QEDC

Queens Taste 2025
2025-05-13 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St, Corona, NY, 11368, United States
The Queens Economic Development Corporation and Queens Tourism Council will host Queens Taste 2025 at the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows Corona Park on Tuesday, May 13, from 6 pm to 9 pm.
We expect to attract more than 500 attendees with 50 restaurants and beverage purveyors, who will offer samples of their products. Thus, attendees will be able to bounce from table to table, tasting treats from tangy to fiery, crunchy to velvety, and sweet to briny.
Queens Taste is also a celebration of the borough — and a great way to network. Almost all the anticipated 500 attendees either live in Queens or do business there. Many are executives and captains of industry. The atmosphere is always festive, almost giddy, creating an ideal scene for meeting and greeting.
Get Your Tickets Here!
Sponsors

Sell Sheets That Sell: What to Say, Show, and Share to Get Your Product on Shelves
2025-05-08 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
Your sell sheet is one of the most powerful tools in your wholesale growth toolkit—and one of the most common things early-stage food brands get wrong. In this one-hour workshop, you’ll learn how to craft a clear, compelling sell sheet that highlights your product’s value, grabs attention, and makes it easy for retailers to say “yes.”
We’ll walk through the must-have components and show you design strategies that work (even if you’re not a designer). You’ll leave with a clear plan, a content organizing spreadsheet, and an optional special offer on ready-to-use Canva templates to jumpstart your design.
About the Speaker
Jill Frechtman is an award-winning specialty food entrepreneur and seasoned brand strategist. She brings a wealth of hands-on experience to the table, having navigated the very journey that the early-stage food product entrepreneurs she works with find themselves on. Jill is passionate about helping emerging brands stand out in a crowded market and offers a distinctive blend of creativity and practical business execution. As a coach, consultant, and educator, she helps entrepreneurs get clear on what makes their brand unique and works with them to develop effective strategies for differentiation, storytelling, customer experience, and overall brand success.

AI Tool Business Accelerator
2025-04-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Online, NY, United States
The AI Tool Business Accelerator is unlike any program we have offered to date. This hands-on AI series is designed for non-technical founders who want to confidently learn and apply powerful AI tools without the overwhelm. In just two hours per class, you’ll be guided through setting up your account, navigating key features, and completing a mini project you can actually use in your business. No fluff, no jargon — just real-time practice, live feedback, and clear instructions that make learning feel doable. You’ll walk away with more than just knowledge — you’ll leave with fully built systems that help you work smarter, faster, and with more confidence.
Course Schedule
Class 1 – TUESDAY, APRIL 29: AIStudio – Brand & Positioning Package
Class 2 – THURSDAY, MAY 1: Google Gemini – Marketing & Content Calendar
Class 3 – TUESDAY, MAY 6: Zapier – Lead Generation & Outreach Automation
Class 4 – THURSDAY, MAY 8: Gamma.app – Client Proposal Template
Class 5 – TUESDAY, MAY 13: Canva – Digital Onboarding & Welcome Kit
Class 6 – THURSDAY, MAY 15: Replit – AI-Powered Knowledge Base & FAQ
Class 7 – TUESDAY, MAY 20: NotionAI – Automated Performance Dashboard
Class 8 – THURSDAY, MAY 22: Loom – Video Communication & Testimonial System

Get Business From NYC and NYS Government: M/WBE Certification
2025-04-16 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-03-19 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-02-19 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-01-15 18:30 - 20:00 | Online, NY, United States
Learn about getting certified as a Minority / Woman-owned Business Enterprise with NYC & NYS, what you will need to do to obtain government contracts, and how you can leverage your certification to get more business at this free online webinar.
About the Speaker
Since coming to QEDC, Ricardi Calixte has worked with many neighborhoods’ business organizations to help improve the local economy. He spearheaded the development of Corona Plaza, transforming an under-utilized area into one of the borough’s foremost pedestrian plazas. He works closely with merchant groups, foundations, and government agencies to help local communities reach their potential.
A native of Haiti, Ricardi graduated from New York City public schools and has a BA degree in Economics, an MA in Africana Studies, and an MRP in Urban Planning from SUNY Albany. He is a CORO Fellow. He lives Queens and is the proud father of a daughter and son.

Ready, Set, Go!
2025-04-08 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-03-11 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-01-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Online, NY, United States
About the Webinar:

Ready, Set, Go! is a 90-minute free workshop that covers all the things you need to think about when going into business. It provides a general overview of what it takes to start a business; legal considerations and what it takes to fund a new venture.

About the Speaker:

Roy Pellicano ran an IT services company for over 15 years working with small and mid-sized businesses across all industries, from the single computer Mom & Pop to the 63 location company. In addition to supporting IT, Roy advises business teams developing and implementing strategy across the business lifecycle from start-up to exit, including how to implement business and technology transformation.

Zen and Hustle: A Small Business Retreat
2025-04-07 11:00 - 13:30 | Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World New York City, 110-00 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY, 11420, United States
Escape the daily grind and reset, refocus, and realign your vision. This retreat is for entrepreneurs looking to boost leadership, performance, and strategy. Participate in expert-led sessions to enhance clarity, resilience, and innovation, while networking with fellow business owners.
Leave with actionable strategies to improve productivity, decision-making, and long-term success, all while prioritizing well-being.
Movement sessions are included, so please wear athleisure.
Registration for this event is full.

Fraud & Cyber Security Seminar
2025-02-13 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
​This webinar covers essential fraud and cybersecurity basics for small businesses, teaching practical steps to protect against threats. Learn how to identify vulnerabilities, prevent data breaches, and safeguard finances. This session is vital for small business owners to ensure long-term security, protect customer trust, and avoid costly disruptions.
Email RetailEvents@FlushingBank.com by 2/11/25 to RSVP.

Cancelled – Ready, Set, Go!
2025-02-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Online, NY, United States
This event has been cancelled
About the Webinar:

Ready, Set, Go! is a 90-minute free workshop that covers all the things you need to think about when going into business. It provides a general overview of what it takes to start a business; legal considerations and what it takes to fund a new venture.

About the Speaker:

Roy Pellicano ran an IT services company for over 15 years working with small and mid-sized businesses across all industries, from the single computer Mom & Pop to the 63 location company. In addition to supporting IT, Roy advises business teams developing and implementing strategy across the business lifecycle from start-up to exit, including how to implement business and technology transformation.

Meet the Competition: Entrepreneur Networking with QTIC
2025-02-05 18:30 - 20:00 | Greater Nexus, 89-14 Parsons Blvd, Jamaica, NY, 11432, United States
​Whether you are participating in the Queens Tech + Innovation Challenge or not, this event is not one to be missed. Meet your fellow entrepreneurs to forge connections that will be able to help your business. And, if that doesn’t appeal to you, you can also enjoy the free snacks and beverages we’ll have as well. See you there!
Click Here to RSVP!

Practical AI and Technology Tools to Streamline Your Small Business, Beyond ChatGPT
2025-01-30 12:00 - 13:00
​Learn how your small business can harness the latest AI tools beyond just ChatGPT. We’ll explore practical ways AI can automate day-to-day tasks, such as meeting transcription, organizing client notes, and managing workflows. This session will show how modern AI tools can help save time and improve efficiency without requiring extensive tech skills. It’s about making AI work for you, not just talking to a chatbot. Tools covered will include, Zapier, Notion, Zoom and Augie.
Click Here to RSVP

Show Up and Stand Out: An Intro to Trade Show Success
2025-01-29 13:00 - 17:00 | Online, NY, United States
​​Ready to grow your food brand at trade shows? This class covers everything you need to get started, from selecting the best events to setting up a standout booth and engaging attendees with confidence. Walk away with actionable insights to help you exhibit successfully and build your business.
Click Here to RSVP!

From Clicks to Conversions: Proven Strategies to Transform Your E-Commerce Site
2025-01-22 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
​​In the ever-evolving world of e-commerce, having a visually appealing website isn’t enough—your site needs to convert visitors into loyal customers. Join this dynamic session designed for startup entrepreneurs and learn actionable strategies to increase sales, enhance user experience, and optimize your sales funnel.
Click Here to RSVP

Unlock the Power of AI for Your Business!
2025-01-16 13:00 - 14:30 | Online, NY, United States
​Are you an entrepreneur looking to streamline your business processes and save time? Join us for an insightful presentation on “Maximizing Business Efficiency with AI Tools.”
​Discover the top areas where AI can make a difference—like social media management, proposal writing, process optimization, and more—and explore some AI tools to help your small business develop. Whether you’re new to AI or ready to take the next step, this session will provide practical tips and strategies to help your business thrive in the digital age.
​Don’t miss this opportunity to transform the way you work!
Click Here to RSVP!

