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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
Social

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Announcements

City launches latest round of Corridor Enhancement Grant

The City of Philadelphia launched the Corridor Enhancement Grant, a fund that contributes to neighborhood economic development and vibrant commercial areas.

The application deadline is April 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

The Corridor Enhancement Grant supports community-serving nonprofits dedicated to enhancing the appearance, safety, livability of business districts in the neighborhoods they serve. The goal is to increase foot traffic, attract new businesses, promote available commercial real estate and a sense of community. Applicants are encouraged to submit projects that enhance the “look and feel” of their local commercial areas.

Eligible organizations can apply for an award amount of between $10,000 and $40,000 to complete their project.

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 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

  • Apr
    16
    OEO Doing Business in the City: How to do Business with LIVE Casino
    1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
    Online

    OEO Doing Business in the City: How to do Business with LIVE Casino

    April 16, 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
    • 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.

    Presenter: Chelsea Selby, Director of Purchasing & Warehouse, LIVE Casino

    Register for this workshop. 

  • Apr
    23
    OEO Business Development Series: DBE Certification
    1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
    Online

    OEO Business Development Series: DBE Certification

    April 23, 2025
    1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, 2 hours
    Online
    map

    The Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) offers Business Development Workshops to empower minority-, women-, and disabled-owned businesses (M/W/DSBEs) with the skills, resources, and knowledge needed to thrive in Philadelphia's competitive business environment. These workshops focus on:

    • Enhancing business capacity and readiness for growth opportunities.
    • Providing guidance on City contracts, procurement processes, and certification.
    • Delivering industry insights and best practices to help businesses succeed.
    • Offering networking opportunities with City agencies, prime contractors, and business leaders.

    OEO's Business Development Workshops are designed to foster economic inclusion by equipping businesses with the tools they need to expand, secure contracts, and contribute to Philadelphia's vibrant economy.

    The DBE Certification Workshop provides businesses with a comprehensive understanding of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification process and its benefits. This workshop equips business owners with the tools and knowledge needed to achieve DBE certification, expand their market reach, and access new opportunities for business success.

    Register for this workshop. 

  • Apr
    24
    Coffee and Commerce: Safety Essentials and Crime Prevention for Businesses
    9:00 am to 12:00 pm
    Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, 1301 South Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19147

    Coffee and Commerce: Safety Essentials and Crime Prevention for Businesses

    April 24, 2025
    9:00 am to 12:00 pm, 3 hours
    Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, 1301 South Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19147
    map

    Join the Department of Commerce, for our Coffee and Commerce event series! These events are designed to empower the growth of businesses with resources, knowledge and connections. Each session offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to hear from industry leaders and specialists on key topics that will help them start, operate, and grow their businesses in Philadelphia.

    Join us for an informative session on Safety Essentials and Crime Prevention for Businesses. This event will cover essential topics, including effective security strategies and practical crime prevention measures. Our panelists will share valuable insights on how businesses can protect themselves, provide critical tips for responding to incidents like burglary or theft, and offer public safety resources, including trauma-informed care. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover how strong partnerships between businesses and safety enforcement can create a safer Philadelphia for all.

    Topic: Safety Essentials and Crime Prevention for Businesses

    Moderator: Camille Simpkins, Relationship Manager, PIDC

    Panelists:

    • Myesha Massey, Deputy Commissioner, Community Partnerships, Philadelphia Police Department
    • Neftali Ramos, Director of Kensington Coordination
    • Pedro Rosario, Deputy Police Commissioner, Philadelphia Police Department
    • Pedro Rodriquez, Inspector - Training and Education Services
    • Michael P Cram, Deputy Commissioner, Patrol Operations, Philadelphia Police Department
    • Adam Geer, Chief Public Safety Director, Office of Public Safety

    Register here. 

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