City announces lowest unemployment for month of June since 2007
On Friday, Mayor Kenney and Commerce Director Harold T. Epps announced that Philadelphia’s unemployment rate decreased to 6.9%–the lowest unemployment rate for the month of June since 2007. “During the first six months of my Administration, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that Philadelphians in all neighborhoods can be part... Learn More
Small Business Spotlight: Message Agency with Marcus Iannozzi
Message Agency is a communications firm that focuses on serving charitable organizations. Unlike other businesses that have grown recently, Message Agency has a long, rich history as a startup in Philadelphia. To investigate Message Agency’s success over the years, we chatted with founder Marcus Iannozzi.
4 social media marketing tips for your small business
Philadelphia small businesses have the opportunity to connect with a strong online community through social media--a low-cost, extremely effective marketing tool when used efficiently.
Startup Spotlight: Little Baby’s Ice Cream
Indie ice cream maker Little Baby’s Ice Cream is a prime example of a successful Philly startup, and the perfect way to kickoff our new Startup Spotlight series. The Startup Spotlight series profiles successful small businesses to highlight Philly’s thriving startup community. For founders Martin Brown and Pete Angevine, Little... Learn More
Business Tax Basics
The Department of Revenue imposes various taxes that must be filed and paid by businesses that are operated and/or located in Philadelphia.
Sale of Fireworks Permit
Operation Permits are issued for the regulation of the use and transport of certain hazardous materials, equipment and activities. The Department of License and Inspections works in conjunction with other City Agencies in the issuance of Operation Permits. NOTE A Sale of Fireworks Permit is not required to sell sparkling devices, party poppers,... Learn More
Tent Permit
An operational permit is required to operate an air-supported temporary membrane structure or a tent having an area in excess of 200 sq. ft. or a canopy in excess of 400 sq. ft. (See Section 105.6.13 of the Philadelphia Fire Code for exceptions). Prerequisite Approvals: Before obtaining an operations permit, your... Learn More
Training, One-on-one Consulting, and Legal Resources from our Nonprofit Partners
Need help with business planning, workshops or other research? Check with some of our technical support providers.
Guide to Permits and Licenses for Opening a Mobile Food Business
Mobile food vending units include trucks, trailer hitch units, pushcarts, stands and foot peddlers must complete the required plan review application for a mobile food business.
Choosing a Vending Location
Locations throughout the city are designated as prohibited for vending and sidewalk sales
Safety Guide for Businesses
The City of Philadelphia Commerce Department Business Crime Prevention Guide has useful advice for keeping your employees and business safe.
How to Be a Good Business Neighbor
When merchants take pride in their community, it shows and creates a more enjoyable shopping experience for visitors coming to the area.
Paid Sick Leave
The City of Philadelphia has enacted the "Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces" law, which requires certain employers located in the City of Philadelphia to provide their employees with up to 40 hours of paid sick time per calendar year.
Temporary Business Income and Receipts Tax and Commercial Activity License
Businesses that will be selling at a special event, trade show or festival and will be doing business for 10 or fewer days are required to register their business with the City of Philadelphia and remit applicable taxes.
PGW EnergySense
PGW’s EnergySense offers efficiency rebates and grants for commercial and industrial customers looking to make energy efficient updates to current properties or new construction. Please visit www.PGWEnergySense.com for more details.