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We're well into 2026 by now and the landscape continues to be...shall we say concerning? Persistent inflation seems to be at the top of the list of challenges, followed by labor quality and costs, rising tariffs and supply chain pressures, and reduced consumer spending. Many small businesses are witnessing a slowdown in growth, and Gen Z and Millennial consumer spending cutbacks are prompting fears of lower revenue. Overall, small business optimism appears to be relatively flat, however as we've stated in the past...with renewed energy, clear goals, and the knowledge learned from past experiences navigating economic uncertainties, we're optimistic that working together, we can overcome whatever challenges we face in the months to come.

For those who have interacted with us in the past, thank you for your trust and your continued support. For those of you whom we haven't had the pleasure of working with yet, we're here for you and we're looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish together.

North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce
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In April 2025, the North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce hosted the first-ever Love Local Small Business Expo at Arlo Williamsburg. The event featured nearly 20 informative tables and a curated series of panel discussions, attracting a strong mix of local business owners, operators, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Based on that success, we’re excited to bring it back for Year 2 — bigger and better.

Join us on Tuesday, April 28 | 12PM–5PM at Arlo Williamsburg for a full afternoon of panels, networking, and direct access to the organizations that support small businesses across North Brooklyn.

Panel Schedule:

  • 12:30–1:30 PM — Whiskey Wednesday (Whiskey Helps)
  • 1:50–2:40 PM — Party of One: Freelancers as Small Businesses

Tools, benefits, and real stories from independent workers building sustainable careers

  • 2:40–3:40 PM — Nightlife Panel

Featuring:

Jeffrey Garcia (Executive Director, Office of Nightlife)

Raffaello Van Couten (Executive Chair, BABAR; CB1 SLA Committee Member)

  • 3:55–4:55 PM — Hospitality Panel

Featuring Andrew Rigie (Executive Director, NYC Hospitality Alliance), along with leaders from Brooklyn Allied Bars & Restaurants:

Raffaello Van Couten (Dolly’s Swing & Dive, Midnights, Hank’s Bar, Vantage Point Hospitality)

Megan Richardson (Someday Bar, Mayor’s Small Business Council, Save NYC Bars)

TJ Gargan (Teddy’s Bar & Grill)

“Come With Questions. Leave With Answers.”

Connect face-to-face with an impressive group of city agencies, business organizations, and local leaders — including NYC Small Business Services, NYC Office of Nightlife, Freelancers Union, Northside Business Improvement District, FDNY, NYPD, NYC Department of Environmental Protection, local banks, and elected officials.

It’s a challenging time for small businesses in North Brooklyn, and our goal is to provide meaningful resources, connections, and insights to help businesses grow and thrive.

RSVP here.

The event will continue to be free for everyone, thanks to funding (in part) through a Grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration. 



Owen Lavine for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle
Owen Lavine for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle
Owen Lavine for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle
Paul Samulski of NBk Chamber
Owen Lavine for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle