SEQBI BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
RDRC is proud to highlight our SEQBI Cohort 3 Fellows’ business - QikyKidz LLC. QikyKidz means Quality In Keeping Your Kids In Da Zone; and it fosters creativity and learning by creating educational entertainment that brings grandparents and grandchildren together through books, arts, crafts, games and live shows. QikyKidz empowers readers to discover a world of imaginative children's books, to celebrate the power of storytelling, discover new worlds and characters, expand horizons, and experience the magic of books.
Sharmeika Davis-Boyd is the author and founder of QikyKidz LLC. Mrs. DavisBoyd’s success is attributed to her confidence, tenacity, and her team, which includes her immensely supportive husband, La’Ron Boyd, Co-Owner and Operating Manager, and their son who is the Marketing Director.
QikyKidz fosters learning through play. Their children's books are
educate and entertain, fostering a
Join the QikyKidz community of avid
and
SEQBI BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Johntines Boutique
JohntinesBoutique@yahoo.com
CEO:
Tia Jackson
Celebrating Johntines Boutique: A SEQBI Cohort 3 Fellow
RDRC is thrilled to spotlight our SEQBI Cohort 3 Fellow’s business, Johntines Boutique. Established in 2010, Johntines Boutique is an online store specializing in plus-size fashion, catering to sizes 14-24. While it operates primarily online, it occasionally hosts pop-up shops in the tri-state area.
The name ‘Johntines’ is a heartfelt tribute by Tia to her late father, John, and her mother, Christine, combining their names to create something special.
Johntines Boutique is dedicated to empowering women, believing that when women look good, they feel good! Having experienced the challenges of finding stylish dresses and trendy apparel as a plus-size woman, Tia often found herself frustrated by the lack of options. Many stores either didn't carry plus sizes or relegated them to a small section in an obscure part of the store.
Tia balanced her roles as a full-time teacher and a single mother to achieve her goal of owning a plus-size store offering unique fashion. Johntines Boutique is one of Tia’s true passions, and she sincerely hopes that you enjoy your shopping experience and wear your Johntines Boutique outfits with pride.
7th Annual Queens Carnival
In just seven (7) years, the Queens Carnival, held in Far Rockaway, has transformed into the area's premier one-day outdoor event, and has served as an economic booster for numerous local businesses and entrepreneurs One notable example is DredSurfer Grill, owned by Charles Jacobs, who also serves as the City’s Rockaway Beach concessionaire for the section of Boardwalk where the parade route ends and the Carnival kicks off.
As a co-sponsor of the Carnival and a board member of the Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation, which has significantly contributed to the Carnival's success from the very beginning, “this event marks one of the busiest days of the year for DredSurfer. From early afternoon until closing”, Charles and team serve “over 1,000 patrons who come to enjoy food and drinks, including our renowned Rockaway Rum Punch”. During your visit, you can also take the opportunity to engage in a chess game with Mr. Charles, as he’s affectionately known.
Mr. Charles Jacob, DredSurfer Grill
Flag Guy
7th Annual Queens Carnival
For the dozens of food & beverage, retail and specialty shops such as QikyKidz, LLC, an educational and entertainment business and Southeast Queens Business Incubator (SEQBI) funded by Resorts World NYC, the Carnival enabled owners to promote and connect with hundreds of new consumers; they also reported that they sold out of all of their children’s books!
“When we launched the Incubator in the Fall of 2024, one of the goals were to provide opportunities for our Fellows to offer first class consumer experiences such as the Queens Caribbean Carnival, Queens Citi Field Business Expo and Resorts World Procurement Fair, and Fellows, such as QikyKidz, continue to deliver and grow their brands.” stated Kevin Alexander, President & CEO.
Senator James Sanders, Jr. and Kevin Alexander, RDRC
RDRC Boardwalk Pop-up Tent
7th Annual Queens Carnival
The Queens Carnival: A Celebration of Culture and Diversity
Hosted in Far Rockaway, for the past 7 years, the Queens Carnival embodies everything that Queens represents: inclusivity, diversity, and rich cultural heritage. The event shines a spotlight on the vibrant Caribbean cultures, showcasing colorful flags, delicious foods and drinks, lively music and costumes, friendly interactions, energetic dancing, and engaging stage performances. Additionally, the Carnival honors the profound Afro- and IndoCaribbean influences, while also celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community.
