Strength in Community: How the GVCCC Champions Independent Businesses in NYC

When you think of Greenwich Village or Chelsea, it’s easy to picture the iconic brownstones, cozy cafés, buzzing streets, and a sense of community that feels uniquely “New York”. But behind that vibrant facade is an organization that plays a powerful, if sometimes underappreciated, role in keeping the heartbeat of local commerce strong: the Greenwich Village Chelsea Chamber of Commerce (GVCCC).

At Huzza World, we’re proud to be members of GVCCC. The Chamber has opened doors for us - literally and figuratively - to connect with inspiring local businesses, access resources, and feel part of a dynamic and supportive network. But what exactly does the Chamber do, and why should local businesses pay attention?

We sat down with Jesse Gericke, GVCCC’s Executive Director, to find out more.

A Mission Rooted in Community and Local Impact

Jesse’s journey to the Chamber is no coincidence. With a background in nonprofit leadership and experience revitalizing commercial areas across Brooklyn, Jesse brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the role.

“I was drawn to GVCCC’s mission of fostering a vibrant business community”, he says. “After many years working in Brooklyn, I was excited for the opportunity to work in an iconic NYC neighborhood like the Village”.

That energy translates directly into the Chamber’s work: advocating for small businesses, supporting them through complex challenges, and helping them connect with one another in ways that strengthen the whole community.

From Advocacy to Action: How GVCCC Fills the Gaps

Running a small business in New York City isn’t for the faint of heart. From navigating red tape and regulation to staying ahead of digital trends, the list of demands is long—and often overwhelming.

That’s where the Chamber steps in.

“GVCCC serves as a collective voice”, Jesse explains. “We advocate for policies that benefit small businesses, and we provide platforms for networking, enabling businesses to connect, share resources, and collaborate - opportunities that might be challenging to access independently.”

In an era where the smallest delays in permits or compliance can have big consequences, having the Chamber in your corner can be game-changing.

Innovation That Matters: Programs with Purpose

One of the most exciting aspects of the Chamber’s work is its forward-thinking programming.

Take the Village Safe Spot Accreditation, for example - an initiative launched in partnership with Safe Night that focuses on harm reduction in nightlife spaces. The program offers enhancements to safety policies in bars and restaurants, and is the first of its kind in New York City.

“It’s a pro-active, multi-partner approach to reducing nightlife crime”, Jesse says. “And it shows how we’re not just reacting to issues - we’re innovating to prevent them”.

Beyond nightlife, GVCCC offers practical support to help businesses keep up with the times. One standout example is the Chamber’s “Essential Digital Skills for Independent Business Owners” workshop series.

“A digital transformation is crucial for businesses to survive in today’s economy”, Jesse notes. “Our workshops equip our members with the tools they need to compete in the online marketplace”.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For anyone thinking about starting a business in NYC, the city’s complexity can be intimidating. But Jesse has a simple message:

“Joining GVCCC offers access to a supportive network, resources, and advocacy tailored to navigate NYC's unique business landscape. Engaging with the Chamber can provide invaluable insights and connections that facilitate growth and resilience.”

In other words - don’t go it alone.

Challenging the Chamber Myth

One of the common misconceptions Jesse is keen to debunk is that Chambers of Commerce are only for big corporations.

“More than 60% of our members have less than five employees”, Jesse says. “So understanding their challenges and tailoring our services to meet their specific needs is central to our mission”.

If you thought you needed a boardroom and a five-figure marketing budget to join a Chamber, think again. GVCCC is built for - and by - independent, brick-and-mortar businesses that make our neighborhoods unique.

Getting Involved: Making an Impact Today

Whether you’re a business owner, a resident, or simply someone who cares about keeping Greenwich Village and Chelsea thriving, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Start by visiting www.villagechelsea.com to explore membership options, events, and volunteer opportunities. Want to reach out directly? Jesse is just an email away: execdirector@villagechelsea.com.

The Chamber isn’t just an organization - it’s a movement of locals who believe in the power of small businesses and community connection.

Our Perspective at Huzza World

At Huzza World, we’ve seen first-hand how the GVCCC can create meaningful change. From networking events that turned into partnerships, to visibility campaigns that brought new members to our My Huzza platform, the Chamber has been a valuable ally.

As we continue to build our loyalty marketplace and help independent businesses drive digital engagement, we’re proud to be part of a community that shares our values.

If you’re reading this as a business owner in NYC, here’s our two cents: get involved. The GVCCC isn’t just about lobbying or holding ribbon-cuttings. It’s about building resilience, making connections, and being part of something bigger.

Final Thoughts

New York’s business landscape is constantly evolving, but one thing remains true: strong communities start with strong connections. And few organizations work harder to make those connections than the Greenwich Village Chelsea Chamber of Commerce.

From digital transformation workshops to community safety programs, from local advocacy to hands-on support, GVCCC is proving that the future of local business is collaborative, inclusive, and full of promise.

Want to grow your business and make an impact in your neighborhood? The Chamber is ready when you are.