7 Resources for Minority-Owned Businesses in PA
Pennsylvania small business owners come from all walks of life. And no matter what they look like, where they come from, who they love, or who they pray to, they are valued in Pennsylvania. That’s why we offer many resources for minority-owned businesses to help them build a bright future for themselves, their families, and their communities. To continue to see our small businesses grow, we’ve compiled a list of the go-to resources available to minority business owners across the commonwealth. Whether it’s helping them become certified as a small diverse business, apply for funding, find business mentors, or contract with government agencies, Pennsylvania is committed to helping minority business owners succeed.
1. Pennsylvania Business One-Stop Shop
The Pennsylvania Business One-Stop Shop is the first stop for many individuals seeking information about how to turn their entrepreneurial ideas into a new business. The experts at Pennsylvania Business One-Stop Shop provide customized assistance to aspiring entrepreneurs and existing small businesses and offer access to a vast toolbox of services and resources, including those focused on small diverse businesses.
2. Entrepreneur’s Guide
The Entrepreneur’s Guide is a free publication that guides a small business owner through the process of starting and growing a business in Pennsylvania that includes expert information about writing a business plan, registering a business, receiving funding, and more. View it online or download your copy on the PA Business One-Stop Shop website.
3. Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Authority (PMBDA)
The Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Authority (PMBDA) is a low-interest loan program designed to stimulate the creation, retention and expansion of minority-owned businesses and create jobs in Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants are for-profit business enterprises owned and controlled by one or more socially or economically disadvantaged persons who are residents of the Commonwealth.
4. Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
The Pennsylvania SBDC network is the only statewide, nationally-accredited program that provides high-quality one-on-one consulting, training, and information resources to empower new and existing businesses — including resources specifically for minority-owned businesses. The SBDC partners with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), DCED, and 15 universities and colleges across the state to provide budding entrepreneurs and small business owners the tools they need to thrive. The SBDC’s Diverse Business Owners page also offers resources for funding programs, training, and federal contracting opportunities for current or budding minority entrepreneurs.
5. Small Diverse Business Certification & Procurement Opportunities
To be eligible for the various programs and resources available to small diverse businesses, you must first be registered and legally operating within Pennsylvania and be verified as a small diverse business. Eligible small businesses must hold certifications as diverse businesses with one of the Pennsylvania Department of General Services’ approved third-party certification entities. Visit the Pennsylvania Department of General Services website to view a full list of third-party certifiers and learn more about becoming a certified small diverse business. For more general information on becoming a supplier or vendor for state government, visit our Government Contracting page.
6. Small Disadvantaged Business Status
In addition to small diverse business certification in Pennsylvania, you might want to explore the federal resources available to small, disadvantaged businesses. Qualifying businesses that meet the federal standards for small, disadvantaged businesses through the Small Business Administration (SBA) have access to a suite of additional federal programs and assistance. To learn more about acquiring this classification for your business, visit SBA’s website.
7. Minority Business Development Agency Business Center of Pennsylvania (MBC-PA)
An agency of the United States Department of Commerce, the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) promotes the growth and global competitiveness of minority-owned-and-operated businesses while focusing on job creation for minority business entrepreneurs. MBDA’s team of business advisors offers capital and financial management access, business consulting, contract and market access, and global business development services.
To learn more about the funding programs and resources available to small businesses, visit our PA Business One-Stop Shop website, follow our social media channels (X, Facebook, and LinkedIn).
