2025 SBSC Programming by New York Urban League

AboutUS

For over 100 years, the New York Urban League has worked hard to help New Yorkers live the lives they deserve to lead.

From putting our youth on the path to a fruitful educational career to landing living wage jobs with good benefits or business sustainability, it’s the New York Urban League’s role to strengthen underserved communities, ensuring everybody has a seat at the table.

TheNYUL SmallBusiness SOLUTIONSCenter

Our Small Business SOLUTIONS Center (SBSC) is committed to cultivating entrepreneurship in greater New York City and beyond. Our philosophy is centered on anchoring locally and thinking globally.

In addition to connecting entrepreneurs to resources required for success, we are also focused on promoting entrepreneurial ecosystems.

The NYUL SBSC provides technical assistance, one-toone business consulting, workshops, and events. If you are a business owner or ready to become an entrepreneur, stay connected to learn more about our dynamic programming

TheNYUL SmallBusiness SOLUTIONSCenter 2025ProgramGuide

The 2025 New York Urban League Business Guide is more than a directory it’s a living resource designed to meet you where you are, whether you're thinking about starting a business or already running one. Inside, you'll find tools, workshops, and experiences that support every stage of the entrepreneurial journey.

While some dates are still being finalized, don’t hesitate to register early — space is limited and momentum waits for no one. This guide will be updated throughout the year with new opportunities, so bookmark this link and stay ready. Wherever you are in your path, we’re here to help you take the next step with confidence.

Programs

Winter 2025

February

February 17, 2025 Session One Virtual Workshop

February 24, 2025 Session Two Virtual Workshop

Building the Brand

Peer to Peer Discussions About the Highs and Lows of Building a Business

Join us for BUILDING THE BRAND, a dynamic two-part virtual series where bold entrepreneurs pull back the curtain on the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of building a brand.

In these lively and unfiltered conversations, we’ll explore the joys of big wins, the struggles of growing pains, and the lessons learned along the way. Expect real talk, insider insights, and a few laughs as our speakers share what it truly takes to turn a vision into a thriving business

Whether you ’ re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned founder, or just love a good success story, this series will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to tackle your own business journey with confidence

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow with fellow entrepreneurs!

Programs

Spring 2025

March

March 17, 2025 Virtual Workshop 90 minutes

March 24, 2025 Virtual Workshop 90 minutes

Retail Math 101:

Making Cents of Every Sale!

Retail math can feel overwhelming—markups, margins, COGS, break-even points. But if you ' re in consumer goods, manage a retail store, or eCommerce, knowing your numbers is the key to thriving, not just surviving.

Good news! You don't need a finance degree to master it! Retail Math 101 breaks it down in a fun, simple, and totally non-intimidating way.

You'll learn how to:

- Price for profit without scaring off customers

- Decode markups, margins, and multipliers like a pro

- Avoid costly pricing mistakes

- Understand the real impact of discounts & promotions

- Forecast sales and inventory with confidence

No more guesswork. No more fear. Just smart, strategic numbers that work for YOU

Make math your secret weapon for retail success!

Join Retail Math 101 today and start making cents of your sales!

This is a two-session workshop; it is mandatory to attend both sessions.

Programs Spring 2025

April

Financial Literacy Month

April 7, 2025 VIRTUAL

The “F” Word

Funding Sources: Bootstrapping to FinTech

When small and mid-size business owners are asked what they need most, the resounding answer is money Funding issues are all too common within the SMB community, especially as businesses continue to navigate the aftermath of the COVID-19 pause four years later.

In our comprehensive workshop, we delve deep into the diverse landscape of funding sources, offering insights and strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of your business. From exploring traditional bank loans to harnessing the power of innovative fintech platforms, we leave no stone unturned in our quest to equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary to secure vital capital

Whether you ' re a startup looking for seed capital or an established business seeking to expand, our workshop provides practical guidance to help you access the funding you need to fuel growth and success.

Don't let financial constraints hold you back – seize this opportunity to explore various funding options and chart a course towards financial resilience and prosperity for your business.

