Financial assistance is available for businesses citywide! The Commercial Real Estate Acquisition Loan (CREAL) Program helps small businesses in low- and moderate-income areas buy property. The program promotes asset ownership and helps build generational wealth among business owners.
Participants can receive a mortgage loan of up to $350,000, and a grant of up to $35,000 for closing costs.
Business owners can use the funds to buy property on an eligible commercial corridor, and the program also provides advisory assistance to businesses throughout the purchase process.
Business owners share their stories
In this series, we’re highlighting the stories of small businesses that purchase commercial property or real estate through the CREAL Program. Hear from Akosua Opoku (AO) of Kozie’s Water Ice in Northwest Philadelphia about what the CREAL Program means for her and her business.
Tell us about your business. What do you do, who do you serve, and why?
AO: Kozie’s Water Ice is more than just a place to grab a sweet treat – it’s a community staple. As a single mother, I had to figure out a way to support my children while also creating flexibility in my schedule so I could be present for them. Becoming a business owner gave me that opportunity.
I proudly serve the Northwest Philadelphia community, specifically West Oak Lane and Mt. Airy – the same neighborhood where I grew up. It was important to me to bring Kozie’s to this area, because this community helped shape who I am. I wanted to create a welcoming space where families, kids, and neighbors could come together, cool off, and enjoy something that feels nostalgic and local. For me, this business is about giving back to the place that raised me while building something meaningful for my children.
Why did you apply for the CREAL Program, and how has it helped you and/or your community so far?
AO: I applied to the CREAL Program through what felt like a mix of chance and opportunity. My landlord informed me that he was planning to sell the building where my shop is located and asked if I would be interested in buying it. I was interested, but I had no idea how I would afford it.
Around that same time, I received a card from my local Department of Commerce liaison who had stopped by my shop. I reached out to see if there were any resources available to help with purchasing commercial property, and that’s when I learned about the CREAL Program.
The process was stressful, especially since my landlord was pressuring me to close within 60 days. But through persistence and support from the program, I was able to move forward. CREAL gave me access to guidance and resources that made ownership feel possible – not just for me, but for other small business owners in the community who may not otherwise see a pathway to owning property.
What’s next for your business?
AO: The next phase for Kozie’s Water Ice is expansion and mobility. I’m currently working toward securing a grant or loan to purchase a truck. This would allow us to expand into catering and better manage inventory and product distribution, participate in events, cater private gatherings, and bring Kozie’s directly to schools, festivals, and community functions.
It’s an important next step in growing Kozie’s and increasing our presence throughout the community. I want to continue growing while staying rooted in Northwest Philadelphia.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
AO: Owning this business as a single mother has been challenging, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I hope my journey shows other women – especially mothers – that ownership is possible, even when the path feels uncertain. Kozie’s is not just about water ice; it’s about resilience, community, and building something that lasts for the next generation.
Interested in purchasing a commercial property?
We’re here to assist. The Mayor’s Business Action Team (MBAT) in the Department of Commerce provides personalized assistance in multiple languages to entrepreneurs for all aspects of doing business in Philadelphia. Contact us by emailing business@phila.gov or calling (215) 683-2100.
