Founded in 1956 with little more than determination and red lunch pails used to collect the first donations, CAN DO, Inc. has grown into one of Pennsylvania’s most respected nonprofit economic development organizations. Headquartered in the heart of downtown Hazleton, we proudly serve the Greater Hazleton area—a region that spans parts of Luzerne, Schuylkill, and Carbon counties in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Just a short drive from major cities like New York, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C., Greater Hazleton offers businesses a strategic location and a supportive community in which to grow and thrive.
Our Mission
To improve the quality of life in Greater Hazleton by creating and retaining a full range of employment opportunities.
For more than 65 years, CAN DO has worked to bring this mission to life through land development, infrastructure investment, business support, and workforce development initiatives. From entrepreneurs and small businesses to global companies, we help industry take root—and succeed—right here in Northeast Pennsylvania.
Our Role
CAN DO is a one-stop shop for business and industry, offering a full suite of services from site development to utility coordination, permitting assistance, and long-term support. While our team facilitates relocations and expansions, our commitment extends well beyond the ribbon cutting—we provide follow-up services for months and even years to help companies grow.
We work closely with:
Site selectors and developers
Real estate brokers and consultants
Government and workforce partners
Entrepreneurs and expanding businesses
Whether you’re looking to build new, lease space, or simply explore opportunities in a business-friendly community, CAN DO is your partner in success.
Here’s how we help companies succeed:
We develop real estate
As a developer and builder, CAN DO transforms raw land into fully prepared sites by installing roads and infrastructure “to the curb.” We’ve developed multiple industrial parks, an office/business park, and the Humboldt Station commercial park. We also construct speculative buildings and offer build-to-suit options for companies needing customized space.
We serve as facility landlords
CAN DO owns and leases nearly 1 million square feet of industrial, office, and commercial space throughout Greater Hazleton. By providing flexible leasing options and maintaining long-term relationships with our tenants, we ensure that companies have the physical space they need to grow and adapt.
We provide utility solutions
To ensure development continues smoothly, CAN DO constructs and manages its own utility infrastructure where needed. We operate water systems in the Humboldt Industrial Park, McAdoo Industrial Park, and the CAN DO Corporate Center, along with a sewage collection system and treatment plant in the Humboldt Industrial Park.
We support businesses and help finance growth
As a facilitator and funding partner, CAN DO assists companies in identifying financial, training, and construction resources. With decades of experience, we build tailored funding packages by leveraging federal, state, regional, and local programs to help projects succeed.
We strengthen the workforce
CAN DO connects employers with training providers and workforce partners to ensure that companies have access to a pipeline of skilled talent. Our partnerships help align job seekers with employer needs, strengthening the regional economy.
We nurture entrepreneurs
Through our business incubator, CAN BE (Community Association for New Business Entrepreneurship), and in partnership with Penn State Hazleton and other local agencies, we help homegrown businesses launch and thrive. Entrepreneurs benefit from technical assistance, mentorship, shared services, and affordable rents within our incubator facility.
Our Parks
We’ve developed more than 4,200 acres across four business parks, each designed to meet a range of industrial and commercial needs:
Humboldt Industrial Park: Our largest park, home to major companies like Amazon.com, American Eagle Outfitters, and The Hershey Company. With available acres and easy interstate access, it’s ideal for manufacturing, distribution, logistics, and e-commerce.
CAN DO Corporate Center: Located just off I-80, this Class A flex/office park is a perfect fit for white-collar operations and tech-based businesses. Features fiber-optic infrastructure and scenic views in a modern, professional setting.
Valmont Industrial Park: A prime location for manufacturing and distribution with excellent transportation access and utility infrastructure.
McAdoo Industrial Park: Offers a more intimate setting with a range of lot sizes, ideal for companies that do not require immediate interstate access but still want proximity to major routes and regional talent.
We’ve also carved out Humboldt Station, a designated area within Humboldt East, specifically designed for retail and commercial development.
