Free Financial Coaching Program Aids NYC Small Businesses

The EDGE program focuses on budgeting, saving and long-term financial stability for low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:20pm

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a stack of financial documents, a pen, and a calculator arranged elegantly on a clean white background, conceptually representing the tools and resources provided by the EDGE financial coaching program.A thoughtful still life captures the essence of the EDGE program's focus on helping small business owners strengthen their financial management skills.NYC Today

A new financial coaching program called EDGE (Economic Development and Growth for Entrepreneurs) is offering eight months of no-cost coaching, small-group sessions, and one-on-one guidance to help low- to moderate-income small business owners in New York City and Westchester County strengthen their personal and business finances. The program follows the Financial Health Network's FinHealth Score framework, focusing on spending, saving, borrowing, and planning to help participants build stronger financial habits and improve long-term stability.

Why it matters

Small businesses are the backbone of the New York City economy, but many struggle with financial management and stability, especially those owned by low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs. This free coaching program aims to provide the tools and support these business owners need to improve their financial health and set themselves up for long-term success.

The details

The EDGE program is an initiative stemming from the Citi Foundation's Community Finance Initiative, which supports organizations providing financial coaching nationwide. More than 200 small business owners have already enrolled, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Coaching will continue through September 2026, and participants who complete all program modules and demonstrate measurable financial progress may qualify for monetary awards to reinvest in their businesses.

  • The EDGE program launched in April 2026.
  • Coaching will continue through September 2026.

The players

The Acceleration Project

The organization running the EDGE financial coaching program for small businesses in New York City and Westchester County.

Citi Foundation

The foundation that provided the funding and initiative to support the EDGE program through its Community Finance Initiative.

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What’s next

Participants who complete the EDGE program and demonstrate financial progress may qualify for monetary awards to reinvest in their businesses.

The takeaway

The EDGE financial coaching program is a valuable resource for low- to moderate-income small business owners in New York City and Westchester County, providing free guidance and support to help them improve their personal and business finances and build long-term stability.