What’s New
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.
New $25K Down Payment Assistance Available for First-Time Homebuyers
There’s good news for aspiring homeowners across Massachusetts—including here in the Northern Berkshires. MassHousing has expanded its homebuyer assistance program, making up to $25,000 in interest-free down payment support available to more first-time buyers.
Apply for a Creative Experiences Grant!
Mass Cultural Council’s Creative Experiences provides grants to organizations, creative businesses, government entities, and schools to fund festivals, projects, residencies, and other cultural activities in the arts, humanities, and sciences.
Home Modification Loan Program for Landlords
When people hear about the Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP), they often assume it’s designed only for individual homeowners. While it’s true that HMLP helps families make critical accessibility upgrades, many don’t realize that this program is also a powerful tool for small landlords.
Small Business Owners: Drop In, Get Expert Help, and Grow
Join the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center for an open session meet-and-greet at BIC Works @ MASS MoCA in North Adams. This flexible three-hour event invites small business owners and entrepreneurs to drop in at their convenience, connect with advisors, and learn about available resources.
MA ADU Incentive Program
The ADU Incentive Program, led by Massachusetts Housing Partnership in collaboration with Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, supports homeowners building accessory dwelling units through outreach, education, and technical and financial assistance, helping advance projects while expanding housing options statewide.
Grants Boost Local Business Ecosystem
Great news for North Adams’ small business community! Door Prize, Lickety Split, and The Plant Connector have all secured grant funding to fuel growth and improvements—from enhanced dining spaces to new equipment and a mobile plant cart. Plus, Assets for Artists received $80,000 to expand support for entrepreneurs, strengthening the local creative economy.
ADU Financing 101
Join our ADU Financing 101 webinar to learn about Massachusetts’ new ADU financing program, home equity strategies, and low-interest loans for ADUs—plus eligibility, real-world options, and next steps.
Berkshire Innovation Center Hosts Small Business Support Seminar
Local entrepreneurs gathered at Berkshire Innovation Center to connect with partners, access guidance and capital, and learn they’re not alone.
MassHousing Announces New ADU Construction Loan Program
MassHousing will offer a new ADU loan program providing fixed-rate second mortgages—up to $250,000 for detached and $150,000 for attached units—to help low- and moderate-income homeowners build accessory units.
Mass Cultural Council Awards $5,000 Grant for Hatchlings Public Art Installation in North Adams
Hatchlings shines downtown with support from a $5,000 Mass Cultural Council grant.
AARP ADU Design Challenge
North Adams Partnership Awarded AARP Grant to Launch Innovative ADU Design Challenge Supporting Senior Housing
Issue 4: May 14, 2025
This month: Turn your dream into a business (or grow the business you already have!); a downtown institution has been named one of the Commonwealth’s 100 Best Places to Work.
Boost Your Business
Looking to launch or grow your business? Discover two powerful small business programs in Massachusetts: EforAll’s free 12-week Accelerator offers expert training, mentorship, and networking, while Biz-M-Power provides funding support for small businesses with big goals. Don’t miss these game-changing opportunities—find out if you qualify and apply today!