Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC)

Business Resources

The Boston Regional Office & Minority Business Center does not control, monitor or guarantee the information contained in the links to other external web sites, and does not endorse any views expressed or products or services offered therein.

Below is an alphabetical listing of business resources available to small businesses. Contact the city or town clerk where you plan to open your business regarding D.B.A. registration, zoning issues, property taxes, local regulations and restrictions.

Boston-Area Business Resources

Accion (formerly Working Capital)
 56 Roland Street, Suite 300
Boston, MA 02129
Phone: 617-625-7080
 www.accionusa.org

Business loans, technical support and training for home-based and smaller firms.

Boston Main Streets Program
 26 Court Street
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-635-MAIN

Call for information on neighborhood offices throughout Boston

Boston’s Minority and Women Business Enterprise Office
 Boston City Hall, Room 800
Boston, MA 02201
Phone: 617-635-4164

Boston Office of Business Development (OBD)
 Business Assistance Center
2201 Washington St.
Roxbury, MA 02119
Phone: 617-989-9100

Boston Public Library - Kirstein Business Library 
 20 City Hall Avenue
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-523-0860
 www.bpl.org

Boston Public Library’s business branch. Extensive collection of business reference material, company profiles, annual reports, industry reports, business directories, investment information. 

Business Information Center (BIC)
 10 Causeway Street, Room 265
Boston, MA 02222-1093
Phone: 617-565-5615
 www.sba.gov/ma/mabic.html

An agency of the U.S. Small Business Administration and located at the SBA Boston District Office, the BIC provides a business resource library, market research, computer access, business planning and financial spreadsheet software.

CDFC/Urban Initiative Fund
 100 City Hall Plaza, 3rd Floor
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-523-6262
 www.cdfc-uif.org

Business loans for minority firms

Center for Technology Commercialization (CTC)
 1400 Computer Drive
Westborough, MA 01581-5043
Phone: 508-870-0042
Fax: 508-366-0101
 www.ctc.org

Offers cooperative research programs, federal contract and license brokering, product marketing analysis, financial assistance, and business implementation advice.

Center for Women & Enterprise (CWE)
 1135 Tremont Street, Suite 480
Boston, MA 02120
Phone: 617-536-0700
Fax: 617-536-7373
 www.cweboston.org

Education and training programs for women-owned firms

Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks
 U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Box 4
Washington, D.C. 20231
Phone: 1-800-786-9199

Commonwealth Corporation
 The Schrafft Center
529 Main Street
Boston, MA 02129
Phone: 617-727-8158
Fax: 617-242-7660
Email: sboothforbes@cbwl.org
 www.cbwl.org

The Enterprise Center provides training and support for entrepreneurs. The Economic Stabilization Trust provides financing for manufacturers.

Commonwealth Institute
 One Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 2B
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-859-0080
Fax: 617-859-7070

Education, training, networking for high growth women owned firms

Community Business Network
 c/o MACDC
99 Chauncy Street, 5th Floor
Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-426-0303
Email: macdc@gbls.org
 www.cdc-cbn.org

A collaborative of ten community development corporations supporting the creation and growth of small businesses in Boston’s neighborhoods.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Southern New England
 8 Winter Street, 10th Floor
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 800-208-2227
 www.creditcounseling.org

A non-profit public service agency formed in 1999 from the merger of the former CCCS affiliated agencies of Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. It is the leading provider of financial counseling, financial education, debt management programs and housing counseling in the tri-state area.

Dorchester Bay EDC Loan Fund
 594 Columbia Road, Suite 302
Boston, MA 02125
Phone: 617-825-4200
 www.dbedc.com

Loans for neighborhood businesses

Economic Justice Project - Free Legal Clinics
 294 Washington Street, Suite 443
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-988-0606
Email: hauberyang@lawyerscom.org

Free business law clinics and business legal services 

Hale and Dorr Legal Services Center
 122 Boylston Street
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Phone: 617-522-3003   Fax: 617-522-0715
www.law.harvard.edu/academics/clinical/lsc/help/index.htm

Free business legal services

JVS Neighborhood Business Builders
 105 Chauncy Street
Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-451-3354

Business loans, technical support and training for home-based and smaller firms

Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations (MACDC)
 99 Chauncy Street, 5th floor
Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-426-0303
www.macdc.org

Provides a range of economic development and business assistance programs in communities throughout the Commonwealth.

