Lehigh Valley Celebrated as a National Economic Model at LVEDC Annual Meeting MRC Proud to Support the Region’s Manufacturing Strength and Workforce Future
By Manufacturers Resource Center
Allentown, PA – March 18, 2026 – The Lehigh Valley was honored as a national standout in economic development at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC) Annual Meeting on March 17, 2026. Nearly 1,000 attendees filled the venue in a standing-room-only crowd to celebrate the region’s remarkable achievements.
The Lehigh Valley earned the top ranking as the No. 1 mid-sized market for economic development in the United States in 2025 according to Site Selection Magazine — the second time in the past three years the region has claimed this national honor. Leaders highlighted a surging economy with a Gross Domestic Product exceeding $57 billion, employment of 343,975, and median household income that continues to outpace both state and national averages.
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of Eli Lilly and Company’s planned $3.5 billion manufacturing campus in Fogelsville — the largest economic development project in the Lehigh Valley’s history and the biggest life sciences investment ever in Pennsylvania. The new facility is expected to create 850 permanent jobs (90% filled locally) and approximately 2,000 construction jobs, with full operations targeted for 2031. The project underscores the region’s strong manufacturing heritage, collaborative spirit, and commitment to building a skilled workforce pipeline.
Governor Josh Shapiro and other speakers praised the Lehigh Valley’s model of partnership among business, education, government, and community leaders. Special recognition was given to workforce training initiatives, including expanded life sciences programs at Lehigh Carbon Community College and support from career and technical schools.
MRC’s Perspective
As a longtime Allentown-based organization deeply rooted in the Lehigh Valley, the Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC) is incredibly proud to call this dynamic region home. The national recognition and landmark investments like the Lilly campus validate what we see every day: the Lehigh Valley is a powerhouse for advanced manufacturing and innovation.
MRC remains committed to serving as a trusted resource for local manufacturers and workforce development. Through our programs, training initiatives, and partnerships, we help strengthen the very talent pipelines and operational excellence that are attracting world-class companies to our area. Events like the LVEDC Annual Meeting remind us how powerful collaboration can be — and we are excited to continue supporting the manufacturers and future workforce that will keep the Lehigh Valley thriving for years to come.
Congratulations to LVEDC, Governor Shapiro, and all the regional partners on this well-deserved national spotlight. The future of manufacturing in Pennsylvania has never looked brighter!