Generating Business Growth and
Fostering Creative Innovation

The Philadelphia Multicultural Affairs Congress (MAC), a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, and The Office of Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, partnered once again to host the ninth annual business forum and networking session entitled, “Small Businesses: Secrets to Success”. The forum provided entrepreneurs and business owners with learning tips and strategies from Philadelphia’s top multicultural business owners and leaders.

As a firm believer in small business development I continue to champion issues and offer opportunities for exposure in the City of Philadelphia, through legislation for small businesses and the hosting of small business roundtables for entrepreneurs.

To promote Philadelphia as a business friendly city for entrepreneurs and artists, we were able to legislatively change the business privilege license creating an annual license of $50, the former cost for a temporary 3-day license was $100.00.

Bill #080168, co-sponsored by Councilman W. Wilson Goode Jr., better defines the ability of doing business in a way that is less onerous and provides a relief to non-residents selling tangible property in Philadelphia, as
well as creates an affordable option for entrepreneurs in the city to start their own businesses. One business sector who will benefit by this bill will be the arts community. It will give artists from outside the city an incentive to sell their goods in Philadelphia.

As it stands, the cost of the temporary business-privilege license can be a deterrent to those considering selling art or crafts in the city, said Peggy Amsterdam, president of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance. "I think anytime you can eliminate those kinds of costs for an artist it's very helpful in stimulating their ability to find work and make a living."

Stay tuned for our Fall 2009 Roundtable Series. If you would like to attend contact the event coordinator, Katherine Gilmore at 215-686-3438.