Photo: Ryan S. Brandenberg, Temple University
A new Green Business Accelerator (GBA) program is launching in Philadelphia this spring to support small businesses seeking to grow within the emerging green economy.
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Temple University is one of four organizations from across the country selected by Prosperity Now to host a local GBA. Other participating cities include Atlanta, Chicago, and Dallas.
“Congratulations to Temple SBDC for being one of the selected as one of our national partners,” said Marisa Calderon, President and CEO of Prosperity Now. “Small businesses drive innovation and long-term economic growth. Through our Green Business Accelerator, Prosperity Now is helping build the systems and relationships that support business owners as they adapt to new opportunities in this emerging sector.”
The GBA is designed to strengthen the capacity of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) working with business owners who face barriers to capital and market access.
Temple SBDC will lead a local effort with community partners over the next year to help small businesses navigate and pursue sustainability-focused business models and opportunities.
The participating organizations recently completed Prosperity Now’s Green Business Accelerator Training Program, which offered practical tools, peer learning, and guidance on how to better serve entrepreneurs preparing to enter or expand within the green economy.
Applications for the first Philadelphia business cohort are now open. Nine small businesses will be selected to receive tailored training, one-on-one consultations, and access to additional resources to support their growth and market readiness. Interested business owners can apply at the link here.
Philadelphia GBA Program Launch Event:
- Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
- Time: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Location: Quorum at University City Science Center, 3675 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19104
The event will feature remarks from partner organizations, a graduation ceremony for program participants, and networking opportunities. Advance registration is required via the link here.
To learn more about the Green Business Accelerator and to apply, visit Green Business Accelerator by Prosperity Now .
About Prosperity Now
Since 1979, Prosperity Now has been a trusted leader in strengthening financial security, expanding access to capital, and ensuring economic stability for businesses, families, and communities. We work across sectors to develop practical, scalable solutions that create lasting change. Through innovation, strategic investment, and collaboration, we build the infrastructure needed to sustain small business growth, housing opportunities, and financial well-being in an evolving economic landscape. Learn more at www.prosperitynow.org.
About Temple SBDC
The Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center at Temple University is part of a nationally accredited program that provides educational training, business resources, and experienced no-cost, confidential consulting to small business owners and entrepreneurs in Philadelphia and Montgomery counties. The Pennsylvania SBDC has a statewide network of 15 centers and outreach locations to serve small businesses since 1979 and are fully accredited by America’s SBDC.
Media Contact:
Gabriella Sacidor
Temple SBDC
GabSBDC@temple.edu
215-204-0143