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 Sameerah Rowland (SR) of Ready for the World Academy 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?
SR: I am the owner and founder of Ready for the World Academy, a childcare center based in North Philadelphia. We provide a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children while supporting the needs of working families throughout our community.
My journey into childcare is deeply personal. As a Black single mother raising four children, I experienced firsthand the challenges of finding dependable, trustworthy care, especially while working demanding hours in banking. At the time, I struggled to find childcare that met the needs of my schedule. More importantly, I wanted a place where I felt confident that my children were not only supervised, but genuinely safe, supported, and cared for.
Those experiences became the foundation for my purpose. As a very protective mother, I understood how important it is for parents to have peace of mind when leaving their children in someone else’s care. That perspective inspired me to create the type of environment I once wished I had – a space that is safe, loving, structured, and nurturing. Ready for the World Academy was built not just as a business, but as a reflection of my values, my lived experiences, and my commitment to serving families who may face similar challenges.
Why did you apply for the CREAL Program, and how has it helped you and/or your community so far?
SR: I applied for the CREAL Program because I am always striving to grow as an entrepreneur and strengthen my business. The program provided valuable guidance, insight, and resources that helped me think more strategically about long-term growth and sustainability.
One of the most meaningful milestones in my journey was being able to purchase the building where my center operates. I had rented the building since 2013, and to finally have the opportunity to buy it in 2025 was an incredibly rewarding accomplishment. It was a goal I had worked toward for many years, and achieving it reinforced the importance of persistence, patience, and vision.
Are there any recent milestones you would like to share?
SR: Purchasing my building in 2025 stands out as one of my greatest achievements. It represented stability, growth, and the realization of a long-term dream that took over a decade of dedication and belief.
What’s next for your business?
SR: Looking ahead, I am focused on continued growth and expansion while maintaining the quality, care, and standards that families trust us for. I remain committed to strengthening our programs and increasing our positive impact within the community.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
SR: My journey has been rooted in resilience, faith, and determination. I hope my story can encourage other entrepreneurs – especially women and minority business owners – to remain consistent, trust the process, and continue pursuing their goals regardless of obstacles.
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.
