October 25, 2025
AACCGP joins EORC
AACCGP is thrilled to share that the Philadelphia City Council passed Bill no. 250654, which amends the Philadelphia Code to add two additional business/community members to the Economic Opportunity Review Committee (EORC), a milestone made possible by Councilmember-at-large Dr. Nina Ahmad’s recommendation.
The Economic Opportunity Review Committee (EORC) is an official agency of the Philadelphia City Council, established under Chapter 17-1600 of the Philadelphia Code. It plays a key oversight role in the city’s First Source Jobs Policy, which prioritizes local hiring—especially from underrepresented communities—and ensures the inclusion of Minority-, Women-, and Disabled-owned Small Businesses (M/W/DSBEs) in city contracts, development projects, and economic initiatives. The EORC meets at least quarterly to review Economic Opportunity Plans (EOPs) submitted for projects receiving city financial assistance (typically over certain thresholds, like $100,000 in contracts). These plans outline strategies for diverse hiring, outreach, and procurement, and the committee monitors compliance, resolves issues, and recommends improvements to promote equity in Philadelphia’s economy.
The Recent Change: Bill No. 250654
On October 17, 2025, Philadelphia City Council passed Bill No. 250654, which amends the Philadelphia Code to expand the EORC by adding two new members from the business and community sectors. Prior to this, the committee’s composition was limited (e.g., no more than two business representatives, excluding those directly tied to covered projects). This expansion broadens representation to better reflect Philadelphia’s diverse economy and addresses calls for more inclusive input in economic development decisions.
Specific Impact of Adding the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia (AACCGP)
The AACCGP—one of the two new appointees recommended by Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad—was selected for its expertise in supporting Asian American-owned businesses, fostering cross-cultural partnerships, and driving small business growth in the Delaware Valley. Here’s what this addition will achieve:
1. Enhanced Diversity in Decision-Making:
• The AACCGP brings a focused voice for Asian American entrepreneurs, who represent a growing segment of Philadelphia’s M/W/DSBEs (e.g., in sectors like tech, hospitality, and retail). This ensures EOPs better incorporate outreach to Asian-owned firms, potentially increasing their participation in city contracts from the current ~35% M/W/DSBE goal set by the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO).
2. Stronger Advocacy for Small Businesses:
• As a nonprofit dedicated to “making connections that matter,” the AACCGP will help review and refine EOPs to prioritize technical assistance, procurement opportunities, and job training for underserved Asian communities. This could lead to more equitable distribution of city-funded projects, like those under the Rebuild program or major developments (e.g., arenas or infrastructure).
3. Improved Oversight and Accountability:
• With AACCGP input, the EORC can better monitor compliance with the First Source Jobs Policy, spotting gaps in hiring from diverse pools and recommending adjustments. Public testimony at quarterly meetings (open to all) will now include more perspectives on how economic policies impact immigrant and minority-led businesses.
4. Broader Community Benefits:
• Expect ripple effects like increased funding for AACCGP’s programs (e.g., via OEO partnerships), which could amplify small business development citywide. This aligns with Philly’s goals for inclusive growth, potentially boosting employment in high-need areas like Chinatown or South Philadelphia.
In essence, the AACCGP’s inclusion strengthens the EORC’s role as a guardian of equitable economic opportunity, making Philadelphia’s policies more representative and effective for all residents. It’s a win for community-driven governance—kudos to Councilmember Ahmad for championing it!
