Summer in Philadelphia has a rhythm of its own.
The air feels lighter, people linger longer in neighborhoods, and the city’s sidewalks come alive with possibility—especially for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you are launching your first business or reimagining the one you already have, summer is more than a season. It’s an invitation.
At the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GPHCC), we believe that some of the best business ideas begin with a conversation at a park bench, a food stall at a block party, or a dream scribbled on a napkin. And there’s no better time than now—when the days stretch long, and optimism feels abundant—to turn those ideas into action.
You don’t need a perfect business plan to start—but you do need a plan. And more importantly, you need community, access to trusted guidance, and the courage to take that first step. That’s where we come in.
A city of hustle and heart
Philadelphia is a city of self-starters. We see it every day in the bodegas that anchor our neighborhoods, in the pop-up food vendors testing new recipes, and in the beauty salons, landscaping crews, and digital creatives who are building legacies—often with limited resources but limitless determination.
Latino entrepreneurs are a growing force in our city’s economy. Nationally, we are starting businesses faster than any other demographic group. But we still face barriers—access to capital, networks, and knowledge remain real challenges. That’s why supporting entrepreneurs is not just about creating jobs; it’s about creating equity and generational wealth in our communities.
Summer gives us a unique moment to focus on this work. People are energized. Events bring us together. There’s more time and space to dream—and to act.
Your summer launchpad
If you have been waiting for the right moment to get support, meet other business owners, or finally take your side hustle seriously, I invite you to join us at this year’s Éxito Small Business Conference on Wednesday, June 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
We are hosting the conference at CYTO PHL, a stunning venue at the Cira Center, conveniently located next to 30th Street Station. Whether you’re just getting started or already scaling up, Éxito is your space to connect with experts, learn practical skills, and tap into the energy of a thriving entrepreneurial community.
The 2025 conference includes a dedicated track for early-stage businesses, where aspiring and new entrepreneurs can get foundational guidance on planning, marketing, and resources for your business. We’re also offering one-on-one business coaching sessions—a unique opportunity to ask questions, get feedback, and walk away with a personalized action plan.
From workshops to networking, Éxito is designed to meet business owners where they are—and help them get where they want to go.
Register now at GPHCC.org. The conference is free for chamber members and open to the public and to all who want to grow their business with purpose and community.
Take the first step
Not every great business starts with a perfect pitch deck. Some start with a question. Or a conversation. Or the decision to show up.
That’s what Éxito offers—and what summer invites: a season of momentum, connections, and new beginnings.
So, whether you’re a recent graduate thinking about your future, a worker ready to be your own boss, or an entrepreneur looking for your next opportunity—this summer is for you.
Take the leap. Join us at Éxito. And let this be the season you start something new.
Jennifer Rodríguez, MCP, is the President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
