlet for self-expression.

Building Community Through Events

One of the most unique aspects of Radio Skateshop is the hands-on way it fosters community. The shop regularly hosts events, from video screening to collaborations with other local businesses. Eric, who has a background in creating skate videos, continues to document and promote the local scene.

“To me, the most important part of a skate shop is not just selling things, but giving back to the community,” he emphasized.

All Skaters Welcome

Skateboarding has come a long way from its intimidating roots. Eric notes proudly that today’s skate culture is much more inclusive than it once was.

“It’s really, really important, especially in a city like this where we have so many disparate cultures and groups of people,” he said. At Radio, everyone is welcome, and the sense of community is palpable.

Landing Bolts

Radio Skate Shop isn’t just a business: it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of skateboarding and the skate community in Pittsburgh. Eric and his partners have been able to create a space where skaters can come together, share their passion, and keep the culture alive. Whether you’ve been skating longer than your knees would like or you’re picking up your first deck, Radio Skateshop is the place to be. There’s always something good on the dial at Radio.

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Find Radio Online & IRL

 

• In Pittsburgh:
  4116 Main St, Pittsburgh, PA 15224

• Online:
  https://www.radioskateshop.com/

• On Instagram:
  @radioskateshop

• On YouTube:
  @radioskateshop

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Very Special Thanks

We at Invest PGH extend our sincerest thanks to Anna Brewer of Anna Brewer Productions who provided the absolutely pitch-perfect photography for this piece. See her collabs with us - and more from Radio - here.

Oh and hey, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Anna is also an Invest PGH borrower! Spreadin’ the love, that’s how we roll.

Building Brighter Futures with Invest PGH’s CRiB Program: A Back-to-School Story

As summer winds down and the excitement builds for a new school year, families across Pittsburgh are prepping for the season. For many families, finding reliable, high-quality childcare is a crucial part of this preparation. At Invest PGH, we understand the role that childcare businesses play in our communities, and we’re committed to supporting these essential services through our Childcare Reinvestment Business (CRiB) program. This program is designed to empower childcare entrepreneurs and to ensure that children in Pittsburgh have access to a nurturing and stimulating environment as they embark on their educational journey.

Empowering Childcare Businesses with CRiB

This back-to-school season, we want to highlight the work being done by childcare providers in our city, and how Invest PGH can help them. The CRiB program offers forgivable loans ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 (or up to 90% of total project costs), with an additional $5,000 available for those entrepreneurs who complete The Business of Childcare program through our partners at Chatham University. These funds can be used for a wide range of essential needs, like working capital, payroll, enrollment scholarships, equipment, software, supplies, leasehold improvements, and even staff education. Our program helps to ensure that businesses receive the support they need not just to survive but to thrive at this critical time of year, and as the calendar pages turn.

Preference is given to minority-led businesses, entities that enroll a significant portion of children who receive subsidies, and applicants who demonstrate a financial need. This focus not only promotes the diversity of our providers but ensures that quality childcare is accessible to more families in Pittsburgh.

Over the three years that Invest PGH has offered the CRiB program, we have achieved remarkable successes. As of June 30, 2024:

• Invest PGH staff has closed 45 loans with 30 of them already forgiven

• 83% of businesses have reported increased enrollment as a direct result of the program

• More than $750,000 has been invested into minority- and women-owned businesses, which make up 84% of the CRiB portfolio

• Nearly 700 jobs have been created or retained

• CRiB has helped to add over 100 additional seats of childcare capacity, allowed for 866 children to receive subsidized care, and all funded businesses remain open and operational

These statistics are just a small slice of the transformative impact of CRiB, helping to make it a cornerstone of childcare business growth in the City of Pittsburgh.

Supporting Childcare Entrepreneurs with Chatham University

To further support childcare businesses, our partnership with Chatham University’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship (CWE) through The Business of Childcare program has provided an invaluable resource for providers. This is a free, application-based training program designed for providers in the Greater Pittsburgh region. With financial support from CWE, The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh, PNC Bank, and the Hillman Foundation, this partnership has come together to offer a comprehensive training program.

Participants in The Business of Childcare receive a tailored business curriculum, one-on-one coaching, entrepreneurial education, and a one-year membership to CWE for further immersive training and networking opportunities. This program is an eight-week intensive course designed to prepare entrepreneurs to launch or improve their childcare business, ensuring that they’re ready to meet the demands of a rigorous industry. It also provides a support network that assists providers with access to the financial and educational resources they need to succeed.