Zaman Mohamed Amin, Indo-Caribbean LGBTQ Artist Fadda Jay, Legacy Sound - RDRC float DJ
Kevin Alexander & Senator James Sanders, Jr. present the Winner of the RDRC Raffle, Ruthy Guzman - Jetblue tickets
Councilmember Selevena Brooks-Powers (center) with Canival goers
Southeast Queens Business Incubator
Summer 2025 Cohort 3
Semi-final Pitch Competition + Graduation
Diane
Khalilah Johnson, Renee McWilliams (RDRC), Kevin Alexander (RDRC), Michelle Stoddart
World NYC), Allison Jeffrey (RDRC), Dr. Lola Ojomu-Kayoes (RDRC), Linette Townsley, Onique Oliver
RDRC is proud to have graduated 14 new SEQBI Fellows; adding to our growing ecosystem, totaling 44 small business owners impacted. These new alum are now part of the RDRC SEQBI network, a vibrant group of business entities with access to robust funding and procurement opportunities.
Most graduates will go on to attain their MWBE certification, so that they are viable for Resorts World NYC and JFK opportunity pipelines. SEQBI graduates will continue to receive support from the RDRC SEQBI Administrator as well as 3 months of support from their SBDC Advisors.
Pitch Final - 10 of the 14 Graduates presented at the Semi-Final Pitch Competition; 5 will move on to the Final Pitch Competition this week. The top 3 Finalists will be selected from these 5, and will be presented with 3 checks, totaling $12,000 grant.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our SEBQI Fellows! Their hard work paid dividends and it was evident in every single Fellow that presented their pitch to us. I am looking forward to watching them grow their businesses and continue to support each other as a tried and tested SEQBI Alum”. I am also grateful for the collective efforts of TEAM RDRC (Allison Jeffrey, Renee McWilliams, Dr. Lola Ojomu-Kayoes, and Junor Barnett), York College SBDC, Pace University SBDC, Farmingdale SBDC, and Modern Community Capital,” stated Kevin Alexander, President & CEO
L to R Back Row: Monica Edwards, Charmaine Fisher, Olusola Sowemimo, Gregory Meyers, Metognisse Folly, Richard Adofo, Sharmeika DavisBoyd, La’Ron Boyd, Harry Wells (York College SBDC),
Sampson-Monk, Malgorzata Wilson, Tameka Radway, Junor Barnett (RDRC)
L to R Front Row:
(Resorts
(front row)
Southeast Queens Business Incubator
Summer 2025 Cohort 3
Semi-final Pitch Competition + Graduation
Southeast Queens Business Incubator
Summer 2025 Cohort 3
Semi-final Pitch Competition + Graduation
Southeast Queens Business Incubator
Summer 2025 Cohort 3
Semi-final Pitch Competition + Graduation
PSEG LONG ISLAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
PSEG LONG ISLAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
2025 “Community Thrive” Program for 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) organizations (including Chambers of Commerce, Business Improvement District, and Civic Association) is now available.
This year’s Community Thrive program includes prescriptive items. Custom project applications may also be submitted. All submissions will be reviewed by committee. Approval is not guaranteed.
The maximum award is up to $10,000. Submissions should be for the downtown area or commercial district in general, and not for individual businesses.
Projects at a location identified as a Disadvantaged Community (DAC) as per NYSERDA** may receive an extra 10% bonus.
Qualified projects can be submitted until September 30, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.
All applications must be submitted for approval before purchasing any items. Projects must be complete, and receipts submitted by December 1, 2025. Payment will be made after receipts and proof of payment by the Chamber/BID/Civic Association are submitted and a field inspection is done.
Applicant agrees to participate in PSEG Long Island marketing and promotional activities related to any award provided for a period of up to 2 years after issuance of final payment. Recognition signage stating “Provided by PSEG Long Island” should be included in display and website coverage. Please tag #PSEGLI and #BusinessFirst in associated social media.