Programs Spring 2025

Financial Literacy Month

April 14, 2025 VIRTUAL

The Wisdom of Crowds

Crowdfunding: How to build a crowdfunding campaign

Areyouanaspiringentrepreneur,artist,orchange-makereagertobringyourideas to life? Join us for an immersive Crowdfunding Workshop designed to demystify theworldofonlinefundraisingandpropelyourprojectstosuccess!

This workshop offers invaluable insights into crafting compelling campaigns, navigating crowdfunding platforms, and engaging with backers. From setting achievable goals to creating captivating content, you'll gain the strategic knowhowtostandoutinthecrowdedcrowdfundinglandscape

Whether you ' re dreaming of launching a groundbreaking product, funding your artistic endeavors, or championing a cause close to your heart, this workshop equipsyouwiththetools,tactics,andconfidencetoturnyourvisionintoreality Takeadvantageofthisopportunitytolearn,connect,andigniteyourcrowdfunding journey. Reserve your spot today and take the first step towards making your dreamsacrowdfundingsuccessstory!

April 21, 2025 VIRTUAL

POP Your Profit

Driving profitability through pop-up events

This workshop is for business owners and side-preneurs participating in Pop-up shops, flea markets, street fairs, food markets, and events. We review how to identify opportunities that align with your brand, expense management, seasonality, and profit calculation You can take this workshop before you invest in that space.

MARKETING PROPOSAL

Programs Spring 2025

May

Marketing May - Small Business Month

May 12, 2025 VIRTUAL

IS YOUR PAID SOCIAL MEDIA MATH, MATHING?

Maximizing Social Media Dollars

As part of our Marketing May celebration, the New York Urban League Small Business SOLUTIONSCenterisspotlightingthepowerofdigitalconnection.

In this can’t-miss session on Social Media Marketing for Small Business, we’ll explore how today’s most influential platforms can help you grow your audience, tell your story, and turn clicks into customers especially when you know how to use the paid tools builtforsmallbusinesssuccess

Join us for a dynamic session on Social Media Marketing for Small Business, designed to help you move beyond posting and start promoting with purpose. This session focuses on how to use both organic content and paid advertising tools to expand your reach, driveengagement,andincreasesales.

Led by Wunmi Duyile, an executive at one of the world’s leading social media platforms, thissessionwillguideyouthroughtheessentialstrategiesforsmallbusinesseslookingto makethemostofsocialmedia You’lllearnhowto:

Engage Your Audience: Build real community and brand loyalty through consistent, meaningfulinteraction

Harness Paid Advertising: Navigate ad tools across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok,andSnapchatusingauction-basedsystemsthatletyoucontrolyourbudget.

BoostBrandAwareness:Leverageshareablecontentandpaidpromotiontoexpandyour visibilityandgetdiscoveredbynewcustomers.

This high-impact session will be hosted by Gina B Ramcharan, Director of the NYUL SmallBusinessSOLUTIONSCenterandChiefIdeaCuratoratIdeaManufacturer

May

Marketing May - Small Business Month

May 19, 2025 VIRTUAL

June 3, 2025 VIRTUAL

THE BRAND LAB

Programs Spring 2025

The Glow-Up Your Brand Deserves.

The New York Urban League Small Business SOLUTIONS Center proudly celebrates Small Business Month with Marketing May a month-long spotlight on creative growth and visibility for entrepreneurs

As part of this celebration, you ' re invited to join “The Brand Lab” a 2-part immersive branding experience designed to help small business owners build a brand that’s not only visually compelling but also strategically aligned with their business goals.

Whether you ' re launching a new brand or refining an existing one, this hands-on workshop series will guide you through essential elements of brand development from color theory and logo design to brand voice, storytelling, positioning, and building a professional brand deck.

Led by Selim Khan, branding strategist and founder of Media Fusion Solutions, each 90minute session offers actionable insights, real-time exercises, and creative inspiration to elevate your brand and amplify your presence

The series is hosted by Gina B. Ramcharan, Director of the NYUL Small Business SOLUTIONS Center and Chief Idea Curator of Idea Manufacturer.

This is a learning immersive attendance at both sessions is mandatory

Programs Summer 2025

June

It’s Half Time

June 2, 2025 VIRTUAL

Game Plan: The Half Time Edition

GAME PLAN: the workshop is a planning exercise that outlines and prioritizes goals for entrepreneurs and side-preneurs. The workshop helps participants set priorities and plan achievable goals to minimize financial risk and disappointment.

During the workshop, participants will learn how to identify their strengths and weaknesses and how to use this self-awareness to set realistic goals They will also learn how to break down these goals into manageable tasks and how to track their progress over time. Through group exercises and discussions, participants will gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of growing a business and will leave the workshop with a clear roadmap for success. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, the GAME PLAN workshop is an essential tool for any entrepreneur or side-preneur looking to succeed in today's competitive market.

Programs

Summer 2025 June

June 2025 In-Person

333 Lounge Brooklyn NY June 24, 2025 6 PM

Welcome

3rd Space Sessions

NYUL SBSC

Where Business Meets Happy Hour

Pssst we ’ re mixing up something special

3rd Space Sessions by the New York Urban League Small Business SOLUTIONS Center is a fresh take on the traditional business workshop served with a side of cocktails, connections, and candid conversation.

Set in your favorite neighborhood bars and restaurants during happy hour, this event series brings together emerging and established entrepreneurs for highimpact sessions that are equal parts insight and inspiration. Each evening features a guest speaker unpacking real-world, real-time topics like:

Starting a Business After 45

Hot Seat: Fix My Biz in 10 Minutes

Entrepreneurship Is an Identity Sport

Bottled Dreams: Breaking into the Wine, Beer & Spirits Industry

Whether you ’ re still building or scaling, this is your third space: not work, not home, but a place to learn, connect, and vibe with people who get it

Come for the topic. Stay for the people. Leave with an idea, a contact, or a new mindset.

Programs

Summer 2025

July

July 2025 In-Person and Virtual

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

It's never too early to start planning for the holiday season! We're talking about crossing T's and dotting I's to get your business in tip-top shape for the 2025 holiday season. Join us as we guide you through all the necessary steps to make yourholidayseasonaroaringsuccess

NYC GARMENT DISTRICT TOUR

July 18, 2025 In-Person

S h i p p i n g w i t h

July 22, 2025 Virtual

U P S

Ideal for new designers and those interested in domestic production. Includes a production manual, templates, and instructions. Learn to bring designs to life, source fabric, create patterns, and find trimming, hardware, and labels Fashion Professional Lenese Griffin will introduce you to manufacturers, pattern makers, and fabric suppliers. Understand production, manage costs, and build vendor relationships. LIMITED SEATS

Get ready for an insightful presentation on shipping with UPS Executive, Robert Williams! We'll explore various shipping methods, delve into pricing strategies, and uncover the latest shipping technology Whether you ' re a business owner or a shipping enthusiast, this presentation is your gateway to mastering the art and science of efficient shipping with UPS. Don't miss out on the knowledge that will revolutionize your shipping game!

Programs

Summer 2025

July

July 2025 In-Person and Virtual

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

eCommerce

July 14, 2025 Virtual

Creating an optimal e-commerce website design and user experience is crucial for increasing sales This workshop covers best practices, including using high-definition product photos, highlighting popular subcategories, offering quick product previews, creating a logical content taxonomy, designing compact menus, simplifying checkout, and displaying product reviews These strategies aim to convert casual browsers into loyal customers.

Programs

Summer 2025

July

Black Business Month Preview

July 21, 2025 Virtual

Pitch Black

Cover Your Bases at the Pitch Clinic

Whether or not you ’ re pitching in the New York Urban League PITCH BLACK Competition, anyone seeking help learning pitch techniques is welcome to join this high-impact session. They say a “squeaky” wheel gets the grease, so join our guest speaker, Squeaky Moore, as she shares the tips and tricks for nailing the perfect pitch.

