Founded in 1979 to stimulate economic growth and neighborhood stability in Kings County, New York, the Brooklyn Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) has evolved into a multi-service business and community development organization serving over 1000 clients per year. BEDC seeks to create and expand economic opportunity throughout Brooklyn by implementing business and neighborhood development and planning activities to support and create sustainable jobs, industries and communities. In 2002, BEDC started its first microenterprise development program targeted specifically to individuals with persistent mental illness and those visually impaired and physically handicapped. It provides these individuals with training, one-to-one business guidance and technical assistance on running a business.