Resources for Businesses

Boosting Small & Local

It's our prerogative to preserve and promote the cultural and entrepreneurial heritage of Bethlehem's SouthSide Historic District. We strive to be the connective tissue that links local businesses to the resources and creative opportunities they need to continually thrive. Whether you’re a new business owner looking for strategic guidance, a seasoned entrepreneur seeking fresh opportunities, or simply interested in expanding your professional network, this page offers a curated list of local and regional resources designed to help you succeed.

Sign up for a SouthSide Arts District membership to expand your reach and increase your customer base

A SouthSide Arts District Merchant Membership or Nonprofit Membership enhances your brand's visibility throughout Bethlehem and the Greater Lehigh Valley. As a member, you’ll gain access to promotional opportunities through features in SouthSide Arts District media, participation in community events, and insider access to educational workshops along with other valuable resources designed to help you achieve success.

Business owners and local nonprofits can apply for membership and learn more about member benefits by visiting our Membership Page, and existing members can easily renew their membership online.

Questions about membership? Send our team a message at info@southsideartsdistrict.com

Partnerships for a Resilient Business Community

We maintain strong partnerships with local government, civic leadership groups, and community-based organizations that provide essential foundational services and financial opportunities to both startups and established businesses—empowering the small business leaders and entrepreneurs who drive SouthSide’s growth and vitality.

Foundational Support & Strategic Development Resources

The Small Business Development Center at Lehigh University (SBDC)

Specializing in confidential one-on-one business consulting services and equipping entrepreneurs and small business owners with strategic decision making skills and knowledge.

Contact:

SBDC Consultant Team
insbdc@lehigh.edu
610-758-3980

 

City of Bethlehem Official Small Business Checklist & Welcome Packet

The City's official step-by-step outline/checklist that details all the requirements a business owner needs to know about opening a business in the City of Bethlehem?

Contact:

Alex Miller | Economic Development Coordinator
City of Bethlehem
starthere@bethlehem-pa.gov
610-865-7085

 

Financial Assistance

Rising Tide Business & Community Loan Funds

Provides a range of financing opportunities including micro-loans, loans for both new and established businesses, and lines of credit for small businesses that may not otherwise qualify for traditional bank loans.

Contact: 

Rising Tide Community Loan Fund Team
rtclf-marketing@caclv.org
484-893-1039

 

City of Bethlehem Official Small Business Checklist & Welcome Packet

The City's official step-by-step outline/checklist that details all the requirements a business owner needs to know about opening a business in the City of Bethlehem?

Contact:

Alex Miller | Economic Development Coordinator
City of Bethlehem
starthere@bethlehem-pa.gov
610-865-7085

 

Marketing, Public Relations, & Professional Networking

Bethlehem Chamber | The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of of Commerce

Supports local businesses through advocacy, networking events, marketing opportunities, and access to business resources that foster growth and community connections.

Contact:

Tammy Wendling | Senior VP, Bethlehem Initiatives
tammyw@lehighvalleychamber.org
610-739-1775

 

TS Brand Elevation

Specializing in public relations, event marketing, and talent booking & management services for businesses, big or small.

Contact:

Tiffany Sondergaard | Owner & Founder
tiffany@tsbrandelevation.com
610-349-3671

 

Lehigh Valley 1 Million Cups

Hosted by the Follett Family Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE), this is a weekly idea presentation and networking event for entrepreneurs looking to start a business and desiring feedback from fellow entrepreneurs and established business owners.

Contact:

CIE Team
cie@northampton.edu

Thank You to our Community Partners & Sponsors

  • Office Address

    SouthSide Arts District Office
    324 South New Street
    Bethlehem, PA 18015

  • Mailing Address

    SouthSide Arts District C/O BEDCO
    10 East Church Street
    Bethlehem, PA 18018

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