[VT – Philadelphia | April 15, 2025] On April 15, 2024, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker signed Executive Order 10-24, launching Phase I of the “PHL Open for Business” initiative. The program aims to foster economic growth and equitable opportunities by streamlining regulatory processes and creating a business-friendly environment.
The order highlights that small businesses account for 41% of employment in Philadelphia, with a 35% increase in new business registrations from 2019 to 2022. However, the city lags behind others in middle-wage jobs and the number of Black- and Brown-owned businesses. It emphasizes the need to address costs and complexities faced by businesses, particularly small enterprises, sole proprietors, and those owned by minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities.
Key measures include:
- Mayor’s Business Action Team: The Commerce Department’s Business Services Office is rebranded as the “Mayor’s Business Action Team,” continuing to provide one-on-one assistance to help businesses navigate city processes. Departments are directed to collaborate with the team to address business obstacles.
- Regulatory Process Review: A project team, comprising the Mayor’s Office, Commerce Department, Licenses and Inspections, and others, must submit by April 15, 2024, a comprehensive list of all business licenses, permits, certifications, fees, and tax filings, along with common regulatory sequences (e.g., starting a new business or expanding premises). The list will detail each step’s description, responsible department, fees, application process, and potential for elimination.
- Ongoing Improvements: The project team will identify regulatory steps and sequences for improvement every three months, with the first set targeted by April 15, 2024, considering impacts on business efficiency, public safety, equity, and resource allocation.
- Reporting and Collaboration: Quarterly reports to the Mayor’s Office will include testimonials from businesses, industry groups, and frontline staff, emphasizing cross-departmental collaboration and impact metrics.
- Roundtable Discussions: Business-government roundtables will identify best practices for regulatory simplification at other government levels and align local, state, and federal business services.
The order took effect on April 15, 2024.
