The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) helps your business open its doors faster and stay open. SBS offers in person client support, through one-on-one conversations with Small Business Advocates and on-site compliance consultations.
Small Business Advocates
Small Business Advocates help New Yorkers navigate government to start, operate, and grow their businesses. The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS)’s Small Business Advocates work one-on-one with businesses throughout New York City and make it easier for them to start, operate, and grow without delay. Small Business Advocates work hand-in-hand with City agencies to help businesses navigate government and cut through the red tape. They will help you:
- Understand key City rules and requirements to avoid fines and violations;
- Connect to government agencies to get the permits and licenses you need for your business;
- Coordinate plan reviews and inspections from various City agencies; and
- Help you understand how to resolve any violations your business has received
Small Business Advocates help businesses understand and follow key City rules and requirements by working with colleagues at the City’s regulatory agencies, including:
- Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)
- Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
- Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH)
- Department of Sanitation (DSNY)
- Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY)
They also connect businesses with utilities and State agencies, including:
- Department of Agriculture & Markets
- Department of Financial Services
- Department of Labor
- State Liquor Authority
- ConEdison
- National Grid
To connect with a Small Business Advocate, click below or reach out to the team directly via email (businesshelp@sbs.nyc.gov) or phone (212-618-8810).
Contact our Small Business Advocates
Compliance Consultations
Our team will come to your business and provide a customized checklist to help you:
We will not issue violations or fines - we are here to help you understand the rules. The consultation will not discuss all rules and regulations, and will not exempt your business from the inspection and enforcement processes of City, State, or Federal agencies. If you have already received a violation, our staff can help you understand what it means and how you can resolve it.
Request a Compliance Consultation