What’s New
North Adams Chamber October Meetup
Head to New Ashford and experience this iconic 1960s-inspired motel, complete with a seasonal pool and fire pits. Enjoy a relaxed evening of networking while learning about the history—and exciting future—of this unique lodging destination.
ServSafe Manager Certification Training
This certification is a food safety credential that verifies a person's knowledge and skills to manage food safety in a foodservice operation. It is intended for restaurant owners, managers, and employees who are responsible for food safety in the workplace, and is valid for 5 years.
Creative District Community Cleanup Day Set for October 17
North Adams’ newly designated Creative District will kick off its three-year pilot with a community cleanup day bringing residents, businesses, artists, students, property owners, and community organizations together to improve the district and build shared ownership of its future.
The (New) Partnership Turns 2!
Join the North Adams Partnership as we celebrate another year of connecting the people, ideas, and resources that move North Adams forward. Raise a glass, meet new people, and hear about all we’ve accomplished and all that’s in store for 2027!
North Adams Chamber Monthly Meetup
September's meetup will take place at the Harriman & West Airport with Hewison Aviation, the new flight school and airport management company. Join us for networking and community problem-solving while learning more about what's happening at the airport!
North Adams Creative District Pilot FAQ
North Adams just became Massachusetts' first Creative District pilot! Over the next three years, with funding from the Barr Foundation, a full-time Mass Development Fellow will work alongside local partners to turn our arts and culture strengths into real growth for downtown businesses and the creative economy.
Say Hello to Downtown’s Newest Businesses!
Downtown North Adams just keeps getting better! We’re excited to welcome some new businesses that add to a growing list of reasons to explore downtown. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable meal or a one-of-a-kind handmade hat, be sure to stop in, say hello, and support the newest members of our downtown business community.
MassDevelopment, Barr Foundation Partner to Launch Creative District Pilot in North Adams
Three-Year Pilot Program Will Provide Dedicated Staff Capacity, Technical Assistance, Flexible Funding, Arts and Culture Planning, and Other Resources to Support Equitable Economic Growth
Northern Berkshire Business Meetup
The next Northern Berkshire Meetup will take place July 22 from 6–8 p.m. at Blue Vista Motor Lodge. Hosted by the North Adams Chamber of Commerce, this free monthly gathering welcomes business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, nonprofit and cultural workers, remote employees, and community members from across the Northern Berkshires. Attendees can connect informally, share updates and challenges, and build relationships across sectors.
Optimal Healing: A Whole-Person Approach to Wellness
Discover Optimal Healing in North Adams, where mental health care and holistic wellness come together. Founded by Ashley Benson, the center offers therapy, yoga, sauna, red light therapy, movement classes, and wellness services in a compassionate, community-focused environment dedicated to helping people heal, grow, and thrive at every stage of life.
New Businesses Are Opening in Downtown North Adams. Seriously.
Downtown North Adams is welcoming a wave of new businesses, from the highly anticipated Zio Roberto Ristorante and Taverna to the newly opened Cole Mountain Café and an exciting new restaurant taking shape in the former TD Bank building. Together with a forthcoming retail concept on Holden Street, these investments reflect growing momentum, entrepreneurial confidence, and a vibrant future for downtown.
Need One Thing to Grow? Microloan Program May Be the Answer
MassDevelopment’s revamped Microloan Program offers $5,000–$100,000 in flexible financing for Massachusetts small businesses. Funds can support equipment upgrades, hiring, working capital, and other catalytic investments that unlock growth. Ideal for businesses needing targeted, one-time improvements like ovens, lighting, or staffing to scale operations and strengthen long-term success.
Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program (MVSP)
Thinking about opening a business in downtown North Adams? The Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program offers eligible businesses up to $10,000 in refundable state tax credits for locating in qualifying vacant storefronts. Designed to support economic revitalization, the program helps fill empty downtown spaces, create jobs, and attract new investment. Scroll down to learn about eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and how to express interest in participating.
Steeple City Jiu Jitsu: Building Confidence and Community in North Adams
What began as a shared passion between two dedicated martial artists has grown into a thriving community hub in downtown North Adams. Steeple City Jiu Jitsu founders Jon Manley and Tim Stys saw an opportunity to bring year-round martial arts training to an underserved region while investing in a city they believe in. Now, with a growing youth program, they are helping shape the next generation of athletes, leaders, and community members.
Northern Berkshire Business Meetup
The next Northern Berkshire Meetup will take place May 27 from 6–8 p.m. at The Store at Five Corners. Hosted by the North Adams Chamber of Commerce, this free monthly gathering welcomes business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, nonprofit and cultural workers, remote employees, and community members from across the Northern Berkshires. Attendees can connect informally, share updates and challenges, and build relationships across sectors.
Western Mass Economic Ecosystem Summit
Regional leaders gathered last Friday for the 8th Western Massachusetts Economic Ecosystem Summit to advance collaboration around clean energy, food systems, innovation, and economic development. The convening brought together cross-sector partners from across Western Massachusetts to strengthen regional alignment, support coordinated growth strategies, and shape future economic investment priorities.
From Market to Main
As recently highlighted by The Berkshire Eagle, the North Adams Farmers Market is helping grow the next generation of local businesses. At Red Shirt Farm, Door Prize, Hexagon Bagels, and Steeple City Social, entrepreneurs are transforming market stand success into permanent storefronts, strengthening downtown North Adams. And we are here for it! 🙌
ICYMI: MSBDC at BIC Works
Nearly 20 North County businesses gathered at BIC Works @ MASS MoCA for a flexible networking event connecting entrepreneurs with advisors and resources. Speakers highlighted common challenges like “owner stalemate,” succession planning, and isolation—reinforcing the value of peer support, strategic thinking, and local organizations in helping small businesses grow and succeed.
Free Workshop to Boost Summer Visitor Engagement
Get ready for summer visitors at a free one-hour workshop on May 14 at Wild Soul River in Williamstown. Learn practical skills to engage customers, read cues, and turn casual visits into meaningful conversations that strengthen connections and share your business story.
Mastic Opens on Eagle Street
A new shop is adding a quirky, creative touch to North Adams. Mastic, opened April 3 by Jared Shockcor, offers “a little weird” mix of home goods, vintage finds, books, and locally made products with a metaphysical twist.