A coalition of Latino entrepreneurs in Philadelphia has launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening and promoting small businesses in South Philadelphia and nearby neighborhoods amid the economic and political challenges immigrant communities continue to face.
During an event held on May 28, organizers introduced the campaign, titled Discover the Flavors of South Philly, created by the Mexican Business Association (AEM), an organization born during the COVID-19 pandemic when Latino-owned businesses along South Philadelphia’s commercial corridor were struggling to survive.
“In 2020, when the pandemic threatened to erase Latino merchants from the corridor, we came together with the intention of surviving,” AEM leaders said during the campaign presentation. “Together, we realized something even more important: that as a group, we are much stronger.”
Six years after its founding, AEM has grown to include more than 70 active member businesses. Organizers explained that the new initiative comes at a time when Latino-owned businesses continue to face economic uncertainty, rising operating costs, and a political climate that impacts immigrant communities.
“This time we are more organized, with more experience, with more support, and with the same determination to move forward and continue serving the people of this beautiful city,” organizers stated.
The campaign represents a community investment of $20,500, made possible through partnerships with Asian Bank, The Merchants Fund, and grants from the Philadelphia Department of Commerce.
As part of the initiative, organizers produced 112 professional photographs and 112 short videos to highlight 23 participating businesses. Since February of this year, the organization has also conducted more than 50 personalized consultations with business owners focused on strengthening their social media presence, improving their visibility on Google Maps, and developing financial strategies to stabilize and grow their operations.
The campaign also includes the launch of a public website featuring an interactive map designed to help residents and visitors discover Latino-owned businesses throughout different parts of the city.
Although the initiative carries the name Discover South Philly, organizers emphasized that some participating businesses are located outside South Philadelphia, reflecting the growth and expansion of the Mexican and Latino communities across the city.
“South Philly is the heart, but it is no longer the border,” organizers said, noting that many entrepreneurs have expanded their businesses into other neighborhoods as their families and companies have grown.
Business owners also highlighted the financial impact of food delivery apps, which, they explained, charge between 25% and 30% per order placed through their platforms.
“That money does not go to the driver or the cook. It goes directly to the delivery company,” organizers said, while encouraging residents to support businesses by visiting them in person.
The campaign invites Philadelphians to explore restaurants, coffee shops, stores, and service businesses throughout the summer.
“We are the small businesses that employ this community, keep this economy moving, preserve traditions, and generate wealth within this neighborhood,” organizers said. “This weekend, this summer, choose a business from the map, visit it, enjoy it, and recommend it to a friend.”
Participating Businesses
The campaign highlights 23 businesses, including restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and service providers in Philadelphia and nearby communities.
Participants include Adelita Taqueria, Arepa Grub Spot, Aztlan Taqueria, Los Cuatro Soles, Mole Poblano Restaurant, Tacos Los Catrines – El Guero, Tamalex, and Taqueria Morales.
Coffee shops such as Duskaia Coffee and Flores Coffee Shop are also participating, along with retail and service businesses including Ana Thorne Designs, Chocolate Arts & Crafts, South Philly Salon Unisex, and Ruedas Mexibike.
