Lackawanna County Presents 2025 Winter Market The Lackawanna Winter Market 2025 Holiday Shopping Vendor Village on Courthouse Square is returning once again! The event will take place from Friday, December 5th, through Sunday, December 7th, offering a weekend filled with music, food, fun, and a wide variety of unique shopping opportunities from small businesses. Visitors are sure to find something special for everyone on their holiday shopping lists — and perhaps a little something for themselves as well. Guests are invited to explore the many amazing small businesses and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square. The event will feature live music, entertainment, and much more. The Lackawanna Winter Market will kick off on December’s First Friday and continue through Sunday. Event Schedule Friday, December 5th | 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Tree Lighting at 6:00 PM Saturday, December 6th | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Sunday, December 7th | 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Lackawanna County To Present the Lackawanna Winter Market The Lackawanna Winter Market 2025 Holiday Shopping Vendor Village on Courthouse Square is returning once again! The event will take place from Friday, December 5th, through Sunday, December 7th, offering a weekend filled with music, food, fun, and a wide variety of unique shopping opportunities from small businesses. Visitors are sure to find something special for everyone on their holiday shopping lists — and perhaps a little something for themselves as well. Guests are invited to explore the many amazing small businesses and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square. The event will feature live music, entertainment, and much more. The Lackawanna Winter Market will kick off on December’s First Friday and continue through Sunday. Event Schedule Friday, December 5th | 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Tree Lighting at 6:00 PM Saturday, December 6th | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Sunday, December 7th | 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Names Mary McDermott IGNITE Program Manager The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is proud to announce the promotion of Mary McDermott to IGNITE Program Manager. IGNITE is The Chamber’s flagship entrepreneurship and business incubator program, dedicated to growing businesses and creating jobs in Lackawanna County. Mary McDermott, IGNITE Program Manager Mary McDermott, who began her journey with IGNITE as an intern in 2022, brings a wealth of experience in program development, grant writing, and entrepreneurial support to her new role. “IGNITE has always held a special place in my heart. Starting as an intern and now stepping into the role of Program Manager feels like a full-circle moment. I’m honored to continue supporting our clients and helping the program grow and thrive,” said McDermott. As the IGNITE Program Manager, McDermott will oversee all aspects of IGNITE, including programmatic management, mentorship development, funding strategies, marketing initiatives, and special events. She will also provide direct business and technical support to IGNITE clients, offering resources such as business plan development, workforce connections, and funding opportunities. McDermott is a graduate of Penn State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing in 2022. Since joining The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, she has advanced through key roles, including workforce & leadership assistant and IGNITE Program Specialist & Grant Writer, gaining extensive experience in program coordination, client relations, and entrepreneurial development. Aaron Whitney, director of facilities and asset management, expressed enthusiasm, saying with confidence: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mary as the new Manager of the Chamber’s IGNITE Program. Her passion for supporting local entrepreneurs and helping ideas grow will bring fresh energy and momentum to our community. With her leadership, we’re looking forward to new opportunities, stronger connections, and an even greater impact from the IGNITE Program as we continue to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship right here in Lackawanna County.” IGNITE Program plays a critical role in fostering innovation and economic development by offering entrepreneurs access to education, networking, and mentorship. Under McDermott’s leadership, the program will continue to strengthen the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by optimizing resources and creating pathways for business growth.
Governor Josh Shapiro Announces PA SITES Funding Governor Josh Shapiro announced more than $39 million in state funding through the PA SITES (Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites) Program, supporting 11 projects across Pennsylvania aimed at preparing industrial and business sites for future growth. The PA SITES program is part of the Shapiro Administration’s 10-year economic development strategy and focuses on creating shovel-ready locations by funding essential infrastructure such as grading, utilities, and roadway access. The initiative is designed to attract new employers, encourage private investment, and create good-paying jobs. “Pennsylvania has the workforce and the potential to compete with any state,” said Governor Shapiro. “Through PA SITES, we’re investing in the sites and infrastructure that make it easier for companies to build and hire right here in our communities.” Lackawanna County: Century Development Associates LLC will receive $6 million to prepare a 230-acre former coal mine site in Mayfield and Archbald Boroughs. The project will include grading, utilities, and roadwork to make the property development-ready, with total site preparation costs estimated at $52 million and up to $100 million in total future investment. This project is expected to support hundreds of construction jobs during site preparation and create up to 1,000 long-term jobs once the property is fully developed with industrial tenants. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce team members Amy Luyster, A.J. Cimahosky, and Emily Pettinato attended the event in support of furthering economic development and the PA SITES program in Lackawanna County.
2026 Workforce Summit Announced: Bridging Talent to Opportunity The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, is proud to announce the 2026 Workforce Summit, presented by Lackawanna County, to be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel in Scranton. This year’s theme, Bridging Talent to Opportunity, highlights the Summit’s mission to connect job seekers of all ages and experiences with employers across northeast Pennsylvania. From high school and college seniors preparing to enter the workforce, to seasoned professionals considering a career change, the event provides a direct link to industries including manufacturing, human services, banking, healthcare, and many more. “As Vice Chair of Skills in Scranton and Superintendent of the Scranton School District, I find it imperative that we prepare all students for life after graduation,” shared Dr. Erin Keating. “This includes not only those pursuing postsecondary education or military service, but also those who plan to enter the workforce immediately after high school.” Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, adds, “The Workforce Summit connects businesses, educators, and job seekers, creating a one-stop shop where attendees can develop a resume, practice interviewing, and apply directly to jobs—leaving with real opportunities and clear pathways to future careers.” The Workforce Summit will feature dozens of regional employers, networking opportunities, and resources for job seekers. For businesses, it is a chance to connect directly with motivated candidates who are eager to explore careers that keep them here in NEPA. The event is open to all job seekers, students, and community members who want to explore career pathways, meet employers, and access professional development resources. Regional businesses are encouraged to register now for exhibitor booth space. An early-bird discounted rate is available through October 31, 2025, which also includes a free quarter-page ad in the official Summit booklet. For more information and to secure your spot, visit ScrantonChamber.com.
TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty Launches Fourth Cohort to Accelerate Entrepreneurship in the County TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty, an initiative powered by Lackawanna County, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, and the Chamber’s entrepreneurship division IGNITE, has officially opened its fourth cohort to idea-stage, start-up, for-profit technology businesses. This 10-week business boot camp is designed to jump-start entrepreneurship in Lackawanna County by equipping local tech-based entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and training needed to advance their ventures. Participants will receive in-depth instruction in business modeling, customer discovery, financial planning, and investor readiness. At the conclusion of the program, participants will have the opportunity to compete for a reimbursable $10,000 grant to offset select start-up costs. The participants in the fourth cohort are: MillionMinds by Norman Zin Notea by Alexandria Small Optimust Intelligence by Luis Vazquez Stello by Jake Howells Sweeney Education Innovations by Dr. Terry Sweeney TechA11y by Brian Jagger VoiceBridge by Jonathan Lau Zach James Music (Zack Sprowls) “The partnership between Lackawanna County and Ben Franklin Technology Partners continues to be a powerful engine for innovation and entrepreneurship in our region,” shared Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “At The Chamber, our mission is to attract, sustain, and grow businesses in northeastern Pennsylvania—and the TechCelerator cohort does exactly that. By equipping emerging tech entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and funding they need, we’re laying the groundwork for the next generation of business success stories right here at home.” Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan: “With all the discussions about artificial intelligence and Lackawanna County being a potential site of data centers to sustain it, it’s important to remember that nothing can replace entrepreneurship in building the county’s, and the region’s economies. Lackawanna County is happy to participate in the innovative TechCelerator program, which supports that crucial entrepreneurship, gives prospective business leaders insight into growth and sustainability amid constant change, and helps to keep some our best talent home. Here’s to another successful year.” The TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty program has already helped launch multiple new ventures in the region, providing a proven framework for early-stage tech entrepreneurs to test ideas, build networks, and access resources that drive business success. At the conclusion of the program, participants and their businesses will give a formal presentation on the progress of their business.
TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty Extend Application Deadline The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Lackawanna County announce that applications for a fourth cohort of TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty are extended to August 29, 2025. The program is a partnership between Lackawanna County, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern PA, and The Chamber, in collaboration with tecBRIDGE as the program administrator. TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty is a 10-week, in-person experience in which participants can access mentors, educational resources, and subject matter experts on business formation strategies, customer discovery, marketing, financial planning, and risk management. The goal of the ten weeks is to build, share, and pitch their early-stage start-ups. Previous TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty programs have helped 23 entrepreneurs gain traction toward achieving their American dreams. In this fourth cohort, eight more can experience the same resources and excitement. TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty is a competitive application process. Residents of Lackawanna County with tech, for-profit business, or early start-up ideas are encouraged to apply. Participants who complete all program requirements may be eligible for a $10,000 reimbursable grant towards select start-up costs. To apply, visit ScrantonChamber.com and look for TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty under events. Applications close on Friday, August 29.
UNC to Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New CEDAR Center United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new CEDAR (Community Education, Development, And Revitalization) Center on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at 526 Cedar Avenue in South Scranton. All media outlets and public officials are invited to attend. UNC officially moved into the CEDAR Center on June 23, 2025, marking a major milestone in the organization’s 100+ year history. The CEDAR Center now serves as UNC’s regional hub for adult education, workforce development, and a range of community-based programs. Speakers at the event will include Senator Marty Flynn, Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan, Mayor of Scranton Paige Cognetti, Lisa Durkin, UNC President and CEO, and Dr. Kellyn Williams, UNC Board Member. The building, a former branch of the South Side Bank & Trust Company, was generously donated by Peoples Security Bank in 2014. Construction began in April 2024, transforming the space into a welcoming and accessible facility designed to meet the growing needs of the community. UNC extends sincere thanks to the many funding partners who helped bring the project to life, including Senator Robert P. Casey Jr., Peoples Security Bank, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (RACP), the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (Keystone Communities, Local Share Account, and Neighborhood Partnership Program), Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, Lackawanna County, the City of Scranton, the Oppenheim Foundation, PNC Bank, PPL Electric Utilities, and The Dime Bank. We’d additionally like to thank Project Architect Ralph J. Melone, AIA, and General Contractor Robert Bamford of Mar-Paul Construction Co., Inc. The ribbon cutting will celebrate the opening of this vital new space and UNC’s continued commitment to serving individuals and families across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
NAMI to Host Another Paint in the Park Event We all deserve to have shelter–a space where we feel safe and secure. It is important to our mental health. What does that space look like to you? Take the opportunity to show us on Friday, August 29 from 4-6PM at Covington Township Park as you craft home with us. Bring some friends and family to paint and/or decorate wooden birdhouses supplied by Lackawanna County as part of its “Shelter for All” communitywide project focusing on learning and celebrating local bird populations and exploring what “home” means to you. We had a great time in June at Nay Aug Park and in July 25 at Aylesworth Park in Jermyn. Bird houses, acrylic paint & brushes, craft gems, and dried flowers will be provided at no charge. Feel free to bring newspapers, magazines, or your favorite craft supplies to add to the mix! Join us for a combination of therapeutic activities: creating art, connecting with others and spending time outdoors. And it’s FREE! If you would like to find information and support for yourself or a loved one with mental illness, visit NAMINEPA.org.
