Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers a wealth of resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners aiming to establish or expand their ventures. Understanding and utilizing these resources can significantly enhance business success in the region.
Office of Business Development
The City of Allentown’s Office of Business Development provides comprehensive assistance to businesses at various stages. Services include guidance through business planning, funding, location selection, licensing, and operational growth. Entrepreneurs can access support in areas such as business planning, financial projections, marketing strategies, and legal setup. For more information, contact the office at (610) 437-7610 or via email at business@allentownpa.gov.
SPARK Program
The Small Business SPARK Program offers up to 14 hours of free assistance from local experts in marketing, e-commerce, financial management, legal services, and strategic planning. Eligible Allentown-based businesses with fewer than 50 employees can apply for this program. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Allentown Economic Development Corporation (AEDC)
AEDC supports local entrepreneurs and manufacturers through various programs, including business incubators, economic development lending, and brownfield site redevelopment. They offer loans up to $150,000 for equipment, real estate purchases, and, in special cases, working capital. Job creation and retention are essential components of these loan funds. For more details, contact AEDC at info@allentownedc.com or (610) 435-8890.
Lehigh Valley LaunchBox
Lehigh Valley LaunchBox, part of the Invent Penn State initiative, is a business accelerator program that provides support to entrepreneurs during the resurgence of downtown Allentown. The program offers resources and mentorship to help startups succeed.
Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC)
LVEDC offers resources to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into successful businesses. Their services include business incubators, entrepreneurship programs, and co-working spaces. For more information, contact LVEDC at (610) 266-6775 or lvedc@lehighvalley.org.
By leveraging these resources, entrepreneurs in Allentown can navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business, contributing to the city’s vibrant economic landscape.