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Department of Commerce

What we do

The Department of Commerce helps businesses—large and small—thrive in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is the ideal home for your business, offering:

  • A central location along the Northeast corridor.
  • A ready and talented workforce.
  • Competitive office rents and commercial real estate costs.
  • Vibrant commercial districts and growing innovation industries.
  • World-class dining, history, and cultural attractions.

We work to:

  • Attract and grow a diverse set of businesses.
  • Revitalize neighborhood commercial districts throughout the city.
  • Support small businesses and improve their access to funding.
  • Build a strong talent pipeline.
  • Increase economic opportunities for historically underserved business owners.

Connect

Address
1515 Arch St.
12th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Email business@phila.gov
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Announcements

Sign Up for Updates: Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker wants everyone to have access to economic opportunity. That’s why she signed the PHL Open for Business Executive Order, asking all City departments to streamline and simplify the experience of doing business with and in the city, driving inclusive growth for all.

Great news! In support of this, the Department of Commerce announces the launch of the Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund (“the Fund”), a $5 million investment designed to accelerate the growth of high-potential small businesses and entrepreneurs across the city. We are developing a model within City government to keep empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening Philadelphia’s economy.

To be notified when the Expression of Interest form for the Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund is available, click here

Programs

Events

  • Mar
    19
    2025 Tools of the Trades Conference
    9:00 am to 4:30 pm
    Virtual

    2025 Tools of the Trades Conference

    March 19, 2025
    9:00 am to 4:30 pm, 8 hours
    Virtual
    map
    Join CraftNOW and NextFab for their third annual Tools of the Trades hybrid conference focused on connecting artisans and makers to business resources in Philadelphia and beyond. This three-day event provides a concentrated period for creative learning to help craft-focused businesses accelerate growth and find success however they choose to define them. Tools of the Trades delivers a variety of programming and materials – lectures, resource directories, and a collaborative event – to address the needs voiced by our creatives running small businesses. The conference strives to emphasize approachability, affordability, and a supportive environment where everyone can come together, and no question goes unanswered.

    Register today
  • Mar
    19
    OEO Doing Business in the City: How to do Business with SEPTA
    1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
    Online

    OEO Doing Business in the City: How to do Business with SEPTA

    March 19, 2025
    1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, 2 hours
    Online
    map

    The Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) offers Doing Business in the City Workshops to help businesses navigate opportunities, resources, and processes for successfully contracting with the City of Philadelphia. These workshops are designed to support businesses by providing guidance on:

    • City procurement processes
    • Certification requirements for becoming a registered M/W/DSBE
    • How to find and bid on City contracts
    • Networking opportunities with City departments, agencies, and prime contractors

    The workshops equip businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to access City contracts, expand capacity, and grow sustainably, aligning with Philadelphia's commitment to economic opportunity for all.

    The How to Do Business with SEPTA Workshop provides businesses with valuable insights into partnering with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), one of the region's largest public transportation systems. This workshop equips business owners with the knowledge and tools needed to access opportunities with SEPTA, build strategic partnerships, and grow their business within Philadelphia’s public transit ecosystem.

    Register for this workshop. 

  • Mar
    20
    2025 Tools of the Trades Conference
    9:00 am to 4:30 pm
    Virtual

    2025 Tools of the Trades Conference

    March 20, 2025
    9:00 am to 4:30 pm, 8 hours
    Virtual
    map
    Join CraftNOW and NextFab for their third annual Tools of the Trades hybrid conference focused on connecting artisans and makers to business resources in Philadelphia and beyond. This three-day event provides a concentrated period for creative learning to help craft-focused businesses accelerate growth and find success however they choose to define them. Tools of the Trades delivers a variety of programming and materials – lectures, resource directories, and a collaborative event – to address the needs voiced by our creatives running small businesses. The conference strives to emphasize approachability, affordability, and a supportive environment where everyone can come together, and no question goes unanswered.

    Register today

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