Our Parks’ Impact
Over the decades, CAN DO has helped shape Greater Hazleton’s economy—and the numbers tell the story:
120
Current Industries
+30,000
Gross Jobs Created
+4,200
Acres Developed
+23,000,000
Square Feet Constructed
$21,000,000
Tax Revenue Generated Annually
+$2.3B
In Private Investment Leveraged
Our success is deeply rooted in the strengths of Greater Hazleton: A dedicated workforce, shovel-ready sites, lower operating costs, direct interstate access (I-80 & I-81), and a collaborative environment supported by higher education, workforce training programs, and community leaders.
Our History
Slide 1: A Vision Takes Root
A Vision Takes Root
Founded in 1956 with a dream to rebuild
In the aftermath of World War II, Greater Hazleton faced a severe economic downturn. The once-thriving anthracite coal industry collapsed, accelerated by the catastrophic flooding of deep mines during Hurricane Diane in 1955. Unemployment soared to nearly 23%, leaving the community without major employers or a clear path forward. Amid this crisis, a group of determined civic and business leaders, led by local physician and immediate past President of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Edgar L. Dessen, chose action over despair. Defying skepticism—including a banker’s blunt prediction of failure—they founded CAN DO, the Community Area New Development Organization, to spearhead economic revitalization and chart a new future for the region.
Slide 2: From Dimes to Development
From Dimes to Development
Community-led fundraising sparks a movement
In a powerful demonstration of grassroots commitment, CAN DO launched a series of creative fundraising campaigns between 1954 and 1957 to support Greater Hazleton’s economic revival. With backing from the Chamber of Commerce, the “Dime-A-Week” campaign encouraged workers to contribute $5.20 annually. This was joined by the “Mile of Dimes” initiative—where residents taped coins along Broad Street—and a third effort that placed lunch pails in local businesses to collect spare change. These community-driven efforts raised $14,000, enough to purchase 500 acres of land west of Hazleton that would become the Valmont Industrial Park.
Slide 3: Building the Foundation
Building the Foundation
Bond drive fuels industrial infrastructure
With land secured, CAN DO—under the leadership of its first president, Dr. Edgar L. Dessen—turned its focus to building the infrastructure needed to attract industry. A second, even more ambitious fundraising campaign was launched to raise $500,000 for the construction of speculative “shell” buildings: pre-built facilities designed to appeal to industrial tenants. Volunteers from across the community and local service organizations sold $100 bonds through payroll deduction plans, while merchants and businesses contributed cash. Despite doubts that such a financially strapped region could meet the goal, the campaign exceeded expectations—raising $540,000 in bonds and another $200,000 in contributions in just four weeks. The effort was so impactful that it was recognized by the U.S. government as a shining example of civic conscience, where those fortunate enough to be employed helped create opportunities for those who were not.
Slide 4: A Model for Industrial Growth
A Model for Industrial Growth
Valmont Industrial Park breaks ground in 1957
With funding in place and roads built by a regional commission to connect the site to State Route 93, CAN DO broke ground on the Valmont Industrial Park. In 1957, the hard work paid off when General Foam Corp.—a manufacturer of foam rubber products—became the park’s first tenant, creating 100 new jobs and signaling a new era of industrial opportunity for the region. Other businesses soon followed, snatching up parcels of land and constructing facilities or moving into shell buildings. These firms created thousands of new jobs that generated millions of dollars in payroll. As Greater Hazleton got back to work, commercial firms and real estate developers followed.
Slide 5: Crossroads of the East
Crossroads of the East
Strategic location unlocks new opportunity
As the national interstate highway system expanded in the mid-20th century, CAN DO recognized the transformative potential of connecting Greater Hazleton to this growing network. Community leaders, undeterred by the scale of the challenge, lobbied vigorously—including direct appeals to President Dwight D. Eisenhower—to ensure that major routes would pass near the region. Their efforts paid off: Interstate 81, running north-south from Canada to the Deep South, was routed just one mile west of the Valmont Industrial Park, while Interstate 80—spanning from New York City to San Francisco—came within six miles of downtown Hazleton. When local exits to both highways opened in 1965—ten years before the full Pennsylvania route was completed—Greater Hazleton quickly earned the nickname “The Crossroads of the East.” The name stuck, thanks to the strategic junction of I-80 and I-81 just six highway miles north of Valmont. A few years later, I-80 would also link the region to the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476), further cementing Hazleton’s position as a vital hub for commerce and transportation.