PSEG LONG ISLAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
in Contracting
As part of its community outreach strategy, the Port Authority formed the composed of local elected officials, community boards, business and academic institutions, civic and nonprofit organizations, and faith leaders. The council meets publicly multiple times each year to report out on construction progress, community development initiatives, upcoming events and opportunities for local residents, students, businesses, and more.
HelpfulLinks/ClickorScanforMore:
Ondiversityincontracting, thePort Authority hasadoptedanation-leading30%M/WBE participationgoal Tomonitorcomplianceon theJFKRedevelopmentProgram, theagency hasretainedthird-partyconsultantsfromthe localcommunity Theconsultantsreview participationdatatoensureitsaccuracyand reliability Theyalsogeneratepublicreports thatarepostedtotheprogramwebsite monthly
The Port Authority has committed to robust community outreach and strong participation by local and diverse businesses.
-JFKR Community Advisory Council
Airport Concession DisadvantagedBusiness Enterprise Fund
Empire State Development (ESD) utilizing the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) has partnered with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to create the $50 million Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Fund (ACDBE Fund) providing support to certified- ACDBE businesses seeking concession opportunities at the John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and the LaGuardia Airport (LGA).
How does the ACDBE Fund work?
• •
The fund provides $50 million in loan capital to Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and credit enhancements to banks to support certified ACDBEs already awarded or currently seeking airport concession opportunities at JFL or LGA. Program lenders use this capital along with matching capital from other resources to offer small business loans
Loans range from $500,000 up to $5,000,000.
Competitive interest rates, terms and fees are determined by the individual program lenders Lenders are responsible for applications and credit decisions
What can the loan funds be used for?
•
Typical uses of fundsareworking capital, acquisition of machinery and equipment and leasehold improvements at a NYC Airport business location
How to apply?
Confirm your ACDBE certification at https://panynj.diversitysoftware.com/
ACDBEs will need to provide proof of certification, a business plan, their financial need, and the contract or concession opportunity they are pursuing.
Contact one of the following participating lenders for application details:
Greater Jamaica Development Corp.(www.gjdc.org)
Lendistry(www lendistry com)
TruFundFinancialServices (www.trufund.org)
Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone (UMEZ) (www umez org)
About State Small Business Credit Initiative
TheState SmallBusiness Credit Initiative (SSBCI) is a federally funded program managed by the U S Department of Treasury SSBCI provides funds to support programs for small businesses with the goal of providing opportunities and improving chances for success in the post-pandemic economy. Learn more about NYS SSBCI programs at esd.ny.gov/ssbci.
Title
FunctionalArea
Reportsto
Salary
EmploymentStatus
2 POSITION
SHIFTLEADER - SUPERVISOR
FACILITY
Owners /Managers
$16 - $20 00 PER HOUR
PARTTIME/FULLTIME
Torunanefficient, clean, profitablestore. Toexecutethedaytodaytaskandfollowallprocesses inplace Providesoundleadershiptothestaffandworkwithintheparametersofthework culture
3 COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
Thefollowingcompetenciesarerequiredforthisposition:
Communication
•Abilitytocommunicateallgoals, objectives, vision & missionstatementsto staffmembers.
•Abilitytogivedirectionthrougheffectivecommunicationtoensureefficient operationsonadailybasis
•Communicationshouldbeclearandconcise Musthavetheabilityto establishclearlinesofcommunicationbetweentheFront & Backofthe House
•Communicatew/KitchenCheforManagertoensurethepromptdelivery fromallvendors
•Communicatew/vendorsthestandardsandexpectationsrequiredoftheir service
•Mustmanageandcommunicateallconcernsandissuesconcerningvendor accounts, utilities & payrollissuestoManagement/Owner.
•Communicateandmanageallfacilityrepairneeds, notifymanaging companyandkeepalog
Title
FunctionalArea
Reportsto
POSITIONDESCRIPTION
CHEFMANAGER
MANAGEMENT
Salary
EmploymentStatus
Toperformallassignedtasksanddutiestothefullestandbestofyourability Alltasksand/or dutiesshouldbeperformedwithasenseofurgency, efficiencyandproficiency Superviseand lead overall kitchen operations You are expected to carry out any requests made by management orownerthatisrelativetothebusinessandthatdoesnotjeopardize, endangeryourhealthor wellbeing.
3. COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
Thefollowingcompetenciesarerequiredforthisposition:
Communication
Teamwork
•Beabletocommunicateinaclearconcisemannerissuesorconcernsandall otherinformationthatpertainstotheoperation
•Mustbeabletocommunicateallordersanddirectionwithkitchenstaff
•Mustbeabletoeffectivelycommunicatewithmanagementallkitchenissues inatimelyfashion
•Possessestheabilitytofunctionasateammember, contributestocreatinga harmoniousworkenvironmentandanticipateteammember’sneeds
Mustbeabletobeself-directedwithtaskstokeepbusyMustexecute requireddutiesandresponsibilitiesindependentlyMustbeableto preparedishesaccordingtorecipes
MustbeefficientinExcelandWord
Mustknowhowtocreateanduseproductionchart
Mustknowhowtotrainnewhires
Skilledw/OrderAccuracy
$17 00$19 00 MANAGEMENT LINE
- GRILLCOOK
FULLTIME / PARTTIME
Toperformallassignedtasksanddutiestothefullestandbestofyourability. Alltasksand/or dutiesshouldbeperformedwithasenseofurgency, efficiencyandproficiency Everyentrée shouldbepreparedtospecinqualityandpresentationaswellasmaintainthecleanlinessofthe lineduringtheshift Youareexpectedtocarryoutanyrequestsmadebymanagementorowner thatisrelativetothebusinessandthatdoesnotjeopardize, endangeryourhealthorwellbeing
3 COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
Thefollowingcompetenciesarerequiredforthisposition:
Communication
Teamwork Skills Self Management
•Beabletocommunicateinaclearconcisemannercustomerrequests, issues orconcernsandallotherinformationthatpertainstotheoperation
•Possessestheabilitytofunctionasateammember, contributestocreatinga harmoniousworkenvironmentandanticipateteammember’sneeds
Mustbeabletobeself-directedwithtaskstokeepbusyMustexecute required duties and responsibilities independently Must be able to preparedishesaccordingtorecipes
Shouldpossessimpressiveknifeskills
Meetthestandardfortherateofspeed
Needtodemonstrateculinarytechniquesefficientlyandw/accuracy
https://tinyurl.com/JFKRGIAD2025
JFK T6 QUEENS IN FLIGHT
COMMUNITY ART PROGRAM REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
RELEASE DATE: JULY 9, 2025
SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED: September 5, 2025
The Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning (JCAL), in partnership with JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), invites local Queens-based artists to submit proposals for the Queens in Flight Community Art Program at JFK Terminal 6. This program will showcase the cultural and artistic diversity of Queens through contemporary art installed on in high-traffic areas of this new airport terminal.
Ride App Pickup Relocations Terminal 4 TERMINALS 5&7
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. daily
Take free shuttle bus to Lot 66
24 hours a day/7 days a week Take AirTrain to Howard Beach (free exit to Ride App Pick Up lot)
Through the upcoming summer travel season, the airport will face the dual challenge of higher volumes of air travelers combined with the peak of construction activities for the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK.
Customers are strongly advised to use mass transit to and from the airport, such as MTA New York City Transit subway or buses, or MTA Long Island Rail Road with 20-minute trains from Grand Central Terminal or Penn Station to the AirTrain JFK station at Jamaica. For motorists, the Port Authority encourages the use of its free drop-off, pickup and waiting lot at the Lefferts Boulevard AirTrain JFK station, where passengers can easily connect to the free on-airport AirTrain for an eight-minute ride to airport terminals.
Visit Construction.JFKAirport.com for the latest updates and travel advisories before heading to the airport.
To: From: Memo: Date:
Airline Partners & Interested Stakeholders
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Avoiding Summer 2025 Traffic at JFK
June 26, 2025
As we prepare for a record-breaking summer at JFK, we’re asking for your help in sharing important travel tips with passengers.
