Our efforts to assist existing Myrtle Avenue businesses focus on advocacy and liaising with city agencies and other organizations to the benefit of our merchants. Each business is unique, and we work to provide or secure assistance that can address a variety of financial, legal and marketing needs.

We also consider it essential to preserve a vibrant, ‘home-grown and locally-owned‘ district. More than 8 out of 10 businesses on Myrtle Avenue are independently-owned, and 70%+ are owned by women and/or minorities.

Our Business Retention Work Includes:

• Manage an e-mail listserv where merchants share information on safety and security issues, contractor recommendations, marketing opportunities, grants and more
• Hosting workshops on relevant topics, including marketing, legal resources, law and regulation compliance, and finding savings through group purchasing
• District marketing and promotion, both online and through print
• Developed a multi-faceted strategy to support businesses impacted by a large wave of construction from 2014-2017 on the Clinton Hill section of Myrtle Avenue
• Provide matching grants for storefront improvements
• Connect merchants to local happenings and events to help boost foot traffic
• Disseminate information on new or changing policies that impact small businesses
• Connect merchants to resources following unexpected emergencies

Resources

We strongly encourage Myrtle Avenue businesses to contact us for a range of pro bono and other assistance that may be available to them. Below are a few resources that may be of interest to the wider small business community:

Information on Permits and Licenses and Business Planning:

Specifically for Existing Businesses: