About the Program

The Small Business and Mentoring Program helps local small businesses overcome the most common barriers to university contracting: compliance, capacity, and access.

Many entrepreneurs have the skills, drive, and service offerings needed to succeed—but lack the licensing, documentation, or institutional knowledge required to secure university contracts. That’s where this program comes in.

We work closely with Philadelphia-based small businesses to:

• Assess their contract readiness
• Address gaps in licensing, insurance, or tax compliance
• Connect them with city and state support agencies
• Facilitate introductions to Temple’s procurement staff
• Position them for ongoing success—within Temple and the broader market

This initiative is built on Temple’s commitment to economic equity and local partnership. It’s not just about awarding contracts—it’s about building long-term relationships and shared success.