S. Department of Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act, administered in New York State by Empire State Development (ESD). The program was designed to support small business recovery from the economic effects of COVID-19 and help businesses succeed in the post-pandemic economy.
SSBCI is not a traditional lender but rather a state-level capital access program that deploys over $500 million in federal funding through multiple targeted financing vehicles. The program specifically prioritizes socially and economically disadvantaged individual (SEDI) owned businesses and very small businesses (VSBs), addressing historical inequities in capital access. SSBCI distinguishes itself by offering a suite of complementary programs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
4M for portfolio insurance), the New York Forward Loan Fund 2 ($150M up to $150K with free support services), and the Surety Bond Assistance Program ($22M for contractors). Many programs require applications through partner organizations such as community lending institutions rather than direct state application. The program is strengths-based for New York businesses seeking affordable capital, with particular advantages for underbanked communities and startups.
However, applicants must navigate multiple programs to find the best fit, and availability depends on business stage, industry, financing type, and organization status. The website includes a filtering tool to help identify eligible programs but provides limited detail on specific approval rates, timeframes, or terms.