Resources for Black Entrepreneurs: Grants, Loans, and Training Programs in NYC

mrsniccolgordon
Aug 4
2 min read

At the Queens Black Chamber of Commerce, we’re committed to equipping our community of Black entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to thrive. Whether you’re launching a new venture, growing a storefront, or scaling a tech company, the opportunities in New York City are real, if you know where to look.

Grants for Black-Owned Businesses in NYC

NYC Small Business Recovery Grant Program

Offers financial assistance to small businesses recovering from pandemic-related setbacks. Priority is often given to minority- and women-owned businesses.
Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC) Grant Programs

Through partnerships with local banks and philanthropic organizations, BE NYC helps Black founders access capital and growth funding.
IFundWomen of Color

Offers grants and coaching for early-stage businesses led by women of color in NYC.
National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) Grants

While national, several NYC-based businesses have qualified for their Innovation Grant Fund.

Loans & Micro-Financing Options

NYC Business Express Loan

Offers up to $250,000 in working capital. Flexible repayment options for qualified M/WBE (Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprises).
Grameen America

Provides microloans (up to $15,000) to women entrepreneurs, including immigrants and underserved Black founders.
Kiva NYC

Crowdfunded zero-interest loans up to $15,000 with community support. Many Black-owned brands in the boroughs have raised full funding on Kiva.
Ascendus

A CDFI lender focused on underserved communities. Offers business loans, lines of credit, and pandemic recovery options.

Training & Technical Assistance

BE NYC Mentorship & Workshops

Run by the NYC Department of Small Business Services, BE NYC offers leadership development, mentorship pairings, and founder-focused workshops.
SCORE NYC

Free 1:1 mentoring and group classes. Many advisors are retired business owners who understand the NYC landscape.
NYC Business Solutions Centers

Free business courses, legal consultations, and help with business licensing. You can schedule in-person or virtual sessions across the five boroughs.
The QBCC Business Accelerator (Coming Soon)

We’re excited to announce that QBCC will soon launch a local accelerator program designed specifically for Black-owned businesses in Queens. Expect mentorship, funding access, and pitch nights to showcase your brilliance. Stay tuned.

Let’s Build Together

Being a Black entrepreneur in New York City is not just possible—it’s powerful. You deserve resources, capital, and community behind your dreams. QBCC is here to ensure you’re not navigating this journey alone.

Join us, attend our upcoming business mixers, apply for our mentorship programs, and follow us on @QueensBlackChamber and on LinkedIn Queens Black Chamber of Commerce for the latest grant drops and funding tips.

Need help applying for any of the above?