Get the best opportunities for your small business — we can help
Small businesses make up 98 percent of New York State businesses and employ 40% of New York’s private sector workforce. Empire State Development’s Small Business Division supports the development and expansion of businesses with under 100 employees – directing an array of programs and initiatives supporting small business growth and helping entrepreneurs maximize opportunities for success. Explore all we offer, plus a custom business checklist of NYS programs and services that match your goals.
Find Out Which Small Business Programs Can Help You
To see which programs are most relevant to you, please fill out the form below. After you tap the “Filter Programs” button, scroll down to view a list of small business programs that match your needs. Click on any program title to learn more, including how to apply.
If you'd prefer to see all available programs, you can scroll down to view the full list of program titles without filling out the form.
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New York State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
New York State has been awarded more than $500 million in federal SSBCI funding to help small, and traditionally disadvantaged, businesses succeed— with a focus on post-pandemic recovery. Find out more about ESD's SSBCI programs.
Find state and federal programs and tools including free resources — from workforce training and development to free English language instruction — available to immigrant business owners and anyone who wants to start a business in New York State.
Offers reduced rate borrowing to eligible businesses for investments that expand capabilities, business capacity and to create new employment opportunities.
New York State Small Business Revolving Loan Fund Round 2
Provides shorter-term microloans and loans under $250,000 to eligible businesses for working capital, equipment purchases, real estate improvements, and other business needs.
Provides financing to contractors in need of working capital to deploy and execute federal, state, and local government related contracts. Loans are provided by participating lenders.
Provides direct loans for the growth of manufacturing and other eligible businesses within New York State by assisting in financing a portion of the cost of acquiring and renovating existing buildings or constructing new buildings.
$106M in SSBCI funding to provide direct loans for the growth of manufacturing and other eligible businesses by assisting in financing a portion of the cost of acquiring/renovating existing buildings, constructing new buildings or purchasing equipment.
Equity investments and programs for venture-backable startups
Emerging and Regional Partner Program Fund
Invests in diverse fund managers with first-, second- or third-time funds, or with managers who will use the funds to invest in areas of New York State where venture capital is less readily available.
Invests in accelerators or similar mentor-based programs to provide equity investments for high-growth companies that are participating in those programs.
Empire State Development connects scalable companies with New York State’s top universities, talent, and manufacturing facilities through its support of several cutting-edge accelerator programs and funding competitions.
A comprehensive resource for starting, running, and growing a business in NYS, including a Business Wizard and information on support programs and incentives.
Programs primarily for lenders and financial institutions
Capital Access Program
Provides portfolio insurance for participating lenders designed to increase financing opportunities for small businesses. Loans are provided by participating lenders.
Provides financing to contractors in need of working capital to deploy and execute federal, state, and local government related contracts. Loans are provided by participating lenders.
Offers reduced rate borrowing to eligible businesses for investments that expand capabilities, business capacity and to create new employment opportunities.
New York State Small Business Revolving Loan Fund Round 2
Provides shorter-term microloans and loans under $250,000 to eligible businesses for working capital, equipment purchases, real estate improvements, and other business needs.
Empire State Development connects scalable companies with New York State’s top universities, talent, and manufacturing facilities through its support of several cutting-edge accelerator programs and funding competitions.
