Business Resources in Brooklyn, NY

To start a business in Brooklyn, you'll need to register your business with New York State, obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and secure any industry-specific licenses required by the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs or other agencies. Depending on your business type, you may need health permits, food service licenses, building permits, or professional certifications. You'll also need to register for state and local taxes, including sales tax if applicable, and obtain a New York City business tax certificate.

Brooklyn's fastest-growing industries include technology and software development, particularly in neighborhoods like Williamsburg and Red Hook; food production and specialty food manufacturing; fashion and design; media and entertainment; advanced manufacturing and industrial production in areas like Sunset Park; and professional services. The health and wellness sector is also expanding significantly, with growth in fitness, mental health services, and alternative medicine businesses. Additionally, creative services such as graphic design, photography, and digital marketing continue to thrive due to the borough's concentration of creative professionals.

Yes, small businesses in Brooklyn can access grants and funding through New York State's Division of Small Business Services, which offers various grant programs for eligible entrepreneurs. The city also provides support through targeted initiatives, including grants for minority and women-owned businesses. Additionally, industry-specific funding may be available through state programs focused on manufacturing, agriculture, or technology. Federal grant programs administered through the Small Business Administration are also accessible to Brooklyn-based businesses meeting specific criteria.

Brooklyn has a robust coworking scene concentrated primarily in Williamsburg, DUMBO, and Park Slope, where multiple shared office providers offer flexible membership options. Sunset Park and Gowanus have also seen growth in affordable coworking and maker spaces, appealing to industrial and creative businesses. Many spaces offer month-to-month flexibility, high-speed internet, conference rooms, and community events that facilitate networking among entrepreneurs. The availability of spaces ranges from budget-friendly shared desks to premium private offices, accommodating various business stages and budgets.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides free counseling through its Small Business Development Centers and mentorship through SCORE, both available to Brooklyn entrepreneurs. NYC's Department of Small Business Services offers free workshops, one-on-one advising, and business planning resources. Many Brooklyn-based organizations and business improvement districts also offer free networking events, educational workshops, and referral services. Additionally, Brooklyn's libraries often host free business research resources and entrepreneurial programming.

Brooklyn offers significant advantages as a startup location: a large and diverse customer base, access to skilled talent, established networking communities, and cultural cachet that attracts both customers and investors. The borough's neighborhoods each have distinct character and demographics, allowing entrepreneurs to target specific markets effectively. However, Brooklyn also presents challenges including higher operating costs, competitive rental markets, and complex city regulations. Success depends on your industry, target market, and ability to navigate the borough's business environment, but the entrepreneurial infrastructure and economic vitality make it an excellent choice for many business types.