Massachusetts Bar Association
 20 West Street
Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-338-0500
Membership organization of Massachusetts attorneys
 www.massbar.org

Massachusetts Bar Association Referral Service
 Phone: 617-645-0400
www.masslawhelp.com/need.php3

Massachusetts Community Development Finance Corporation (CDFC)
 155 Federal Street, Suite 202
Boston, MA 02110
617-523-6262
 www.mcdfc.com

Specialized business financing programs, including minority firms and women owned firms

Massachusetts Department of Workforce Development
Charles F. Hurley Building
19 Staniford Street
Boston, MA 02114
617-626-5300
www.mass.gov/dwd

Responsible for overseeing the Commonwealth's workforce development system; protecting the health and safety of Massachusetts workers; ensuring the efficient delivery of workers compensation services; supervision of the unemployment insurance program; and providing dispute resolution services in various arenas.

Massachusetts Department of Revenue
Taxpayer Assistance Bureau
 100 Cambridge Street, 2nd Floor
Boston, MA 02204
Phone: 1-800-392-6089
www.mass.gov/dor

Income Tax Information, Income Tax Refunds, Withholding, Estimated Tax Notices, Sales and Use Tax, and Room Occupancy Tax: 617-727-4545
Corporate Excise Tax: 617-626-4200
Alcoholic Beverage Excise: 617-727-3079
Cigarette Excise Tax: 617-727-3081
Sales and Use: 617-727-4490
Withholding:  617-727-4331

Ask for the Taxpayer Assistance Bureau for issues related to state taxes including refunds, sales taxes, excise taxes, withholding, and estimated income tax payments.

Massachusetts Division of Insurance
 One South Station, 5th Floor
Boston, MA 02110
Phone: 617-521-7794
 www.mass.gov/doi/

Monitors the solvency of its licensees in order to promote a healthy, responsive and willing marketplace for consumers who purchase insurance products. Protection of consumer interests is of prime importance to the Division and is safeguarded by providing accurate and unbiased information so consumers may make informed decisions and by intervening on behalf of consumers who believe they have been victimized by unfair business practices.

Massachusetts Division of Occupational Safety
 399 Washington Street, 5th Floor
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-727-7047
 www.mass.gov/dos

Ensures the effective administration and enforcement of the employment agency laws in Massachusetts; the issuance of prevailing wage schedules for many public works projects; the promulgation and interpretation of the state's minimum wage regulations; and the issuance of minimum wage, seasonal business overtime, and uniform deposit waivers.

Massachusetts Division of Registration
 239 Causeway Street, 5th floor
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617-727-3074
 www.mass.gov/dpl

State permits and licenses

Massachusetts Export Center
 10 Park Plaza, Suite 3720
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-478-4133
Fax: 617-478-4135
 www.mass.gov/export

A counseling center of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network providing export assistance, counseling, workshops and training. Counselors are housed throughout Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Secretary of State 
 One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
Incorporation: 617-727-9640
State regulations: 617-727-7030 or 1-800-392-6090
 www.mass.gov/sec

Business Resource Center

Corporations Division / Trademark Registration
McCormack Building
One Ashburton Place, 17th Floor
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-727-9640
www.mass.gov/sec/cor

Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network (MSBDC)
 State Office
227 Isenberg School of Management
University of Massachusetts
121 Presidents Drive
Amherst, MA 01003-9310
Phone: 413-545-6301
 www.msbdc.org

A network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) throughout the Commonwealth providing free management counseling, workshops, and business services for preventures, startups and existing firms. Counseling centers are located throughout Massachusetts.

MSBDC Training Website
www.msbdc.org/training

Business workshops held throughout the state, provided by the MSBDC – updated frequently.

Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants
 105 Chauncy Street
Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-556-4000 or 1-800-392-6145
 www.mscpaonline.org

Membership organization of Massachusetts CPAs

Massachusetts Technology Development Corporation (MTDC)
 148 State Street
Boston, MA 02109
617-723-4920
 www.mtdc.com

MassDevelopment
 75 State Street, 10th Floor
Boston, MA 02110
617- 451-2477
 www.massdevelopment.com

Offers a wide range of business financing programs

MIT Enterprise Forum
 Building E32-328
28 Carleton Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: 617-253-8240
 www.mitforum-cambridge.org

Educational and capital raising programs for technology firms

Procurement and Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)
 227 Isenberg School of Management
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003
Phone: 413-545-6307
 www.msbdc.org/ptac

Bidding on government contracts is a time-consuming, yet worthwhile process. PTAC can guide you through the process and give you information and referral on how to be more competitive. Counselors are located throughout Massachusetts. A free and confidential counseling center of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.

Quincy 2000
 1250 Hancock Street, Suite 802N
Quincy, MA 02169
Phone: 617-847-1454
www.quincy2000.org

Business and economic development planning; business loan funds

SearchBoston.com is a comprehensive search engine, business directory, travel guide and shopping source for the Greater Boston area. Look for the UMass Boston SBDC listed in Business: Small Business Management Counseling & Training.

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
 10 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02222-1093
Phone: 617-565-5591
 www.score.org

Retired executives consult with startup and early stage firms

Small Business Association of New England (SBANE)
 204 Second Avenue
Waltham, MA 02154
Phone: 781-890-9070
Fax: 781-890-4567
www.sbane.org

Membership organization provides breakfast seminars, educational materials, networking events, and legislative activities

State Office of Minority & Women Business Assistance (SOMWBA)
 10 Park Plaza, Suite 3720
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-727-8692 x195
Fax: 617-727-5915
 www.mass.gov/somwba

Certification and educational programs for minority and women owned businesses

U.S. Census Bureau
 10 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02222
Phone: 617-565-7078
 www.census.gov

Demographic and economic research

U.S. Department of Commerce
 World Trade Center, Room 307
Boston, MA 02210
617-565-6850
 www.doc.gov

U.S. Department of Labor – Women's Bureau
 Regional 1: Boston
J.F.K. Building Room E-270
Boston, MA 02203
Phone: 617-565-1988
Fax: 617-565-1986
 www.dol.gov/dol/wb

Addresses compensation, working conditions, advancement and work-family issues

U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
 JFK Federal Building
Boston, MA 02203
Phone: 617-423-1040
www.irs.gov
Federal Tax info: 617-523-1040
Business Tax Seminar and assistance with federal tax issues: 617-565-1645 or 1-800-829-1040
Tax Guide for Small Businesses and tax forms: 1-800-829-3676

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
10 Causeway Street, Room 265
Boston, MA 02222
Phone: 617-565-5590
Fax: 617-565-5584
www.sba.gov

Pre-Business Workshop/Management Division: 617-565-5590
SBA Loan Guarantee Program/Finance Division: 617-565-5590

 Financial, technical and management assistance to help Americans start, run, and grow their businesses

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Government Sites

 

 

The Massachusetts Business Resource Team is a new service is available in Massachusetts under the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development. The Business Resource Team is here to help businesses identify and access state programs and resources that match current needs. Whether you're expanding, relocating, hiring new employees or looking for working capital, the Massachusetts Business Resource Team can help you. 1-877-BIZ-TEAM

 

U.S. Small Business AdministrationThe U.S. Small Business Administration maintains and strengthens the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting the interests of small businesses and by helping families and businesses recover from national disasters.
En español
     Business.govPart of SBA's effort, Business.gov is the official resource to help businesses quickly find compliance information, forms and contacts from multiple U.S. government websites.

 

USA.govUSA.gov (formerly FirstGov.gov) it the U.S. government's official web portal. USA.gov makes it easy for the public to get U.S. government information and services on the web and serves as the catalyst for a growing electronic government. GobiernoUSA.gov, información oficial en español

 

  • Center for Women & Enterprise (CWE) is a not-for-profit educational organization providing comprehensive business assistance, networking opportunities and resources to women starting and/or growing their businesses.

  • Commonwealth Corporation (formerly the Corporation for Business, Work and Learning) is a quasi-public organization responsible for administering and delivering a wide range of public and privately-funded initiatives designed to meet the labor needs of businesses; improve current and emerging workers’ skills; foster career success through lifelong learning; and retain, sustain, improve and create job-generating businesses.

  • Commonwealth [of Massachusetts] Procurement Access & Solicitation System (Comm-PASS) allows businesses easy access to all of the information necessary to bid on many state contracts.

  • Economic Development Administration helps to generate jobs, retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth in economically-distressed areas of the United States.

  • EDGAR, the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval system, performs automated collection, validation, indexing, acceptance, and forwarding of submissions by companies and others who are required by law to file forms with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

  • Environmental Protection Agency Small Business Gateway allows access to U.S. EPA information from one convenient site. Information includes general small business information.

  • Federal Marketplace assists businesses in selling products and services to the federal government. Up-to-date Federal Acquisition Regulation, Cost Accounting Standards and the Internet's only Active Federal Contracts database.

  • FedWorld lists Internet resources of federal government agencies.

  • Internal Revenue Service has business tax information, publications and forms.

  • Internal Revenue Service's Small Business/Self-Employed website provides information for self-employed entrepreneurs, employers, and small and large businesses. The site offers a broad range of resources across federal and state agencies, as well as industry/profession-specific information.

  • Library of Congress has a wealth of information available and brings a universal collection of knowledge and creativity.

  • Massachusetts Department of Business and Technology is the state agency in Massachusetts that is responsible for job creation and economic development in the Commonwealth.

  • Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is responsible for protecting human health and the environment by ensuring clean air and water, the safe management and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, the timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills, and the preservation of wetlands and coastal resources. The Mass DEP recently unveiled a new website, www.Earth911Business.com, a one stop shop to help businesses effectively mange their waste and increase the use of recycling.

  • Massachusetts Department of Labor consists of five state agencies: The Department of Industrial Accidents, the Division of Occupational Safety, the Board of Conciliation and Arbitration, the Labor Relations Commission, and the Joint Labor Management Committee for Municipal Police and Fire. These agencies administer a wide variety of laws to help resolve disputes between employees, their representatives, and employers, to promote the safety and health of workers in Massachusetts, and to resolve issues involving injured workers.

  • Massachusetts Department of Revenue contains tax information, publications and forms.

  • Massachusetts Department of Workforce Development (DWD) connects people and businesses to job opportunities and job training across the Commonwealth.  DWD provides unemployment assistance to job seekers, job matching services, labor market information and connections to education and training. DWD supports One-Stop Career Centers as the cornerstone for providing these services to employers and job seekers.

  • Massachusetts Export Center helps companies throughout the Commonwealth to achieve success in global markets through a statewide network of international trade professionals. The Massachusetts Export Center provides targeted, high-impact services for exporters, including counseling, training, research and technical assistance. Services are free and confidential. Part of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.

  • Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) creates a simple, streamlined approach to economic development assistance with one-stop business centers located throughout the state.

  • Massachusetts Office of International Trade and Investment promotes trade and attracts foreign investment in Massachusetts. These mandates are achieved primarily through various export promotion programs and strategic services.

  • Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism provides a wealth of information on things to see and do while in Massachusetts.

  • Massachusetts Port Authority develops, promotes and manages airports, the seaport and transportation infrastructure to enable Massachusetts and New England to compete successfully in the global marketplace.

  • Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network provides free, confidential, one-to-one management and technical assistance counseling and low-cost educational training programs to prospective and existing small businesses throughout the Commonwealth. The MSBDC regional and specialty center network is designed to effectively service small businesses throughout Massachusetts. There is an MSBDC regional, specialty or satellite office within 30 minutes of any potential client in the state. The MSBDC provides specialized services in the areas of capital formation, minority business assistance, international trade and procurement technical assistance which further augment services.

  • Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) is an economic development organization established by the state to foster sustainable economic growth by promoting a better understanding of the forces that shape the state’s economy, and by enabling greater collaboration among the diverse enterprises involved in the Innovation Economy.

  • Massachusetts Technology Development Corporation (MTDC), established in 1978, is a leading edge venture capital firm that addresses the "capital gap" for start-up and expansion of early-stage technology companies operating in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

  • MassDevelopment helps build the communities of the Commonwealth by stimulating economic development.

  • Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, specifically created to encourage the creation, growth and expansion of minority-owned businesses in the United States.

  • Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) includes standards, interpretations and field inspection reference manual.

  • Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) guides Massachusetts businesses through the government procurement process and provides information on how to become more competitive in the government marketplace. PTAC counselors are dedicated to providing assistance in bidding, managing and performing on government contracts. A free and confidential counseling center of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.

  • Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a non-profit organization dedicated to aiming in the formation, growth and success of small businesses nationwide.

  • State Office of Minority and Women Business Assistance (SOMWBA) is a state agency helping promote the development of minority, women-owned business enterprises and non-profit organizations.

  • U.S. Business Advisor is a one-stop electronic link to all the information and services government provides for the business community.  

  • U.S. Census Bureau is the preeminent collector and provider of timely, relevant and quality data about the people and economy of the U.S.

  • U.S. Department of Labor has information, links, laws, statistics and other useful information including: information on helping employers and employees comply with laws and regulations; interactive tools that provide information about federal employment laws; and an online employment law guide.

  • U.S. Patent and Trademark Office promotes the progress of science and the useful arts by securing for limited times to inventors the exclusive right to their respective discoveries.

  • U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission offers informal guidance to questions over the phone or via email. Also, there is a special ombudsman for small business whom you can contact for questions.

  • U.S. Small Business Administration stimulates and fosters economic development through small business by helping new businesses get started and established businesses grow. SBA recently rolled out a new website, www.business.gov, a one-stop site with information on accessing government services, understanding regulations and applying for help, money and/or training.

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Business Sites

  • ADA Technical Assistance Program provides Americans with Disabilities Act information for small businesses.

  • All-Biz.com is a comprehensive online resource center for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

  • Annual Reports Gallery gives access to annual reports on the web.

  • Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) is a dues-supported, non-profit, nonpartisan employers' association dedicated to improving the Commonwealth's economic climate. With over 5,000 members, the only statewide association that truly represents the needs of employers of all sizes in all types of businesses.

  • Association of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC) represents the collective interest of its members by promoting, informing, supporting and continuously improving the SBDC network, which delivers nationwide educational assistance to strengthen small/medium business management, thereby contributing to the growth of local, state and national economies.

  • Better Business Bureau helps consumers and businesses maintain an ethical marketplace.

  • Biz Info Library (BIL) is a collaboration between the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the Edward Lowe Foundation, and the James J. Hill Reference Library to create an online library offering the world’s best information on starting and growing a business.

  • Business Plans is a one stop shop including writing tips and sample business plans.

  • Business Resources Mega-List contains resources grouped by categories. Includes stock markets, financial, management, jobs, small business info, MIS, etc. Also has list of several useful databases (e.g., MS KnowledgeBase).

  • CCH Business Owner's Toolkit contains information on starting and running a small business.

  • Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership Clearinghouse on Entrepreneurship Education (CELCEE), the entrepreneurship education adjunct of the federal Educational Resources and Information Clearinghouse system, is a non-profit organization that is funded entirely by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.

  • Commerce Business Daily lists notices of proposed government procurement actions, contract awards, sales of government property and other procurement information.

  • The Commonwealth Institute (TCI) is a membership organization that supports women CEO's, entrepreneurs and senior corporate executives by helping them grow their businesses and careers. TCI's goal is to reach women leaders during the critical stages of their business and to provide them with the tools and resources they need for growth.

  • Companies Online is a directory of U.S. companies with web sites.

  • EntreNetwork.com is an initiative of Mass Ventures, Springfield Technical Community College, University of Massachusetts, Davis Foundation, Mass Ventures Equity Fund, the Economic Development Council of Western Mass, Hampshire College, the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network, Babson College and the Grinspoon Foundation.

  • Entrepreneur.com contains start-up ideas, resources and articles.

  • Entrepreneurial Edge Magazine's resource center includes links to sites in a number of subject areas including finance and venture capital, legal information, publications and associations.

  • EntreWorld includes "the best of the best" on the Web about running a small business and is designed to increase your productivity by getting you essential information as quickly and easily as possible.

