Roxborough-Manayunk Small Business Spotlight: GRIT Construction

ROXBOROUGH, PA -- Behind every shop window is a story. In a bustling neighborhood like Roxborough, the entrepreneurial flame burns bright. Out small business features aim to shine the spotlight on local owners who make this place what it is.

Business name: GRIT Construction & Development

Owners: Sean Pincus & Mike Tester

Address: 1432 Germantown Avenue Suite #1, Philadelphia, PA 19122

Website: www.builtbygrit.com

When did you go into business? May 2015

How did you come up with the name?

"What separates truly successful entrepreneurs from those that are unsuccessful, is pure perseverance. GRIT stands for our ability as owners and as a company to persist and continue on even when the cards aren't in our favor. Being 28 and 32 years of age respectively when we started the company, it was a challenge to leave our jobs, raise capital for development, and convince investors, friends and the communities in which we build to see our vision for the company itself, as well as our projects."

Why start a business here in Manayunk/Roxborough?

"It's the birth of our first several projects as real estate developers and put us on the map to start other ventures in different neighborhoods. Our roots began in the small, quaint streets of Manayunk and we focus a lot of our time and efforts in this neighborhood."

Briefly, what business are you in?

Real Estate Development / Construction Management

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

"Our business is heavily involved in dealing with the communities of Philadelphia. We work closely with the different community groups and neighbors to bring about responsible development that leaves the communities in which we build better than when we got there. With that comes opposition -- it's not always a win."

What's been your favorite moment/proudest achievement since opening?

"Topping out the roof deck on our first mixed use development project - 629 E. Girard Ave, Fishtown."

How does your business give back/get involved in the community?

"Sean serves on the Board of Trustees for the Manayunk Neighborhood Council in order to promote responsible development in the community. Mike has served on the Planning Commission in his local community since 2013. One of our plans for 2017 include partnering with Back On My Feet Philadelphia to provide an affordable housing solutions to their members."

Patch file photo.