Where We Began
The Enterprise Center (TEC) operates from the former American Bandstand building in West Philadelphia. Where Dick Clark once showcased emerging talent to millions of television viewers, TEC now provides a different kind of platform: one for minority entrepreneurs building businesses and community wealth.
Founded in 1989 by the Wharton Small Business Development Center, TEC provides business education, capital access, and direct business services to entrepreneurs in low wealth, high opportunity areas. In 2001, TEC launched its affiliated Community Development Corporation (TEC-CDC) to revitalize West Philadelphia and supporting its economic development. The TEC-CDC works primarily in Walnut Hill and along the 52nd Street corridor.
The Enterprise Center Community Development Corporation
The Enterprise Center Community Development Corporation (TEC-CDC) works to revitalize the 52nd Street corridor by encouraging local business ownership, creating a safe and clean environment, and helping the corridor's resurgence of arts, culture, and commerce. Through initiatives like the Center for Culinary Enterprises, TEC-CDC is working to breathe new life into the commercial corridor.
Our Core Work
Community
Revitalizes the 52nd Street corridor through storefront improvements, arts and cultural projects, and community celebrations, while engaging residents and business owners in shaping a clean, safe, and vibrant neighborhood.
Culinary
Operates the Center for Culinary Enterprises, providing food entrepreneurs with commercial kitchen space, a demo kitchen available for rental, and workshops on business marketing to turn culinary talent into sustainable businesses.
Commerce
Accelerates business growth through education, capital access via The Enterprise Center Capital Corporation, and business support, with a focus on low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs building wealth in their community.