New Partnerships in the Bronx and Brooklyn to Expand Opportunity & Access to Capital
by Tshering Gurung, Director of Business Development, Training, and Partnerships
We’re pleased to announce that Accompany Capital is joining forces as a new community partner with the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. Together, we’re working to support local entrepreneurs across NYC by expanding access to affordable, responsible business financing, especially in neighborhoods where getting a business loan from a traditional bank can feel nearly impossible.
As a trusted nonprofit CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution), we’re here to offer more than just financing. We provide guidance, compassionate support, and an culturally sensitive understanding of the unique challenges that small business owners can face in their communities.
New York City’s Small Business Economy Is Booming
As of 2023, there were about 183,000 small businesses operating across the five boroughs—the highest number in the city’s history, businesses that employ nearly one million New Yorkers. In 2024 alone, 25,500 new businesses registered in the city, signalling just how strong the entrepreneurial spirit and economic momentum is here—and how much need there is for capital and support.
Through our new partnerships with the Bronx and Brooklyn Chambers, we’ll help more businesses access funding and connect them to valuable programs like the NYC Small Business Resource Network and The Open + Online program, which offers digital tools and networking opportunities.
Just as important, we want to make sure business owners know that affordable, flexible financing options exist beyond traditional banks. We’ll use these networks to educate Chamber members about the role of CDFIs and help prevent businesses from turning to high-cost predatory lenders when they need capital.
Building on a Proven Model of Collaboration in Queens
We have a long-standing partnership with the Queens Chamber of Commerce which has shown us what’s possible when we join forces with local organizations, a model we aim to replicate in the Bronx and Brooklyn. Together, we’ve hosted business workshops, resource fairs, and community events that bring essential services directly to the neighborhoods where entrepreneurs work and live.
One highlight is our Annual Small Business Resource Fair in Jackson Heights, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan, where we bring together city agencies, community groups, and business support providers—all under one roof. It removes obstacles, connects people with real help, and builds stronger local economies.
By combining the Chamber’s deep understanding of what local businesses need with our lending experience and community focus, we’ve built something really effective for Queens’ diverse small business community.
Deepening Our Commitment to NYC’s Small Business Ecosystem
Moving forward, we’re committed to becoming an even stronger presence in neighborhoods across NYC. Our goal is to build a more connected support network for entrepreneurs by working alongside banks, resource organizations, technical assistance providers, elected officials, Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), merchant associations, and economic development organizations.
By expanding these relationships, we’ll be better equipped to meet the real – unmet – needs of small business owners, strengthen local commercial districts, and ensure that all entrepreneurs—especially those who’ve been historically underserved—have access to the financial resources and trusted guidance they need to succeed and grow.
I’m looking forward to working closely with our partners in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and across the city. Together, we’ll keep building a small business ecosystem that’s inclusive, resilient, and full of opportunity—one that truly reflects the diversity, creativity, and entrepreneurial energy that makes New York City the exciting place it is!