Financial assistance is available for businesses citywide! The Business Security Camera Program encourages businesses to purchase and install exterior security cameras on commercial properties. The program seeks to increase safety for shoppers, residents, and employees.
The program offers two levels of funding:
- Citywide funding: Businesses citywide can receive up to 75% of the total eligible costs, as much as $3,000 for a single commercial property.
- Targeted Commercial Corridor funding: Businesses located in certain areas can receive up to 100% of the total eligible costs.
The Business Security Camera Program is a program of the Department of Commerce. We aim to drive equitable neighborhood revitalization that contributes to vibrant commercial corridors citywide where businesses can safely operate and actualize their dreams.
Business owners share their stories
In this series, we are highlighting the stories of small businesses that purchased and installed exterior cameras on commercial properties. Hear from Rick Kennedy (RK), owner of Odd One LLC about what the Business Security Camera Program means for him and his business:
Tell us a little bit about your business. What services does your business provide?
RK: My name is Richard Kennedy, and I’m the owner of Odd One LLC, a general contracting and security camera specialist company founded in Philadelphia. We handle projects ranging from small residential homes to large commercial complexes. We collaborate with the Department of Commerce through the Business Security Camera Program and the Storefront Improvement Program to help businesses install security cameras on their commercial properties. Since 2019, we’ve partnered with the Department of Commerce, particularly in the Kensington area, to enroll businesses in the Business Security Camera program. Initially, we faced challenges due to the area’s conditions and CDC requirements, making outreach difficult. However, as we engaged with local businesses, we clarified that the program was entirely free, in targeted areas with costs covered by the city and our company handling upfront expenses. Today, we continue to manage initial costs, with the city reimbursing us afterward.
How many people does your business employ?
RK: Right now, we have 10 employees and about eight subcontractors.
What does having a business in Philadelphia mean to you?
RK: I enjoy my business because I help a lot of people, and I love helping them. I am grateful for the monetary rewards with it too, but that is the most gratifying thing for me to do is setting up the concept plans and bringing it to a finish.
When did your business apply for the Business Security Camera Program and why
RK: In early 2019, I applied for the Business Security Camera Program, driven by my long-standing interest in the field. I previously worked as the computer division manager at a electronics company, where I gained valuable technology experience. This background allows me to integrate smart home technology into my business operations and contract with established companies
A friend encouraged me to look into the Business Security Camera Program, so I visited the website and submitted my application. My first project was in Kensington, which at the time was designated as a fully waived area. During that process, I met Maxine Ferguson from the Department of Commerce, who has been a great support throughout. The program has been running very, very smoothly. That’s why I stayed in it so long. I like the work. I like the people that I meet along the way.
Are there people or local organizations that have been instrumental for you throughout the application process?
RK: Yes, my friend told me I could apply for the program and Maxine showed me the way from there. After that, I just implemented my process or how I did things to streamline the work. I’m really grateful to my friend for getting me connected with the Business Security Camera Program.
What impact does the program have on the businesses you help? What difference(s) have you seen since the exterior surveillance cameras have been installed?
RK: We had a few people who called after we installed the cameras that there were issues such as robberies, and they needed the footage. The businesses know that the Philadelphia Police Department is also part of the Business Security Camera. The collaborative support has been helpful.
Note: Businesses that use the program must register their cameras with the Philadelphia Police Department. This allows the police to contact the business to view footage in case of a crime. Registering your cameras on SafeCam takes only a few minutes and does not provide anyone with direct access to your cameras or video.
Would you recommend a business owner to apply for the Business Security Camera Program, and why?
RK: Yes, the program offers several benefits beyond more security for businesses. It can also help lower insurance premiums, making it more cost-effective for owners.
What advice would you give to other contractors trying to apply as a contractor for this program?
RK: The advice that I would give them is to talk to the customers and help them out along the way, all the way to the to the finish line. They don’t know how to do it, nor do they really want to do that part of it. So, I say help them from A to Z. I would say help them out with everything, including application.
Anything else that you’d like to share with us?
RK: The city must prioritize safety, especially given the current fentanyl epidemic and the challenges facing young people. It’s crucial for everyone, particularly older adults, to feel secure while visiting their favorite shops. Businesses need to create a welcoming environment that supports customers of their safety. This responsibility extends to local organizations and local business corridors, which must work to make the area inviting and secure, encouraging customers to visit and supporting local businesses in staying open.
Interested in purchasing and installing security cameras for your storefront?
We’re here to assist. The Mayor’s Business Action Team (MBAT) in the Department of Commerce is a concierge service providing personalized assistance in multiple languages to entrepreneurs for all aspects of doing business in Philadelphia. Business Services Managers are City liaisons providing entrepreneurs access to information through in-person outreach and customized virtual services. Contact us by emailing business@phila.gov or calling 215-683-2100.
We continue to invest in and work with neighborhood organizations citywide to support, attract and retain more businesses throughout all of our neighborhoods. We are grateful for all businesses providing essential goods and services along with jobs for Philadelphians.
