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At FunTimes Magazine, our goal is to connect our communities with real opportunities. The City of Philadelphia’s Department of Commerce offers a range of programs that support business owners across the African Diaspora, whether you’re launching a late-night café, running a barbershop, or expanding your consulting firm. Here’s what you need to know.
Nightlife & Safety
Liberty Bell Safe Certification Program
Running a business after 5 PM? The Liberty Bell program certifies nighttime establishments in best practices around harm reduction, diversity and inclusion, de-escalation, and more. Graduates receive:
- A three-year certification
- Promotion through Visit Philly and the Department of Commerce
- Narcan, drug test strips, and spike test kits
- A $500 marketing grant
Who it’s for: Bars, lounges, coworking spaces, tour groups, and other nightlife businesses.
Why it matters
A safer nightlife economy protects our community and brings visibility to Black and Brown-owned venues.
Access to Capital
Philadelphia Business Lending Network (PBLN)
Get connected to over 30 lenders through one simple application. Whether you need $5K or $50K, PBLN improves access and brings lending institutions into one space.
Philadelphia Small Business Catalyst Fund and Storefront Improvement programs also support storefront upgrades and business growth. Learn more about the Department of Commerce’s financial support programs: Financial support | Department of Commerce | City of Philadelphia
Why it matters
Many businesses are loan-ready but lack technical support. Through trusted partners like Black Squirrel, the city helps entrepreneurs prepare their paperwork and financials to qualify.
Business Essentials
Business Technical Assistance Program (BTAP)
Get help with bookkeeping, marketing, business plans, licensing, and taxes. If you’ve ever felt stuck figuring out “next steps,” BTAP connects you to organizations that can help.
Other support includes
- Legal clinics
- Tax prep guidance
- Incubator access
Why it matters
Many in our communities pay for services the city provides for free. BTAP prevents waste and improves your business structure.
Community Outreach & Events
Mayor’s Business Action Team (MBAT)
Every council district has a business services manager who is your go-to resource for city navigation. They help:
- Apply for licenses and permits
- Resolve tax or L&I issues
- Refer you to funding and training
- Connect with organizations, resources, and more.
Monthly Event: Coffee & Commerce
A networking and training event focused on one critical business topic (e.g., pricing, leasing, etc.) with hands-on resources and guest experts. Find the latest upcoming events:
Why it matters
Whether you’re multilingual or need support navigating city systems, MBAT’s outreach model meets you where you are.
Ownership & Self-Sufficiency
Commercial Real Estate Acquisition Loan
Move from renting to owning. This loan helps businesses buy their commercial property building long-term security and equity.
Programs to explore
- Scale-Up Your Business (via partners like LA21 CDC)
- Wraparound coaching in marketing and finance
Why it matters
Ownership means control, stability, and generational wealth, especially in gentrifying neighborhoods.
Policy, Equity & Inclusion
Intentional Outreach to Underserved Communities
The city is working to ensure that Black, Brown, and immigrant business owners are not left out. This includes
- Multilingual support (Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, and more)
- Partnerships with organizations rooted in our neighborhoods
- Profiles and storytelling to amplify diverse success
Why it matters
Resources mean nothing if they don’t reach the right people. FunTimes is partnering with the Commerce Department to change that.
What’s Next?
- Bookmark:
- Contact: Mayor’s Business Action Team by calling 215-683-2100 or emailing business@phila.gov

Dr. Eric John Nzeribe is the Publisher of FunTimes Magazine and has a demonstrated history of working in the publishing industry since 1992. His interests include using data to understand and solve social issues, narrative stories, digital marketing, community engagement, and online/print journalism features. Dr. Nzeribe is a social media and communication professional with certificates in Digital Media for Social Impact from the University of Pennsylvania, Digital Strategies for Business: Leading the Next-Generation Enterprise from Columbia University, and a Master of Science (MS) in Publication Management from Drexel University and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Temple University.