Below is a list of frequently asked questions that people
tend to have concerning the Greater Philadelphia Minority
Business Strategic Alliance. This section will continue
to grow according to the questions we receive. If you have
a question that is not listed below, please contact
us so that we may assist you.
1. I want to start a business, what is my first
step?
The first step is to seek consultation from one of our strategic
partners that provides managerial and technical assistance
to "start-up" and existing businesses. Please
refer to the list of strategic partners/Services
section of our web-site or Call 215/399-0062 for further
information.
2. Can the GPMBSA help me obtain financing to start
my business if my collateral is weak?
There are various funding sources that provide financing
for start-up and existing small businesses, even if the
collateral is weak; however, the other factors must be strong.
For example, good character/credit rating coupled with management
experience, and a sound business proposal could qualify
you for a loan. Please refer to the list of strategic
partners/Services section of our web-site.
3. How do I get my business certified as a MBE/WBE
with the city of Philadelphia and the SBA 8(a) program?
Contact the city of Philadelphia, Minority Enterprise Council
at 215/686-6232 and the SBA's Philadelphia District Office
at 214/580-2722. Please refer to the Certification
section of our web site.
4. How can the GPMBSA help me secure contract opportunities
to help grow my business?
Generally, MBE's and small businesses that are seeking contract
opportunities should first become certified and have their
businesses listed in the various government systems. There
are a number of other government and corporate listings
that a small business should get on, including the city
of Philadelphia Minority Business Enterprise Council, and
the Minority Supplier Development Council of PA-NJ-DE. The
GPMBSA can direct you to these agencies and help you complete
the required applications. For further information, please
refer to the list of strategic
partners /Certification section of our web-site.
5. Do special grants or loan programs for minorities
exist? If so, how can I find them?
There are many grants available to MBE's and small businesses
for specific services; however these grants are generally
for "non-profit" entities. If your business is
a non-profit entity, you should contact the foundation or
entity providing the grant and request an application and
guideline requirements.
Contact: www.foundations.org
for a listing of foundations.
6. Is there anyone who can review my business plan?
Any of the listed strategic partners that provide technical
assistance and business consultation can review and update
your business plan. Please refer to the Services
section of our web-site or contact GPMBSA at 215-399-0062.
7. Can the GPMBSA set me up with a mentor?
Yes. Please review the list of strategic
partners, and contact the partner that best represents
your interest.
8. Is there a way to submit business questions and
get responses and or suggestions from members of the Alliance?
The next development phase of the GPMBSA's web-site will
have a forum or "chat room" where visitors can
submit business related questions and obtain responses from
one or more of the strategic partners. In the interim, if
you have a question, please call or e-mail the contact person
listed under the Contact Us
section of our web-site.
