There are a number of organizations that provide financial planning advice and low cost financing to small businesses. There are also groups that provide one on one counseling and seminars on such topics as preparation of business plans, starting or growing a business, marketing, procurement. For the most part this assistance is free of charge.

The following is a list of the key organizations working with small businesses and the services they offer.

NYC Business Express

NYC Business Express is the one-stop online tool for the license, permit, tax, incentive information and applications you need, for any business in NYC. The NYC Business Express Incentives Estimator can even provide a customized list of City, State, and Federal incentives for which your business may qualify.

Training Funds

The New York City Department of Small Business Services offers training funds that provide up to $400,000 to allow New York City employers to invest in training their workforce. Awards can cover up to 70% of the total cost of training, and can be at the job site or off-site.

Small Firm Assistance Program

The Lower Manhattan Development Corporation (LMDC) is offering grants to existing retailers in Lower Manhattan who have been impacted by street or sidewalk closures due to publicly-funded construction projects.

Lower Manhattan Business Solutions Center

An office of the NYC Department of Small Business Services and operated by SEEDCO, the Business Solutions Center offers various services, seminars, events, and one-on-one consulting to small businesses.

Seedco Financial

Seedco Financial, a subsidiary of Seedco. offers affordable financing and technical assistance services to businesses.

Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCC)

The MCC, is a membership-based nonprofit founded in 1920 that offers marketing services, networking, seminars and other services for businesses. They offer a discount on membership for businesses located in the Downtown Alliance BID.

New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC)

NYCEDC is responsible for promoting economic growth throughout the city.  They can be a resource for information on real estate development, incentives and other city business assistance information.

United States Small Business Association (SBA)

An independent agency of the federal government created to serve the needs of small businesses.

New York City Health Insurance Link

New York City Health Insurance Link is a web site designed to help individuals and small businesses in New York City find affordable health insurance options that meet their specific needs and budgets. The site shows a wide range of plans and enables users to compare the benefits and costs of available plans offered by every NYC insurance carrier and does so on an impartial basis.

New York State Small Business Development Center (NYSSBDC)

With 24 centers throughout the state, SBDC provides management and technical assistance as well as access to a vast network of resouces to start-up an existing New York state business.

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)

The New York Service Corps of Retired Executives - SCORE - is a national nonprofit offering free counseling and training services to business owners through a network of volunteers.

Workshop in Business Opportunities (WIBO)

WIBO offers a flagship 16-week free workshop, "How to Build a Growing Profitable Business."

Women's Venture Fund

The Women's Venture Fund provides business services and training geared towards women entrepreneurs.

New York City Investment Fund

A private fund founded in 1996 that offers financial support for non-profit and for-profit entrepreneurs in New York City. 

Non Profit Finance Fund

The Nonprofit Finance Fund, founded in 1980, serves the needs of nonprofits nationwide by providing financial services, loans and advisory services.