Exclusive: NYC Small Business Services Commissioner Kevin Kim announces his departure

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Kevin Kim, the commissioner of the New York City Department of Small Business Services, announced he is stepping down after more than two years running the city agency.

Kim said it was “one of the hardest decisions” he’s had to make, but he decided to step down so he could spend more time with his children. He will depart from his role at the end of June.

Kim said it's his own story that has driven him to help New York City's more than 200,000 small businesses. He came from a humble beginning, growing up in a one-bedroom apartment in Sunnyside, Queens. He became the first Korean American commissioner in New York City.

Kim helped launch the Small Business Opportunity Fund, which has $85 million to pump into small businesses, many of which are still struggling to stay afloat following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kim said he's passionate about helping historically underserved communities, including immigrant-owned businesses, which make up half of all of New York City's small businesses.

As he departs his role, Kim said he will miss his team at the Department of Small Business Services.

The Department of Small Business Services will be holding the New York City Small Business Month Expo on May 29.