FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, October 27, 2022

On Sandy Anniversary, NYC Small Business Services Highlights Digital Library to Prepare Small Businesses for Emergencies

NEW YORK – To commemorate the 10-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) is raising awareness of its Business Preparedness Digital Library to help business owners better understand their vulnerabilities and take steps to improve overall preparedness when unexpected emergencies arise, such as severe weather or a global pandemic.

Superstorm Sandy caused an estimated $19 billion in damages, destroying more than 300 homes, and impacting more than 23,400 businesses located in areas inundated by floodwaters. The storm laid bare the vulnerabilities of many small businesses, forcing many to temporarily or permanently close. The Business Preparedness Digital Preparedness Library serves as a resource for business owners with valuable information on key topics, including:

• Business Continuity Planning
• Cybersecurity
• Flood Insurance and Claims Tips
• Getting Financial Assistance after a Disaster
• Power Outage Preparedness
• Understanding Flood Risk

"Superstorm Sandy hit many local small business owners twice — at home and at their place of business," said Kevin D. Kim, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Small Business Services. "Ten years later, as we recover from a global pandemic, it's clearer than ever that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. I implore every small business to take advantage of our Business Preparedness Digital Library and our Business PREP webinars to safeguard their small business for future emergencies."

Balloon Saloon, a balloon delivery and decorating business, as well as Roasting Plant, a coffee retailer known for using technology to serve coffee, both located in Manhattan, are just two of the businesses that have taken advantage of the SBS business preparedness services. They have learned how to identify risks and vulnerabilities in their businesses' operations, insurance coverage, and physical location, and implemented specific operational changes to improve overall resilience.

About the Department of Small Business Services (SBS)
SBS helps unlock economic potential and create economic security for all New Yorkers by connecting New Yorkers to good jobs, creating stronger businesses, and building vibrant neighborhoods across the five boroughs. For more information, visit nyc.gov/sbs, call 311, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.