On March 8, 2011, Governor Tom Corbett released his proposed budget for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. There are many challenges facing the Commonwealth and as a result many proposed budgetary reductions. WEDnetPA, a program that obtains its operating budget through DCED (Department of Community and Economic Development), represents just one area that may receive a reduction in budgetary funds for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.
The Governor has proposed to create a new program called the PA First Fund. This program will replace the former Opportunity Grants, Customized Job Training (which funds WEDnetPA), and Infrastructure Development programs. Last year the 3 programs combined were funded at $41 million and the new PA First Fund is currently positioned to receive $25 million, that’s a 40% reduction in overall funding. For WEDnetPA, this comes on the heels of a cumulative 65% reduction in funding over the previous three years. At this point no specific details have been released on how the funds will be utilized within the new PA First program.
WEDnetPA, comprised of more than 30 partners statewide, is working diligently to help ensure that the Governor and legislators are aware and understand the value that the WEDnetPA program brings to Pennsylvania businesses and the economy. While the WEDnetPA administrative team and the statewide partners are very actively discussing the positive impacts, everyone who recognizes the benefits of this program is encouraged to get involved because more budgetary impacts could be imminent. The program needs your help and advocacy. You can get involved in several ways:
- Contact your state senator and representative and ask for their support
- Contact your WEDnetPA partner organization
- Contact the Statewide Administrative office
The WEDnetPA team remains optimistic about the future and about the opportunity to continue helping Pennsylvania businesses improve and the economy recover! Thank you for your help and support.
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