The Importance of Supporting Childcare Initiatives

Childcare is an essential service that significantly impacts the well-being and development of children, as well as the economic stability of families. In Pennsylvania, nearly 70% of children under age six have all parents and guardians in the workforce, emphasizing the high demand for and necessity of reliable childcare. In cities like Pittsburgh, quality care is not just a convenience, it’s mandatory.

However, the childcare industry faces numerous challenges. Providers often operate on very thin margins while struggling with staffing shortages. They also face the pressure of maintaining high standards of care. These difficulties are compounded by the fact that many families rely on subsidies to afford childcare, which makes the financial stability of those businesses even more precarious.

Four years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of available childcare seats is still down due to significant business closures and staffing challenges. Even with new facilities opening, Allegheny County has experienced a net loss of nearly 600 childcare seats from pre-pandemic levels, as of the end of last year. This reduction in childcare availability leaves families with fewer options and has forced many parents, particularly women, out of full-time employment. The need for high-quality childcare has never been more apparent.

This underscores the necessity for comprehensive support systems for childcare entrepreneurs and startups in Pittsburgh. While financing is a crucial component, addressing other challenges inherent in childcare is equally important. Providing the resources that help business owners navigate these obstacles is vital for the sustained growth and development of reliable childcare in Pittsburgh.

Invest PGH’s CRiB program plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing much-needed financial support and resources to childcare providers. The success stories and statistics from the program highlight the positive impact that targeted investments can have on the availability and quality of childcare.

Initiatives like CRiB ensure that childcare businesses can continue to thrive, expand their capacity, and offer high-quality care to more children. The work Invest PGH does is vital, and ongoing funding and support for initiatives like these are crucial for sustaining and growing these efforts. By investing in childcare, we are not only supporting local businesses but also helping to build a stronger, more resilient community for the future.

As back-to-school season hits its stride, let’s remember the importance of quality childcare and the profound impact it has on our children, families, and communities. The work we do at Invest PGH, and in partnership with others, can help to ensure that every child can succeed – and every parent has the support they need to provide for their family.

SMAL Investments, Big Ideas: How Invest PGH Helped Sol Refill Thrive

At Invest PGH, we believe in the power of big ideas. That’s why we’re excited to reintroduce our micro-lending program. Welcome to SMAL, the Startup & Mini Advancement Loan.

Meet Sol Refill

Pittsburgh’s First Zero-Waste Delivery Service

Sydney Shoff is the visionary behind Sol Refill, a low-waste delivery service that has been thriving since its 2021 launch. Sol Refill delivers pantry items and household goods directly to customers’ doors, using reusable containers to eliminate single-use plastics. Her business model not only makes sustainable living more accessible but also caters to a growing demand for environmentally conscious products and services.

The Journey to Success

When Sydney approached Invest PGH, her passion for sustainability was already clear. She had a business plan backed by her experience in small business management, communications, and marketing. But, like many startups, she needed a little more support to turn her vision into reality.

In December 2021, Sol Refill received a $30,000 Micro-Enterprise Loan from Invest PGH, which allowed Sydney to purchase the bulk inventory she would need, helped her to build her website, secured her a co-working space at Fulton Commons, and let her handle other essential startup costs with confidence.

With the financial and technical support of Invest PGH – and, of course, her own drive, smarts, and gumption – Sydney was able to introduce Sol Refill to the city of Pittsburgh. With the financial stability needed for her to be able to focus on operating her business without the pressure of high-interest debt, Sol Refill could scale gradually and, like the products it offers, sustainably.

Since then, Sol Refill has become a sought-after service in Pittsburgh, known for its commitment to reducing plastic and providing high-quality, zero-waste products. From household supplies to pantry staples, Sol Refill offers the city a diverse range of products for the eco-conscious.

Why SMAL Matters, Big Time

The success of Sol Refill is a testament to the hard work and innovative thinking that people like Sydney Shoff bring to the table, and to the impact that small, strategic investments can have on brilliant ideas and startups.

Our newly renamed SMAL program continues this mission by supporting entrepreneurs like Sydney, who have big ideas and the drive to make a real difference.

