The City of Philadelphia's Department of Commerce has been championing local businesses through its Storefront Improvement Program, providing financial support for storefront revamps across the city's buzzing commercial corridors. According to the City of Philadelphia's official website, the program can generously cover up to 50 percent of the costs for eligible improvements, capping at $10,000 for a single property and $15,000 for multiple addresses or corner businesses. This initiative serves to firmly enhance the city's aesthetic and bolster neighborhood pride.
Bake’n Bacon, South Philadelphia's original bacon-centric dining spot, is one of the latest businesses to benefit from these improvement grants. In an interview with the City of Philadelphia's official website, owner Justin Coleman detailed the crucial support the program provided. "About a year ago, we applied for the Storefront Improvement Program to replace the deteriorating second-floor windows, update the doors, and repaint the exterior," Coleman shared. With new paint, style-packed windows, and a revamped front door, the bacon-themed eatery has seen its curb appeal and patronage significantly increase.
Employing approximately 12 to 15 individuals, Bake’n Bacon serves as a testament to the vitality of inclusive and diverse business practices in Philadelphia's culinary scene. The program's impact transcends aesthetics, as Coleman remarked on the newfound energy it brought to the establishment. "People are drawn in by the new paint outside, our beautiful spacious windows, and the overall style of our business," he mentioned, emphasizing both the customer draw and the inspiration it provides fellow shop owners to similarly invest in their spaces, as reported by the City of Philadelphia.
For Coleman and his partner Kelvin, the store is not just a place to grab a bite but a pivotal community touchstone. "I want all of my customers, visitors and local residents to feel welcomed," Coleman told the City of Philadelphia's official website, articulating a vision of a space where people can be "seen, heard, respected and served" with a great experience. The program's support extends into the practical realm as well, helping entrepreneurs navigate often costly improvements in a financially sustainable manner.
The Mayor's Business Action Team (MBAT) of the Department of Commerce extends a helping hand to entrepreneurs looking to make similar improvements, offering a concierge service to communicate and guide business owners in multiple languages. For those interested in revitalizing their storefronts or starting a new venture in Philadelphia, contact the team by emailing [email protected] or by calling 215-683-2100.