  • Equipment Leasing Association's (ELA) one-stop, educational portal for information on equipment financing and leasing answers questions about leasing equipment and further demonstrates that leasing is a means of leveraging capital and controlling costs.

  • Gulf Publishing Company offers books on regional-interest subjects, business and management, training, and science and technology.

  • Hoover's Corporate Directory profiles large, mostly public companies.

  • Morebusiness.com includes helpful business checklists on topics such as healthcare, growing a business and financial planning.

  • National Business Incubation Association contains information on business incubators and a large collection of links.

  • National Consumers League identifies, protects, represents and advances the economic and social interests of consumers and workers. A private, nonprofit advocacy group representing consumers on marketplace and workplace issues. The NCL's National Fraud Information Center was established to fight the growing menace of telemarketing fraud by improving prevention and enforcement. It is the only nationwide toll-free hotline for consumers to get advice about telephone solicitations and report possible telemarketing fraud to law enforcement agencies.

  • National Small Business United is the nation's oldest bipartisan advocate for small businesses. Representing over 65,000 small business owners, NSBU takes action on legislative and regulatory issues by playing a key role in shaping federal policy in the interests of small business.

  • Nolo.com helps people handle their own everyday legal matters -- or learn enough about them to make working with a lawyer a more satisfying experience -- they publish reliable, plain-English books, software, forms and their website.

  • Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) encourages communities to collaborate with each other to benefit the entire Pioneer Valley region and improve the quality of life. PVPC's Economic Development section brings together the public and private sectors to continue growing a competitive regional economy. At its core is the Plan for Progress, the Pioneer Valley's economic development road map: a collection of strategies for strengthening the economic health and prospects of our communities and of the region as a whole.

  • SBIRworld.com is a comprehensive site providing information on the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. These programs provide over one billion dollars a year to small businesses and university affiliates for research and development in a wide range of scientific and technical areas. The SBIR program funds high-risk projects at the earliest stages of development - before companies can attract venture capital - and works with small businesses through that development and on into the actual commercialization of their product.

  • SearchBoston.com is a search engine, business directory, travel guide and shopping source for the Greater Boston area.

  • Small Business Journal magazine is dedicated to the small and growing business. 

  • Small Business Resource Center has reports and links of interest to current and prospective small business owners.

  • SmallBizManager reviews, screens and recommends "best of breed" business services and products for all your business needs.

  • Smaller Business Association of New England (SBANE) is a nonprofit organization established in 1938 to promote and protect small businesses.

  • StartupJournal.com contains information from the powerful editorial resources of The Wall Street Journal, the world's leading business publication, as well as WSJ.com, industry experts and StartupJournal's editorial team.

  • ThomasNet.com, powered by Thomas Register® and Thomas Regional®, is an industrial search engine that provides one source for finding the exact product, service, or supplier –quickly and efficiently. ThomasNet provides direct access to the detailed information needed to make a purchasing or specifying decision, including line-item product details, CAD drawings, and more.

  • United Inventors Association is a not-for-profit corporation providing leadership, support and services to inventor support groups and independent inventors. 

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International Business Sites

 

Massachusetts Export CenterMassachusetts Export Center helps companies throughout the Commonwealth to achieve success in global markets through a statewide network of international trade professionals. The Massachusetts Export Center provides targeted, high-impact services for exporters, including counseling, training, research and technical assistance. Services and free and confidential. Part of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.

 

  • AssessYourInternationalRisk provides information that will help your business determine what insurable exposures are encountered when doing business overseas. A partnership program with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Small Business Administration and AIG.

  • British-American Business Council of New England  provides the premier forum for American and British executives to address common interests and needs together. Through a variety of programs, the members exchange valuable information, establish networks and develop new business opportunities. 

  • PortConnecticut.com, the international trade and transportation portal for Connecticut,  includes information and links to a wide range of resources relating to importing, exporting and business-to-business commerce between Connecticut and the world. It also includes a discussion group forum for companies in the trade and transportation industries. 

  • Export SBDC is a good resource for information, links and personal counseling on issues related to exporting and international trade.

