Harkins, Merski: $890,000 low-interest loan approved for Erie Cotton Products
Rep. Patrick J. Harkins March 4, 2026 | 4:24 PM
ERIE, March 4 – The Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority approved a 15-year, $890,000 low-interest loan to Erie Cotton Products Inc., state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.
The loan, made through the Enterprise Development Center of Erie County, will enable Erie Cotton Products to purchase a 40,212-square-foot building at 1705 Raspberry St. in Erie, providing warehouse space, loading docks and administrative offices needed to meet growing demand for the company’s products. The total project cost is $2,225,000.
“Supporting Erie manufacturers like Erie Cotton Products is an investment in our community’s future,” Harkins said. “This loan will help the company expand operations, meet growing demand and preserve good-paying jobs here at home. Strengthening local manufacturing keeps supply chains resilient and ensures economic opportunity for Erie families.”
“Low-interest financing through PIDA is a practical tool for growing businesses and protecting jobs,” Merski said. “By enabling Erie Cotton Products to secure a larger facility with warehouse and shipping capacity, we’re helping a hometown company compete and grow while boosting the local economy.”
PIDA loans provide low-interest financing for eligible businesses to acquire land and buildings, renovate facilities, purchase machinery and equipment, and support working-capital needs. This investment will strengthen Erie’s manufacturing base and support the company’s ability to serve customers more efficiently, the representatives said.
More information about this grant and others awarded statewide is available here.