Local Business Entity Certification
The City of Philadelphia’s Procurement Department allows for a 5% bid preference for certified local vendors.
Minority, Women, Disabled Owned Business Support
The City purchases products and services from hundreds of businesses every year. The City is committed to ensuring that at least 25% of contracts for the City are fulfilled by Minority, Women, or Disabled Owned Enterprises.
What is Economic Inclusion?
"Economic Inclusion" involves the development and implementation of a robust effort to include Minority, Woman, and Disabled owned business enterprises in City Contracts, advancing economic opportunities for these businesses.
Understanding Contracting Opportunities
The City of Philadelphia offers businesses a network of resources and the opportunity to bid and respond to upcoming contracts. These opportunities offer a great way for businesses to continue to grow.
Keystone Opportunity Zones
KOZs are specifically designated areas where property owners and businesses that meet capital investment or new employment targets pay little or no tax through 2013, 2018, and 2025.
Storefront Improvement Program
This program reimburses owners of commercial buildings and businesses within designated commercial corridors who make storefront improvements.
Business Security Camera Program
The Business Security Camera Program reimburses commercial property owners and business owners for the installation of surveillance cameras, to make their location safer for shoppers and the community
Rental License
This license is required of any entity that rents any type of housing unit. (It is also known as a Housing Rental License.)
InStore Program
A business attraction and expansion program for eligible low-moderate income commercial corridors. The loans are limited to retail, food, and creative arts businesses and are used to purchase equipment and make interior improvements associated with establishing a new location or expanding at an existing one. Only a limited number of loans are approved each year.
Home Inspector License
This license is required to engage in the business of residential or home inspections. Professional Architects and Engineers licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and government agency employees acting on behalf of that agency are not required to possess this license.
Learn About the Loan Application Process
Learn about the process of applying for a business loan.
Tax Payment Options and Information
How to file and pay taxes to the City of Philadelphia.
High Rise License
This license is required to ensure appropriate levels of safety are maintained in existing residential and nonresidential high rise structures.
Tax Resources
General information about City taxes and tax services.
Workforce Skills Training
Now that you have a business, you need reliable employees to support your growth and ease your workload. Take advantage of these resources that can help you recruit, train, and retain good workers.