Governor Shapiro Visits Philadelphia's Chinatown to Support Local Growth

During a significant visit marking Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Governor Shapiro engaged with local business owners and leaders in Philadelphia's Chinatown. The focus was on fostering targeted investments and improving government services to help this vibrant community grow and prosper.

The Governor witnessed the positive impacts of strategic investments, such as the $49,800 Main Street Matters grant and the introduction of a Chinese-language version of vote.pa.gov. These initiatives are instrumental in driving economic growth and strengthening the infrastructure of Chinatown.

Support for Local Economies

Philadelphia, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro took a tour of Philadelphia's historic Chinatown to meet with local entrepreneurs and community leaders. His visit was a part of a broader effort to emphasize his Administration's commitment to boosting local economies and enhancing access to government services. The Main Street Matters initiative is a key component, with nearly $50,000 allocated to aid Chinatown in maintaining its unique cultural identity while also preparing for future developments.

“For more than 150 years, Philadelphia’s Chinatown has welcomed families, fostered entrepreneurship, and created a thriving community in the heart of the city,” said Governor Shapiro. “Today, I had the chance to meet with small business owners and community leaders who are carrying that proud legacy forward. My Administration is investing in small businesses, making government more accessible, and ensuring Pennsylvania delivers on its promise of being a place that offers opportunity and freedom for all.”

Recognizing Community Strength

Governor Shapiro's visit coincided with Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to honor the longstanding contributions of these communities to the state. During his walk, he stopped at local businesses like Asia Crafts and Vivi Bubble Tea, which have been staples of the community for years.

The Governor also visited the Philadelphia Fire Department Engine 20, known as the “House of Dragons,” where he expressed gratitude to the firefighters and discussed elements of his 2025-26 proposed budget. This includes a $30 million grant program for fire services, a pilot program for resource sharing, and annual cancer screenings for firefighters.

Empowering Through Investment

Senator Nikil Saval highlighted the significance of Chinatown as a cultural hub, emphasizing the community's advocacy for affordable housing and cultural preservation. Representative Mary Isaacson applauded the community's resilience in adapting to city changes while maintaining cultural vibrancy. Both credited Governor Shapiro's initiatives for supporting Chinatown's ongoing success.

Advancing Small Business Growth

Governor Shapiro's administration is dedicated to bolstering small businesses across Pennsylvania:

• The Commonwealth allocated nearly $700 million to small and veteran businesses, with over $145 million directed to AAPI-owned enterprises this year.
• An Executive Order was signed to facilitate small businesses' access to Commonwealth contracts, reducing certification time and opening new opportunities.
• The Historically Disadvantaged Business Program received $40 million to expand opportunities for small businesses across the state in the first and second budgets.
• To enhance service accessibility, a Chinese-language version of vote.pa.gov was launched, along with the hiring of the first language access program manager.

Governor Shapiro’s visit highlighted the potential of strategic investments to ensure neighborhoods like Philadelphia’s Chinatown remain vibrant centers of economic and cultural life for future generations.

Learn more about the Shapiro Administration’s initiatives to support Pennsylvania’s businesses and Main Streets through the 2025-26 budget proposal at shapirobudget.pa.gov and explore how the Administration is creating economic opportunity to build a prosperous economy for all Pennsylvanians.