Squeaky Moore is an award-winning director, writer, producer, and author of #100Pitches: Mistakes I’ve Made So You Don’t Have To, a film and television pitching guide for independent content creators Known as the “pitch guru, ” Squeaky embarked on a journey to pitch 100 times and turned that experience into a powerful tool for entrepreneurs. Her clients, aged 7 to 60, include business owners, product developers, content creators, and influencers across various industries

With Squeaky’s creative coaching, clients have pitched to brands, investors, and TV executives and gone on to partner with major retailers like Walmart and Macy’s. They’ve also secured wins in pitch competitions and landed product features on platforms such as Queen Boss, HSN, and The Today Show.

Programs Summer 2025

August

August 11, 2025

Pitch Black

Harlem School of the Arts

The Competition

Howmuchmoneycanyoumakein4minutes?

Asubstantialfour-minutepitchcanlandfivefiguresinyourbankaccount.

TheSmallBusinessSOLUTIONSCenterishostingapitchcompetitionsponsored byUPS,TDBank,andtheUPFoundation.

Seethecriteriatoparticipatebelow:

BusinessModelSolvesAProblem

Business<3years

BlackOwned(majorityownership)

Receivedlessthan$125Kinfunding

CompanyPrincipalmustliveinManhattan,Bronx,StatenIsland,Queens,or Brooklyn

Submityour1-pageexecutivesummarytoenter.

Black Business Month

Programs Summer 2025

August

Black to Business

August 04, 2025

Black Business Matters Information Session

You'veidentifiedyourbusiness nowit'stimetobuildtheblueprint.

This orientation marks the start of our 12-week Business Plan Writing Intensive, designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to turn their business vision into a fully developed, execution-ready plan You're in the right place if you ' re past the idea stage and prepared to dive into strategy, structure, and scalability.

WhattoExpectinOrientation:

TaketheGritIndexbyIdeaManufacturertoassessyourentrepreneurial mindsetandreadinessfortheroadahead.

Hear from past cohort members about the wins, the challenges, and whathelpedthemstickwiththeprocess.

Getfamiliarwithhowwework:

•Weeklyvirtualsessions(3hourseach)

•1-on-1coachingwithyourinstructor

•Guestspeakerswithreal-worldinsight

•Optionalgroupstudysessionsforcollaborationandsupport

Understandwhat'sexpected andwhatyou'llwalkawaywith:acomplete, well-structured business plan you can use to seek funding, validate your concept,orguideyourlaunch.

This program is built for doers If you ' ve already chosen your business and are readytodothework,we'rereadytoguideyoueverystepoftheway

Programs

Summer 2025

August

Black to Business

September 8, 2025

In-Person by Invitation

Black Business Matters Interview Sessions

You’ve got the idea now it’s time to show us the fire behind it

As part of the selection process for our Black Business Matters Business Plan Writing Intensive, finalists will be invited to a dynamic live interview and lightning pitch session This is your moment to shine in front of a panel of seasoned entrepreneurs and corporate executives who know what it takes to build, fund, and scale a business.

Each candidate will have 2 minutes to deliver a sharp, powerful pitch that captures their business vision, potential, and personal drive. Think of it as your first investor meeting concise, passionate, and packed with purpose. After your pitch, you’ll engage in a brief Q&A where the panel may dig a little deeper into your "why," your plan, and your readiness to do the work.

This isn’t just an interview. It’s your first step toward a transformation.

We’re looking for bold thinkers, serious builders, and entrepreneurs who are ready to lead with clarity, commitment, and focus and support one another in a cohort built on excellence and accountability Only 25 will make the cut

Bring your best. We can’t wait to meet you.

Fall 2025 September

Black to Business

Tuesday, September 23, 2025 - Monday, December 8, 2025

Virtual

Black Business Matters: Cohort 6

Are you looking to write a comprehensive business plan? Join us in our Black Business Matters program, an intensive limited to 25 participants. Our selection committee will carefully review applications to find the most compelling candidates. The program includes twelve weekly three-hour sessions with an instructor. During the first hour, we review homework and strategy, while the second hour features guest experts to discuss the weekly subject matter or open class discussion The final hour will introduce new subject matter instruction Additionally, each participant will receive 1-1 credit to meet with the instructor for more focused instruction. Lastly, two study group sessions are available for those who want to delve into marketing and finance topics.

