The People Behind the Mission – Melkiys

If you’re a small business owner calling BUJNYC for services, chances are you’ll speak with Melkiys. As a member of the growing Community Economic Development team, she helps support small businesses across the city, working to keep storefronts open and owners in a secure position. A proud Bronx native, Melkiys brings her passion for NYC to her work every day. We caught up with Melkiys to learn more! 

Q: Talk about your role as a Client Services Associate. What’s involved in that job?  

Melkiys: As Client Services Associates, we are basically the first point of contact for all clients that come through the CED program. I like to think that we are also a point of relief for the clients since many come to the program very distraught due to the situation they may be facing.  

Q: What kinds of issues do you usually see among the small businesses that come to us?  

Melkiys: The most common issue is rental arrears. Believe it or not, we still have people fighting arrears issues from the pandemic. Another common issue is the landlord not complying with the lease or refusing to renew it.  

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give every small business owner in New York City?  

Melkiys: Get an attorney before signing anything! Once you’re locked into the lease, it’s much more difficult to amend the terms. It’s easier to fix any misunderstanding before you sign. Another piece of advice would be to always, always get everything in writing.  

Q: What’s something the average New Yorker might not know about small business laws and regulations?   

Melkiys: The average New Yorker may not know that small business laws are very different from residential laws. There are rights in a residential lease that the landlord is obligated to do or disclose, and that isn’t the case with commercial leases.  

Q: Why is it so important to have access to legal services as a small business owner?  

Melkiys: Most small business owners are putting all their life savings into the dream of owning a small business. It is helpful to have guidance and advice every step of the way.  

Q: What’s one of your favorite businesses that you got to help through your work?  

Melkiys: Truthfully, I enjoy helping everyone—from the delis to the day cares. I like to know that we can provide that bit of peace in the storm.