Are you a business owner looking to learn how to secure funding and take your business to the next level? Join the Department of Commerce and SEPTA for Philly Access: Business Funding Summit—an invaluable two-day summit designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully access financing through local banks and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).

This summit focuses on financing and lending opportunities for small and growing businesses. Over two days, you’ll learn the critical steps to prepare a strong funding application, understand the required documentation, and explore pathways to meet your financial needs.

In addition to dynamic panel discussions, the event features resource tables staffed by representatives from leading financial institutions and local business support organizations. Explore vendor opportunities and connect directly with partners who are here to help your business thrive.

This summit is part of the 41st Annual Micro Economic Development Week.

Summit logistics

Dates: October 8, 2025 and October 9, 2025

Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Location: 1234 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19107; SEPTA Headquarters, 3rd Fl.

Summit highlights

The two-day summit will feature:

  • Fireside chat
    • Moderator: Donovan West, Director, Mayor’s Business Roundtables
    • Featured Speaker: Felicia Wilson, Business Owner, Amina Hospital Collection
  • Panel discussion
    • Moderator: Camille Simpkins, Senior Development Business Manager, PIDC
    • Panelists:
      • David Langlieb, CEO, Philadelphia Accelerator Fund
      • Varsovia Fernandez, CEO, PA CDFI Network
      • Daniel Bentacourt, CEO, Finanta
      • Van Hampton Jr., CEO, True Access Capital

Meet resource partners

The following resource partners will be tabling at the two-day summit to share resources, knowledge and support for businesses, including:

  • Ameriprise
  • Black Squirrel
  • BroPack
  • Citadel
  • Department of Revenue
  • Greenline
  • M&T Bank
  • PACA
  • PNC Bank
  • PIDC
  • PGW
  • Pursuit
  • SEPTA
  • Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia
  • Temple SBDC
  • The Business Center
  • The Enterprise Center
  • Univest
  • United Bank
  • WORC

This summit is a great opportunity for businesses to build valuable connections, gain practical knowledge, and help entrepreneurs secure the financing they need to grow.

Questions? Email Leslie.Acosta@phila.gov and Michelle.Price@phila.gov.

Register now