Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce

🚆 The Interborough Express (IBX) is a game-changer for Brooklyn & Queens!
Join us on June 11 (9-11 AM) at Brooklyn College for a vital Business Forum.

Shape the future of this transit corridor,
🎟️ Register now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-interborough-express-a-new-corridor-for-economic-opportunity-tickets-1989029515825

Join our President & CEO, Randy Peers, on June 3 for Commercial Observer's Brooklyn Forum!

The forum will convene prominent real estate executives and borough business leaders to share a timely market outlook, detailing where Brooklyn real estate stands today, and where it’s heading next. From capital markets and investment strategies to leasing trends, housing supply and the rise of mixed-use innovation districts, experts will share the challenges and opportunities shaping Brooklyn in the years to come.

Use code BKCCVIP50 for a VIP discount when registering.
https://commercialobserver.com/events/brooklyn-forum-2026-agenda/

Brooklyn Org’s Microgrants provide one-year funding of up to $10,000 for organizations or fiscally sponsored groups based in Brooklyn or actively working in Brooklyn with annual operating budgets under $100,000 and at least one year of operation and programming. Funding supports neighborhood-based organizations, ranging from community gardens and mutual aid groups to community-based organizing and programming.

- Funding: General operating support.

- Deadline: Sunday, May 31, 2026 (next cycle: Nov 31, 2026)

- Details & Apply: brooklyn.org/microgrants

A major shift is happening for small businesses and it’s creating both risk and opportunity.

New data from the 2026 ® Small Business Pulse Report, which surveyed business owners approaching retirement and young or prospective entrepreneurs, highlights a growing gap between retiring small business owners and the next generation of buyers – often called the “Silver Tsunami.”

Key points from younger or prospective entrepreneurs for small business owners looking to sell:

88% say getting paid quickly is critical or very important to surviving year one
84% are more interested in businesses that already operate digitally
67% say outdated payment options could be a dealbreaker
Buyers today are looking for businesses that are ready to run with modern tools and fast, seamless payments. For current owners thinking about what's next, this is a clear signal. Modernizing how you get paid is not just about convenience. It can directly impact your ability to attract buyers and keep your business competitive.

Learn more about what this shift means for your business and read the full report:
https://www.zelle.com/press-releases/boomers-built-main-street-now-theyre-ready-sell-gen-z-and-millennials-arent-buying

⚽ FIFA World Cup 2026™ Upcoming Deadlines
May 15: Food & beverage businesses - last chance to request your FREE limited-edition borough cup cases to receive them by World Cup kickoff (June 11), while supplies last. Register here: https://www.nyctourism.com/worldcup26/fbwc-registration

May 22: Deadline to register for Welcome World Rewards Program. This is the Official Small Business Platform of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee. Enrollment is free: https://nynjfwc26.com/destination/ -world-rewards-program

July 1: Deadline to submit World Cup-themed events, offers, and $26 Five Borough Winners Specials to the NYC event calendar. Open to all NYC businesses, BIDs, and cultural organizations — spread the word! Submit here: https://admintools.nyctourism.com/world-cup-event

Brooklyn entrepreneurs - Join us for the Small Business Resource Fair & Innovation Day next week! Get the *free* tools and resources to help your business thrive.

📍 Flatbush YMCA
🗓️ Thursday, May 21
🕑 2PM – 6PM

🔗 https://brooklynchamber.zohobackstage.com/SBM_Brooklyn

Join industry leaders at the USBCCI Real Estate Expo 2026 for a day of deal-making and expert networking.

📅 May 16, 2026 (10 AM - 6 PM)
📍New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott
💡 Highlights: 6+ Expert Panels, 60+ Exhibitors, and 1,500+ Attendees.

Exclusive Perks:
- Learn how to get up to $15,000 in down payment assistance
- Get Pre-Approved ON THE SPOT.
- First-time homebuyer options with just 3% down

🎟️ Register now at usbccireeexpo.com

Get your brand in front of thousands at Kings Plaza Shopping Center. Reach Brooklyn shoppers, boost visibility, and grow your business where it matters most.

Contact Kelly Cefai, [email protected] for more information.