Business Attraction Program
About This Program
East Harlem has one of New York City’s most compelling commercial corridors—and we want more great businesses to be part of it. The Business Attraction Program is Union Settlement’s proactive effort to recruit diverse, community-serving businesses to East Harlem, targeting storefronts that strengthen the local economy and fill genuine neighborhood gaps.
We work with both sides of the equation: entrepreneurs who want to open in East Harlem but do not know where to start, and property owners with vacant storefronts who want to attract the right tenants. Our team provides hands-on guidance through site identification, negotiations, licensing, permits, and connections to city resources.
Priority is given to minority- and immigrant-owned businesses, businesses that serve East Harlem residents’ daily needs, and entrepreneurs with deep ties to the community.
How We Help
Site Identification
Licensing & Permits
Landlord Introductions
Community Integration
What We're Looking For
Neighborhood-serving businesses — grocery, health services, childcare, community spaces, and other daily needs that East Harlem residents have identified as gaps.
Culturally reflective businesses — concepts that honor East Harlem’s Puerto Rican, Mexican, African American, and immigrant heritage.
Locally owned independent businesses — we prioritize individual entrepreneurs and small operators over chains and franchises.
Businesses committed to hiring locally — operators who intend to employ East Harlem residents and invest in community workforce development.