For six decades, Pottstown Area Economic Development (PAED) has served as the Borough’s driving force for revitalization, reinvention, and economic growth. Originally founded in 1965 and established as a 501c3 non-profit corporation, Pottstown Area Industrial Development (PAID), helped guide the region through the exodus of heavy industry and into a new era of diverse development. PAID (now known as PAED) was a regional organization, serving not only the Borough of Pottstown, but also the surrounding townships including Lower Pottsgrove, Warwick Township, Douglassville, and Royersford.
From the boom years of Bethlehem Steel and Mrs. Smith’s Pies to the post-industrial downturn of the ’70s and ’80s, PAED has remained a steady force. It launched business parks, like those located at Shoemaker Road and Circle of Progress. It helped transform vacant spaces into vibrant commercial centers. During the decades that followed, the focus was on creating solutions to meet the needs of future companies and their workforces.
After reorganizing in 2010, PAED refocused its mission on Pottstown’s 5.5 square miles. The nonprofit became the “go-to” entity for developers, businesses, and local leaders looking to invest in the community. Governed by a Board of Directors, with participation from key stakeholders from both public and private sectors, PAED rebranded in 2021. The I for Industrial became the E for Economic. From reopening shuttered buildings to guiding environmental remediation projects like the former Pottstown Plating Works, PAED has been the leader for economic development and at the center for bringing new life to old spaces.
Recent years have seen PAED grow beyond its central mission of site development into placemaking, beautification, and tourism. Efforts like Light Up High Street, The Clean Team, and the pursuit of a Main Street Designation and Business Improvement District are making Downtown Pottstown more welcoming and walkable. PAED also administers the Borough’s Land Bank, helping move blighted and tax-delinquent residential properties back into productive use.
PAED isn’t just building up—it’s speaking up. In 2023, the organization worked closely with Rep. Joe Ciresi to introduce House Bill 1573 to assist in alleviating cost-prohibitive renovations in historic buildings due to today’s required building codes.
\Now marking its 60th anniversary, PAED will celebrate with a special Pottstown Progress luncheon on November 13, 2025, recognizing its role in helping Pottstown expand this former industrial hub into a growing destination for innovation, business, and tourism. Along with the celebration of PAED’s 60th anniversary, several businesses and organizations will receive awards. DANA Inc, calling Pottstown home for over 100 years will receive the Legacy Award; Pottstown’s Go Fourth Festival led by Amy Wolf and Amy Francis will receive the Connector Award; The Small Business Award will be awarded to Once Upon A Time Consignment Boutique; and Craig Cigas will receive the Board of Directors Award.
To learn more about PAED’s ongoing mission and anniversary celebration, visit IPickPottstown.