As we transition to the Startup & Mini Advancement Loan program, we invite those passionate, aspiring business owners to explore how SMAL can bring their big ideas to life. Whether you’re looking to launch a new venture or expand an existing labor of love, Invest PGH is here to support you every step of the way.

For Sydney Shoff and Sol Refill, a SMAL investment led to big impacts in the city we call home. Are you next?

Find Sol Refill

• Website

• Facebook

• Instagram

Invest PGH Achieves State Accreditation as a Pennsylvania Development Bank Lender

Invest PGH is proud to announce its recent accreditation as a Pennsylvania Development Bank Lender. This certification was granted by the Pennsylvania Community Development Bank’s operational committee meeting last week.

“We are thrilled to have achieved this accreditation,” said Rebecca Davidson-Wagner, the president of Invest PGH. “It means that we will be able to continue to bring small business borrower capital to minority- and women-owned businesses in the City of Pittsburgh.” The accreditation also positions Invest PGH alongside other Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) across the state, enhancing future lending opportunities.

This milestone comes after an impactful 2023. Last year, Invest PGH successfully closed 42 loans, amounting to a total investment of $2,212,000 in the Pittsburgh business ecosystem. This total spans three loan programs:

• ABEL (Accelerating Business Expansion Loan) loans accounted for 17 closings totaling $1,687,000.

• Micro (Micro-Enterprise Loan Program) loans accounted for 9 closings totaling $224,000.

• CRiB (Childcare Reinvestment Business Fund) loans accounted for 16 forgivable loans totaling $301,000 and supports the much-needed growth of childcare businesses in the City of Pittsburgh.

Invest PGH extends its gratitude to the Pennsylvania Community Development Bank for granting this accreditation, which will support our commitment to fostering economic development and growth in Pittsburgh. As we move forward, Invest PGH remains dedicated to serving local businesses and entrepreneurs, and to contributing to the economic vitality of our city.

Celebrating the Launch of the Invest PGH & URA Wedding Guide

We are thrilled to announce the unveiling of the Invest PGH & Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Wedding Guide, a comprehensive resource for couples planning their special day in Pittsburgh. This beautifully crafted guide not only showcases the vibrant array of local businesses ready to make your wedding unforgettable but also highlights the entrepreneurial spirit that is at the heart of our city.

A Showcase of Local Talent

From gourmet catering to stunning venues, and from expert salons to artistic photographers, the Wedding Guide features a diverse range of our borrowers. Each business listed in the guide is a testament to hard work, creativity, and community support. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll find:

Culinary Delights

• Mi Empanada brings the flavors of Argentina with their handcrafted empanadas, perfect for adding a touch of international flair to your wedding.

• The Colombian Spot offers bold and vibrant dishes, bringing the rich culinary traditions of Colombia to your special day.

• Scratch & Co. emphasizes farm-to-table goodness, using local, seasonal ingredients to craft delightful dishes.

Stunning Venues

• The Industrialist combines historic charm with modern luxury, providing an elegant setting in the heart of Pittsburgh.

• Woods House offers a serene outdoor venue nestled among lush greenery, with centuries of history in its walls.

• Cobra Lounge caters to those seeking an edgy, urban atmosphere with its industrial chic decor.

Beauty and Style

• Pittsburgh Salon Studios features talented stylists ready to bring your bridal vision to life with personalized service.

• Heirs barber shop offers modern, fashion-forward looks, ensuring grooms look their best on the big day.

• Cultural Hair Lounge combines timeless beauty with contemporary sophistication in their bridal services.

Visual Memories

• Anna Brewer Productions captures your love story with stunning photography and videography, turning moments into timeless treasures.

• First Sip Studios creates cinematic scenes, preserving the essence of your special day in motion.

• Cut ‘N’ Run Productions blends creativity and professionalism to capture every detail with style and flair.

Floral and Event Design

• Armful of Flowers specializes in lush, locally-sourced floral arrangements that add romance and elegance.

• Floriated Interpretation offers innovative floral designs, transforming your venue into a botanical wonderland.

• Mele's Party Planning ensures every aspect of your wedding is flawlessly executed, from decor to coordination.

With Gratitude to Our Borrowers

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the businesses featured in this guide. Your dedication and responsiveness made the creation of this resource possible. Your stories of perseverance and passion inspire us and enrich our community.

