Stops on the tour included Monument Square Center, Moon Dragon game store, Miller Cinemas and Kickin’ Cater as part of Pennsylvania Small Business Week, proclaimed by Gov. Josh Shapiro and running May 3-9.

“Like here in Lewistown, downtowns and main streets across Pennsylvania are the heartbeat of their local economies,” Siger said. “Supporting local businesses is a direct investment in the success and resilience of our communities.”

State officials said Pennsylvania has more than 1.2 million small businesses, employing about 2.5 million people statewide. They also noted that when $100 is spent at a small business, about $73 stays in the local community.

Siger also discussed the Shapiro administration’s Main Street Matters program, which is intended to support downtown revitalization, small businesses and local economies. The governor has proposed another $20 million for the program in the 2026-27 state budget.

Lewistown received a Main Street designation last year, allowing Downtown Lewistown Inc. to apply for up to $225,000 in grant funding for its five-year revitalization strategy, including efforts to address blight, improve public spaces and attract development.

“We thank Secretary Siger for taking the time to visit our community and spend meaningful time in downtown Lewistown,” said Mifflin County Commissioner Kevin Kodish. “His willingness to meet directly with our small business owners and hear their perspectives firsthand made a real impression.”

Kodish said the conversations underscored the importance of continued collaboration between state leaders and local communities.

“These conversations matter,” he said. “They highlight the challenges our entrepreneurs face and reinforce the importance of continued partnership between state leadership and communities like ours.”

Mayor Deborah Bargo said state support has benefited local businesses and neighborhoods through funding, technical guidance and infrastructure improvements, while Downtown Lewistown Inc. Executive Director Jim Zubler said the Main Street designation has helped advance local revitalization efforts.

Kodish added that the county looks forward to continuing that partnership.

“We truly appreciate the secretary’s interest, accessibility and commitment to supporting economic growth at the local level,” he said. “We look forward to continuing to work together to strengthen our downtown and create new opportunities for our residents.”

Siger encouraged residents to support small businesses during Small Business Week and throughout the year.