Why Shop Small?

From the corner bodega to the local hardware store, small businesses keep New York City running 24/7. They are the backbone of New York’s economy: employing millions and contributing to the unique dynamic neighborhoods we live in – and they’re the reason that NYC is back from COVID-19. Most importantly: for every dollar spent at a small business, 70 cents stays in the community.

We can all do our part to bring the city back by supporting local small businesses!

How can I help?

  • Participate in Small Business Month and Shop Small for the Holidays
    Join SBS to celebrate small businesses during NYC Small Business Month in May and plan ahead for the holidays to avoid the Black Friday mayhem.
  • Pledge Your Shopping List to Your Community
    Make a commitment to buy half of your shopping list from local small businesses. Jewelry, clothing, pottery, and books are all great gifts that can be found in your neighborhood. Consider gifting a “made in New York” basket with your favorite local items.
  • Share Small Business Content on Social Media
    A great way to support your local business is to share their content on social media. It can be as simple as posting a picture on Instagram or checking in on Facebook. Use #NYCSmallBusinessMonth or #ShopYourCity to spread the love. 
  • Leave Positive Reviews
    While word-of-mouth recommendations are always good for small businesses, it doesn’t hurt to leave positive reviews on Yelp and Google. Leave an online review for small businesses to get more traction and visibility.

  • Refer Businesses to SBS for Free Assistance!
    The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS)  helps local businesses launch, grow, and thrive – for free! Get assistance to contract with City government, open your storefront, avoid fines & fees, and more. Call SBS’s hotline to get started: 888-SBS-4NYC.
  • Join the Fun!
    Participate in seasonal fun on your block and in your neighborhood. From Open Streets events to local gift guides, get involved and shop small.

About SBS

The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) helps unlock economic potential and create economic security for all New Yorkers by connecting New Yorkers to good jobs, creating stronger businesses, and building thriving neighborhoods across the five boroughs.

black and white image of Manhattan skyline with NYC Department of Small Business Services logo and animated text "careers" "businesses" "neighborhoods" "It's what we do"

About Shop Your City

Launched in November 2020, the Shop Your City campaign encourages New Yorkers to support small businesses while helping NYC’s economy recover.

The Shop Your City advertising campaign has included significant investment in community and ethnic media, advertising on local transit options, flyers distributed to community partners and small businesses, and a social media toolkit.

Download Our Outreach Flyers:

Promotional graphic for Shop Your City campaign with icons of items to purchase and text "NYC Means Business" and "Find options to help you Shop Your City"