Celebrating Small Business Month: Honoring Caribbean, Immigrant, and Local Entrepreneurs in New York

By Chris Tobias 

May is Small Business Month, and New York is spotlighting the rich diversity and vital contributions of Caribbean and immigrant-owned businesses that drive the heartbeat of our economy.

This year’s theme, “Rooted in Resilience, Growing Together,” reflects the strength and unity of New York’s diverse small business community. From mom-and-pop shops in the Bronx to Caribbean-owned eateries in Brooklyn and immigrant-run startups in Queens, these entrepreneurs embody resilience, adaptability, and cultural pride.

The Importance of Small Businesses in New York City

Small businesses make up over 98% of all businesses in NYC, employing nearly half of the city’s workforce. They are the cornerstones of local neighborhoods, providing essential services, job opportunities, and community engagement.

Caribbean and immigrant entrepreneurs are particularly vital to this ecosystem. These businesses often fill cultural and service gaps, introduce new products and cuisines, and enrich the social and economic fabric of the city.

Why Caribbean and Immigrant-Owned Businesses Matter

1. Cultural Preservation: Caribbean businesses help keep culture alive—from food and music to fashion and festivals—offering New Yorkers authentic experiences and global flavors.
2. Economic Growth: Immigrant entrepreneurs contribute billions to NYC’s economy. According to the NYC Department of Small Business Services, immigrants make up over 60% of small business owners in the five boroughs.
3. Community Empowerment: These businesses create generational wealth, offer mentorship, and support other local ventures, contributing to stronger, more self-sufficient neighborhoods.

Supporting Small Businesses During Small Business Month and Beyond

Here are a few ways to support and uplift local and immigrant-owned businesses in New York:

• Shop Local: Choose local vendors over big-box retailers.
• Promote on Social Media: Share your favorite spots and tag them.
• Attend Small Business Events: Many boroughs host pop-ups, markets, and fairs during May.
• Leave Positive Reviews: Help businesses attract new customers.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate Small Business Month, let’s honor the backbone of New York’s economy—especially our Caribbean and immigrant business leaders. Their hard work, innovation, and perseverance continue to shape the future of our city.

By supporting them, we’re not just making purchases—we’re investing in our communities, our culture, and our shared prosperity.

Ready to start, grow or market your small business. Visit www.chambercoalition.org