b'BUSINESS OUTREACHSupporting Westmoreland BusinessesIn 2021, the WCIDC Business Outreach Program met with 57 companies to better understand their challenges and to make them aware of existing programs and new initiatives that could help grow their businesses. We established 17 new company connections and referred 34 clients to the countys affiliate economic-development service providers. Challenges for CompaniesWe ask every business we visit to identify their biggest challenges. For the sixth consecutive year, workforce is the greatest concern. Many report that its more difficult to find workers than in past years; retirements associated with an aging county demographic and demands for better pay and flexible work arrangements are believed to be factors in these shortages. To some extent, companies are now willing to offer more money to less-experienced candidates, yet employers still struggle to secure the right talent. The need for financial assistance was the second-most cited (22%) challenge; businesses are struggling with inflation in the price of raw materials and disruptions to supply chains. Related: 12% of respondents cited COVID-19s negative financial impact.Utility concerns were cited by 17% of those we polled. Frequent power outages are becoming an unfortunate norm for U.S. businesses, and some report that outages are not just mild inconveniences but board-room-level issues.CollaborationThe WCIDC Business Outreach Program is a member of Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance, a state network of business-assistance partners that help companies start, grow and prosper. The PREP network offers one-on-one counseling, workshops, online training and financial incentives to support our job creators. PREP contributed funding that helped us promote economic development opportunitesin Westmoreland County. Our efforts complement the Engage! program, a state initiative that features professionals who connect with and assist businesses across the state. Engage!funded several of our business visits.6'