History of the Greater Reading Keystone Innovation Zone

The Pennsylvania KIZ program has been active in Pennsylvania since 2004, and there are many successful programs throughout the state. Each KIZ program is unique because the targeted industries and specific business services are tailored for each particular region.

In November of 2006, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development announced the approval of the Greater Reading Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ).

The KIZ designation and funding will ensure the creation of strong partnerships between the region's colleges and universities, and the business community.

Through the KIZ, university and other resources will be used to support start-up and early stage businesses within the KIZ focus target industries - Professional and Shared Services, Advanced Materials and Diversified Manufacturing, and Food Processing.

Education, research, technology commercialization, and workforce and economic development will be enhanced in the region due to the creation of the KIZ.