The small business world is evolving faster than ever, creating both exciting opportunities and complex challenges. In this fast-paced environment, success often hinges on blending timeless strategies—like meaningful networking—with a solid grasp of emerging trends.
That’s exactly what Mike Warner, Partner and Chief Relationship Officer at Egami Group in Manhattan, found at “Your Business, Your Future,” an event sponsored by TD Bank in New York City. Hosted at the bank's Manhattan office in One Vanderbilt, the event featured a vibrant mix of networking sessions and presentations on essential topics—everything from securing capital through banks and government agencies to maximizing artificial intelligence (AI) tools and mastering social media strategies.
For Mike, who’s been with Egami, a communications consulting firm, for 18 years, the event was both educational and energizing. He connected with fellow small business owners and influential leaders, including NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Dynishal Gross, who delivered the opening remarks.
“Relationships are the key to building a great business,” said Mike, whose company is a TD small business customer. “Events like this are incredibly valuable to me. Learning about AI from the experts gives me that extra push to understand how to apply it to my business. It’s about being ready for what’s next.
"TD Bank has an important role to play as a connector for our communities and customers," said Steve Garibell, Vice President, Community Business Development Strategy, TD Bank. “Our goal is to help empower small businesses that drive economic value and strengthen the communities they serve. Wherever you are, TD has resources available to support you."
Learn how TD can help your small business, including resources for diverse businesses.
Planning for the Future—and Pivoting When Necessary
One of the standout sessions, "The Building Blocks of a Strong Business," featured Ephraim Fishman, Certified Public Accountant and Partner at LM Cohen & Company, alongside Craig Ratigan, Regional Vice President of Manhattan II, TD Bank. Ephraim stressed that businesses with well-crafted financial plans are better prepared to weather challenges and seize new growth opportunities.
TD Bank recently issued the "Financial Preparedness Survey: Small Businesses Owners' Report," which found that 6% of New York City respondents have two quarters or less of revenue shortfalls before they become worried about the future of their company.
Craig noted that while plans are critical, small business owners also need to be flexible as conditions change to survive.
“It’s crucial to have a plan,” Craig said, “but you’ve got to be ready pivot when new opportunities arise. We’re in an economic and political environment that’s changing by the minute. What works today may not tomorrow—new suppliers, shifting costs, emerging markets—you’ve got to stay agile.”
Both speakers reinforced the importance of working with government agencies, banks and professional organizations to stay competitive and well-informed.
"There are many resources to leverage to help grow your business," Craig said. "But it first starts with a conversation with your network, and resources like TD to help find the right options for your situation."
How AI is reshaping the future of small business
The AI-focused panel,” Accelerating the Growth of Your Small Business with AI”, sparked considerable interest among attendees. Moderated by Rob Walsh, President of The Bronx Economic Development Corp., the roundtable discussion included Cecilia Kushner, Chief Strategist Officer at New York City Economic Development Corporation; Andrew Rasiej, Founder/CEO of Civic Hall and Gregg Bishop, Executive Director at Brooklyn Social Justice Fund.
Rob highlighted how NYC is fast becoming a global leader in AI innovation, now home to more than 25,000 tech startups. The panelists explained how AI can significantly reduce time spent on repetitive tasks—like data entry and recordkeeping—freeing up small business owners to focus on growth, customer engagement, and innovation.
The TD survey reported that 70% of New York City respondents reported that they are using AI to manage and track their business finances and 60% are using AI to decrease expenses across their business.
Still, Andrew Rasiej pointed out that talent gaps remain a challenge, calling on educators and institutions to better prepare future workers for the AI-driven economy.
"AI's role will continue to grow," he said. "That means the demand for employees who understand AI will only continue to grow as well. Our education system must prepare students to be able to work in this new environment."
Effective social media presence is vital for small businesses
The TD Bank small business survey showed that nearly a quarter of business owners rate marketing as their biggest operational concern. One cost-effective way to market is to engage in social media. Andrew Filippone of Telling Story Inc. provided a compelling presentation about "Branding on Instagram," that featured storytelling examples from various global small businesses, including a pizzeria that posts about how it makes pizza and a car detail company that focuses on videos showing the cleaning process.
Andrew Filippone noted that many of the videos he showed the audience were in fact filmed on cell phones. If business owners want to invest in equipment, he suggested a good microphone to pick up sounds.
"The most important question is, what are your videos telling about your business?" he said. “The best social media examples feature people being very genuine and talking about what their values and beliefs. These are all the things that go into establishing a brand, a story in the viewer's mind. You want to talk about what things mean, why things are important and what you love, just talk about that. Everything else will be communicated implicitly."
Embracing Change with Connection and Curiosity
Umid Berdiev, Business Development Manager at Queens-based Lexica Corp. and a TD small business customer, felt this event delivered exactly what he needed: a chance to build relationships and stay current with the latest trends.
“The best part was networking and learning the kind of information that can take your business to the next level,” he said. “I walked away with valuable insights, and I’m grateful TD Bank put this together.”
Marcus Gonzales, Community Business Development Officer for TD Bank in New York City, noted how the event benefited a wide berth of small business owners.
"The information was phenomenal," Marcus said. "It was impactful to everyone to find out how to build a brand with simple things like a phone and audio clip. The conversations about how AI is developing is important for everyone to help increase their markets. The networking opportunities were important to provide as well. This event reflected how TD wants to help build small businesses in New York City."
For more on personal finance topics
If you have more questions about personal finance topics, visit the Learning Center on TD Bank's website. You can find more TD Bank services at TD.com.
We hope you found this helpful. This article is for informational purposes only and is based on information available as of July 2025 and is subject to change. This content is not intended to be used or acted upon with respect to any client's specific circumstances. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consider talking with your qualified professionals.
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