What’s New
Considering an ADU? Start Here.
Homeowners, take note: we’ve launched a new ADU How-To page to help you explore whether an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is right for you. Whether you’re interested in downsizing, creating housing for a family member, or generating rental income, the page walks through the basics of planning and building an ADU.
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.
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.
ADU Design Challenge Winners Announced
The Healey-Driscoll Administration launched the statewide challenge with a clear goal: make it easier, more affordable, and more inspiring for property owners to build ADUs. Now, the results are in—and they’re worth a look. The newly released ADU Design Challenge Showcase highlights a collection of winning and qualified designs that bring creativity, flexibility, and practicality together.
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.
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.
ADU Financing Resources
At our ADU Financing 101 panel, attendees explored local financing options for building accessory dwelling units. Myla Franklin and Brett Roberts highlighted loan programs, energy-efficiency incentives, and flexible lending tools that help homeowners create new housing opportunities in their communities.
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!
Issue 3: April 9, 2025
This month: help is here for small businesses, plus a local favorite returns to North Adams!
Issue 2: March 12, 2025
This month: All you need to know about the Home Modification Loan Program, plus the City of North Adams wants to hear from you!
A Home For Everyone: EOHLC Launches Comprehensive Housing Plan
The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has published the first housing needs assessment and housing plan in a generation, as part of the Affordable Homes Act. The plan was published on February 6, 2025 and outlines a plan to create over 220,000 new housing units statewide over the next five years.