May is a meaningful month for our local economy. It brings together National Tourism Week, National Small Business Week, and National Economic Development Week—three recognitions that, in many ways, define Adams County. 

Our economy is built on small business. 

When people hear “small business,” they often picture a downtown shop or a family-owned restaurant. While those are certainly part of our identity, the definition is broader than many realize. Under the U.S. Small Business Administration, many of our manufacturers, agricultural operations, and growing companies also qualify as small businesses. 

That means most businesses across Adams County—from our main streets to our manufacturing floors to our orchards—are part of this ecosystem. 

And it’s a strong one. 

Adams County is home to a diverse and resilient economy—rooted in agriculture, supported by manufacturing, and strengthened by tourism. These industries don’t operate independently—they rely on each other. Visitors support our local businesses, agriculture shapes our identity, and manufacturers provide jobs and long-term growth. 

But the current economic climate is not without challenges. 

Costs are rising. Our fruit growers are navigating the impacts of untimely freezing temperatures. Manufacturers continue to face infrastructure and utility constraints. Small business owners and nonprofit leaders are wearing more hats than ever—balancing operations, staffing, finances, and long-term planning. 

In environments like this, it’s easy to become reactive—focused on solving the next immediate problem. Important efforts like advocacy and engagement with elected officials can fall to the bottom of the list. 

That’s where the Adams Economic Alliance plays a role. 

One of our core responsibilities is to advocate for Adams County—to ensure the needs and challenges of our business community are represented at every level of government. 

Recently, our team traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with federal elected officials and discuss key economic development priorities. We also participated in the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association Legislative Conference, engaging with state leaders on policies impacting tourism, small business, agriculture, and manufacturing. 

This work happens consistently and includes: 

  • Advocating on behalf of Adams County businesses and organizations  
  • Sharing timely, relevant information across the county  
  • Connecting local challenges with state and federal resources  

We don’t claim to be experts in every industry. Our role is to listen, learn from you, and carry those insights forward—helping shape policies that support long-term economic growth. 

We are here to advocate for you—your business, your organization, and our community. 

Looking ahead, Adams County will host the 2026 Pennsylvania Economic Development Association Fall Conference at the Wyndham in Gettysburg October 26-28—another opportunity to showcase our community, learn best practices and advocate for Adams County. 

Because economic development isn’t just about projects—it’s about people, partnerships, and progress. 

And in Adams County, we’re committed to moving forward—together.