Governor Kathy Hochul
Around
A free mobile app that makes it easy to discover and buy from NYC individual talent and small businesses, selling local creative services. Around gives small businesses the tools to boost visibility and sell to locals.
How to apply
Local businesses can apply to become merchants on the Around app. Go to the Home page → Setting → Become a Merchant → Provide your information. The Around team can set up your business profile for free upon request.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants include local service providers, artisans, independent retailers, and professionals offering safe, family-friendly, and community-oriented services in NYC. Businesses involving food, adult content, controlled substances, weapons, or misleading services are prohibited.
Creating a profile
Businesses can create detailed profiles that include general information, photos, contact details, business hours, and an overview with social media links. They can also list services with images, pricing, scheduling options, and descriptions in the inventory section.
Cost
Businesses are not charged for having a profile on the Around app. A service fee of 3-5% is included when merchants make a sale on the platform. Any paid services will be announced several weeks before release.
FAQs
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Yes. The Around team will review businesses individually if they fall outside standard categories.
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Not yet. Around’s food and beverage guidelines will be introduced in a future release.
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No. All cannabis-related items. including CBD oils, balms, or edibles, are prohibited.
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Yes, as long as the service is lawful, safe, and does not involve prohibited activities.
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You will receive an email explaining the violation and next steps to restore compliance.
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No product-related sales at the moment.
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Only if you have legal rights or permission. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
This is the Around app
Download today NYC!
How it works for Merchants
Merchants can sell to customers, manage their business from one place, and do much more!List your business just like you would on a search engine.
Showcase what makes you unique with photos, videos, reviews, and more.
Create menus of your goods and services for customers to browse and buy.
Let customers schedule services directly from your Around store.
Enable automatic recurring purchases for regular customers.
Offer delivery through our drivers or your team.
Track inventory and analyze purchase trends in real-time.
Connect with customers and fellow merchants on community boards.
Hire locals directly through the app.
