PA SB674

Establishes the Rural Coworking and Innovation Center Grant Program administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development to fund facilities providing infrastructure and equipment for remote/online work in rural Pennsylvania areas

Grants up to $500,000 may be awarded to municipalities, higher education institutions, private businesses, nonprofit community development organizations, or redevelopment authorities for construction, renovation, utility/broadband connections, and equipment purchases

Recipients must provide a 100% match through funds, land, buildings, or in-kind work, and centers receiving construction/renovation grants must remain open for at least 7 years (5 years for utility/equipment grants)

Priority given to applicants with limited access to financial resources and projects that maximize economic development opportunities in collaboration with educational institutions or local governments

Grant recipients are responsible for ongoing operation and maintenance costs, which cannot be covered by grant funds; entities must return funds if centers fail to remain open for the required period