If ever there were a city of firsts, it's Philadelphia: birthplace not only of the U.S. Constitution, but also the country's first public library, hospital, public bank, and computer. This same spirit of innovation continues today as Philadelphia's world-class institutions of higher education drive research and development in key industries such as advanced healthcare, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

A powerful regional force, Philadelphia is positioning itself to be a leader on urban issues like sustainability and infrastructure development. GreenPlan Philadelphia is a 20-year comprehensive plan for the development of parks and open space, and a serious push underway to redevelop the Delaware and Schuylkill waterfronts.

The ceaseless activity and industry generated by the city's many arts and cultural organizations are making Philadelphia a destination city. With music and arts festivals multiplying, green housing developments sprouting citywide, and new skyscrapers changing the skyline, Philadelphians are once again beginning to see their home as a city of firsts.
 

Out of the Classroom, into the Market: The Growing Business of Tech Transfer

By: John Steele, 6/4/2009 As research universities across the Commonwealth focus more resources on innovation and industries, they're getting savvy about how to turn laboratory and classroom ideas into cutting-edge technology companies.

more >

Going For It: Bootstrapping Booms in Philadelphia

By: Brian Hickey, 6/4/2009 Unlikely as it might seem, startup companies continue to crop up across southeastern Pennsylvania. As larger companies drop talent to cut costs, networks of entrepreneurs are forming dynamic communities and fueling a surge of small startups in the region.

more >

Spectacle: Creative Entrepreneurs of Philly

By: Mike Persico, 6/4/2009 Philadelphia is fertile ground for young entrepreneurs, who are staking their claim on popular culture. Check out our slideshow, the first in what will be a reoccurring series of a young creatives across the Commonwealth who have opened up shop for themselves.

more >

The Millionaire Boys Club

By: Dan Eldridge, 5/28/2009 The story of Malvern-based Xoxide is that rare tale of three high school computer whizzes making millions; it is a tale of computer shells, tachometers, blow driers, bird cages, and after-market Ford Mustang parts.

more >

Community in Competition: Philly's Design Industry Grows Up

By: John Steele, 5/28/2009 The American Institute of Graphic Arts helped launch the First Annual Philadelphia Design Awards this spring, pushing the city's dynamic design community one step closer toward its rightful place in the sun.

more >