About Us
The Lancaster Avenue 21st Century Business Association CDC (LA21) was founded in 2008 and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity organization founded in Philadelphia and specifically serves the West Philadelphia community on Lancaster Avenue from 34th to Lansdowne streets (over 20 city blocks), Market Street from 34th to 38th streets and the surrounding neighborhoods. We are located in a federally mandated “Promise Zone” serving communities in the Mantua section of West Philadelphia and University City. We are a CDC (Community Development Corporation) business association representing businesses and organizations along the Lancaster Avenue corridor, a rich cultural, historic, and business hub. We are also a Registered Community Organization (RCO) representing Lancaster Avenue. Serving as an RCO allows us to engage our community with all zoning, land use and community development on and around Lancaster Avenue
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide the training, resources, and environment to help new and established businesses address the difficulties of starting, maintaining, and navigating the necessary changes needed to foster successful business growth and economic betterment of the Lancaster Avenue corridor and the city of Philadelphia.
LA21 Funders & Partners
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LA21 News
Marisia Robinson’s Journey from Corporate Life to Garden Guru
Discover how Marisia Robinson of Seed, Weed, Reap turned her passion for gardening into a thriving business. From essential gardening tips to leveraging community, learn how she cultivates success and overcomes challenges.
Unveiling Holistic Healing: Nzingha Ma’at and the Success of Ma’at Therapeutic Services
Discover how Nzingha Ma’at of Ma’at Therapeutic Services uses a holistic mind, body, and spirit approach to address unresolved trauma, imposter syndrome, and more.
The State of Black Start-up Businesses in Philadelphia Report
The State of Black Start-up Businesses in Philadelphia Report Table of Contents Letter from the Executive Director Introduction: LA21, CDC History & Background About the Panel Selection Panel Attendees & Community Stakeholders Meet the Panelists Panel...