Our Mission: Empowering Local Businesses

Invest PGH stands as a beacon for small businesses, especially those led by minority and women entrepreneurs. By providing access to capital in economically distressed areas, we empower individuals to start and expand their businesses, generate jobs, and invigorate their neighborhoods. Our partnership with the URA enhances this mission, fostering equitable development that promotes economic mobility and neighborhood revitalization. Together, we lay the foundation for sustainable businesses and vibrant communities.

Supporting Pittsburgh's Economy

By choosing local businesses for your wedding needs, you are supporting the Pittsburgh economy and helping our community thrive. Every service and product purchased from these local entrepreneurs contributes to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods and the overall prosperity of our city.

Explore the Guide

We invite you to explore the Invest PGH & URA Wedding Guide and discover the incredible talent and services available to make your wedding day truly special. Celebrate love while supporting the small businesses that make Pittsburgh a remarkable place to call home.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this guide, and to all the couples choosing to celebrate their love in Pittsburgh. Your support helps us continue our mission of fostering a thriving, inclusive, and dynamic local economy. Click the image above to view the guide as an online flipbook, or view as an image gallery here.

Welcoming Felicity Williams to the Invest PGH Board: A New Chapter in Empowering Pittsburgh's Small Businesses

Invest PGH is thrilled to announce the addition of Felicity Williams, Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Ed Gainey, to our esteemed board of directors. With her impressive background in economic development and her unwavering dedication to community equity, Williams brings a wealth of expertise that will greatly benefit our organization and the small businesses we serve.

"Felicity Williams' appointment to the Invest PGH board is a testament to her commitment to supporting small businesses and driving economic development in Pittsburgh," remarked Rebecca Davidson-Wagner, Director of CDFI Investments. "Her expertise and dedication will undoubtedly enhance our efforts to empower entrepreneurs and foster economic growth in our communities."

"Felicity Williams' appointment to the Invest PGH board is a testament to her commitment to supporting small businesses and driving economic development in Pittsburgh," remarked Rebecca Davidson-Wagner, Director of CDFI Investments. "Her expertise and dedication will undoubtedly enhance our efforts to empower entrepreneurs and foster economic growth in our communities."

Williams' extensive experience in economic development, coupled with her passion for community equity, makes her an invaluable addition to our board. In her role as Deputy Chief of Staff, she oversees various teams within the Mayor's Office, including communications, workforce development, and financial empowerment. Her innovative approach to finding solutions and her deep understanding of the needs of small businesses will be instrumental in advancing our mission.

"I am deeply honored to join the board of Invest PGH and contribute to its mission of empowering entrepreneurs and driving economic growth in our city," said Felicity Williams. "Invest PGH plays a pivotal role in providing critical support to small businesses, and I am excited to collaborate with the board to advance its impactful work and ensure the continued prosperity of Pittsburgh's entrepreneurial ecosystem."

Invest PGH is dedicated to supporting small businesses, which are the backbone of Pittsburgh's economy. We are confident that Felicity Williams' contributions will help us further strengthen our support system for local entrepreneurs and make a lasting impact on our community.

Supporting Historically Disadvantaged Small Businesses: Introducing the HDBA ARPA Grant Program

In the wake of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, historically disadvantaged small businesses in Pennsylvania are facing unprecedented economic hurdles. Recognizing the critical need for support, a new grant program has been established in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (PA-DCED) and funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. The HDBA ARPA Grant Program aims to provide vital assistance to these businesses, offering a lifeline during these challenging times.

Administered not by Invest PGH but through the Pennsylvania Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Network, this grant program represents a collaborative effort to address the specific needs of small businesses owned by racial or ethnic minorities across the state. It's important to note that all inquiries and applications for this program should be directed to and through the PA CDFI Network.

The scope of the program is substantial, with a total of $10.5 million allocated for distribution. Each eligible business selected for the grant will receive up to $10,000 in support. With the goal of reaching historically disadvantaged small businesses in every corner of Pennsylvania, the program anticipates funding at least 1,000 businesses across all 67 counties.

Unlike some grant programs that operate on a first-come, first-served basis, the HDBA ARPA Grant Program takes a different approach. Applicants have a window of opportunity to submit preliminary applications from Monday, February 5 through Friday, February 23, 2024. During this time, interested businesses are encouraged to carefully review the program guidelines and FAQs available on the PA CDFI Network’s program landing page.

