New York City Small Business Services provides free counselling, workshops and help with licences, permits and certification for minority- and women-owned business status. The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and local business improvement districts organise networking and shop-local events.
Before opening, check zoning, licence requirements for your trade, insurance and the lease. Food businesses need health department permits, and some trades need state or city licences. A good accountant and a business lawyer save more than they cost; you can find both in the Directory.
Coworking spaces, shared kitchens, maker spaces and incubators exist in many parts of the borough, which lets you start small and grow. Consider listing your business in the Directory so neighbours can find you.