Your Next Competitive Advantage Starts Here

Cumberland County, Pennsylvania sits at the center of one of the most strategically connected regions in the country, putting more than half of the U.S. and Canadian population within a 10-hour drive. For companies in food and agribusiness and manufacturing, that location advantage translates directly to lower supply chain costs, faster fulfillment, and access to five major East Coast ports via direct interstate connections.

The infrastructure and regulatory environments are already built for your industry, making the region a natural home for food and agribusiness investment. And Cumberland County has the talent to match the opportunity with four colleges, specialized technical programs, and deep employer partnerships that deliver a ready workforce pipeline in engineering, logistics, and the trades.

It’s no coincidence that Cumberland County has been Pennsylvania’s fastest-growing county since 2010: the combination of strategic location, business-friendly climate, top-rated school districts, and exceptional quality of life continues to attract companies and talent alike. The case for Cumberland County isn’t just compelling. It’s measurable.

Why Cumberland County

Multimodal Transportation Network
Strategically positioned at the crossroads of I-81 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), Cumberland County offers unmatched access to major markets throughout the East Coast and beyond. Rail, air, and highway infrastructure work in concert to move goods efficiently, making this one of the most logistics-advantaged counties in the Mid-Atlantic.

Growing Community, Stable Workforce
Cumberland County is one of Pennsylvania’s fastest-growing communities, offering a skilled and expanding workforce, excellent quality of life, and a welcoming environment for businesses and families alike. With top-ranked schools, thriving neighborhoods, and a strong tax base, the county continues to attract new residents and investment.

Manufacturing Expertise
Home to a deep and diverse manufacturing base, from building materials and food processing to advanced industrial equipment, Cumberland County has the workforce, facilities, and institutional knowledge to support companies at every stage of growth. Our manufacturing heritage is a competitive advantage for new and expanding operations.

Don’t navigate site selection alone.

CAEDC’s team of economic development experts is ready to help you find the right location, access the right incentives, and get your operation up and running faster.

Get in Touch Today

Choosing the Best Location for Food Processing and Manufacturing

Selecting the right location for a food processing or manufacturing facility is one of the most consequential decisions your business will make. Start with the right checklist.
  • Access to major transportation corridors, rail, and port facilities for inbound materials and outbound distribution
  • Proximity to key consumer markets to minimize shipping costs and fulfillment times
  • Abundant, high-quality water supply and adequate wastewater infrastructure
  • Reliable energy supply at competitive utility rates
  • Available skilled labor pool with manageable competition for talent
  • Business incentives including tax abatements, grants, and project financing
  • Favorable zoning, permitting, and regulatory environment
  • Access to raw materials, agricultural land, and supplier networks
  • Available existing facilities to reduce construction timelines and costs
  • Long-term community and infrastructure investment supporting business growth
Partner with a local economic development expert who can navigate site selection, incentives, and approvals on your behalf.