Small Business Week 2025 Is Here!
We've got the 2nd Annual Professional Learning Conference, Amazon, Salsa Caterers, The Jackie Robinson Foundation and Daymond John of ABCs Shark Tank!
National Small Business Week was initiated by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, with the first proclamation signed that year, and is now organized and celebrated by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). So even though we didn’t invent Small Business Week—-we absolutely plan to celebrate with our NYC Small Business community!
Welcome to a brand new edition of The Open Exchange Newsletter. If you are reading this, that means you are a part of our community and we are happy to have you here. Consider subscribing if you haven’t done so and you can absolutely share this newsletter with a small business colleague.
Celebrate Small Business Week 2025 With Us!
We’re thrilled to invite you to a dynamic and impactful lineup of events for Small Business Week 2025! Whether you're an entrepreneur, community leader, or a champion of local business, there’s something for you! Some events are invite only so if you see something here and want to get on the guest list, please send an email to the team at open4business@schools.nyc.gov and we will get right back to you.
Here's what we have planned:
Monday, May 5
How to Do Business with Amazon- 10:30am to 1pm
Join us for a luncheon and workshop designed to help small businesses navigate the world’s largest online marketplace. Learn directly from Amazon representatives about how to grow your brand and boost your sales.
Wednesday, May 7
Indoor Restaurant Crawl Featuring Salsa Caterers- 3pm to 7pm
In an effort to encourage the school community to shop local when planning for meetings, conferences and events, we have curated a tasting experience that celebrates local cuisine. School, district and community based decision makers are invited to attend. This delicious event is powered by the talented team at Salsa Caterers with special tastings from Black Rican Vegan, Bake Me Healthy, Maiden Voyage Catering & More!
Thursday, May 8 – Morning
Small Business & Public School Leadership Breakfast- 9am to 1pm
We're bringing together NYC small business owners and NYCPS leaders for a meaningful conversation over breakfast. Discover opportunities to collaborate, support our schools, and strengthen community ties.
Thursday, May 8 – Afternoon
Networking Session & Jackie Robinson Museum Tour- 2pm to 5pm
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and professionals during an inspiring networking session, followed by a private tour of the Jackie Robinson Museum. 💼 Did you know?
After breaking barriers in Major League Baseball, Jackie Robinson became a successful businessman and civil rights advocate.
He co-founded the Freedom National Bank, the first African American–owned and operated commercial bank in Harlem, helping underserved communities access financial resources and build wealth.
Jackie’s legacy is more than athletic—it's entrepreneurial. Come get inspired. Honor history, build new relationships, and leave with fresh ideas.
Friday, May 9
Small Business Professional Learning Conference- 9am to 3pm
Cap off the week with a powerful day of learning and inspiration. Our conference will feature workshops, expert panels, and resources tailored for small business success. All at no cost to you! During the conference you can learn more about:
Selling to the Government
The NYC Project Pivot Project
Understanding the Procurement Process
Growing Your Business with AI-Powered Tools by Google
Making Your Sponsorships Count
Special Keynote Guest: Daymond John of ABC’s Shark Tank
We’re closing the week with an unforgettable keynote from none other than Daymond John—entrepreneur, author, branding expert, and star of Shark Tank. His story and insights will leave you inspired and ready to take your business to the next level.
Don't miss this week of connection, celebration, and empowerment. Stay tuned for registration details and full event descriptions. Let’s champion small business together!
Our very own Dr. Pate has been all over NYC spreading the word about the work of the Office of Business Development and our small business community. In case you missed it her appearance on Soul Lounge Primetime, check out the video below