Praise for Rise & Prosper NYC Praisefor Rise & Prosper NYC “When I joined BNI just two months after moving to NYC, I immediately gained access to over 30 business professionals across various fields. Now, after being part of our chapter for over six years, I can confidently say it was the best decision for both me and my business. Not only did I meet my biggest client through this chapter, but I also improved my public speaking skills, which has significantly boosted my confidence!” — Kayla Klinge, Manhattan Real Estate “In the past, I always found BNI a bit too stodgy for me, but this chapter has made all the difference! The people are laid back and fun while still being highly professional and effective in terms of actually growing business. This is the best of both worlds! The old and the new, and as someone who mainly works alone, I love having a work community again. In many ways, BNI has given me the office culture I missed without having to actually go into an office.” — Virginia Richardson, Web Design “BNI has had an immeasurable impact on my life, both personally and professionally. I came into the chapter as a relatively young solo practitioner with a modest but developing law firm. Through BNI, I formed relationships that have served as the foundation of a constantly growing client base. I met my business partner in our chapter, and our firm has thrived thanks to the combination of our respective skill sets. I have met experts that I can reply upon to help both my clients and my family in almost any situation. Lastly, I’ve made lifelong friends, without whom my life would be considerably less full and enjoyable. I couldn’t recommend BNI enough.” — David Stern, Trusts & Estates Attorney “I moved to New York City after attending law school in the South — meaning I was trying to kickstart my career with an extremely small network. BNI is and was the ultimate spark plug for my career. I instantly had a network of 30 professionals who not only wanted to help me grow my business, but also wanted to help my clients in their time of need. Whether it’s a sudden tax question in the middle of a settlement, or an insurance coverage analysis at the outset of a case, BNI gave me a table of experts to call upon and a built in team to rely on.” — Carla Bautista, Employment Litigation Attorney “When I joined our BNI chapter 2 ½ years ago, I did not know what to expect. I gained immediate trust and confidence with professionals across several industries. This is a tremendous resource to have in my back pocket with all my clients. I find myself asking follow-up questions to my clients, trying to find reasons to refer to others in the group. On the flip side, I have received quality referrals from members of our chapter and the relationships continue to blossom.” — Ross Levine, Life & Disability Insurance “I am beginning my 13th year in Manhattan BNI Chapter 36 after 14 successful years in Westchester BNI. My desire was to further expand my title insurance business in NYC, and the Manhattan BNI experience has done just that. I have tripled my annual closed numbers on NYC real estate transactions. This never would have happened had I not joined BNI Chapter 36.” — Rick Krasner, Title Services “Joining BNI has been a game-changer for my business as a real estate agent. I’ve gained a network of 30 seasoned business professionals who consistently deliver exceptional service to my clients during and after their transactions. This incredible group has elevated my ability to provide top-notch recommendations, making me look great in the eyes of my clients. I’m thrilled to be part of such a supportive and talented community!” — Bleranda Spahiu, New Jersey Real Estate “We were at a phase in our business where we were excited to expand our professional network. We visited BNI and immediately felt the networking potential and the camaraderie of the group - it was an easy choice to join after that. After a few weeks of attending meetings, I already felt more comfortable pitching ideas and sharing my story — I can only imagine how much I’ll gain in a few months.” — J Harris, Reflect Pictures Photography “I’ve been a member of BNI for several years and have gained great partnerships, as well as clients and friends from joining. I love the idea that I can refer my business to anyone in the BNI system with confidence. The friendships that I’ve made through our group have been very rewarding and I will continue being a member of BNI for as long as I can.” — Jane Becker, Fine Jewelry Appraisal & Design “Over many years, I have enjoyed the BNI model. I have more resources for my business and more new business leads. The value of BNI for me is that we have both in this platform.” — Jim Farah, Residential Real Estate “BNI is an amazing place to foster new mutually beneficial relationships and network with professionals without competing. This is why I joined BNI, and so far, I love my experience.” — Leopold Rebilly, Plumbing & Heating Services “BNI is a place where I have access to a variety of different professionals and service providers from a wide range of fields with whom I can consult on many different issues, and to whom I can refer clients who are in need of services I cannot provide. I know from meeting with our members weekly over a period of years, and working with many of them personally or through other clients, that they provide excellent service, and this makes me feel comfortable, and eager, to refer business to them.” — Eric Michael, Residential Property Management