The New York Public Library, with eight business assistance organizations as partners, will create an online community and interactive information resource to connect entrepreneurs with small business assistance organizations and with one another. Small businesses play a crucial role in New York City's economy. They have always required extra support, however, in part because many operate in relative isolation, lack a safety net, and have very thin profit margins. To start up and survive, small businesses not only must be able to tap financial support, they must also have access to technical assistance that will sustain them.
While numerous organizations offer counseling, information, and investment, many small businesses do not know how or where to look for them. The project will build upon the NY Small Business Resource Center, an online tool that helps small businesses locate information sources and assistance programs in the City. The Library will draw on its extensive partnerships to create a dynamic information center where small business owners will have immediate access to training opportunities in New York and can share advice and expertise in a virtual networking environment. The resource will feature a searchable database of workshops; offer web forums on business topics moderated by experts; provide reference assistance by business experts; and provide online access to workshops and text-based training materials.
Through this online community, small business owners will be connected to and supported by a network of assistance organizations and their peers. They will be able to tap the extensive knowledge of service providers and other entrepreneurs, find training opportunities and information that are relevant to their needs, and become better prepared to address future needs themselves. Furthermore, assistance organizations can expand their outreach efforts through the online infrastructure, and stay apprised of users' needs.
