February 27th 2024.
New York City is making a strong effort to help revive struggling local businesses that have been hit hard by the aftermath of the pandemic. According to CBS News, the city has announced a significant amount of grants that will serve as a lifeline for small business owners. One of the beneficiaries of this initiative is the 9 Tails Coffee Shop, a hidden gem located between 125th and 126th streets in Harlem. Barista Youssoupha Gueye, who speaks on behalf of many small business owners, stresses the importance of increasing visibility and making their presence known. "We need more signage. We need more stuff to show we are here," he says.
This effort is being spearheaded by the city's Small Business Services, which recognizes the crucial role that small businesses play in the fabric of local communities. Commissioner Kevin D. Kim emphasizes the significance of these investments, stating, "Investment into the neighborhoods is an investment in the communities." The newly announced business grants, totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars, aim to improve the appeal of small mom-and-pop shops to local patrons. Kim highlights the various benefits these businesses bring, including promoting public safety through vigilant staff and maintaining cleanliness in bustling commercial areas.
The initiatives include enhancing commercial lighting in shopping districts and incorporating music into public spaces, such as the trees along 125th Street. Barbara Askins, president and CEO of the 125th Street Business Improvement District, stresses the importance of ongoing communication and creating a memorable experience for customers. The pandemic has had a severe impact, resulting in the closure of 30,000 shops in the city. Councilman Oswald Feliz acknowledges the challenges that have arisen from these closures, stating, "That created vacated storefronts and that created quality-of-life issues."
Despite these challenges, there is a silver lining, as 1 in 6 businesses currently operating in the city has emerged since January 2022. What's more, half of these small businesses are now owned by immigrants, bringing diverse flavors, products, energy, culture, and enthusiasm to the city. City officials emphasize the ripple effect of supporting local businesses, as every dollar spent in the community circulates back and benefits everyone. Commissioner Kim urges residents to recognize the symbiotic relationship, saying, "It'll come back to benefit them and their family as well."
As the city works to revitalize its small business landscape with these grants, business owners like Gueye hope that the community will come together to support local establishments and foster a sense of unity and resilience. Despite the challenges, there is hope for a brighter future for small businesses in New York City.
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