The Brooklyn Economic Development Corporation has many programs aimed at achieving its core mission of improving the welfare of Brooklyn residents through the creation and growth of sustainable, equitable commerce in the borough.

Community Development: BEDC has assisted in the creation of over 50 merchant associations and community development organizations providing on-going technical assistance to a diverse array of local entrepreneurial and neighborhood based organizations. Through our Re-New Brooklyn and Community Economic Development Council (CEDC) programs, BEDC helps organize local business groups and offers technical assistance to local non-profits.

Small Business Development: The core of Brooklyn’s economy, we serve over 500 clients annually: entrepreneurs starting up businesses, individuals operating ongoing businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking general business information.

Training for Entrepreneurs: BEDC’s Entrepreneurial Assistance Program (EAP), founded in 1994, has provided classroom and one-on-one instruction and advisement in businesses development and small business management for those considering becoming self-employed as well as for new small business owners.

Strategic Initiatives for Sector Based Growth of Small Businesses: Sustainable jobs and businesses is a core focus of BEDC. It is the driving force behind several initiatives to build the economic base of Brooklyn. BEDC initiated “Initiative for a Competitive Brooklyn” to increase competitiveness and grow businesses in specified sectors.

Targeted Micro-enterprise Development: In 2002, BEDC, building on its significant capacity at enterprise building, started the first micro-enterprise development program targeted specifically to individuals with persistent mental illness and those visually impaired and physically handicapped.