PHILADELPHIA — Local business owners, entrepreneurs, and changemakers are invited to attend an inspiring three-day Business Summit and Expo hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Muslim Engagement and the Department of Commerce’s Mayor’s Business Action Team, designed to advance entrepreneurship, empowerment, and equity for businesses across the city.
The summit, taking place July 18–20, 2025 at Temple University’s Howard Gittis Student Center, promises attendees practical tools, direct access to City resources, and an unmatched opportunity to engage with Philadelphia’s most influential business leaders and public officials.
“This summit is a platform for inclusive economic growth and for lifting up every voice in our business community,” said Dr. Quaiser D. Abdullah, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Muslim Engagement. “We’re building a more connected and empowered Philadelphia.”
Three Days of Business Insight and Networking
Day 1: City Engagement and Resource Access (July 18)
Attendees will learn how to successfully navigate city services such as permits, licenses, and small business safety programs. City officials will outline how public-sector support can improve compliance and accelerate business growth.
Day 2: Financial Growth and Empowerment (July 19)
Workshops will provide actionable insights on accessing capital, credit readiness, cooperative economics, and building generational wealth. Financial experts and institutions will offer strategies tailored to strengthening businesses in underserved communities.
Day 3: Innovation, Leadership, and Empowerment (July 20)
The final day explores the future of entrepreneurship through digital transformation, leadership development, and civic engagement. Speakers will highlight how business ownership can empower future generations.
Featured Speakers
A powerful lineup of civic and business leaders will speak at the summit, including:
- Senator Sharif Street
- Councilmember Nina Ahmad
- Commissioner Omar Sabir
- Donavan West, Director, Mayor’s Business Roundtables
- Salim Wilson, Deputy Commerce Director
- Leslie Acosta, Manager, Outreach & Engagement
- Khori Hooks, Financial Advisor, Ameriprise
- Atif Bostic, President & CEO, Uplift Solutions
- Maleda Berhane, Principal & CEO, AR Spruce
- Khadijah Robinson, CEO, AQUA Waterproof Headwear
- Ryan Boyer, Business Manager, Philadelphia Building & Construction Trades Council
…and many more advocates, innovators, and consultants shaping Philadelphia’s business ecosystem.
Who Should Attend?
All businesses are welcome whether you’re launching a startup, expanding your reach, or pivoting after challenges. This summit is particularly valuable for minority-, immigrant-, and women-owned enterprises looking for equitable access to city resources and new markets.
Event Details
- Dates: July 18–20, 2025
- Location: Temple University Howard Gittis Student Center
1755 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122 - Registration: Required—each day has a separate sign-up
- Contact: Questions can be directed to muslim.engage@phila.gov
This event will provide opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow with a citywide network of business leaders and change agents. Whether you’re a sole proprietor, startup founder, or seasoned entrepreneur, the 2025 Business Summit and Expo could be a gateway to new ideas, partnerships, and success.