Strategy in Action

The University City District BID in Philadelphia was founded in 1997 to improve economic vitality and quality of life in the University City neighborhood. The BID operates within a place-based, data-driven framework. It aims to invest in world-class public spaces, address crime and public safety, support small businesses, connect low-income city residents to careers, promote job growth and innovation, and improve the district through placemaking and green space development. The BID also invests in workforce development, including the West Philadelphia Skills Initiative, which it coordinates with local businesses. The initiative aims to ensure that local residents, many of whom earn less than $25,000 a year, have the certifications and necessary workforce skills to be part of the local economy. As of 2019, the program served over 900 people and generated over $33.5 million in wages for participants.