Schuylkill Chamber Foundation

 

The Schuylkill Chamber Foundation, Inc. is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization established in 2008 to further enhance the development of Schuylkill County through Leadership development, youth engagement programs and entrepreneurship.  The Chamber Foundation supports and promotes scholarships for programs that provide training and development for Schuylkill County’s business community and youth.

 

The following initiatives are sponsored by the Schuylkill Chamber Foundation through funding and scholarships to participants:

Schuylkill Leadership
Schuylkill Leadership was created in 1991 to identify and train individuals who are willing to share their time and skills in building a better Schuylkill County. The Schuylkill Leadership program introduces candidates to community programs and shares leadership concepts that prepare Leadership graduates for important roles in community activities.

Schuylkill Executive Leadership
Schuylkill Executive Leadership was developed in 2007 as an initiative of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce. The program was designed to expand upon and/or hone the skills needed for career advancement.

IGNITE Schuylkill
IGNITE Schuylkill is an entrepreneurial development program for aspiring business owners designed to support and nurture the growth of early-stage businesses. IGNITE Schuylkill creates a non-traditional form of economic development by investing in human capital to foster a community where emerging businesses can succeed and thrive.

The program is structured to provide personalized support to adult entrepreneurs in their journey from idea to execution, offering critical tools and guidance during the most challenging early stages of business development. Participants will gain access to mentorship, training, and community connections that will help them refine their business models, navigate obstacles, and accelerate their growth.

Key features of the IGNITE Schuylkill program include:

  • Business Development Training: Participants will engage in workshops and hands-on training focused on core business skills, such as strategic planning, financial management, marketing, operations, and sales
  • One-on-One Mentorship: Entrepreneurs will receive tailored guidance from experienced business mentors, including local business leaders, industry experts, and community stakeholders, who will offer insight and advice based on real-world experience.
  • Networking Opportunities: Entrepreneurs will be part of a collaborative community where they can build relationships with fellow business owners, potential investors, customers, and industry experts.
  • Sustainability & Growth Focus: The program aims to help participants develop sustainable, scalable business models that contribute to long-term success and regional economic prosperity.

 


IGNITE Schuylkill Youth Program (EITC APPROVED)
IGNITE Schuylkill Youth Program, is a dynamic, EITC approved, entrepreneurial development initiative designed to empower and support aspiring young entrepreneurs in Schuylkill County. Tailored for early-stage entrepreneurs (grades 9th-12th), the program aims to cultivate the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to launch and grow successful businesses.

As an EITC-approved program, IGNITE Schuylkill offers a unique opportunity for community investment in youth entrepreneurship, fostering a local ecosystem where emerging businesses can flourish. By supporting young entrepreneurs in their early stages, the program helps create a sustainable, thriving economy driven by local innovation.

Students will benefit from access to:

  • Business Development Workshops: Covering topics like business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and scaling operations.
  • Mentorship: Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and community leaders.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with potential investors, partners, and other business owners.
  • Access to Resources: Tools, spaces, and funding to help young entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life.

The IGNITE Schuylkill Youth Program seeks to create a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, where aspiring business owners are given the support and resources they need to succeed—driving growth, opportunity, and innovation in the Schuylkill community and beyond.

National Civics Bee®

The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee® national championship in Fall 2025.

For program information, deadlines, guidelines and more, click here.

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CONTRIBUTIONS

If you would like to contribute to the Schuylkill Chamber Foundation please make your check payable to the Schuylkill Chamber Foundation and mail to the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, Union Station, 1 Progress Circle Suite 201, Pottsville, PA 17901.

Building tomorrow's leaders today!

The Schuylkill Chamber Foundation is fortunate to have the following people serving as our Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 program year:

Cynthia Mensch
Alvernia University Pottsville
Amanda Campbell
Schuylkill Area Community Foundation
Michelle Lewandowski
Customers Bank
Peter Keitsock
Avenues
Robert Carl Jr.
Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce
Jamie Barton
Jack Rich, Inc.
Jeff O'Neill
M&T Bank
Patty Schoener
Penn State
Mark Minning
Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation
James C. Bohorad, Esq.
Marshall Bohorad Thornbug Price Campion, PC
Shannon Brennan
Schuylkill Technology Center

 

Savas Logothetides
Pottsville Area Development Corporation