ICIC’s Alumni Network (ICAN) continues to strengthen ecosystems and inspire small business growth across the country. The launch of the ICAN Philadelphia Alumni Chapter brought together entrepreneurs, partners, and community leaders to celebrate connection, collaboration, and resilience. Supported by Santander Bank, Ceiba, and Finanta, the event showcased the power of partnerships and highlighted Philadelphia’s determined, deeply rooted business community. The new chapter builds on that strength by linking alumni to peers, partners, and resources that help them grow. Led by alumni who pay it forward through mentorship, programming, and donations, ICAN continues to expand opportunity and demonstrate that when one alum succeeds, the entire community moves forward. Read More

What began as a dream in North Philadelphia has become a creative home for nearly 20,000 students. Executive Director Wilhemina Gibson and her husband, Artistic DIrector Professor Randy J. Gibson, have spent 30 years growing Gibson Music and Arts into a vibrant space for education, performance, and community. Alumni like Jazmine Sullivan and Kamal Gray of The Roots got their start here—but the deeper impact lies in the confidence and opportunity they’ve helped nurture in every student. Wilhemina, a graduate of ICIC’s ICCC program, credits the experience with helping her strengthen and scale their work through moments of change. From launching online classes to expanding retail and rentals, the Gibsons continue to evolve with purpose. As we celebrate Juneteenth, their story reminds us that small businesses shape more than economies—they help build freedom, community, and the future. Read More

Darlene Jones is the talented mastermind behind Star Fusion Brand, a series of successful restaurants in West Philadelphia known for their fusion of American and Thai flavors. After leaving her corporate sales career, Jones used her marketing expertise to launch her brand in 2015. Jones participated in Santander’s Cultivate Small Business program, which helped her secure a $20,000 grant. The grant allowed her to invest in her company, acquire new contracts, and purchase a specialty oven to fulfill large orders. The experience of owning a small business has been a positive one for Jones. Despite experiencing some challenges, Jones remains motivated and encourages other business owners not to give up. Read More

Anna Maria Florio creates harmony in her demonstration kitchen, La Cucina at the Market. An alum from the Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) Philadelphia 2021 cohort, Florio mixes ingredients and community building to create a thriving business that brings people together. From corporate bonding events to couples’ pasta-making classes and bridesmaids’ parties, Florio helps folks in her kitchen work together. Read More

Discussion of small business lending often focuses on large amounts of money that enable a business to start or grow. However, there is an alternative funding model that has been gaining steam: microloans. Read More