Our Work

a diverse portfolio of projects focused on education, entrepreneurship and economic development, through the lens of the hospitality industry.

Here are some recent projects we’ve worked on.

NYC Department of Small Business Services

Catering Business Pathways

Developed and facilitated twice weekly implementation of a 60-hour training course for aspiring catering entrepreneurs, with a focus on empowering and elevating the entrepreneurial capabilities and earning potential of New York City’s public housing residents; providing the knowledge, skills and ability to develop, fund and launch successful and compliant catering businesses.

What is Catering Business Pathways?

Catering Business Pathways program is an immersive business education program that helps NYCHA residents and low-income New Yorkers lead profitable catering companies. Participants received:

· A fully funded professional catering business education course
· Mentorship and professional coaching opportunities
· Support obtaining the licenses need to grow their businesses
· Help securing commercial kitchen space through a one-on-one matching program

Queens Night Market

Entrepreneurship Training Series

Facilitated a series of entrepreneurship training courses for John Wang, the founder of The Queens Night Market, in partnership with NYC Department of Small Business Services, the Queens Business Solutions Center and Next Street.

What is the Queens Night Market Entrepreneurship Series?

The virtual seminar series, which celebrated its sixth year in 2021, covers topics such as business plans, branding and marketing, operational efficiency, social media and technology and obtaining permits. The seminars also feature guest speakers, expert panels and opportunities for networking and Q&A

NYC Department of Small Business Services

Love Your Local Program

Developed small business assessment tools to qualify small businesses for Love Your Local grant. Created guidelines for implementing business consultations. Facilitated one-on-one small business consultations with semi-finalist businesses in Brooklyn.

What is NYC SBS Love Your Local?

NYC Love Your Local grants were open to small businesses operating for at least three years in New York City’s five boroughs. 20 awardees were selected for the first round. Selected businesses received up to 20 hours of in-depth consultations from industry experts to determine how best to adapt to rising real estate costs. Eligible business improvement projects included:

· Improving operations;
· Recruiting and training employees;
· Updating technology;
· Enhancing the business location; or
· Improving financial management.

Lobster Ink.

Management in Training Program

Developed a 10-module management-in-training curriculum for delivery via Lobster Ink’s proprietary e-learning training platform. This product provides hospitality operators with an industry-specific curriculum and learning path for quickly and efficiently upskilling existing hourly employees, preparing them for entry-level management roles.

What is Lobster Ink’s Management in Training Program?

Lobster Ink’s Management in Training Program addresses the challenges faced by associates transitioning to management with training built on decades of on-the-job experience. Focusing on key soft skills and leadership fundamentals, this modular 10-course training program shares insights and real-life experiences from leading authorities and high-caliber subject matter experts. The goal is to empower associates with management potential and those who are on the cusp of career growth to take on their next chapter with confidence and skill.

What they’re saying about Nicole Biscardi & Co…

“Nicole was by far the most engaging presenter we’ve had in our six years of hosting small business seminars. Her expertise and experience really shine through.
She clearly knows what she’s talking about.”

— JOHN WANG, FOUNDER, QUEENS NIGHT MARKET

“I have worked with a lot of people over the years supporting communities, industries and businesses. It is partners like Nicole that make this work successful. Her knowledge of the hospitality sector is comprehensive—she brings operations experience, deep understanding of the industry landscape and likeability that allows clients to feel comfortable while discussing challenging situations.”

— JAMES ELLIS, PERCH ADVISORS, SENIOR DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

“Nicole has been integral to the education programs at several universities here in New York City including Pace University. Her charisma, passion for mentoring and teaching students and graduates, and her dedication to the small business recovery effort in New York City demonstrate her professionalism. It is always a pleasure working with her and her team! ”

— DR. CLAUDIA GREEN, CHAIR, HOSPITALITY & TOURISM MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, PACE UNIVERSITY

“Nicole has been instrumental to our work with the Queens Business Solutions Center. Her expertise and energy, paired with her passion and dedication to the small business recovery efforts during this time is remarkable.”

— Quadri Olanlege, Next Street