Programs Fall 2025

September

YP Homecoming X the SBSC Community Edition

Tuesday, September 30, 2025 Renaissance Harlem

Welcome to 3rd Space Sessions by NYUL SBSC

Where Business Meets Happy Hour

Pssst… we ’ re mixing up something special.

Sidepreneur

Hot Seat: Fix My Biz in 10 Minutes

Entrepreneurship Is an Identity Sport

Bottled Dreams: Breaking into the Wine, Beer & Spirits Industry

Whether you ’ re still building or scaling, this is your third space: not work, not home, but a place to learn, connect, and vibe with people who get it

Come for the topic. Stay for the people. Leave with an idea, a contact or a new mindset.

Programs

Fall 2025 October

October 07, 2025

POP Your Profit

This workshop is for business owners and side-preneurs participating in Pop-up shops, flea markets, street fairs, food markets, and events We review how to identify opportunities that align with your brand, expense management, seasonality, and profit calculation. You can take this workshop before you invest in that space

Programs

Fall 2025

October

National Women's Small Business Month

October 28, 2025

By Invitation Victoria Restaurant

She Works Hard for the Money

Connections, Capital, and Courage

This isn't just dinner; it's a power move.

Join us for She Works Hard for the Money: The Power Table Experience, an unforgettable Women's Business Month event designed for women entrepreneurs ready to grow, scale, and lead with intention. Each table has its own dynamic universe, from funding strategies and tech tools to brand elevation and legacy building. You'll rotate through guided conversations with expert hosts, uncover real-time solutions to business challenges, and make the kinds of connections that move the needle. No speeches No fluff Just bold ideas, strategic insights, and the energy of women making serious moves.

Programs Fall 2025

2026 Is Loading

November 4, 2025 VIRTUAL

Game Plan: 2026 is LOADING

2026 Is Loading November

November 13, 2025 VIRTUAL

MWBE - Certify & Amplify

Programs Fall 2025

Think of MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise) certification as your VIP pass into a marketplace filled with billions in contracting opportunities. Certification can open powerful new doors, whether you ’ re a minority-owned business (men and women) or a non-minority woman-owned business. And here’s the best part: New York State and New York City each offer certification, and getting both only multiplies your access, visibility, and earning power

Join Jenny Low (Empire State Development, Executive Advisor, MWBE & Small Business) and David Coreas (NYC Department of Small Business Services, Executive Director, Outreach and M/WBE Recruitment) as they break it all down with insider tips, clear next steps, and answers to your biggest questions. By the end, you’ll know exactly which path (or both!) to take, and how to leverage certification to land contracts, partnerships, and growth you do not want to leave on the table

Programs

Fall 2025 December

Black to Business

Tuesday, December 15, 2025 In-Person

Black Business Matters: Cohort 6

Closing Ceremony

You've done the work. Now it’s time to celebrate.

After twelve weeks of deep dives, expert insights, and powerful breakthroughs, our Black Business Matters cohort is ready to mark a milestone: the completion of a transformative business planning journey

Join us for a special closing ceremony as we honor the 25 exceptional entrepreneurs who committed themselves to building bold, intentional, and fundable business plans This is more than a graduation it’s a launchpad

Expect an inspiring evening filled with joy, connection, and celebration including recognition awards, heartfelt reflections from participants and instructors, and a few fun surprises to close things out in true Black Business Matters style

These founders came to plan—but they’re leaving ready to build.

Let’s send them off with the celebration they deserve.

Programs

Winter 2026 January

nd Black to Business

January 13, 2026 In-Person New York, NY

2 Act: Ambition is Ageless

Ready for Your 2nd Act?

Who says reinvention has an age limit? "2nd Act," presented in partnership with TD Bank, is the ultimate forum for aspiring entrepreneurs over 45 who are ready to make their next chapter their boldest yet. Whether you ' re retiring from corporate, returning to the workforce, or finally chasing the dream you ' ve shelved for too long, this is your time

Hear from fearless founders who made the leap, redefined success, and built thriving businesses on their terms. They've turned decades of life and work experience into entrepreneurial gold, proving that clarity, confidence, and courage often show up after 40. This dynamic gathering is equal parts inspiration and information, with real talk from those who've been where you are and built what you ' re dreaming of

Expect connection, community, and candid conversations about what it really takes to pivot with purpose. 2nd Act isn't just about starting a business, it's about stepping fully into your power, on your own terms, with a network that champions your vision.

