FRC Awarded State Grant to Accelerate Mercantile Building Redevelopment and Expand Technology Careers in Erie

FRC has been awarded a $500,000 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania grant to support the continued redevelopment of the historic Mercantile Building in downtown Erie, marking another milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to Erie and its growing technology economy.

The funding was announced as part of a $12.5 million package of state economic development investments awarded to projects across Erie County. FRC’s grant will help advance the next phase of its multi-million-dollar restoration of the Mercantile Building, transforming additional long-vacant space into a modern headquarters designed to support workforce growth while preserving one of Erie’s historic landmarks. (Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus)

Investing in Erie’s Future

Since relocating its headquarters to Erie, FRC has focused on creating high-quality technology careers while investing in the revitalization of downtown. The latest grant will fund the renovation of the building’s third floor, including structural improvements, modern mechanical systems, updated electrical infrastructure, fire protection, and a complete interior build-out.

“This money helps us continue to preserve this historic building and transform it into a 21st Century hub for our business,” said Jeremy Young, Chief Executive Officer of FRC. “We want to be part of the mid-town Erie redevelopment, and this investment allows us to grow the career opportunities we bring to the area as well.”

State Representative Ryan Bizzarro, Democratic Policy Chairman, highlighted the broader impact of investments like these on the region.

“We’ve already seen what strong state support for regional projects has done for our economy,” Bizzarro said. “There are construction projects left and right in our region, due in part to investments like these. It makes my job easier, securing critical funding like this, when we have strong partners in the community leading these efforts.”

A Center for Cybersecurity Innovation

The Mercantile Building is more than FRC’s headquarters. It serves as a collaborative center where cybersecurity innovation, workforce development, and community investment come together.

From Erie, FRC delivers advanced cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, Zero Trust, and data protection solutions that help protect federal agencies, public sector organizations, and critical infrastructure worldwide. The expanded headquarters will create additional space for technical and engineering talent as the company continues to grow across federal, state, local, education, and international markets.

Strengthening Erie Through Innovation

The Commonwealth’s investment reflects the increasing role technology companies play in regional economic development. By restoring a historic downtown landmark and expanding its operations, FRC is helping create new career opportunities while contributing to Erie’s continued revitalization.

The Mercantile Building redevelopment complements the significant public and private investment occurring throughout the city and demonstrates that world-class technology companies can grow and innovate in Erie.

Read the article here: pahouse.com/Bizzarro/InTheNews/NewsRelease/