Blind Barber

 

The Blind Barber is an East Village-based community barber shop that also distributes its own line of high-quality, sustainable grooming products. When the company’s founder, Adam Kirschenbaum, first met with the business advisor Sandra Cely from the Pace SBDC, he had already successfully grown the business for more than ten years. The company was looking to take things to the next level by expanding into international markets, but needed capital to do so.

 

 Guided by Sandra’s assistance and expertise, Adam was able to craft and submit a compelling application for funding through Empire State Development's Global NY State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). With this support, the Blind Barber received two STEP grants, each for $6,000, amounting to $12,000 in total economic impact. One grant to hire translators for their website and product labels to reach the Chinese market and the other grant to develop and implement a marketing campaign promoting their products internationally. Adam said the “most valuable part of working with Pace SBDC was the care that they took in helping.” Our center connected him to the right resources, made sure each of his questions were answered, and worked with Adam to ensure all the necessary components of the company’s grant application were perfect. 

 

    The Pace University Small Business Development Center is a team of business counselors helping New York City’s entrepreneurs build, sustain, and grow successful small businesses. To make an appointment with a certified business advisor, contact us via our website or email sbdc@pace.edu.