CAN DO, Inc. announced that former Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Economic Development Analyst Mark Minnig has joined its staff as the organization’s Economic Development Specialist.

In his role at CAN DO, Minnig will manage the planning, procurement and administration of all necessary grants and loans for the organization; assist  businesses in the community to identify and procure financing opportunities; act as a liaison to employers through  outreach to ensure Greater Hazleton’s continued economic development; and coordinate with CAN BE to cultivate clients and assist small businesses and start-ups with financing options.

As an analyst for the  Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA), Minnig’s primary responsibility was underwriting business loans to all eligible enterprises within Pennsylvania. This experience helped Minnig gain substantial knowledge about the world of business financing such as different business financing programs, project finance structuring, and financial analysis that will allow  him to assist businesses of all sizes within Greater Hazleton.

CAN DO President and CEO Kevin O’Donnell said, “We are very fortunate to have a former Commonwealth of Pennsylvania employee on the CAN DO staff. Mark’s considerable expertise and experience will be an invaluable asset to the businesses we serve as a Certified Economic Development Organization for Luzerne County.”

Minnig said, “I’m really excited to be a part of the staff at CAN DO. The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) provided me with numerous experiences and opportunities that directly translate to my position here. I always knew that I had an interest in economic development beyond business financing and it’s exciting to come to the other side of the table and be a part of a community organization. I’m from Mount Carmel so northeastern Pennsylvania  is my home. It’s great to be back  and directly involved in the development happening not only in Hazleton, but the region. I believe in providing outstanding service to the community and all the businesses we serve.”

Minnig graduated Cum Laude from Albright College with a bachelor’s degree in Economic and Political Science in 2015. While at Albright, Minnig was a member of Pi Sigma Alpha – Political Science Honor Society and Dearden Business Honor Society.