  • Export Sales & Marketing Manual, commonly referred to as the Bible of Exporting, is currently being used throughout the U.S. and in 72 foreign countries. With a logical and easy-to-understand format, it clearly explains all of the steps involved in exporting.

  • Global Business Alliance of New England, Inc (GBANE) is a business membership organization fostering networking between New England companies involved in international trade.

  • Greater China Business Council of New England (GCBCNE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the growth of business between organizations in Greater China and those in New England.

  • Kompass is a directory of domestic and international business profiles.

  • National Trade Databank is a great source for information on international trade.

  • New England-Latin America Business Council is a non-profit organization actively striving to link businesses in New England with others throughout Latin America.

  • U.S. Export Assistance Center offers a full range of federal export programs and services under one roof by combining the export marketing resources of the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

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University of Massachusetts Sites

  • Center for Manufacturing Productivity (CMP), a collaboration between the UMass College of Engineering and the Isenberg School of Management, provides a comprehensive program of assistance to manufacturers.

  • Chelsea Center for Recycling and Economic Development, formed through the Strategic EnviroTechnology Partnership (STEP) Program, a partnership between the University of Massachusetts, the state Executive Office of Environmental Affairs and the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, to create jobs, support recycling efforts, and help the economy and the environment by working to increase the use of recyclables by manufacturers.

  • Donahue Institute is the public service, outreach, and economic development unit of the University of Massachusetts President's Office. Established in 1971, the Institute maintains offices throughout the Commonwealth. This unique position within public higher education enables the Donahue Institute to provide a valuable bridge between theory and innovation, and real world business applications.

  • Family Business Center assists family-owned companies in recognizing common problems and in finding solutions to the unique challenges confronting them.

  • Isenberg School of Management includes an online business database listing several links for business information that can be found on the Web. The sites provided are designed to meet the needs of many users, including entrepreneurs, inventors, business people, and academics.

  • Massachusetts Export Center helps companies throughout the Commonwealth to achieve success in global markets through a statewide network of international trade professionals. The Massachusetts Export Center provides targeted, high-impact services for exporters, including counseling, training, research and technical assistance. Part of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.

  • Massachusetts Institute for Social and Economic Research (MISER) is an interdisciplinary research institute of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Massachusetts. It provides a variety of services to the University, the Commonwealth, and to national and international audiences.

  • Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) Network provides free, confidential, one-to-one management and technical assistance counseling and low-cost educational training programs to prospective and existing small businesses throughout the Commonwealth. The MSBDC Network is designed to effectively service small businesses throughout Massachusetts. There is an MSBDC counseling center or satellite office within 30 minutes of any potential client in the state. The MSBDC provides specialized services in the areas of capital formation, minority business assistance, international trade and procurement technical assistance which further augment services

  • Office of University Outreach is a gateway to the resources of the University of Massachusetts. The office makes it easier to find that particular part-time degree program or professional development course you're looking for or the person or program with the expertise to help you with an issue you're dealing with in your organization, business, school, community or home.

  • Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) guides Massachusetts businesses through the government procurement process and provides information on how to become more competitive in the government marketplace. PTAC counselors are dedicated to providing assistance in bidding, managing and performing on government contracts. A counseling center of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.

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Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce

 

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  • Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc. has affiliates in Agawam, East Longmeadow/Longmeadow, Hampden/Wilbraham, Ludlow, Springfield, Westfield and West Springfield and a Women's Partnership dedicated to professional women. The ACCGS brings a regional and diverse approach to the value of networking, economic development and business development to industry of all sizes and types.

  • Agawam Chamber of Commerce is nearly 200 members strong. Incorporated in 1981, the Chamber is organized for the purpose of advancing the economic, industrial, professional, cultural and civic welfare of the Town of Agawam. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Amherst Chamber of Commerce represents nearly 500 businesses in the greater Amherst area by providing members with helpful business information resources, networking opportunities and group buying power.

  • Arlington Chamber of Commerce develops, encourages, promotes, protects and advances the commercial, industrial, professional, financial and general business interests of Arlington and the neighboring areas.

  • Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization representing over 455 business and 25 communities. It bridges the communities of Berlin, Bolton, Hudson, Maynard and Stow.

