Harlem Commonwealth Council operates the NYC Business Solutions Centers of Upper Manhattan and Washington Heights on behalf of Small Business Services (SBS) to helps businesses open, operate, and expand in New York City.

Entrepreneurs and business owners can access quick, reliable, and free information online by visiting the NYC Business Solutions website, available at a link below. In-person assistance is also available at the NYC Business Solutions Centers located in all five boroughs; see below for a link to NYC Business Solutions Center Locations. 

HELP FOR BUSINESSES

Assistance provided by NYC Business Solutions includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Hiring – Assistance with business recruitment needs through access to a pool of pre-screened job candidates.

​

• Training Funds – Access to matching funds for employee training will improve employee skills and increase the quality of business operations.

​

• M/WBE Certification – Assistance completing the process to become certified as a Minority or Women-Owned (M / WBE) Business Enterprise. M / WBE Certified businesses will have access to exclusive assistance related to bidding and procurement opportunities.

​

• Financing – Assessment of the right lending opportunities for a client and assistance packaging loan applications while leveraging existing relationships with lenders to increase the chances of successfully receiving a loan.

​

• Business Establishment and Contract Review – Leveraging a network of pro-bono lawyers to assist with choosing a legal structure, registering a business, and assessing a lease or contract.

​

• Navigating Government – Guidance with navigating complicated government procedures which will help businesses smoothly address requirements and regulations.

​

• Incentives – Assistance identifying and securing business incentives that will save money as the business relocates, expands, or makes capital improvements.

​

• Business Courses – Courses to unlock the economic potential of businesses with classes on developing a business plan, bookkeeping, marketing, government certifications, and so much more. Click the button below to register for an upcoming course.

Inquiry Form

QUICK LINKS

Quick Guides To Starting a Business in NYC

NYC Online Directory of Certified Businesses

Business Owner's Bill of Rights

SERVICES

M/WBE Certification

Ensures minority and women-owned businesses have greater access to public contracting opportunities.

Business Emergency Preparedness and Recovery

Prepare your business for emergencies and get support after a disruption.

Customized Training Grants

Competitive grant program to help businesses invest in their employees.