How to Create Win-Win Partnerships to Grow Your D2C Brand
2025-01-14 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
In this interactive workshop, you’ll discover how strategic partnerships can exponentially grow your D2C brand without relying heavily on ads.
Click here to RSVP.

2025 Queens Tech + Innovation Challenge Info Session
2025-01-08 13:00 - 14:00
In this information session, the program director will explain the eligibility, application process and answer all of your questions about the 2025 Queens Tech + Innovation Challenge, where people compete for one of five grants for up to $20,000 for their small business.
Click Here to RSVP

Food and Beverage Production: An Overview
2025-01-07 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
​​​Learn all the steps to sell a food or beverage product made at home or at a commercial kitchen. This course will introduce you to every aspect of the business, from determining if there is a demand for your product all the way to how to make sales. Master skills like navigating regulations, working with a co-packer, developing proper packaging, and more.
Click Here to RSVP

Unlocking Your First Startup Investment: Founder’s Insights and Winning Strategies to Attract Initial Capital
2024-12-17 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
​Join us for an exciting workshop to explore the essential steps to secure your first round of funding. With insights from a successful founder, you will learn how to build relationships with potential investors and navigate the startup funding landscape with confidence.
Click Here to RSVP.

Business Finance 2
2024-12-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Online, NY, United States
Every entrepreneur is in business to make profits, but only some do. A critical step to success is creating the financial plan that will guide your business to profitability.
The goal of this course is to provide you the information and tools to create your own profitability plan. Whether you are planning to start or grow, this course can help.

Fund Your NYC Business
2024-12-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Online, NY, United States
This class will guide businesses interested in applying for loans and grants. In addition to providing an overview of available financing options, we will share tips before taking on debt, an overview of documents commonly required to apply for a loan, and a summary of other loans and grants currently available for NYC businesses.

Master the Art of Meta Marketing in the AI Era
2024-12-10 15:00 - 16:00 | Online, NY, United States
Social media has evolved. The ability to adapt and excel in this changing landscape is crucial. If you’re looking to enhance your Meta marketing strategy, you’ve come to the right place. Our webinar on ‘Advanced Meta Strategies’ demystifies the intricacies of successful Facebook & Instagram campaigns, from their structure to their scheduling.
​​Let’s delve into the art of creating a cohesive advertising strategy, marrying the benefits of organic reach and paid promotion. We will introduce modern tools and techniques that leverage targeting, AI, and creative innovations for optimal Meta Ad success.
Click Here to RSVP.

Start Preparing to File: Business Taxes
2024-12-09 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
Are you a small business owner looking to get a head start on your tax preparation? Join us for a free online class designed to guide you through the essentials of filing your business taxes with confidence!

Business Finance 1
2024-12-06 11:00 - 12:00 | Online, NY, United States
Financial management can be the most intimidating part of running a business. The goal of this course is to reveal that it need not be.
Intended for entrepreneurs unfamiliar with business financial management, Business Finances 1 introduces its key terms and concepts in everyday language.

Crafting Your Founder Brand: Attracting Investors, Partners, and Talent with Ease
2024-12-04 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
Learn how to set your business apart with business development strategist Julie Zhu. In this workshop, learn the best ways to promote yourself and make valuable connections.
Click here to RSVP

Low to No Interest Financing
2024-12-03 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, NY, United States
The NYC Business Solutions Center in Queens can help connect you with our lending partners who are currently offering various products for less than 3%. During this workshop you will be introduced to several financing opportunities that our lending partners are currently offering to Small Businesses in NYC. You will gain insight into the eligibility requirements, and application process for each product, and better understand what product best suits your business’ needs.

IN PERSON: Financial Fitness for Small Business Owners
2024-12-03 10:00 - 11:00 | 90 – 27 Sutphin Blvd 4th Floor
Many small business owners use their personal finances/credit to start and run their business. Sometimes there can be overlap between personal and business finances.
Regardless of your situation, it is important for small business owners to be on top of their personal finances to ensure financial health and to plan for the future.
Join us as experts from Urban Upbound cover best practices, tips, and advice for personal financial health.
