Study to identify needs and strengths of Chelsea, MA small businesses
The goal of Chelsea’s Small Business Economic Development Study, funded by the City’s Community Development Block Grant Program, is to develop an action plan consisting of policies, resources, and programs to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, especially minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses, during the economic recovery. The plan will guide the Chelsea’s economic development agenda in 2021 and beyond.
Over the course of December and January, the UMass Donahue Institute's economic research team and UMass Boston's Gastón Institute have been conducting interviews with small business owners and convening focus group sessions. The focus group sessions involve business and civic leaders, organizations and institutions that serve small businesses, and technical assistance providers. Several focus groups have focused on the perspectives of community advocates and community-based organizations. An additional group involved public officials, business development organizations and banking representatives – to learn more about small business finance programs and business development programs and policy in the city.
The findings from interviews and focus groups will directly inform a draft needs assessment and action plan.
March 02, 2021
