HLVP Program Details

HLVP is designed for local small business owners who are ready to scale for growth and seeking procurement contracts with retailers, restaurants, private enterprises, and government institutions.

Program Pillars

HLVP provides participants with the following resources:

Business Education

The Harlem Local Vendor Program provides intensive business education to help vendors scale successfully. HLVP vendors receive multiple forms of business education:

• A online business intensive education program culminating in a certificate for graduates.

• Mentorship with Columbia Alumni Entrepreneurs, corporate volunteers, and University Procurement Officers

• One year of business coaching from Columbia-Harlem Small Business Development Center advisors using the Lean Startup method andcutting edge tools

• Specialized food business coaching, workshops, and educational resources

Business Support

A key to HLVP’s success is the ongoing support provided by communities of peers, mentors, and partners during the program and beyond. In addition to business education, participants enjoy:

• Peer support at monthly networking events produced by BNP Advisory Group

• Marketing, Sales, and Vendor Display opportunities at BNP Advisory Group fairs/expos (for subsidized booth rates)

• Inclusion in marketing and PR campaigns produced by BNP Advisory Group

• Invitations to Industry Vendor Trade Shows

• Support for in-store demo and sampling programs at Harlem locations

• Access to funding through our partners

• Access to shared commercial kitchen and membership program (add’l application process is required)

Contracting Opportunities

HLVP participants receive multiple business development opportunities, including:

• Access to Harlem restaurants and retailers

• Introductions to targeted buyers made by BNP Advisory Group, Columbia SBDC

• NYS MWBE certification by funding partner Harlem Community Development Corp (Empire State Development)

• Access to the Columbia-Harlem SBDC government contract bid matching service and International Export support

• Invitation to the HLVP buyer fairs

Digital Marketing support

Qualified HLVP vendors receive promotion via the Shop Harlem Made platform. Shop Harlem Made is a movement that supports Harlem's artisanal entrepreneurs through social media, video content, local events, and an online directory. Vendor promotion includes:

• A listing in the shopharlemmade.com business directory

• Custom content on the Shop Harlem Made Instagram account

• Special access to partner popups and events

• Select HLVP vendors will be featured as Maker of the Month

Vendor Tiers

We work with small business owners at different stages of growth. Participants receive customized support based on their level and are encouraged (but not guaranteed) to reach the next tier by graduation.

Tier 1: launch Pad

Launch Pad-level vendors are in the process of developing their product and business model. They need assistance legalizing their business and making their first sales. Launch Pad vendors will benefit from HLVP’s business education and coaching.

Tier 2: Intensive

Intensive-level vendors have a proof of concept and manufacturing space. They have legalized their business and have some sales engagements in place. If they can invest 20+ hours per week in HLVP, these vendors are poised to experience a huge impact from our business education, sales, and financing opportunities.

Tier 3: Scale

Scale-level vendors are already selling at multiple retail outlets. They may need help with large-scale manufacturing and distribution, but have little time for business education. These vendors benefit most from our trade shows and business development opportunities.

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