Chamber Helps Two Entrepreneurs Secure $20,000 Grants
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local veteran entrepreneurs by helping two deserving businesses secure $20,000 grants.
Enrique Vargas, owner of Citi Fades Barbershop & SMP in Tottenville, and West Brighton resident Dr. Mecca Nelson, Founder and CEO of Mecca's City of Wholeness, were two of 10 businesses from New York City that received the Veteran Entrepreneurship Program grants.
This is the second year in a row that the Chamber helped a veteran business receive this grant, as a Staten Island restaurateur was one of nine recipients to win $20K in 2023. These grants – facilitated by the Chamber’s Small Business Resource Network and provided by NYC Boss Up in partnership with the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS), the New York City Department of Veterans' Services (DVS), the K & R Moelis Family Foundation, and FJC - aim to empower veteran-owned businesses and foster their growth and success.
Michael Anderson, the Chamber's Small Business Resource Network (SBRN) Supervisor, informed the businesses about the opportunity. The SBRN, a partnership between the five NYC Chambers of Commerce, offers personalized guidance, provides free resources, and keeps businesses updated on the latest news and regulations. Anderson and his team accomplish this by walking into businesses throughout the entire borough several times weekly, attending various business-oriented workshops and events, and vendor pop-up markets.
"I met Enrique when I was conducting outreach along Main Street, and he mentioned that he was a U.S. Navy vet," said Anderson. "A few months later, the NYC Boss Up grant opened again. I knew Enrique would be a great candidate and encouraged him to apply. And, luckily, he did!”
“I was honestly surprised and incredibly grateful. Just hearing that I was remembered to be considered for something like this was already a huge honor,” said Vargas. “It meant a lot to know that the Chamber recognized the work we’ve been doing and saw potential in our business.”
While last year's program was open to just military veterans, the program expanded this year to include military spouses and members of Gold Star Families.
"When I read about the expansion, I connected with several other businesses who would now qualify. Dr. Mecca Nelson was on that list," said Anderson. “When we first met, she told me about her late husband, Sgt. Mario Nelson, who was killed in the line of duty in 2006. Like Enrique, I followed up with Dr. Nelson and informed her of the grant. I'm so happy she applied," he added.
“When I heard about the grant from the Chamber, I was overjoyed — especially to hear from Michael. He remembered meeting me at several events. He knew my name, my story, the mission behind my business, and he believed in it. That meant so much to me. It’s incredibly touching to know that someone not only sees you but remembers and believes in your purpose,” said Dr. Nelson. “In the midst of all they do, the fact that the Chamber of Commerce and Michael took the time to reach out and share this opportunity truly touched my heart. It reminded me that the work I do matters and that others see it, too.”
All 10 winners received a portion of the grant early in the program. After completing the FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ for Veterans course, a five-week, 10-session online seminar that teaches entrepreneurs how to grow their business enterprises, they reconvened for a ceremony in Manhattan in April for the final payments. Anderson was on hand to congratulate the duo at the event, which was also attended by the other grant recipients, representatives from NYC Boss Up, SBS Commissioner Dynishal Gross, and DVS Commissioner James A. Hendon. In addition to the $20K grant, winners were enrolled in SBS's small business mentorship program to help build and grow their businesses.
Vargas and Dr. Nelson were selected from a pool of over 100 applicants who are military veterans, military spouses, or members of Gold Star Families who currently own a small business in New York City. Applications included detailed business histories, personal stories, business plans, and proposals for future growth and expansion. Eligible applicants were reviewed over three rounds, culminating in a pitch meeting and a five-person panel interview in late October.
“It was surreal! I felt a mix of emotions, excitement, and relief. Being a small business owner, every dollar counts, and receiving this grant was a game-changer,” said Vargas. “It made me feel seen and supported — not just as a business, but as a part of the local economy that’s making an impact.”
“When I found out I was accepted and awarded the $20,000, I was absolutely ecstatic! The first thing I did was thank God for allowing the judges to truly see the heart behind my work and the impact it’s making. I was so moved when they said they saw me, and they saw the value in what I do. That recognition was everything,” said Dr. Nelson. “The most beautiful part is that the organizations I collaborate with can attest to that impact -- they’ve seen it firsthand. It was a powerful affirmation that all the hard work, the sleepless nights, the passion, and it’s all paying off.”
The SBRN Team is always looking to connect with any small business. Specifically, the team is seeking any small business owner living in NYCHA or Section 8 public housing for a great opportunity before the end of April. And, of course, any veteran or small business can reach out to stay updated on current and future opportunities or for any assistance. If you qualify, Michael Anderson can be reached at manderson@sichamber.com.
Also, as part of Small Business Month in May, the Chamber will be hosting a Q&A with SBS Commissioner Gross on Monday, May 19. If you're a small business, this would be a great opportunity to find out more ways to help your business. To register, please email Anderson.