Senator Miller and Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Announce $17,000 Grant for First Lehigh County Small Business Improvement Program Recipient

Lehigh Valley, PA − November 5, 2026 − State Senator Nick Miller (D-Lehigh/Northampton), in partnership with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, announced C.E. Roth as the first recipient of the new Small Business Improvement Grant Program, awarding the longstanding Lehigh Valley business $17,000 to support its continued success. The grant awarded to C.E. Roth will support the replacement of its oil-fired boiler with a natural gas-fired system, improving energy efficiency and helping the business lower fuel and maintenance expenses.

Established in 1904 by Clarence E. Roth, C.E. Roth began as a small business making costumes for stage productions. Over the past 120 years, it has grown into a recognized regional business and remains family-owned in its third generation, serving customers throughout the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

Launched this past July and spearheaded by Senator Miller’s office, the Small Business Improvement Grant Program provides funding for interior and exterior improvements that help local businesses enhance their properties, attract customers, strengthen commercial corridors, and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

The program was opened to all eligible small businesses in Lehigh County, regardless of Chamber membership, with priority given to longstanding establishments that have made lasting contributions to their communities.

“Supporting longstanding local businesses like C.E. Roth means investing in the history, character and economic future of our community,” said Senator Miller. “For more than 120 years, C.E. Roth has remained a community staple, now in its third generation of family ownership. I am proud to recognize the business as the first recipient of our Small Business Improvement Grant Program with a $17,000 investment to support its continued success. Thank you to the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce for partnering with us to strengthen our local economy and help businesses like C.E. Roth continue serving our community for generations to come.”

“The Chamber is proud to partner with Senator Nick Miller on this impactful grant series,” said Tony Iannelli, President & CEO of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. “The focus on legacy businesses ensures that long-standing business leaders will not be forgotten. These much-needed dollars will provide improvements and upgrades that many businesses have had to postpone, despite their critical importance.”

“As a legacy, family-owned small business, we take great pride in serving our community and continuing the tradition of excellence that has defined our business for generations,” said Garret Persing, Owner, CE Roth Formal Wear LLC. “We are grateful to Senator Nick Miller and the Tony Ianelli of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce for their support and partnership in securing this $17,000 grant, which will allow us to install a new, energy-efficient natural gas boiler. This investment will help us reduce energy costs, improve efficiency, and continue investing in the future of our business. We sincerely appreciate their commitment to supporting local small businesses and helping family-owned businesses like ours remain strong, competitive, and a part of the Lehigh Valley community for generations to come.”

The announcement marks the first of several grant recipient announcements. Additional awardees will be announced in the coming weeks. 

About the Chamber: The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the economy and quality of communities in the Lehigh Valley.  

About Senator Nick Miller: Senator Nick Miller represents Pennsylvania’s 14th Senatorial District, serving communities in Lehigh and Northampton counties. He is committed to advancing economic development and strengthening the quality of life across the region.

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