Best Small Business Resources in the Manhattan Area

Description

XRC Labs is a small startup accelerator that focuses on companies entering the retail or consumer goods market, placing a strong emphasis on good design. They host two sessions a year and only allow ten startups per session, allowing them to concentrate resources and make a significant difference in selected startups. This organization also provides large amounts of funding to participant startups through flexible packages, typically involving an equity stake.

Restrictions

Intended for startups creating retail or consumer products with an emphasis on design.

Description

The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.

Description

The City University of New York (CUNY) operates a small business incubator for startups in Manhattan. Businesses pay a monthly rent to access all of the amenities, including a conference room, a mix of private offices and community work areas, and a fabrication room with a 3D printer and laser cutter.

Description

Impact Hub is a global network of coworking spaces that form an international community of “change agents,” leaders in the entrepreneurial community. Membership at Impact Hub New York has several levels and offers community work areas and private desks. Membership also provides access to the global community, fostering networking and connections with mentors. The coworking space itself features meeting rooms, complimentary tea and coffee, and phone booths.

Description

SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.

Description

The local government of New York City offers many programs and opportunities to make starting a business in NYC as easy as possible. FastTrac is a free 10-session class that prepares entrepreneurs to develop a business plan and launch a successful business. The website itself excels at providing personalized steps to launch a business in NYC, matching advice to a person’s individual situation and goals. Free workshops are hosted throughout NYC, on topics both particular to specific industries and general enough to be of interest to any entrepreneur.

Description

This branch of the New York Public Library provides resources for emerging businesses and entrepreneurs. The library offers access to premier business databases that can aid in market research, business planning, or general research. Meeting rooms are available to reserve for free, and you can make an appointment with a librarian for individualized assistance with research. Business coaching is provided through SCORE, and separate financial and career mentoring is available as well.

Restrictions

A library membership may be required to access certain amenities.