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.
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
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
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
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