Connecting Small Businesses with Vital Resources, Support, and Services

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of New York’s “Small Business Summer Series,” a comprehensive initiative designed to connect entrepreneurs across the state with essential resources, support, and services. Starting on June 17, the series will feature the second interagency Small Business Tour and the 2024 Regional Minority- and Women-Owned Business Expo Series, reinforcing Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to fostering small business success statewide.

“Small businesses are part of what makes New York great, and my administration is committed to giving them the support they need to thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “Starting later this month, we are launching our Small Business Summer Series to connect entrepreneurs to vital resources, expand opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses, and help small businesses contribute to their local economies and build strong, vibrant communities.”

Key Components of the Small Business Summer Series

The Small Business Summer Series will provide a range of informational events and workshops aimed at assisting small business owners. The interagency Small Business Tour, first introduced last year, will feature stops in nine communities across New York. This tour aims to help businesses navigate complex topics such as licensing, regulations, and taxes. Additionally, the 2024 Regional Minority- and Women-Owned Business Expo Series will focus on expanding opportunities for MWBEs, providing them with the tools needed to secure state contracts.

Support and Insights from State Leaders

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon emphasized the importance of small businesses to local economies, highlighting the array of no-cost resources available to help them compete globally. Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight expressed excitement about the tour, emphasizing the critical role small businesses play in the state’s economy.

New York’s Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez underscored the importance of fostering an inclusive economic environment, ensuring businesses of all backgrounds can thrive.

Interagency Small Business Tour Details

Led by the New York State Department of Labor and Empire State Development, the tour will include representatives from various state departments. These experts will provide crucial information on licensing, regulations, taxes, grants, training, and more. The tour is conducted in partnership with local Chambers of Commerce.

MWBE Regional Opportunities Expo Series

The MWBE Expo Series will offer a rich program of panel discussions, networking opportunities, and interactive workshops. These events are designed to help MWBEs connect with key decision-makers and explore state-sponsored financial and technical assistance programs.

Event Schedule

1. June 17, White Plains: New York Power Authority, 123 Main St, Partner: Business Council of Westchester
2. June 18, Syracuse: MWBE Expo, Downtown Syracuse (Location upon registration)
3. June 20, Clayton: Antique Boat Museum, 750 Mary Street, Partner: Greater Watertown Chamber of Commerce
4. June 27, Binghamton: SUNY Broome Community College, 907 Front Street, Partner: Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce
5. July 8, Poughkeepsie: Locust Grove Estate, 2683 South Road, Partner: Think Dutchess Alliance for Business
6. July 11, New York City: MWBE Expo, Midtown Manhattan (Location upon registration)
7. July 12, New York City: Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building, 163 W 125th Street, Partner: Manhattan Chamber of Commerce
8. July 17, Queens: The Bulova Building, 75-20 Astoria Boulevard S., Partner: Queens Chamber of Commerce
9. July 22, Old Westbury: SUNY Old Westbury, 223 Store Hill Road, Partners: Long Island Associations
10. July 23, Riverhead: Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main Street, Partner: Suffolk County Alliance of Chambers
11. July 25, Syracuse: Onondaga Community College, 4585 W. Seneca Turnpike, Partner: CenterState CEO

Governor Hochul’s Continued Support for Small Businesses

Building on her commitment, Governor Hochul recently announced initiatives including a $6 million Innovation Matching Grant Program and support for NYSIF-insured businesses. Additionally, New York has significantly reduced MWBE certification processing times, with over 1,500 businesses certified or recertified since August 2023.

Significance of Small Businesses in New York

With nearly 695,000 small businesses employing over 4.5 million people, small enterprises are a backbone of New York’s economy. The state offers various resources through NYSDOL to assist businesses in meeting their goals, including customized solutions, human resource consultations, and guidance on hiring incentives and tax credits.