Small Business Town Hall

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke invites you to a Small Business Town hall panel discussion, where they will discuss beneficial information resources available for small businesses within our community.

According to NYC.gov (2020) small businesses strengthen New York City’s economy, anchor communities, create jobs, and add to the vibrancy of the City’s neighborhoods.  Of the more than 200,000 businesses located in New York City, 98 percent are small (fewer than 100 employees) and 89 percent are very small (fewer thank 20 employees).  These small businesses employ more than half of New York City’s private sector workforce, and often provide a first chance for economic self-determination and a path to the middle class for their owners.

According to New York State Comptroller’s Office, Thomas P. DiNapoli report (2017), Brooklyn is the most populous of the five boroughs that make up New York City.  It has a large foreign-born population, which as contributed to its success, and is one of the most diverse counties in the nation.  Brooklyn had a total of 61,300 businesses in 2017, an increase of 32 percent since the end of the recession of 2008 and the most since 1975 when the data series began.  This was the fastest growth among the five boroughs and almost double the citywide growth rate (17 percent).  Nearly three-quarters (71 percent) of the businesses had fewer than five employees and 84 percent had fewer than 10 employees. 

How will this event benefit small business owners?

• Provide beneficial information regarding resources available for small businesses
• Provide information to help businesses understand and comply with city regulations
• Provide equal access for all business owners
• Industry leaders as panelist that can answer questions regarding Small businesses
• Information on how to start a business.

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