SEPTEMBER 2026 NEWSLETTER

FEATURED STORIES

45 Years at PIDC: Maryann McCann’s Front-Row Seat to Philadelphia’s Growth

For 45 years, Maryann McCann has had a front-row seat to Philadelphia’s transformation.

Born and raised in the city’s Grays Ferry neighborhood, McCann has spent her entire career at PIDC, starting in 1981 as a secretary and working her way through a variety of roles before becoming a GIS Administrator. Along the way, she has worked on some of Philadelphia’s most significant development projects, learned new technologies and skills, and watched both PIDC and the city change around her, all from a desk overlooking City Hall.

Through it all, one thing has remained constant: her connection to the city and her commitment to PIDC’s mission.

A Summer of Learning Through PIDC Partner Tours

As part of PIDC’s summer internship program, interns and staff members had the opportunity to step outside the office and see Philadelphia’s economy in action. Through two full-day tours, they visited several of PIDC’s partners across the city, from community organizations to creative workplaces.

Rather than learning about economic development strictly from behind a desk, these tours allowed the interns to see it first hand and in action. They met with community leaders, business owners, developers, and entrepreneurs to learn about the different ways they contribute to Philadelphia’s economy.

Succession Planning Strategies for Small Business Owners

Philadelphia’s small businesses are the backbone of the city’s economy, providing jobs, contributing to local culture, and driving community development. However, as business owners approach retirement or consider stepping away from their day-to-day roles, the question of what comes next becomes critical. Without a clear succession plan, even the most successful business can face challenges that may threaten its future. Learn how you can protect your business’s legacy after you’ve stepped down.

PIDC Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Second Annual Elevate & Connect Business Resource Night

This Hispanic Heritage Month, PIDC joined Greenline Access Capital for our second annual Elevate and Connect: A Resource Night Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, connecting Philadelphia’s Hispanic and Latino business owners with organizations offering financing, technical assistance, real estate services, and other business resources.

The evening featured conversations with local resource providers, opportunities for one-on-one connections, and food and décor from PIDC clients El Mole Poblano, Sylvia’s Bakery, and M Santos Interiors. The event reflects PIDC’s ongoing commitment to building relationships and expanding access to the resources Philadelphia businesses need to grow.

Celebrate MED Week by Investing in Your Business

Join PIDC on October 7th for a special MED Week workshop to learn about the financing products and services available to help Philadelphia businesses grow and achieve their goals.

During this session, business owners will get an overview of PIDC's services, learn what to expect throughout the application process, and dive into the steps that follow after submitting an application. Whether you're looking to expand, invest in your business, or explore new opportunities, this session will help you navigate the process with confidence.

All MED Week events are available at phila.gov/med-week.

Register Now

“Semper Fidelis” Marine Corps Monument Groundbreaking

For generations, Marines trained on the historic grounds of the Navy Yard before departing Philadelphia to serve their country around the world. Soon, a new monument will ensure that their presence and their legacy remain a visible part of the Navy Yard for generations to come.

On September 9, Friends of the Philadelphia Navy Yard Marines and community partners gathered at the historic Marine Parade Grounds to break ground on The Marine Corps Monument: “Semper Fidelis,” a permanent tribute to the Marines who trained and served at the Navy Yard.

FEATURED CLIENTS

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by supporting a few of our #PIDCclients who offer cleaning services, groceries for South Philadelphians, and resources for the Hispanic and Latino community.

Tasker Food Market

Taskers Food Market is a neighborhood grocery store serving South Philadelphia with hot and cold food options, including sandwiches and cheesesteaks, as well as everyday essentials like cleaning supplies and disposable dishware. Taskers Food Market also supports the local small business community by providing business owners with an opportunity to sell their baked goods in the store.

Esperanza

Esperanza is a faith-based nonprofit organization located in Philadelphia’s Hunting Park neighborhood that works to strengthen Hispanic communities through education, economic development, workforce development, housing, and advocacy. Esperanza provides programs and resources that help individuals and families access opportunities and build economic stability.

Sueep

Sueep is a family-owned cleaning service specializing in commercial and residential painting, janitorial services, and post-construction cleaning. They work with property managers and contractors, providing clear communication, coordination, and project execution. Recent projects include Vantage View Summer Turns & the UDR Portfolio in King of Prussia.