City of Atlantic City Empowers Local Small Businesses in May

Atlantic City took significant strides to support its entrepreneurial community by celebrating Small Business Month this past May. Under the leadership of Mayor Small, the city government launched a series of initiatives designed to promote, develop, and uplift local businesses. This announcement aligned with the national observance of Small Business Month and Small Business Week, and it was a momentous step in highlighting the essential role small businesses play in the local economy.

Mayor Small officially proclaimed May as Small Business Month in Atlantic City, emphasizing the city's commitment to economic empowerment. The City of Atlantic City - Government, through the Planning & Development Department led by Bruce Weekes and Pam Fields, spearheaded several key programs and collaborations throughout the month.

One of the notable actions was the city's decision to waive parking enforcement at meters and kiosks across Atlantic City on Saturday, May 17, with the exception of beach block areas. This move was intended to increase accessibility and encourage more foot traffic to small businesses during weekend shopping hours.

The city also launched its ‘Keep it Local’ campaign, aimed at fostering a sense of community by encouraging residents and visitors to shop and engage with local businesses. This campaign tied into the celebration of Great Day Atlantic City, an event showcasing the spirit and offerings of local entrepreneurs.

Another significant development included a comprehensive incentive package in the works to attract new businesses to Atlantic Avenue, one of the city’s key commercial corridors. These incentives aimed to make it easier and more appealing for new entrepreneurs to establish and grow their ventures in Atlantic City.

In addition to these efforts, the city strengthened partnerships with local Community Development Corporations (CDCs), including Inlet Community Development Corporation, Midtown Atlantic City CDC, Ducktown AC, Chelsea EDC, and MBCA AC. These collaborations allowed the city to leverage shared resources to support business development and neighborhood revitalization.

Education and empowerment were also major components of this initiative. The city continued to offer free programs to residents through the Atlantic City Small Business Academy, which has become a hub for cultivating the next generation of entrepreneurs. Participants in the academy had the opportunity to develop and present their business pitches, fostering innovation and confidence among future business leaders.

Through these collective efforts, Atlantic City demonstrated a firm commitment to revitalizing its economic landscape. By investing in its people and its neighborhoods, the city not only celebrated small business but also planted the seeds for long-term, sustainable growth.