Wyoming County, PA – The Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and Ecostrat are pleased to announce the issue of an investment grade BDO Zone ‘A’ Rating for Woody Biomass. The Wyoming County BDO Zone is the first ‘A’ rating in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, extending a 75-mile drive from Tunkhannock, PA.

The BDO Zone Initiative is a certification and regional risk rating program that enables economic development agencies and communities to effectively and credibly disclose feedstock and infrastructure attributes and risks and promote biobased development opportunities to developers and investors around the world.

Wyoming County’s BDO Zone ‘A’ rating denotes high prospective viability of feedstock supply chain and infrastructure, and low expectations of default risk in the Zone. The region features strong capabilities to accommodate new biobased plant operations, supported by a highly productive forest products industry, ensuring a stable feedstock supply and limited competition for pulpwood due to the absence of pulp and paper facilities in the area. The zone includes a prime M1 manufacturing site spanning 104 acres, located near companies offering complementary services essential for biofuels projects.

“The ‘A’ rating for Wyoming County highlights our community’s remarkable potential to lead the way in the bioeconomy,” stated Gina Suydam, President of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to partnering with bioenergy, biochemical, and bioproduct companies to enhance and diversify our forestry resources, positioning Wyoming County as a leader in bio-based industrial manufacturing.”

Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative added, “As Pennsylvania’s first ‘A’ rating, Wyoming County is poised to transform underutilized forest resources into a significant expansion of the value-added wood products industry. The BDO Zone is ideally positioned to support biobased companies seeking top locations for large-scale biomass projects.”

To see the full BDO Zone Rating for Wyoming County, Pennsylvania please visit www.bdozone.org.

About The BDO Zone Initiative

The BDO Zone Initiative certifies regional readiness for bio-based manufacturing, creates global connections with project developers, and ignites an influx of clean energy opportunities.

A BDO Zone rating is an internationally recognized standards-based technical risk assessment of biomass feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure risk with respect to the development potential of new biofuel, renewable chemical, biogas, and bioproduct plants. Investment grade ratings attract new bio-based manufacturing plants to the areas where they are most likely to succeed– and create jobs.

For more information on the BDO Zone Initiative, contact info@bdozone.org. To view all BDO Zone ratings, visit www.bdozone.org. Check out the BDO Zone LinkedIn page for news and updates.

Jordan Solomon is Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative and President of Ecostrat (www.ecostrat.com). He can be reached at jordan.solomon@ecostrat.com. Ecostrat is the North American leader in biomass due diligence for biofuels, renewable chemicals, biogas, and bio-product project development and finance.

>> Read More Here: BDOZone | Wyoming County, Pennsylvania – BDOZone

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Since December, we’ve been working behind the scenes with Jason Ebey of YGM to bring exciting new opportunities to our members. Now, the wait is almost over!

We’re THRILLED to introduce GROW, a bold new way to restructure chamber resources to elevate your business, build meaningful connections, and support local initiatives!

Launching Mid-February!
“With GROW, businesses will have unparalleled opportunities to shine—from increased visibility to game-changing partnerships,” says Chamber President Gina Suydam.

At the helm of this exciting initiative is GROW Chair Bill Ruark, Owner of Meshoppen Stone, who shares:
“As part of the vibrant regional business community, I wholeheartedly support the mission of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce to fuel growth—not just for our local economy, but for every business.”

With GROW, businesses of all sizes can tap into the Chamber’s powerful network—whether that means reaching new customers, enhancing brand recognition, or getting involved in programs that align with your company’s mission.

Why GROW?

• Customized marketing opportunities tailored to YOUR business
• Meaningful connections with local leaders
• Unmatched visibility through high-profile Chamber programs
• A stronger, more connected business community

Starting February 25, 2025, chamber advocates will contact local business leaders with tailored opportunities to help you THRIVE!

“We’re excited to help businesses, especially smaller ones, identify the Chamber programs that resonate most with their mission and customers,” adds Chamber Chairman Neil King. “This initiative is a fantastic way to get involved and grow!”

Together, we’re building a future where businesses GROW stronger, together.

Stay tuned—BIG things are coming!

The Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in our community, supporting local businesses and driving economic growth. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that our members receive the resources, advocacy, and opportunities they need to thrive. This year, the Chamber team has been actively engaged in various projects and programs designed to empower businesses and strengthen our community.
Leading these efforts is Gina Suydam, whose work in economic development is paving the way for a brighter future. One of Gina’s key initiatives has been securing a BOD Zone ‘A’ rating for Woody Biomass Development, an achievement that could open new doors for sustainable industry development in the region. But her focus doesn’t stop there; Gina has also been organizing industry roundtables, bringing together leaders to discuss pressing issues and collaborative solutions. As the Chamber looks ahead, she’s busy with planning the 2025 budget, carefully strategizing the financial priorities that will keep the organization and its members on solid footing.
Gina’s passion for leadership extends beyond business and economic matters. She’s also involved in programs aimed at cultivating future leaders, such as Leadership Wyoming and the YOU Youth Leadership Program. These initiatives aim to inspire and prepare the next generation of community and business leaders. Her efforts to recruit new members are expanding the Chamber’s network, ensuring that the organization continues to grow and diversify.

Meanwhile, Allison Schultz is the driving force behind the Chamber’s communications and event planning. She manages the production of IMPACT Magazine, the Chamber’s key publication that keeps members informed about local business news, upcoming events, and success stories within the community. Her work extends to coordinating all advertising efforts, including the widely read Thursday e-newsletter that keeps members connected.
Event planning is another area where Allison shines. She organizes numerous Chamber events throughout the year, providing members with valuable networking opportunities. The Chamber’s Midsummer Mingle has grown into a popular event, hosted at a different venue each July and consistently drawing a great crowd. Some of the educational program iniatives is Reality Check, a student financial literacy program that equips young people with the tools they need to make smart financial decisions. As the holiday season approaches, Allison is at the forefront of promotions aimed at boosting local businesses, including the Chamber Gift Check program and the Shop Small Business campaign, which encourages holiday shoppers to support local merchants.

The smooth day-to-day operations of the Chamber wouldn’t be possible without Lindsay Shepherd, who manages a range of administrative tasks essential for keeping things on track. From updating membership records to processing dues and handling accounts payable, Lindsay’s attention to detail ensures that the Chamber runs efficiently. She also oversees conference room reservations, making sure that members have access to meeting spaces when they need them.
The work of the Chamber team doesn’t end with these formal roles. They are always available to assist members in a variety of ways, from streamlining processes and connecting businesses with local vendors to advising on strategies for reducing tax liabilities. Their efforts have also helped businesses expand their marketing reach through Chamber platforms, increasing visibility and driving growth.
This year has been one of action, engagement, and forward-thinking for the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. Whether it’s through strategic economic initiatives, dynamic event planning, or behind-the-scenes administrative support, the Chamber team is committed to empowering local businesses and fostering a vibrant community. Their dedication continues to make a difference, helping our members not just succeed, but thrive.