Construction is at its peak as we build a brand-new, world-class JFK, with the first new gates opening next year In the meantime, roadways are being rebuilt and driving to JFK this summer will be challenging Travelers may face major congestion on the airport if they choose to arrive by car
Plan Ahead with Construction.JFKAirport.com
We strongly recommend travelers visit Construction.JFKAirport.com before their trip By entering their flight and transportation details, they’ll receive a customized list of construction impacts tailored to their specific travel plans, including parking changes, pick-up areas, and terminal access updates.
Take the Train: Half-Price AirTrain JFK Fare
From June 30 through Labor Day, the fare from Jamaica and Howard Beach stations is reduced by 50% to $4.25. It’s the fastest, most reliable way to reach the terminals and avoid traffic.
•Jamaica Station is just 20 minutes from Grand Central Madison, Penn Station, or Atlantic Terminal via LIRR
•Both stations are accessible via A/E/J/Z subway lines
•AirTrain accepts tap-and-go contactless fare payment methods and MetroCard at both the Jamaica and Howard Beach stations, the two off-airport stations that require payment.
If Driving or Being Dropped Off
•Avoid heavy congestion on terminal frontages and use the free wait lot at the AirTrain JFK’s on-airport Lefferts Blvd station. It can be used by family, friends, and for-hire vehicles
•If you must drive, pre-book parking at JFKAirport.com to guarantee a spot and save money. Without a reservation, you may not be able to find a spot.
•Travelers should arrive at least 3 hours before departure if driving
As we continue the airport’s $19 billion transformation during what’s expected to be another record-setting summer travel season, we’re asking travelers to leave the car at home and take public transit whenever possible.
Thanks for your patience. A new JFK is just around the corner!
Calling All Artists! MuralArtworkOpportunity at
LaGuardia Airport
PROJECT
The Port Authority of NY & NJ and Queens Culture & Arts Network are seeking proposals from qualified artists or artist teams for the creation of a mural at the new LaGuardia Airport in the Terminal B Garage, 2nd Floor Car Ride Pickup Area. The mural will welcome passengers in our worldclass gateway, while reflecting the vibrancy, diversity and uniqueness of Queens Borough.
ELIGIBILITY
All artists can apply local artists with a Queens connection are especially encouraged to submit a proposal.
Deadline: September 15, 2025
For any questions, please contact: TaQuoia Jones, LaGuardia Community Outreach - taqjones@panynj gov Susan Agin, Queens Culture & Arts Network - susanaginqca@varietyboysandgirlsclub org
SAFE Disposal Events
Get rid of your harmful household products safely.
All Events: 10am to 4pm (rain or shine)
Manhattan: Sunday, September 7, 2025
UnionSquare,NorthPlazaSouth side of 17th Street, between Park Avenue South and Broadway Cars approach from Park Ave South & 20th St | Walk-in area available
Brooklyn: Sunday, September 21, 2025
FloydBennettFieldFlatbushAvenue/Marine Parkway
Cars enter along Flatbush Avenue and make a left into the main entrance, immediately before the toll bridge.
Staten Island: Saturday, September 27, 2025
MidlandBeachParkingLot8FatherCapodannoBoulevard&Hunter Avenue Cars approach from Slater Boulevard.
Queens: Saturday, October 18, 2025
ResortsWorldCasino,ParkinglotCCarsapproach east on Rockaway blvd & 107th St and make a right into the casino. | Walk-in area available for residents taking public transportation
Bronx: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Orchard Beach Parking Lot CarsfollowParkDrive to the end.
Only NYC Residential Waste Will Be Accepted
No commercial vehicles allowed Residents MUST provide proof of NYC residency (NYS driver’s license, utility bill, etc )
Can’t attend one of these events? Visit nyc.gov/HowToGetRidOf for disposal options.
Visit or scan this code to learn more nyc.gov/SafeEvents
NYC Small Business Services Business Prep Risk Assessment & Grant
Over the next several weeks RDRC will working with the Office of Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers, SBS, REMA4US and Crescent Consulting to provide additional information and support for businesses interested in applying.