Programs

Winter 2026 January

TBD Virtual

Nonprofit Like a Boss: Because Purpose Needs a Plan

Who said doing good means thinking small? Whether you ' re running a community initiative or leading a national movement, your nonprofit deserves the same business rigor as any for-profit company Nonprofit Like a Boss is a real-world workshop for mission-driven leaders ready to stop "winging it" and start building organizations with backbone We'll break down the fundamentals of running a nonprofit like a true enterprise, think about logistics, operations, and infrastructure. We'll explore integrating innovative technology, developing financial fluency, and embodying the professional acumen that attracts funding, talent, and influence

From managing systems and staff to scaling impact with intention, this workshop is your wake-up call: purpose alone isn't enough. It's time to bring structure to your service and run your nonprofit like the business it absolutely is.

Thank You

Building and reinforcing the NYC SMB community

Partner Programs Together,

We Are Building An Entrepreneurial Ecosystem.

At the New York Urban League, we firmly believe in the power of community and collaboration to foster successful entrepreneurship. We recognize that building a thriving business requires support from various stakeholders and resources. That's why we actively promote and encourage partnerships with our peer organizations and allies. By working together, we can leverage our collective expertise, networks, and resources to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to succeed. Through these partnerships, we aim to create a supportive ecosystem where individuals from diverse backgrounds can access the mentorship, training, and resources necessary to turn their entrepreneurial visions into reality. Together, we can empower aspiring entrepreneurs and strengthen our communities' economic vitality.

NewYork State MWBE Division

Empire State Development's Division of Minority & Women's Business Development is responsible for overseeing New York State's MWBE Program. Our division reviews applications for New York State's MWBE certification, provides support to certified firms seeking business opportunities with state agencies and authorities, and projects with NYS funding. We also have a team that supports the agencies and authorities in achieving the State's goal of spending 30% of purchases of goods and services with MWBEs.

When a business wants to apply for the MWBE certification, they have an option, but not required, to seek assistance from free business advisory services that provide advice to business owners on many aspects of running a business, including preparing their application for MWBE certification and providing guidance throughout the application review process.

Below is our website, which has information about the MWBE certification process, eligibility criteria, required documents, etc., as well as the resources and support available to the MWBE community

Empire State Development's Division of Minority & Women's Business Division Minority & Women's Business Development | Empire State Development

Free Business Advisory Service Centers

Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers (EACs)

https://esd.ny.gov/entrepreneurship-assistance-centers-program

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

https://nysbdc.org/

Empire APEX Accelerator

https://empireapex.com/mwbe

Monroe County/Finger Lakes APEX Accelerator

https://www.mcflapex.org/services

LaGuardia APEX Accelerator

https://wwwlaguardia edu/ce/business-services/apex-accelerators/

New Jersey Institute of Technology APEX Accelerator (NJIT APEX)

https://www.njit.edu/apex/

Bronx Chamber of Commerce

https://www.bronxchamber.org/

La Fuerza CDC

https://lafuerzacdc.org/pages/services

Onondaga County One Stop Shop Program

https://onondaga.gov/diversity/one-stop-shop-program/

LEARN | CREATE | EMPOWER

At Harlem Needle Arts, we celebrate artistry, community, and the rich traditions of fiber arts

Our classes, Knitting, Quilting, Crochet, Felt Cowl, Bead Weaving, Bead and Wire Crochet, Botanical Print Scarf, and Felt Vessel, are designed for makers of all skill levels who want to bring their imagination to life, one stitch at a time

Whether you ’ re looking to learn a new technique, ease stress after a busy day, or find a creative outlet alongside growing your business, our workshops provide a warm space for relaxation, renewal, and innovation. Connect with other creatives, foster your artistic expression, and discover how making by hand can aid in growing both your passions and your enterprise

Harlem Needle Arts, honoring tradition, fostering creativity, and strengthening community... one thread at a time.

The class schedule is now available through Fall 2025.