Challenges, opportunities, and concerns for Philadelphia’s business community in the coming year
As the year 2024 draws near, business leaders in Philadelphia are contemplating the state of the city’s economy. With concerns ranging from inflation to hiring and retention, these leaders are evaluating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia’s annual State of the Economy event provided a platform for executives to reflect on the past year and share their top concerns for the new year. In this article, we will delve into the thoughts and insights of three prominent Philadelphia business leaders, exploring their perspectives on small businesses, talent retention, and changing the perception of the city.
Challenges and Opportunities for Small Businesses
Jodie Harris, president of the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by businesses of all sizes, particularly when it comes to access to capital and survival during difficult times. To address these issues, PIDC focuses on helping businesses stay afloat by providing lines of credit and assisting with investments in contracts and equipment. Harris also noted an increase in entrepreneurs who are looking to purchase their own spaces, indicating a need for stability within the business community. The ability to weather economic shocks is crucial for the overall resilience of businesses in Philadelphia.
Maintaining Talent
John Fry, president of Drexel University, emphasized the university’s success in retaining local and regional talent for various job roles. However, Fry acknowledged the struggle to compete in the national market for diverse faculty members. To tackle this issue, Fry proposed three talent attraction and retention tactics that could benefit any company leader. Firstly, he suggested the creation of meaningful career progression opportunities. Secondly, he advocated for a more flexible workforce, particularly in terms of hybrid and online work arrangements. Lastly, Fry emphasized the importance of instilling a sense of dignity, purpose, and mission in employees’ work, thereby fostering a strong sense of commitment and loyalty.
Changing the Perception of Philly
Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, discussed the recovery of leisure and business travel in Philadelphia post-pandemic. However, Lovell highlighted a perception issue that the city faces due to negative media coverage and social media posts. This negative perception hampers the city’s ability to attract visitors. Lovell called for a collective effort to change this narrative, urging everyone to be champions and ambassadors for the extraordinary experiences that Philadelphia offers. Strong leadership, such as that demonstrated by Mayor-Elect Cherelle Parker, is crucial in advocating for the city’s success and countering negative perceptions.
Conclusion: As Philadelphia approaches 2024, business leaders are grappling with various economic concerns and opportunities. Small businesses seek stability and access to capital, while talent retention remains a priority for companies like Drexel University. Additionally, changing the perception of Philadelphia is crucial for attracting visitors and promoting the city’s success. By addressing these challenges head-on and leveraging the city’s strengths, Philadelphia’s business community aims to navigate the coming year with resilience and prosperity.
