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Department of Commerce

What we do

The Department of Commerce helps businesses—large and small—thrive in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is the ideal home for your business, offering:

  • A central location along the Northeast corridor.
  • A ready and talented workforce.
  • Competitive office rents and commercial real estate costs.
  • Vibrant commercial districts and growing innovation industries.
  • World-class dining, history, and cultural attractions.

We work to:

  • Attract and grow a diverse set of businesses.
  • Revitalize neighborhood commercial districts throughout the city.
  • Support small businesses and improve their access to funding.
  • Build a strong talent pipeline.
  • Increase economic opportunities for historically underserved business owners.

Connect

Address
1515 Arch St.
12th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Email business@phila.gov
Phone
Social

Announcements

Department of Commerce warns business owners of phishing text scams

The Department of Commerce is aware that some Philadelphia businesses have received text messages saying that they’re approved for a grant from the Catalyst Fund and to provide their banking information. The City of Philadelphia and Department of Commerce never request financial or banking information via text message.

Do not click or tap on any links or respond to these messages. Do not provide any personal information. We urge businesses and residents to report any suspicious texts as spam and delete them immediately. To learn more about how the City handles sensitive data, read the Privacy Policy.

We’re aware of other phishing scams impacting the Department of Revenue. See their announcement to learn how to stay vigilant and protect your data.

Business Resource Finder

Looking for guidance or support?

Connect with organizations that can help you start, run, and grow your business.

Go to the finder

Programs

Events

  • Oct
    8
    Philly Access: Business Funding Summit
    9:00 am to 12:00 pm
    SEPTA HQ, 1234 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

    Philly Access: Business Funding Summit

    October 8, 2025
    9:00 am to 12:00 pm, 3 hours
    SEPTA HQ, 1234 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
    map

    Join the Department of Commerce and SEPTA for a two-day summit designed to equip business owners with the knowledge and tools needed to secure funding from local banks and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).

    This summit will focus on financing and lending opportunities for businesses. Attendees will be guided through the critical steps and required documentation to successfully apply for funding—empowering them to confidently advocate for their financial needs.

    The summit will include a fireside chat with Donovan West, Director of Mayor’s Business Roundtables & Felicia Wilson, Owner of Amina Hospitality Collection.

    The event will also feature resource tables from financial institutions and local organizations offering business support, including vendor opportunities.

    Click here to register.

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

  • Oct
    8
    Introduction to Government Contracting
    9:30 am to 11:00 am
    Online

    Introduction to Government Contracting

    October 8, 2025
    9:30 am to 11:00 am, 2 hours
    Online
    map

    Are you a small business looking to start government contracting but don’t know where to start? Join PIDC for a virtual webinar, “Introduction to Government Contracting”, presented by the Southeast PA APEX Accelerator. Attendees will learn the rules, regulations, and registration requirements for their business.

    This training offers an overview of what federal government contracting is, what it takes to be a government contractor, the steps your business needs to take to get started, and what no-cost services and continuous support SEPA APEX Accelerator offers to small businesses in all aspects of government contracting. Who should attend: Management and key players who will support and facilitate government contracting within your company.

    Click here to register.

    This event is part of the 41st Annual Micro Economic Development (MED) Week.

  • Oct
    8
    Penn Local Business Exchange
    10:30 am to 2:30 pm
    Penn Live Arts/Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 3680 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA

    Penn Local Business Exchange

    October 8, 2025
    10:30 am to 2:30 pm, 4 hours
    Penn Live Arts/Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 3680 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
    map

    Join the University of Pennsylvania for The Penn Local Business Exchange which will bring together University buyers and local suppliers. Organizations will showcase their contributions to initiatives and programs that support the growth of local businesses and promote sustainable economic impact. This event begins with networking followed by the Forum, featuring remarks from Penn leadership and local business leaders who will share their own stories and expertise for fostering local business.

    The Expo is an opportunity to meet and learn about local suppliers.

    Click here to register!

    This event is part of the 41st Annual Micro Economic Development (MED) Week.


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