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The Catalyst Fund

Fueling the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs in Philadelphia.

About

The Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund is a $5 million investment designed to accelerate the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs across the city. Support includes funding and strategic guidance.

Grants of up to $50,000 per business will be awarded based on demonstrated need, growth potential, and economic impact. The Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund is an initiative of the Department of Commerce fueling collaboration and business growth citywide.

Connect

Address
Department of Commerce
1515 Arch St., 12th floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Email catalyst@phila.gov
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Announcements

Announcement

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.

Announced on: Department of Commerce

Eligibility

Businesses that generated under $2 million in revenue in 2024 can apply for funding. The business must also be:

To learn more about what businesses are eligible to apply, see our FAQs.

Applicants need to show:

  • A clear expansion plan.
  • Contribution to local economic impact, such as strengthening Philadelphia neighborhoods and creating jobs.
  • Resilience and innovation despite challenges accessing traditional funding.

Eligible expenses

This grant is designed to support most capital and operating expenses. You cannot use this funding for expenses including, but not limited to:

  • Routine operating costs, such as rent, payroll, past-due bills, or debt payments.
  • Real estate acquisition.

To learn more about what you can use this funding for, see our FAQs.

How to apply

1
Fill out the expression of interest form.

Your responses will help us determine if your business meets the eligibility requirements before we send you the full application.

Complete the interest form

2
Receive an invitation to apply.

If your business meets the eligibility requirements, we’ll send you a list of documents to gather, then an invitation to complete the full application.

The Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund’s partner, Pennsylvania CDFI Network, may contact you to request other information and documentation.

Every applicant will receive an email informing them of their grant selection outcome.

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