Business PREP helps small businesses prepare for emergencies and enhance the resiliency of their operations, assets, and physical space. Program components include:
Emergency Preparedness Workshops and Webinars to educate on business continuity best practices.
Resiliency Online Resources including a Self-Assessment Tool to understand and help mitigate risks
Risk Assessments and Grants for commercial tenants and property owners operating out of a location at risk of flooding
NYC Small Business Services Business Prep Risk Assessment & Grant
Business PREP Risk Assessment & Grant Program (continued)
SBS will come to your business to:
Review your physical space, operations, and insurance coverage. Provide a custom report to prepare your business for future disruptions.
Applicants who receive an assessment may also be eligible for a grant of up to $5,000 to buy recommended equipment, such as flood barriers, generators, and fireproof storage containers to improve disaster resiliency.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
Located in an area at risk of flooding.
Small business has been in operation for at least 1 year.
Annual revenue does not exceed $30 million.
Did not previously receive any grant or benefit from the NYC Department of Small Business Services Business PREP Grant Program or the RISE: NYC program
All required licenses and permits are current.
TO APPLY CLICK HERE:
BUSINESS
Program supports various industries including Tech, FinTech, Healthcare. Eligibility for companies with < $2M dilutive funding, focusing on expanding VC access in New York.
Preference for C-Corp structured companies with operations in NY. Companies must be registered in NY, in good standing, and secure matching funds.
Private capital raised in the same round can contribute to financing ratio. Investments in convertible debt or equity must match private capital terms.
NYC Department of Small Business Services offers a Customized Training Grant Program: Businesses select tailored training programs to address challenges.
SBS reimburses up to 60% of costs for various areas. Eligibility:
Grants range from $30,000 to $400,000.
NYC-based, operating for over a year, for-profit. Training involves a minimum of 10 employees. Costs paid upfront and reimbursed quarterly.
Employees can attend different sessions within a year.
Upon completion, businesses must offer wage increases. Businesses with <10 employees can apply as a consortium. Contact for details.
Risk Assessment and Grant Program (nyc.gov) Pre-Seed and Seed Matching Fund Program
NYC offers a grant program providing up to $5,000 for resiliency measures like flood barriers. Eligibility includes being in a flood-risk area, operating for at least a year, revenue under $30 million, and no prior NYC SBS grants. All licenses and permits must be current for eligibility.
Funding Range: Up to $5,000
2024 BUSINESS GRANTS & MORE
SPECTRUM PAY IT FORWARD PROGRAM
Spectrum Reach's Pay It Forward program offers selected small businesses free advertising campaign worth up to $15,000, including live and streaming TV, a custom-produced 30-second commercial, expert marketing consultation services and mentoring
Deadline: 12/31/2025
ALL GRANTS - WOMENSNET | GRANTS FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS | SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS (AMBERGRANTSFORWOMEN.COM)
The Amber Grant by WomensNet is providing $10,000 and $25,000 grants for female entrepreneurs to achieve their business dreams.
To be eligible, applicants must be a women-owned business or a female entrepreneur. Further, Applicants must share their business or business idea and explain how they would use the grant money.
Deadline: Monthly
Workforce & Career Development
Basic Job Readiness Course for new and less experienced job seekers
Financial Management Course focused on banking and saving, credit, loan products
Vocational Skills Training - Cisco IT Essentials, Certified Customer Service Training, Microsoft Office Certification (self-paced)
Small Business Assistance
Business Workshop Series focused on business formation, accounting & finance, business management, taxation and marketing
Business Management Training - Queens Streetwise MBA Program
MWBE Certification Assistance
Business Networking
Youth Development
Job Readiness and Financial Literacy Training
Paid Summer and After-School Employment Programs
Youth Mentorship and Leadership Development
RDRC Youth Aviators Program
RDRC Youth Media Arts & Communications Program
College Placement Assistance, College Tour
IT Training/Coding
Neighborhood Preservation
HUD Certified First Time Homebuyer, Foreclosure and Credit
Counseling
Public Space Management & Activation
Commercial Revitalization - Storefront Mural Arts, Facade
Improvement, District Marketing & Placemaking Services
