The Bronx Economic Development Corporation, the non-profit lending company, held an economic empowerment workshop last month and networking event with Popular Bank.
Over 30 small business owners and eager young professionals came to the event to get advice from panelists on how they can grow their business and succeed in the Bronx. They also got the chance to ask panelists questions that you would typically only get the chance to ask a hired consultant.
The BXEDC’s partnership with Popular and other banks in the Bronx paves the way for the organization to continue doing things like this to benefit the borough. By getting advice from experts, business owners have the chance to boost their businesses in a competitive market. If those businesses thrive, consumers will be happy, the economy will be healthy, and the Bronx will continue to be a great place to live and work.
Ruvi Lopez, the Director of the Empowerment Zone at the BXEDC, worked on this event from the BXEDC’s side because he sees an opportunity for financial growth.
“Workshops on economic empowerment and related topics are important to have in the Bronx,” Lopez said. “We want people in this borough to be aware that they have control over their financial success. It can be intimidating to open your own business, manage properties or even gain control over your personal finances. For that reason, the BXEDC will continue to work with banks and other elected officials to ensure that Bronxites feel economically empowered.”
Popular Bank’s representatives saw this opportunity as well, and the BXEDC enjoyed partnering with them to make it happen.
“Popular Bank has been proud to serve small businesses and communities for many decades, offering access to capital along with financial know-how,” said Solomon Ponniah, Director of New York Metro Business Banking. “By partnering with organizations such as the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, we help customers better understand cash flow management, tax planning and financial forecasting as they navigate the complexities of running a business and contribute to the health and vitality of our communities.”
Interested in attending an event like this in the future? The BXEDC will be working with other community organizations to host more workshops. Follow @bx_edc on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter on bxedc.org to stay up to date with all events going forward.
Jilleen Barrett is the Director of Communications and Marketing at the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.
