A New Tradition in the Making: Penn Steaks Brings Cheesesteaks and Community to the Heart of State College
In the very center of State College, just across from Doggies and down the street from The Gaff, the scent of fresh bread and sizzling ribeye fills the air. This isn’t just another restaurant opening. It’s something deeply rooted in the soil of Happy Valley.
Innovation That Works: How to Align Product, Market & Operations—Without Guessing
Innovation expert Renie Johnson shares a refreshingly clear strategy for aligning your idea with real market demand and operational capacity. It’s not just about invention—it’s about building something that works. For your team. For your customer. And for the region.
Creativity Pays Off: The ROI on a Thriving Arts Scene
On any summer evening at 3 Dots and other arts spaces across Centre County, you can see the local economy in action: musicians unloading their gear, artists displaying new work, and food trucks arriving as people stop by, grab a drink, and stay awhile. Families fill the streets, visitors photograph and post murals to social media, and young professionals build connections that root them here—to commit, buy a home, and to invest deeply in our community. This isn’t just entertainment—it’s what keeps our streets vibrant and our economy moving.
“Random Collisions of Goodness” Spark Unexpected Connections in Reedsville
In Big Valley, even an economic development event feels like a homecoming By Cara Aungst Last Wednesday, Ben Franklin Technology Partners collaborated with the Juniata Valley Chamber of Commerce for an entrepreneurial networking event celebrating innovation, connection, and the power of community in the tiny town of Reedsville. The event was a small revolution. It […]
Readers Speak: Why Leading with Heart Resonates in Happy Valley
“So happy to see ‘art and heart’ finally getting the recognition it deserves. We’ve spent too long celebrating size and scale alone—there’s so much to learn from founders who lead differently.”
Built on Love: A Blueprint for Growing Your Business Without Losing Its Heart
In a world where fear often pays off—and efficiency is rewarded—it takes a different kind of entrepreneur to build with love.
But that’s exactly what’s happening in Pine Grove Mills, Pennsylvania.
Not through national franchises or outside capital. But through wild-eyed local founders who, at first glance, might seem like dreamers—but who are quietly transforming their town through vision, grit, and deep devotion to people and place.
The Most Powerful Business Resources in Happy Valley –But Only If You Use Them
We always say Happy Valley is “resource-rich.” But resources don’t create success unless you plug into them.
MVEDP Annual Dinner Celebrates “NEVER STOP TRYING” Community Success and Entrepreneurial Growth in Moshannon Valley
The Moshannon Valley Economic Development Partnership (MVEDP) hosted its 35th Annual Awards Dinner last week, spotlighting a powerful blueprint for economic renewal: smart public investment, strategic partnerships, and unwavering support for local businesses.
Play with Heart—Because That’s How We Lead, Live, and Grow Together
Last Tuesday night at 3 Dots Downtown, something simple happened.
A diverse group—retirees, business owners, nonprofit leaders, Penn State students, and community champions—came together for the first-ever Connecting the Dots: A Community Conversation. We didn’t have hundreds of attendees. We didn’t need them. What we had was heart, honesty, and 27 people, ready to engage.
