PHILADELPHIA — Beginning Monday, March 8, 2021, the Department of Commerce’s Office of Business Services is launching “Zoom With Us,” virtual one-on-one business support sessions to help Philadelphia businesses plan, launch, manage, and grow.

Business services managers will be available for one-on-one assistance every second and fourth Monday of the month from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Business owners can safely receive virtual, personalized assistance using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Assistance is available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, Chinese, and Arabic.

“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact daily life for Philadelphians, the past year has been one of immense challenges, especially for our local business community,” said Philadelphia Commerce Director Michael Rashid. “Local businesses have shown incredible resilience, and our Office of Business Services has been on call supporting businesses throughout the pandemic—fielding more than 10,000 calls and emails about COVID-related restrictions, financial resources, and more. We’re proud to launch this new service to help local business owners and entrepreneurs succeed and thrive during these challenging times.”

Business owners can register below and select specific times for personalized business support:

The Department of Commerce’s Office of Business Services helps business owners navigate City services, understand business regulations, as well as assist entrepreneurs through the process of opening, operating, and growing a business in Philadelphia. The Office of Business Services can be reached in the following ways:

  • Call the City’s business services hotline at 215-683-2100 
  • Email business@phila.gov

Additional Resources for Businesses

Businesses are encouraged to apply for the recently reopened federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) programs. The City will continue to highlight resources offered by the public and private sectors, as they become available.

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