There's no denying small businesses are the backbone of any city, but in a place like New York City, it's not always easy to stay afloat with sky-high rents and cutthroat competition unlike anywhere else.
There are 183-thousand small businesses across the 5 boroughs - a record-breaking high just recorded this year.
M&S Schmalberg Artificial Flowers provide variety on customized fabric flowers
They employ millions of New Yorkers, but most importantly for every dollar spent at a small business, 70 cents stays in the community.
That's why it's so important to shop small, especially this holiday season.
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Myzels Chocolates brings old-school feel and extra sweetness
Join Joelle Garguilo for this special look at small businesses in New York City, Storefront Stories, on Friday at 10:30 a.m. on Channel 7 and wherever you stream ABC 7 New York.
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