Bronx Chamber of Commerce - Bronx Business News You Can Use

 

Upcoming Events, Legislative News, Grant Opportunities, & More

(Friday) Extra, Extra Click here for this week's video: NYS Budget & Policy Briefing by Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez Coffee & Conversation with Councilmember Amanda Farias Overview of Bronx Chamber Commercial Corridor & Merchant Organizing Initiatives Legislative & Advocacy Updates Engagement Surveys 5 Borough Jobs Coalition Upcoming Events Member Spotlight Save the Date: iMentor Recruitment Roundtable, Monday, April 3 at 11:00am

NYS BUDGET & POLICY BRIEFING WITH SECRETARY OF STATE ROBERT RODRIGUEZ

The Bronx Chamber of Commerce hosted Governor Kathy Hochul's NYS Budget & Policy Briefing with Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez earlier this week. The afternoon highlighted Governor's legislative and budgetary priorities and provided a deep dive into economic development initiatives shaping the Bronx and New York State. We are grateful to the Secretary of State for delivering the briefing and to our Board member, Liz Neumark, CEO - Great Performances Catering and Hospitality for delivering opening remarks. To view a recording of the briefing, click here.

NYC COFFEE & CONVERSATION W. HON. AMANDA FARIAS CHAIR , COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Bronx Chamber of Commerce President Lisa Sorin hosted Coffee & Conversation with Hon. Amanda Farias, Chair of the New York City Council Committee on Economic Development and Co-Chair of the Women's Caucus this week. The morning highlighted economic development initiatives impacting the Bronx and New York City and legislative priorities of Councilmember Farias. Councilmember Farias focused on new transportation initiatives and her goals for supporting New York City's small businesses through equitable economic development. To view a recording of the Coffee & Conversation, click here.

REMINDER: NYC SMALL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY FUND PAUSED

Due to robust community engagement, led by the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and program partners, the NYC Small Business Opportunity Fund reached businesses in need throughout the five boroughs through door-to-door outreach, webinars, events, one-on-one application support, and many other forms of communications. These efforts have led to more than 12,500 applications to the loan program in just three weeks.   Due to high interest, the portal is temporarily closed to allow lending partners to assess completed applications.      New applicants can complete the inquiry form to be notified if the application reopens and learn about additional financing options and ways to receive free City-provided business support.      Businesses that have applied as of Sunday, February 12th at 11:59pm will receive an email from a lending partner with next steps.      Our NYC Small Business Resource Network is assisting in navigating government and working with businesses to more fully understand responses from lenders. If you have a question or challenge with your application, please email: SBRN@bronxchamber.org.    Please note, due to the high volume of requests, businesses may experience delays in their application being processed.

LEGISLATIVE & ADVOCACY UPDATES

The Bronx Chamber of Commerce is closely monitoring NYS minimum wage legislation, proposed increases in unemployment benefits, non-compete agreements, and the definition of contractors (1099) and employees (W-2). Additional focus is being given to Criminal Justice Reform, Anti Trust legislation, Alcohol Beverage Control agency Rule Making, Racing and Gaming, as well as broader areas in E-Buildings, transportation, infrastructure, and housing. The leadership team travelled to Albany, NY for the NYSABPRHAL's 52nd Annual Legislative Conference. During our time, members of our delegation shared Bronx Chamber legislative priorities, met with City and State representatives to discuss policy proposals, and worked with relevant agencies to advocate for the economic development of the borough. The team will travel to Albany in early March as the one-house budgets are released.

ENGAGEMENT OPPORTNUITIES

Does Your Business Receive NYS Incentives? We need to hear from you! The Bronx Chamber of Commerce is an active participant in the 5 Borough Jobs Coalition, a consortium of business organizations which advocate for business incentive programs which deeply impact New York City, notably, the Commercial Expansion Program (CEP), Energy Cost Savings Program (ECSP), Commercial Revitalization Program (CRP) / Commercial Rent Tax Special Reduction (CRT), Lower Manhattan Energy Program, and the Lower Manhattan State and Local Sales Tax Exemption. Our Legislative team has successfully advocated to have these programs included in the Governor's Executive Budget Proposal and will be working with the Legislature to ensure they are included in the NYS Budget.  Please complete this brief survey so we can learn how these programs impact your business.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Crear una Idea de Negocio que Funcione Wednesday March 1, 2023 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Virtual El objetivo de este curso es proporcionarle las herramientas para analizar a sus clientes, la industria y los competidores. Saldrá del curso con un plan de acción que puede determinar si su idea es la oportunidad de mercado adecuada. Resevar un lugar

Aplicando para préstamos y subvenciones Tuesday March 7, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Virtual Únase a este seminario web para obtener información sobre los programas de préstamos y subvenciones y obtenga consejos para ayudarlo. Resevar un lugar

Choosing the Right Legal Structure for Your Business Wednesday March 8, 2023 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Virtual This workshop includes an in-depth discussion about the pros and cons of the available options in New York State, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, "c" or "s" corporation, and the limited liability company (LLC), so you can determine which one is best for you. Reserve Your Spot - Click Here.

Emerging Professionals Mixer Thursday March 9, 2023 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Fokkus Room & Cocine 138 W Fordham Road  The Bronx, NY 10468 Join the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, Councilmember Pierina Sanchez, and NYC Department of Small Business Services for an evening of bites, drinks, and conversation focused on emerging professionals, solo entrepreneurs and new industries impacting the Bronx and New York City. The evening includes a fireside chat, networking, and access to customized business services through the Small Business Resource Network. Celebration of Irish Heritage Networking Reception Tuesday March 21, 2023 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Rambling House 4292 Katonah Avenue The Bronx, NY 10470 Join the Bronx Chamber of Commerce for an evening of networking and celebrating the Bronx's Irish heritage. The evening features live music, networking, drink specials, Irish fare, and acknowledges the contributions of notable Irish Americans and their influence on Bronx business and economic development. Reserve Your Spot - Click Here. Women of Distinction Luncheon Friday, March 31, 2023 from 11:30am to 2:00pm Villa Barone Manor 737 Throggs Neck Expressway Bronx, New York For 18 years, the Women of Distinction Luncheon has recognized outstanding women leaders for their contributions to the Bronx community. Each year with the support of local Bronx businesses and Bronx Chamber members we are able to provide scholarships to deserving college-bound female students through the Bronx Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Ticket & Sponsor Opportunities available by emailing: foundation@bronxchamber.org For the complete Bronx Chamber Events Calendar, featuring educational workshops, networking events and other opportunities hosted by the Chamber, its members, & partners, please visit and bookmark our website events calendar link in your browser - new events are added weekly!