STATE COLLEGE — The College Township Industrial Development Authority is launching The Business Pulse Project & Listening Initiative, designed to strengthen relationships with local businesses and gather valuable feedback to guide future economic development efforts.
The initiative officially launches on August 1, 2026, with the opening of the College Township Business Pulse Survey. More than a survey, the initiative represents the CTIDA’s commitment to listening to businesses, understanding their needs, and working collaboratively to foster a strong and sustainable local economy.
“The Business Pulse & Listening Initiative is intended to become a cornerstone of CTIDA’s Business Retention and Expansion efforts,” said Keri Kenepp, Executive Director of the CTIDA. “By engaging directly with our businesses each year, we can make better-informed decisions, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that our programs and investments reflect the needs of the businesses we serve.”
The Business Pulse Survey will remain open through September 18, 2026, and is expected to take approximately 10 minutes to complete. Responses will help identify business trends, workforce and infrastructure needs, expansion opportunities, and priorities for future business support programs.
During the month of August, CTIDA staff and Board members will visit businesses throughout College Township to introduce the initiative, encourage participation, and hear directly from business owners and managers. Beginning Aug.15, informational postcards featuring a QR code linking directly to the survey will be mailed to businesses across the Township to broaden participation.
As a thank you for participating, businesses that complete the survey will be entered into random prize drawings featuring gift cards and gift baskets showcasing products and services from College Township businesses.
Survey results will be compiled following the September 18th closing date and incorporated into the CTIDA’s strategic planning process throughout September and October. The findings will help shape future economic development initiatives, business support programs, infrastructure priorities, and collaborative partnerships.
The CTIDA also anticipates hosting a community event later this winter where participating businesses, township officials, CTIDA Board members, and regional partners will be invited to review the aggregate
survey findings, learn about the CTIDA’s updated strategic priorities, and discuss next steps for strengthening College Township’s business community.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of College Township’s economy,” said board Chairman Ray Liddick, Jr. “This initiative is about more than collecting information. It’s about building relationships, understanding the opportunities and challenges our businesses face, and ensuring that their voices help shape the future of our community.”
Businesses located in College Township are encouraged to participate beginning August 1 by completing the online survey. Additional information will be available through the CTIDA’s website and social media channels throughout the survey period.
For more information about the College Township Business Pulse & Listening Initiative, contact: College Township Industrial Development Authority Executive Director Keri Kenepp at 814-208-4122 or kkenepp@collegetownship.org.
