The New York City Department of Small Business Services hosted its first Small Business Month Expo in Manhattan, bringing together business owners from across the boroughs to network and connect with resources.
“Welcome to the first-ever Small Business Month Expo!” Small Business Services Administrator Kevin Kim declared to applause from the audience.
For the inaugural event, business owners gathered at Pier 36 in Lower Manhattan. Mayor Eric Adams stressed the importance of participating in the event, saying, “We want to grow small businesses in this city. You can't meet your next partner or learn about your services if you stay at home. Swipe your MetroCard, hop on a Citi Bike, and get here!”
“We hear a lot about small businesses that are struggling and don't know about free government resources that can actually help them. For example, commercial leasing assistance. If you're a retail store and you're trying to sign a lease, you can get free legal advice,” Kim added.
According to the department, more than 9,000 New Yorkers registered to attend the fair, which offered more than 150 free city programs. Participants received assistance with city permits, fundraising, legal issues and hiring workers. Business owners also had the opportunity to get updated, free photos.
“I love it! There are so many people here to network with. I've learned so much about things I never thought I'd pursue,” said Chanel Jenkins, CEO of Artist Pajama House.
Issée Diouf Campbell, owner of Harlem photo and video agency African Spot LLC, found the event especially rewarding. “I met a client I hadn't seen in years; I worked with her a few years ago, and now she books me for her events on Friday,” she said.
Andrea Young, CEO and founder of Sweet Vegan in East Harlem, also praised the expo. “It's a great opportunity for businesses to raise their profile and share their love of chocolate. We're not just a chocolate company; we're working with high school students to help keep them in school,” Young said.
