Coming soon: an online resource finder for Philly businesses | Department of Commerce

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker wants everyone to have access to economic opportunity. That’s why she signed the PHL Open for Business Executive Order, asking all City departments to streamline and simplify the experience of doing business with and in the city, driving inclusive growth for all.

In support of this, the Department of Commerce is excited to announce the development and upcoming launch of an engaging website to serve as a 24/7 online business resource finder. This user-friendly platform will give entrepreneurs across the city and anywhere in the world access to the tools and resources they need to start, operate, and grow their business in Philadelphia.

This initiative is a collaborative effort, led by the Department of Commerce, in partnership with PIDC, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, and Equitable Cities Consulting. Ecomap Technologies is building this essential resource, which will become a vital tool for navigating Philadelphia’s dynamic business ecosystem. This is a project for businesses, steered by partners from across the business ecosystem, ensuring it is both relevant, helpful and impactful.

We are dedicated to keeping businesses informed about the progress of this initiative. This includes providing updates on the formation of a steering committee as outlined below.

The online business resource finder will have an engaging, interactive and accessible interface with features to help businesses at all stages and all sizes, including:

• AI Assisted Support: Get real-time answers to your business questions.
• Resource Directory: Find workshops, services, and funding programs.
• Searchable Database: Locate resources by keyword or keyword
• Government Navigation: Get help navigating city regulations.
• Business Ecosystem Map: Discover support organizations in your area.
• Language Accessibility: Access the hub in multiple languages for inclusivity.
• Business Support: Access to personalized assistance from the Mayor’s Business Action Team.

Our diverse steering committee includes leaders from across Philadelphia’s business community, ensuring the platform serves the needs of all entrepreneurs:

• Christopher Wink, Publisher and Chief Executive Officer, Technical.y
• Defan Zhang, Shop Philly
• Dominic Folino, Founder, President, PA Blockchain Coalition
• Herbert Ushewokunze, Chief Executive Officer, Haich Media Group
• Jennifer Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• Kevin Lessard, Senior Vice President, Communications and Government Affairs, PIDC 
• Lilly Chen, Chief Executive Officer, Contenda
• Melissa Scott, Chief Information Officer, City of Philadelphia
• Quynh-Mai Nguyen, Director of Creative Services, PIDC
• Rick Nucci, Chief Executive Officer, Guru
• Sabia Afroz, Community Coordinator, SEAMAAC
• Shai Pedernick, Kalmansforge 
• Stefan Legazpi, Creative Director, Comcast
• Tiffany Spraggins, Director, Power Up Your Business, Community College of Philadelphia
• Wil Reynolds, Chief Executive Officer, Seer Interactive
• Zakia Ringgold, Owner, Virtual Experience Design Agency and Business Consultant, LA21

We look forward to hearing your ideas and feedback!

The Department of Commerce’s Mayor’s Business Action Team is your front door for doing business in Philadelphia. If you’d like to stay updated on the upcoming launch of the online business resource finder or be added to our newsletter mailing list and hear about resources and opportunities, email us at business@phila.gov. If you need assistance with a business matter, email us or call 215-683-2100. We’re excited to help you succeed in Philadelphia!