It's essential for potential applicants to familiarize themselves with the requirements and procedures outlined on the PA CDFI Network’s website before initiating the application process. This webpage serves as a comprehensive resource for eligible small businesses seeking assistance through the HDBA ARPA Grant Program.

Technical assistance will be readily available through the Support Center established specifically for this program. For access to this invaluable resource, please visit the PA CDFI Network’s landing page, where you'll find the necessary contact information.

Grant programs such as the HDBA ARPA Grant Program play a pivotal role in empowering historically disadvantaged small businesses across Pennsylvania. Together, we can navigate these challenging times and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more inclusive than ever before. Let’s work together to ensure that historically disadvantaged businesses receive the assistance they need to thrive.

Invest PGH: Empowering Communities, Igniting Growth in 2024

In the ever-changing landscape of economic challenges and opportunities, Invest PGH strives to provide hope for underserved persons and distressed communities in the heart of Pittsburgh. As we step into the new year, it's time to reflect on the impactful strides made in 2023 and look forward to the transformative initiatives that will shape Invest PGH's path in 2024.

A Recap of 2023: Bridging Gaps, Igniting Dreams

2023 witnessed Invest PGH's unwavering commitment to its mission: promoting economic and community development opportunities. The lending statistics tell a compelling story of support provided to local businesses through Micro Loans, Accelerating Business Expansion Loans (ABEL), and Childcare Reinvestment Business Loans (CRiB).

The Micro Loans, totaling $224,000.00, were a lifeline for businesses like K&R Childcare LLC and Itsy Bitsy Learning Academy, showcasing the diversity and impact of Invest PGH's micro-enterprise support.

ABEL Loans, amounting to an impressive $1,687,000.00, propelled businesses such as River City Growers and Pittsburgh Musical Theater into new heights of expansion.

CRiB Loans, with a total investment of $301,000.00, empowered childcare-related ventures like A Home Away From Home Child Care and Davis Family Childcare.

Strategic Pillars Guiding Invest PGH: A Blueprint for Success

Invest PGH's strategic plan, crafted in response to the tumultuous economic backdrop, outlined five key areas of focus for 2023-2025. These pillars are not just words on paper; they're the driving force behind every decision and action taken by Invest PGH.

1. Telling Our Story Across Our Community: Invest PGH has been intentional in increasing visibility in underserved communities, forging deep relationships, and clarifying its distinctive offerings. Enhanced data collection and sophisticated social media strategies further amplify the impact and reach.

2. Expanding Capacity to Support Community Needs: The diversification of funds through private foundations and corporations has bolstered Invest PGH's financial arsenal, allowing for more robust support to microloans and emergency loans. The ongoing partnership with the URA in initiatives like Avenues of Hope remains pivotal.

3. Strengthening Our Customers' Ability to Compete: Invest PGH is not just a lender; it's an educator. Through collaboration with our partners, the organization is empowering its borrowers with the knowledge and resources to thrive.

4. Responding to the Economic and Business Climate: The creation of an emergency loan fund exemplifies Invest PGH's foresight, ensuring that businesses have the support they need in the face of unforeseen challenges. Tailored industry-specific loan programs, like CRiB, further demonstrate the adaptability to diverse economic landscapes.

5. Leveraging Impact Through Effective Partnerships: Collaboration is at the core of Invest PGH's strategy. Regular communication with partners, biannual forums, and networking events contribute to a dynamic ecosystem where support and resources flow seamlessly.

What to Expect in 2024: A Glimpse into the Future

As we turn the page to 2024, Invest PGH is poised to amplify its impact. Expect more intentional outreach, innovative programs tailored to evolving economic needs, and a continued dedication to creating a continuum of support through effective partnerships.

In the coming months, Invest PGH will continue to empower businesses with tools, support, and funding to not only survive but thrive in the post-pandemic era. With a solid foundation laid in 2023 and a strategic plan guiding every move, Invest PGH is not just an entity; it's a catalyst for positive change in Pittsburgh's economic landscape.

Stay tuned for success stories, program updates, and exciting collaborations as Invest PGH unfolds a new chapter of empowerment, growth, and community development in 2024. Together, let's build a brighter, more resilient Pittsburgh.