Empowering Neighborhood Businesses
for Equitable Growth and Resilience
From bustling barber shops to cozy family restaurants and vibrant cultural enterprises, we work hand-in-hand with businesses that are essential to the heart and soul of their communities.
Strengthen Your Biz Philly is a dynamic initiative dedicated to stabilizing and empowering Philadelphia’s neighborhood-based small businesses.
We support, stabilize, and stimulate growth among local businesses. Our team understands that small businesses are more than just enterprises; they are the lifeblood of our communities, providing essential services, creating jobs, and adding to the rich tapestry of Philadelphia neighborhoods.
Our program offers a range of tailored services designed to meet the unique needs of each business we partner with, all managed in coordination with community-based partner organizations who have cultivated deep relationships with businesses and neighborhood residents.
From legal support and financial management to marketing strategies and business operations, our comprehensive approach addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by small businesses today.
We emphasize cultural and linguistic inclusivity, ensuring our services are accessible and relevant to all business owners, regardless of their background.
Program
Components
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Black Squirrel’s BizScoreline evaluations are conducted on-site to analyze business strategy, operations, technology, staffing, finances, marketing, and sales to create tailored improvement roadmaps.
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Bi-weekly one-on-one consulting from a dedicated Temple Small Business Development Center (SBDC) expert over 6 months (25-30 hours total), with industry-specific guidance for sectors like childcare, food services, and salons.
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Bi-weekly peer learning sessions on business fundamentals, including bookkeeping, financial management, digital basics, marketing, hiring, and navigating regulations, all held in accessible community locations.
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Connections to vetted bilingual professionals including CPAs, attorneys, and HR specialists who understand neighborhood business challenges.
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Assistance implementing digital tools and access to donated resources, including point-of-sale systems and accounting software to improve operations.
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Preparation for funding opportunities, financial management training, grant application assistance, and support navigating the Philadelphia Business Lending Network.