Slide 6: Growing a Legacy
Growing a Legacy
Humboldt Industrial Park takes shape
Building on the success of Valmont, CAN DO began planning a second industrial park west of downtown Hazleton in 1968. By 1970, the organization had acquired the land, and just two years later, Humboldt Industrial Park officially opened. Strategically located along a five-mile stretch of Route 924 at Exit 143 of Interstate 81—and just minutes from the I-80 interchange—Humboldt quickly attracted new tenants and began to thrive. Drawing on lessons learned from Valmont, CAN DO designed Humboldt with industry in mind: 12- and 16-inch ductile steel-lined pipes connect to a dedicated water supply, the sewer system serves only park tenants, and hard-surfaced roads are lined with utilities that reach the curb—eliminating the need for costly extensions or roadwork. This thoughtful infrastructure helped attract national brands and solidify Humboldt’s early role as a cornerstone of the region’s economic legacy.
Slide 7: Tailoring to Demand
Tailoring to Demand
New parks for different business needs
As Greater Hazleton’s economy diversified, CAN DO responded by developing new parks to meet the evolving needs of businesses. In 1987, two prospective clients expressed interest in locating near each other but outside the high-profile Valmont and Humboldt parks. CAN DO introduced them to a 200-acre tract it had owned since the 1960s near McAdoo, just south of Hazleton along State Route 309. With state grant support, infrastructure was developed, and the McAdoo Industrial Park officially opened in 1989. Designed for flexibility, the park offers lot sizes ranging from 2 to 30 acres, making it ideal for a variety of business types—especially those not requiring direct interstate access. Its location, just a half-mile from Route 309 and now connected to Interstate 81 via the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Beltway (State Route 424), has enhanced its accessibility and appeal. This expansion marked a new phase in CAN DO’s mission: creating tailored spaces that support broad-based economic growth across the region.
Slide 8: A Vision for White-Collar Growth
A Vision for White-Collar Growth
Corporate center blends innovation with environmental stewardship
Recognizing the region’s need for white-collar employment opportunities, CAN DO launched an initiative in the early 1990s to create a business park tailored to professional and light assembly operations. The organization purchased a 1,000-acre tract in Butler Township and began developing what would become the CAN DO Corporate Center. Completed in 1995, the park was designed with a forward-thinking approach that blended economic development with environmental stewardship. Its layout followed the innovative “Terrarium Concept,” an environmentally sensitive design that preserved the site’s natural beauty. This strategy, developed by a team of local community and business leaders, earned CAN DO the 1993 Environmental Excellence in Economic Development award from the internationally respected Arthur D. Little organization. Strategically located adjacent to Interstate 80 and just minutes from Interstate 81, the Corporate Center features cutting-edge communications infrastructure, a conservation preserve, and recreational amenities.
Slide 9: Momentum Accelerates: Humboldt West
Momentum Accelerates: Humboldt West
KOZ designation drives industrial expansion
By the mid-1990s, the success of Humboldt Industrial Park prompted CAN DO to expand. In early 1996, development began on Humboldt West, a 300-acre, rail-served site. The area gained significant momentum in 1998 when much of it was designated a Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ), offering tax incentives that attracted major national companies. OfficeMax, Cargill, Michaels, and First Quality Nonwovens were among the first to establish operations there, transforming Humboldt West into a thriving hub for industrial growth.
Slide 10: Expanding the Footprint: Humboldt North & East
Expanding the Footprint: Humboldt North & East
Food, manufacturing, and logistics firms fuel growth
Building on that momentum, CAN DO turned its attention to Humboldt North—a 400-acre, rail-served tract across State Route 924. This area quickly attracted manufacturers, food processors, and cold storage distributors. Gonnella Frozen Products opened a facility for partially baked frozen bread, while U.S. Cold Storage launched a state-of-the-art refrigerated distribution center and AutoZone opened a 600,000-square-foot facility. Meanwhile, Humboldt East, a 200-acre KOZ site, welcomed national brands like Tootsie Roll and offered rail-served, build-to-suit parcels with pre-approved site plans, further diversifying the region’s industrial base.
