So You Wanna Know How Many Small Businesses Are Hustlin' in New York? Buckle Up, Buttercup!
Ever wondered just how much hustle goes down in the Empire State? We're talkin' corner bodegas, trendy Brooklyn boutiques, and everything in between. Well, my friend, you've stumbled upon the right blog post. Today, we're diving deep (well, maybe not that deep) into the fascinating world of New York small businesses.
By the Numbers: New York's Small Business Boom (and Bustle)
Here's the jaw-dropper: there are an estimated 2.2 million small businesses in New York [1]. That's right, MILLION with a capital "M"! That's like 99.8% of all businesses in the state [1]. Basically, you can't throw a bagel without hitting a small business owner.
But Wait, There's More! (Because New York Never Sleeps)
Now, when we say "small business," we're talking about those go-getters with fewer than 500 employees (which is still a pretty good-sized crew) [2]. These businesses are the backbone of the state's economy, employing a whopping 4.1 million people [3]. That's nearly half the state's workforce! So next time you grab your morning latte, remember, you're supporting a small business dream.
Now, here's the fun part: New York's small business scene is constantly on the move. Between March 2020 and March 2021, there were over 64,000 new businesses that opened their doors [2]. Of course, with all that hustle comes some churn - around 68,000 businesses closed in that same period [2]. But hey, that's just New York, a city that never sleeps (and neither do its entrepreneurs).
So, How Many Small Businesses Are There Really?
The truth is, getting a perfectly precise number is like trying to count pigeons in Times Square - it's a bit of a moving target. The pandemic definitely shook things up, and there's always some margin for error. But that shouldn't stop us from appreciating the massive impact small businesses have on New York's character and economy.
Here's the bottom line: There are a whole lot of small businesses in New York, and they're the reason the city (and state) has its unique flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You're Curious)
How to find a small business near me?
Many online directories can help you find small businesses in your area. Just search for "[your area] small businesses."
How to support small businesses?
Shop local! Hit up that independent bookstore instead of the big chain. Grab a coffee at your favorite neighborhood cafe. Every purchase helps.
How to start a small business in New York?
The good news? There are tons of resources available to help you get started. Check out the Small Business Administration (SBA) website for guidance: https://www.sba.gov/
How to know if a business is considered "small"?
The SBA considers a business small if it has fewer than 500 employees (though the definition can vary by industry).
How cool are small businesses?
Extremely cool. They're the heart and soul of New York's vibrant economy. Now go forth and support your local heroes!
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