By Kevin Lessard (Originally posted on Phila.Gov)
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact daily life for Philadelphians, this year has been one of immense challenges, especially for our local business community. Our local, small businesses have shown incredible resilience, and the City will continue to highlight resources offered by the public and private sectors, as they become available.
Below are the latest programs, relief, and resources for businesses:
Recent Grants and Programs for Small Businesses
- DoorDash announced a new grant program to help Philadelphia restaurants prepare for colder weather and continue to serve customers throughout the winter. Learn more and apply here.
- The non-profit Pennsylvania 30 Day Fund provides forgivable loans for Pennsylvania-based small businesses. The forgivable loan is intended to provide immediate financial assistance to meet payroll and preserve health care coverage for employees.
- The Black Restaurant Accelerator Program, a partnership between the National Urban League and PepsiCo, will boost approximately 500 Black-owned businesses over the next five years. Learn more.
Business Tax Relief from the Philadelphia Department of Revenue
Philadelphia businesses that were in compliance before the pandemic, but are now struggling to pay taxes, can take advantage of new payment agreements. Watch the Department of Revenue’s video to learn about eligibility and flexible terms.
The City can also help businesses that were in a payment agreement—or that already owed taxes—before COVID-related closures. Go here to find an agreement that best fits your situation.
If your business is requesting a refund for Use & Occupancy (U&O) Tax because of COVID-19 closure orders, it is important to note that businesses must first amend their refund. The Philadelphia Department of Revenue has instructions on how to do this.
Additional Resources for Businesses
- The U.S. Chamber’s Save Small Business Initiative offers a state-by-state guide outlining the loans, grants, and funds available to small businesses.
- The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Penn State has a list of resources, grants and other assistance available.
- Use the new Business Resource Finder to connect with organizations that offer guidance on starting, running, and growing a business.
- Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC) has a list of resources for business owners affected by COVID-19, including a breakdown of funding programs that remain available.
- Entrepreneur Works provides loans to entrepreneurs and existing businesses. They have small business loan options and one-on-one guidance.
- Temple University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is offering many free resources, webinars, and recordings, including virtual consulting
- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has developed this database of COVID-19 Resources for Businesses, Communities, Local Governments and more.
- Learn about relief options available through the Small Business Administration.
The Office of Business Services at the Department of Commerce stands ready to support businesses. It can be reached via a hotline (215-683-2100) and by email at business@phila.gov.
