State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance Program is sponsored by Empire State Development. Offers free expert legal, accounting, and financial services to small businesses and startups in New York State.

Entrepreneurs / TA Program NYS Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Program Providing specialized technical assistance to help small businesses access to equity capital and strengthen operations. Technical Assistance at a Glance The Technical Assistance (TA) Program provides founders with the specialized expertise and guidance needed to access funding and strengthen their businesses.

Supported by the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), the TA Program offers no-cost services to help entrepreneurs navigate legal, accounting, and financial challenges that often stand between them and investment.

Through this program, eligible startups and small businesses receive hands-on advising from trusted professionals – whether they’re preparing to apply for capital through SSBCI or simply looking to get their business investment-ready. The program is designed to assist small businesses under two categories: Very Small Business (VSB): A business with fewer than 10 employees (includes independent contractors and sole proprietors).

Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI): A business owned and controlled by individuals who have had their access to credit diminished due to: Membership in a group that has been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural bias Limited English proficiency Long-term residence in an environment isolated from the mainstream of American society Membership in a federally or state-recognized Indian Tribe Long-term residence in a rural community Residence in a U.S. territory Residence in a community undergoing economic transitions Membership in an underserved community Focus areas include pre-seed or seed-stage companies in a range of industries, with a particular focus across all technology markets.

Examples of some of our focus areas include: Life Sciences and BioTech Note: This is not an exhaustive list of industries we support. Legal Support: Partner legal professionals provide one-on-one education and advising on topics such as business formation, contracts, governance, licensing, and investment structures.

Accounting Guidance: Participants receive support from accounting experts who help with financial systems setup, bookkeeping tools, understanding cash flow, and preparing for investor or lender conversations. Financial Advising: Advisors work directly with business owners to improve financial management, assess capital needs, and identify sources of credit or investment to help their business expand.

Once accepted into Launch NY’s Venture Capital Readiness Technical Assistance Program, founders begin a structured, hands-on support process designed to prepare them for SSBCI Equity Program funding and other capital opportunities. Founders complete an intake interview with the TA Program Manager and Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR), where their business needs and funding goals are evaluated. 2.

Technical Assistance Assignment: Based on the assessment, the Program Manager assigns a vetted TA Service Provider to deliver targeted legal, accounting, and financial advisory services. A customized work plan is developed, outlining deliverables and timelines. 3.

Service Delivery & Tracking: TA services are delivered through hands-on engagements. All activities—including hours logged, service type, and progress—are tracked to ensure accountability and performance monitoring. 4.

Follow-Up & Reporting: Founders participate in regular follow-up surveys and interviews to measure outcomes such as fundraising progress and SSBCI application status. Founders may receive continued assistance based on evolving needs, subject to program budget thresholds. Additional mentorship through Launch NY’s broader programs may also be available.

This program is made possible through the support of NY Ventures, a division of Empire State Development Find practical, relevant resources to boost your business. Get access. Make an impact.