Starting a small business in Chestnut Hill is a wonderful and rewarding endeavor.  You’ll have the unique benefit of locating your shop or office in the center of an urban village that is already devoted to “shopping small”.   Our motto isKeep it on the Hill — which is a prevailing commitment within our community to keep our carbon footprint small by acquiring our goods and services as locally as possible.  It’s a commitment to move toward greater sustainability, but it’s also a commitment to loyally support the shops, restaurants and businesses that populate our “Main Street” of Germantown Avenue with vitality, charm and unique character.

We are always looking for new businesses, shops, services and dining establishments to keep our business corridor fresh and exciting for both residents of Chestnut Hill and the many visitors who frequent our historic neighborhood of Philadelphia.

If you would like to explore the idea of opening a business in Chestnut Hill with the assistance of our Retail Advocate, please contact Ann Nevel at  anevel@chestnuthillpa.com

Creating a Business Plan - Pick a business plan format that works for you.

Your business plan is the foundation of your business.

Learn how to write a business plan quickly and efficiently with a business plan template HERE.

Get Federal & State Tax ID Numbers

Your state tax ID and federal tax ID numbers — also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN) — work like a personal social security number, but for your business. They let your small business pay state and federal taxes.

Learn about how to acquire these important identifications for your business HERE. 

Apply for Licenses & Permits - Federal, State & Local

Most small businesses need a combination of licenses and permits from both federal and state agencies. The requirements — and fees — vary based on your business activities, location, and government rules.

Find out more HERE.

Fund Your Business

It costs money to start a business. Funding your business is one of the first — and most important — financial choices most business owners make. How you choose to fund your business could affect how you structure and run your business.

 

Learn some of the ways you can fund a new business HERE.

 

The Philadelphia District of the Small Business Association

Find your local Philadelphia branch of the Small Business Association HERE.

 

 

How to Hire Employees - A Step-by-Step Guide

A comprehensive guide to walk you through how to hire employees, from recruiting and interviewing all the way through to extending an offer and onboarding the right new hire for your business in 13 simple steps.

Jump to this handy hiring guide HERE.