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.
Mayor Kenney boasts Commerce achievements in recent Huffington Post piece
On Monday, Mayor Kenney penned a guest-post titled “Philadelphia’s Winning Formula for Small-Business Growth,” for the Huffington Post's "Whats Working: Small Business" blog.
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.
Find local loans through the Philadelphia Business Lending Network
The Capital Consortium is a group of nonprofit and for profit commercial lenders who work together with the Philadelphia Department of Commerce to improve access to capital for small businesses.
Get more information about OSHA 10/30 training
The following programs have been approved by the Department of Licenses and Inspections as equivalent to OSHA 10. The courses have been determined to provide the minimum number of course hours equivalent to OSHA training, address mandatory OSHA topics directly related to job-site hazards, and/or provide a benefit that exceeds... Learn More
Trade License renewal deadline is extended!
All trade licenses set to expire on December 31st, 2015, are extended to January 31st, 2016. The following types are extended: Expediter Curb Setter Plumber (Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master) Sheet Metal (Technician and Apprentice) If you have not yet received your renewal invoice for a license set to expire on... Learn More
Annual Certification for Emergency and Standby Power Systems
This form is to certify the testing of emergency and standby power systems. Annual certifications must be kept on site for a period of three years. This certificate has no fee. Emergency Standby Power System Annual Cert
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.
Hot Works 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. The maximum time period a Hot Works Permit is valid is one year.... 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
Demolition Contractor License
A Demolition Contractor license is required of anyone removing structural elements for the purpose of removing the entire structure. This license must be renewed annually and successful applications must specify up-to-date insurance and tax compliance.
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.
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.
New Contractor/Trades Examination Information Bulletin
This bulletin answers most questions raised by International Code Council’s Contractor/Trade examination candidates.