New York

This document describes New York’s freedom of contract laws and many of the common exceptions to them. It also discusses the Uniform Commercial Code which defines the rules for distribution and sales representative agreements throughout the state. In addition, the document explains issues regarding franchise laws, tax considerations, and competition/anti-trust/non-compete covenants. Prepared by: Harter Secrest & Emery LLP.

Empire State Development (ESD) is New York's chief economic development agency. The aim of ESD is to support and encourage business investment across the state. The website provides a variety of useful resources such as links that administer assistance to companies of New York looking to export and foreign companies looking to invest in New York.

Global NY is New York's official international economic development agency. Its website equips users with key information about investing, exporting, and trade missions as well as related events held by partner organizations. Global NY also offers helpful information on why to invest in the state of New York and provides key industry information as well as tax-free zones. Contact information for existing offices around the world is listed on the homepage.

The New York City Department of Small Business Services provides guidance to all businesses in the five boroughs, as well as businesses looking to start up in those areas. The department offers a wide range of services including business planning, hiring, financing, education, and outreach.

The New York District Export Council is an independent organization made up of international business professionals who provide support, counseling, and assistance to New York companies expressing interest in entering or expanding into global markets. Its site provides a number of free export resources covering the basics of exporting, finding trade partners, and the legality of trading internationally. Additional information about upcoming events, international travel tips, and jobs and internships is also available.

The New York State Small Business Development Center (SBDC) aims to help the development of small businesses in New York. Counseling services, training workshops, and seminars focused on business matters are all available on the site, however, some require a fee to access. Information relating to international business, entrepreneurial education, manufacturing and defense, disaster recovery, energy efficiency, and technology and innovation is freely available on the website.

SCORE is a non-profit organization whose volunteers, which consist of current or retired business owners, provide training and in-depth counseling to small businesses. Seminars and workshops are also available for a fee.

The Business Council of New York State is a member-based organization representing small and large New York firms. Freely available information includes upcoming events, business news, and governmental affairs. Members may take advantage of a number of discounts, insurances, or other programs offered by the council.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey oversees all aspects of the region's trade and transportation. From this site, an entrepreneur interested in interaction with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey can learn about the seaport, international offices, procurement opportunities, the inspector general, and advertising opportunities.