MDC Office Personnel

History of the Organization:

The Manayunk Development Corporation (MDC) was formed in 1985 as a nonprofit organization with both a primary business development mission and a cooperating community development mission. Originally created as the New Manayunk Corporation, it held 18 board members to start, which has grown to 21 board members today. Manayunk’s proud business members and board of directors are the driving force behind the success in our district. The MDC Board helps give direction to the vision of Manayunk based on their experience as business owners and individual expertise. Each board member is required to attend board meetings, class meetings, and sit on at least two committees.

MDC merged with the Business Association of Manayunk (BAM) in 1992 to address the beautification of Main Street, the canal area, and the district as a whole. MDC helped change the area in many ways: making the canal an asset, securing bridges to connect Venice Island at Cotton Street, Carson Street, and Lock Street, and to allow Main Street to become a commercial corridor once again.

MDC set the precedent for other community development corporations in Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs to establish and work on their own neighborhoods. It was novel at its inception and has become an iconic branding tool promoting the district and demonstrating Manayunk’s long-standing unique offerings.

As a business development organization, MDC takes primary responsibility for the management, promotion, and positive development of Manayunk’s business district. As a community development corporation (CDC), MDC cooperates with other civic and community organizations in the Manayunk area to plan and implement community programming and physical improvement projects of interest to both businesses and residents in Manayunk.

Mission Statement:

The Manayunk Development Corporation is a 501(c)3 non-profit, economic development organization dedicated to enhancing and advocating for the growth of the collective Manayunk Business District.

Vision Statement:

Through shared stewardship collaborating with local organizations, Manayunk Development Corporation and its members envision a thriving business district and vibrant community that work together to advance diversity and sustainability while promoting Manayunk as an ideal destination to live, shop, dine and play.