Slide 11: Humboldt Station: A Commercial Gateway
Humboldt Station: A Commercial Gateway
Retail and hospitality rise to meet workforce needs
Recognizing the need for amenities to support the growing workforce and attract travelers, CAN DO developed Humboldt Station at the intersection of State Route 924 and Interstate 81. This commercial hub was designed to serve employees, residents, and interstate travelers alike. The first tenants—Residence Inn by Marriott and Turkey Hill—were soon joined by Burger King, with more retail interest growing steadily. As development accelerates, Humboldt Station is poised to become a vibrant gateway to the industrial park, offering dining, lodging, and convenience in a high-traffic, highly visible location.
Slide 12: Supporting Startups
Supporting Startups
CAN BE incubator nurtures local entrepreneurs
Recognizing that some of the most promising business ideas are born locally, CAN DO launched the CAN BE (Community Association for New Business Entrepreneurship) Innovation Center in the early 2000s. This business incubator provides affordable office space and essential infrastructure to help startups get off the ground. More than just a physical space, CAN BE connects entrepreneurs with a network of experienced business leaders, educational institutions, and community partners—including Penn State Hazleton—offering mentorship, resources, and support. By fostering innovation and empowering local talent, CAN BE plays a vital role in cultivating the next generation of businesses in Greater Hazleton.
Slide 13: Sustained Growth and Expansion
Sustained Growth and Expansion
Strategic development attracts national investment
Throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s, Greater Hazleton experienced a period of significant industrial growth, fueled by CAN DO’s ongoing commitment to strategic development and job creation. The region attracted a wave of new investment and expansion across its industrial parks, particularly in Humboldt and Valmont. National brands continued to establish and grow operations in the area, drawn by its prime location at the crossroads of Interstates 80 and 81, shovel-ready sites, and business-friendly incentives. CAN DO’s efforts during this time led to the creation of thousands of jobs and the development of millions of square feet of industrial space. This era of expansion further solidified Greater Hazleton’s reputation as a premier destination for logistics, manufacturing, and food processing industries.
CAN DO continues to serve as a driving force behind Greater Hazleton’s economic vitality. Its long-standing partnership with the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce remains strong, with both organizations working closely on initiatives that enhance the region’s business climate and quality of life. CAN DO collaborates with local governments and community stakeholders to attract new industries, support existing employers, and ensure that Greater Hazleton remains a competitive, connected, and welcoming place to live and work.
Slide 15: Evolving to Meet New Needs
Evolving to Meet New Needs
Entrepreneurship and workforce readiness take center stage
As the economy and workforce continue to evolve, CAN DO has expanded its focus to include support for entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and targeted industry recruitment. The organization actively promotes Greater Hazleton to manufacturing industries, while also fostering innovation through the CAN BE incubator. By aligning infrastructure development with the needs of modern businesses and investing in talent pipelines, CAN DO is helping to ensure that the region remains adaptable and future-ready. These efforts are guided by a commitment to measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
Slide 16: Revitalizing the Heart of Hazleton
Revitalizing the Heart of Hazleton
Downtown investment reinvigorates connection to CAN DO’s roots
In recent years, CAN DO has deepened its investment in Downtown Hazleton, recognizing that a vibrant city center is essential to regional prosperity. In 2024, the organization entered into a management agreement with the Downtown Hazleton Alliance for Progress—a nonprofit it helped found in 2013—to lead revitalization efforts. Through this partnership, CAN DO is supporting commercial development, cultural programming, and infrastructure improvements that are transforming downtown into a dynamic hub for business, community, and creativity. These efforts reflect a broader vision: one where economic growth uplifts every corner of Greater Hazleton.
The Future
The CAN DO spirit of vision, drive, and determination continues to guide our work today. With the support of a professional staff and dedicated volunteers, we remain focused on:
Attracting new industries and jobs
Supporting existing businesses
Empowering entrepreneurs to build tomorrow’s companies
Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding your business, or seeking the perfect location to grow, CAN DO is ready to help.
Explore our parks. Meet our team. See what Greater Hazleton—and a CAN DO attitude—can do for you.
