Philadelphia is fertile ground for young entrepreneurs, who are staking their claim on popular culture. Check out our slideshow, the second in a reoccurring series of young creatives across the Commonwealth who have opened up shop for themselves. Here they are, in order of appearance:
The Spare Parts Company, 406 Vine St., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, 215-922-2214
Benna’s Cafe, 1236 S. 8th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19147, 215-334-1502
Neighbors, dogs, and soy lattes mix at Benna’s Cafe and B2, both owned by tiny dynamo Nancy Trachtenberg. Trachtenberg’s community engagement is evident in each lively corner; Benna’s has served as the hub of its emerging East South Philly neighborhood since 2005, hosting monthly art shows, accepting packages and giving you a buck off your drink if you bring your own cup. B2 has expanded on Benna’s successful concept, adding smoothies, fresh-squeezed juices and vegan and dairy soft-serve to the inexpensive sandwiches, soups and pastries of the original.
Philly-IT , 1428 S.13th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19147, 267-760-5646
Merging computer science with service is Rob Cooper, owner of Philly-IT in Philadelphia. Cooper and one employee provide internet technology installation, set-up, maintenance and support to clients like the Racquet Club of Philadelphia, Saxby’s Coffee and Axis Construction. The 29-year old struck out on his own three years ago, and has since shown that the right small business can provide the highest level of innovation to big businesses.