Opportunities for Small Business Owners
1) Storefront Improvement Program:
Although still new to Chinatown’s dining scene, Canton 11 has one of the neighborhood’s most notable storefronts. Their unique look was possible through the Philadelphia Commerce Department’s Storefront Improvement Program. Commercial buildings and businesses within specific areas of Philadelphia can apply for reimbursements of up to 50% of the cost of improvements. For single commercial properties, this can be up to $10,000, or up to $15,000 for a multiple-address or corner business property. For more information, please visit https://business.phila.gov/storefront-improvement-program/ .
2) Expand Your Business – InStore Program
Interested in expanding your current business or establishing another business? Philadelphia’s Department of Commerce can provide forgivable loans of $15,000 – $50,000 for your project. Properties occupied by retail, food, or creative businesses are eligible. Possible improvements include: kitchen equipment, HVAC equipment, security systems, etc. For more information, please visit https://business.phila.gov/instore-program/ .
3) Peace of Mind – Business Security Camera Program
The City of Philadelphia is able to reimburse business owners or community-based organizations located in specific areas of Philadelphia for the installation of surveillance cameras in order to increase safety in public areas. Grants cover up to 50% of total costs (maximum of $3,000). To see if your business is eligible, visit https://business.phila.gov/business-security-camera-program/ .
The Holiday season has arrived! If would like to see more business during the holidays or if you are interested in expanding and improving your business, please refer to the programs below.
- December 5th, 2016: Trademark Basics – From 6:00pm to 8:00pm, learn about the basics of trademarking, copyrights, patents, domain names, and business names at the Free Library.
- Due January 6th, 2017: Philadelphia Fashion Incubator (PFI) – The PFI provides six growing fashion designers the resources to build their own business. Applications are due January 6th, 2017, and the program will begin on March 1st, 2017.
These programs are run by the City of Philadelphia, not PCDC: PCDC only provides language interpretation for these programs
If you have any questions about any of these programs, PCDC counselors are here to help. Call us at 215-922-2156.