Shop PHL: Black-Owned Businesses

Shopping at Black-owned businesses is a powerful way to support economic equality in your own neighborhood. Approximately 40 percent of Philadelphians are Black or African American, according to the 2020 census, yet they only account for 5.4 percent of businesses in the city. At PIDC, we’re continually working with our partners to increase that number

PIDC plays key role in the development of ACANA’s Africa Center

Southwest Philadelphia’s Africatown is a thriving commercial and cultural corridor for the city’s booming immigrant populations from Liberia, Senegal, and other African and Caribbean countries. ACANA, the African Cultural Alliance of North America, is at the forefront of development in the community. The nonprofit recently started construction of the Africa Center, a social services and

Beyond Beauty — Hair Du Jour Salon’s Journey to Success

Photo of owner in her salon.

Hair Du Jour Salon is a cut above the rest. Inspired by her aunt’s support and the desire to provide others with the opportunities she had, Ann Turner embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, establishing her West Philadelphia salon in 2015.  This black-owned salon takes inclusivity seriously. With a commitment to quality services for anyone, Hair

Mixing Business with Family: Cathryn’s Cake Salon Finds Recipe for Sweet Success

In Philadelphia’s West Oak Lane neighborhood, there’s a bakery that’s about more than fresh cakes, pastries, and desserts; it’s about family. Cathryn’s Cake Salon is a testament to the power of family-owned businesses.  Inspired by Fluellen family matriarch Cathryn, the bakery is a true family affair. Cathryn’s Cake Salon is powered by mother Cheryl Foat

Amazing Kidz Academy Celebrates 10 Years in Business

Photo of Founder, Lisa Smith.

It’s no secret that there are lifelong benefits to early childhood education. Children who attend preschool are not only more likely to succeed in kindergarten, they’re successful throughout their entire school experience and beyond. Lisa Smith and Clarence Morris III, co-founders of Amazing Kidz Academy, know how important preschool education is to early childhood development

Spotlighting Black-owned Businesses During Black History Month—and all year long

This Black History Month, we’re honoring the achievements of Black business owners throughout Philadelphia, who help power our city’s economy and provide anchors for our neighborhoods. PIDC works every day to provide business owners the tools, knowledge, connections, and financing they need to reach – and exceed – their business goals.  As a celebration of

Firms Selected to Transform Historic Family Court Building & Adjacent Parking Lot on Philadelphia’s Iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway

For Immediate Release: August 29, 2023Contacts: Firms Selected to Transform Historic Family Court Building & Adjacent Parking Lot on Philadelphia’s Iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway National Real Estate Development and Frontier Development and Hospitality Group’s winning proposal places the African American Museum of Philadelphia in a brand-new building in a marquee location on the Parkway, provides

Client Feature: H&Mcare Breaks Ground on $13M Project for Home Care Support Services

Last month, PIDC client H&Mcare – a Black- and immigrant-owned home care support services business – celebrated a groundbreaking at 71st and Woodland Streets in Southwest Philadelphia. The $13 million project will provide critical services for the community, including housing to more than 22 individuals over the age of 65, an urgent care, a pharmacy, and residential

PIDC Clients You Need to Know in 2023 – Black Business Owners

Honoring the legacy and great contributions of Black-owned businesses in Philadelphia, this Black History Month and beyond, we’re highlighting a few of our awesome PIDC clients. We’re proud to support local, diverse businesses through funding, workshops, and other services for business growth. Check out their success stories and what they consider the most rewarding part

CLIENT FEATURE: YOWIE

PIDC client YOWIE is a Black-, woman-, and millennial-owned home and life shop focused on curating small collections from founder Shannon Maldonado’s friends, independent artists, and designers. Founded in 2016 as an online business, YOWIE attracted a cult following for its eclectic items and workshops and events. Shannon relocated from New York City to open