Small Business Assistance Programs

May 6th, 2020

March 10, 2020

RE: An act to amend the executive law, in relation to directing
empire state development to publish and maintain a list of
available programs to assist small businesses

S.7350 (Kaplan)

MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT

Unshackle Upstate, a non-partisan, pro-taxpayer, pro-economic growth, education and advocacy coalition made up of business and trade organizations from all parts of Upstate New York supports this legislation.

This legislation would require ESDC to coordinate with the State Agencies and State Authorities to collect information on programs offered by each agency and authority that assist small business. This information once collected is to be organized and shared on the ESDC website.

Small businesses represent that overwhelming majority of businesses in New York State, employing roughly half of the private sector workforce. To support these businesses, New York State offers a variety of programs to assist existing businesses and encourage new opportunities. Many businesses or prospective businesses, however, find it difficult to access the myriad of programs available to them.

This legislation requires ESDC in cooperation with every state agency and authority to develop and maintain a list of programs offered to support small businesses. This would provide small businesses a single resource for them to seek out programs designed to assist in their efforts. Given the strain on small business owners time and attention, this would greatly improve their chances of being able to find and take advantage of programs offered by New York State

Unshackle Upstate has consistently advocated for policies that will make New York a better place to do business. This common-sense legislation is a great way to allow for small employers to identify and take advantage of various programs offered in New York State to support small businesses.

For these reasons, Unshackle Upstate supports this legislation.

Contact:
Michael Kracker, Executive Director
716.541.1755
Michael.Kracker@unshackleupstate.com