Back to list July 14, 2023 Three Local Businesses Receive CAEDC Grant The Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation (CAEDC) is awarding nearly $152,000 in CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) funds to three local businesses for expansion and job growth. Ark Fitness in Mechanicsburg, Athena Mobility & Strength in Carlisle and Lebo’s Plumbing in Carlisle were each approved by CAEDC’s Finance Committee and met the program requirements, such as creating jobs and providing an equity-match. Ark Fitness, a wellness and fitness gym in Mechanicsburg that opened in August 2022, received $45,000 in CDBG funds to purchase new equipment and machinery for expansion and growth of the facility. CAEDC is working with Ark Fitness on additional projects. “Ark Fitness in Mechanicsburg is far more than just a gym. Since we opened, we have built a fitness community full of individuals all trying to improve their daily lives. We believe that we have an obligation to be good stewards of our members’ dollars and continue to reinvest in our facility and our community. Receiving a grant from Cumberland Area Economic Development Corp. is allowing us to significantly grow our impact, and further our mission to improve the lives of our members” said Ark Fitness owner, Noah Snyder. Athena Mobility & Strength is relocating their operation in Carlisle and received $55,000 in CDBG funds to purchase new equipment and machinery for the new location. Lebo’s Plumbing, a family-owned and operated business since 1960, is transferring ownership to the next generation. Lebo’s is receiving $51,933 in CDBG funds for the acquisition of the business, including the building, machinery, and equipment. Lebo’s received an additional $88,067 in loans from CAEDC. “This is what CAEDC does really well. We love helping home grown businesses expand and provide jobs to local residents; adding to the quality of life in Cumberland County,” said Janet Anderson, Executive Director of CAEDC. These projects fulfill CAEDC’s last remaining CCDBG funding from COVID-19 relief grants.
