To help contain the spread of COVID-19, the City of Philadelphia has prohibited the operations of non-essential businesses from now through the end of April 2020. We recognize the significant impact these restrictions have on businesses.
The following resources and relief are available to business owners:
Financial Assistance
The Philadelphia COVID-19 Small Business Program offers grants or zero-interest loans to Philadelphia small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The program, administered by the Department of Commerce and PIDC, aims to provide relief to selected small businesses in order to help them survive this crisis and retain as many employees as possible. Complete our interest form to be notified when applications open.
The deadline to return economic injury disaster loan applications is Dec. 21, 2020.
Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) offers working capital loans that could help businesses impacted by COVID-19. Information will be posted here as it becomes available.
KIVA, which gives entrepreneurs access to zero-percent interest small business loans, has increased the size of no-interest loans available.
As business owners prepare to apply for these and other relief programs, they should begin to gather documentation such as:
Inventory documents (delivery slips, etc.)
Receipts
Payroll
Details on laid off or furloughed staff
Debt service payments
Mortgage/lease and utility payments
Workers’ Compensation claims
Signed tax return
Financial statements
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of required documents. Individual program requirements will vary.
Utilities
PECO is suspending fees for delays in bills and service shut-offs for three months, effective March 13, 2020 through at least May 1, 2020.
Philadelphia Gas Works is suspending non-payment terminations and will waive new late payment charges. This termination moratorium will remain in place until further notice.
Philadelphia Water Department is also suspending non-payment terminations and plans to waive new late payment charges. This termination moratorium will remain in place until further notice. Please note that regular billing will continue for all customers.
The Business Center is offering its courses online, and encourages businesses that need help moving their services online to contact them.
Philly VIP will continue to remotely match businesses with pro bono legal services.
SCORE Philadelphia continues to offer business assistance and workshops online
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.
Additional Guidance
If you are a business owner and would like to receive information about business relief programs, please email business@phila.gov.
Text “COVIDPHL” to 888-777 to stay connected with free alerts from the city.