East New York’s Pennsylvania Ave. commercial corridor will receive a $100,000 grant to help local merchants organize, promote their businesses and strengthen the neighborhood’s local economy.
The New York City Department of Small Business Services awarded the Merchant Organizing Grant to the Local Development Corporation of East New York as part of more than $8.4 million in grants distributed citywide.
The funding will support businesses along Pennsylvania Ave. through direct outreach, merchant meetings and efforts to identify shared priorities for the corridor.
“Small businesses are an essential part of our communities, providing jobs, services and gathering places for residents,” said New York state Sen. Roxanne J. Persaud, who represents the 19th Senate District.
The investment comes as rising costs continue to challenge small businesses across New York City. By helping merchants work together, increasing foot traffic and encouraging residents to shop locally, the initiative aims to strengthen businesses and create a more vibrant commercial destination in East New York.
LDCENY will survey businesses along Pennsylvania Avenue and develop an updated merchant list to improve communication, participation and access to services. The organization will also create Shop Local marketing materials, newsletters, social media content and a landing page promoting businesses along the corridor.
The grant will also support merchant leadership development and an assessment of options for establishing a formal merchant association. These efforts are designed to give local businesses a stronger voice in shaping the future of the commercial district.
The funding builds on LDCENY’s longstanding work supporting economic development in East Brooklyn. Since 1979, the organization has provided businesses with workshops, networking opportunities, counseling, training, technical assistance and access to procurement opportunities.
The next phase will focus on connecting with Pennsylvania Ave. businesses to each other, identifying shared needs and developing strategies to promote the corridor.
