Greater Opportunities - Focusing on Small Businesses

By Yvette Renee Simpson

Below are some of my small business initiatives:

I developed and chair the Small Business Advisory Committee, a citywide commission comprised of local business leaders and advisors. This commission is working on several programs to support local small businesses, including improving access to vital resources and increasing support to those businesses poised for growth.

Reducing red tape for small businesses saves them time and money, and increases their chance of success. Working with the Administration, we are developing Jump Teams, consisting of representatives from City Departments and outside mentors, to help new businesses navigate City regulations and open their doors sooner.

Many small businesses need a storefront, but don't have the resources to both purchase and renovate their space. I am working with the City and Port Authority on Vacant to Vibrant, an initiative to provide vacant properties to small businesses for a nominal fee. This will allow small businesses to spend limited resources on renovations and necessary equipment, instead of square footage.