  • Attleboro Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit business organization serving Attleboro and the neighboring communities of Mansfield, Norton, Seekonk and Rehoboth.

  • Bedford Chamber of Commerce advances the economic, industrial, professional, cultural and civic welfare of the Town of Bedford, and encourages the growth of existing industries and businesses while giving all proper assistance to new firms or individuals seeking to locate in Bedford.

  • Berkshire Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of business people who promote the civic and economic vitality of the Berkshires region in Massachusetts. A not-for-profit organization, the chamber is Berkshire County's leading economic development and business advocacy organization.

  • Beverly Chamber of Commerce operates as an independent business organization representing the business community of the city of Beverly with nearly 500 members.

  • Billerica Chamber of Commerce advances the general welfare and prosperity of Billerica so that it's citizens and all areas of its business and professional community prosper.

  • Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce encourages and manages business and industrial growth in the Valley, while helping to preserve the unique characteristics which have made this area a magnet for business and tourism for over a century.

  • Brookline Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit organization established in 1978, fulfills its goal of supporting and strengthening the business community by providing a wide array of benefits and opportunities.

  • Cambridge Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Cambridge business community.

  • Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, dedicated to the economic well-being of the region, was established in 1922 and is comprised of more than 1,300 businesses in Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester by-the-Sea, and the North of Boston region. The mission of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce is to serve as the principal voice of business while working to enhance both the economic environment and the quality of life for the citizens of Cape Ann.

  • Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce

  • Cape Cod Canal Region Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization serving the communities of Bourne, Sandwich and Wareham.

  • Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce strengthens, supports and promotes the economic viability, cultural richness, environmental sensitivity and the social needs of Cape Cod.

  • Chamber of Commerce of the Attleboro Area serves Attleboro and the neighboring communities of Mansfield, Norton, Seekonk and Rehoboth.

  • Chatham Chamber of Commerce serves the Cape Cod town of Chatham.

  • Chelsea Chamber of Commerce is the largest business-oriented organization in the city. Its members come from a wide variety of professions, services and industries. The Chamber is a private, voluntary, non-profit organization that was established  for the purpose of promoting civic, economic and social welfare for the people of Chelsea.

  • Chicopee Chamber of Commerce improves the overall business climate by uniting, guiding, supporting and speaking for those engaged in business and industry, toward the advancement of economic and civic well-being for all citizens of the greater Chicopee area.

  • Concord Chamber of Commerce promotes local business in order to foster a strong economic climate in a spirit consistent with the character and culture of Concord.

  • Cranberry Country Chamber of Commerce is a private, not-for-profit business advocacy organization whose purpose is to research, develop and advocate the interests of its membership through program, policy, service and community business leadership. Its serves the towns of Bridgewater, Carver, Halifax, Lakeville, Middleborough, Plympton, Raynham, Rochester and Wareham.

  • Dennis Chamber of Commerce

  • East Boston Chamber of Commerce

  • East Longmeadow/Longmeadow Chamber of Commerce is an organization representing businesses in the Longmeadow/East Longmeadow area. It is dedicated to supporting a friendly business environment by providing programs and services that enhance business success. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Eastham Chamber of Commerce promotes and encourages the spirit of fair trade and good business through activities and / or programs designed to benefit the commercial, cultural and civic welfare of the Town of Eastham and vicinity.

  • Everett Chamber of Commerce creates and advances a favorable climate of economic development and growth for its members. The Chamber serves as a unifying voice for its retail, commercial, industrial and nonprofit members while acting as an advocate on local, state and federal issues which may impact the business community. All efforts will focus on enhancing life in the Everett community.

  • Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry is the primary business and community information source for its members and the public. It provides networking opportunities for its members and serves as an advocate at the local, state and federal government level.

  • Falmouth Chamber of Commerce's mission is to promote a healthy economic climate consistent with improving the charm and character of the town, making it an ideal place to live, work and visit.

  • Franklin County Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization providing services and opportunities to the business community in its service delivery area of 26 towns and five villages of Franklin County in Western Massachusetts.

  • Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce is a broad-based association representing more than 1,700 businesses of all sizes from virtually every industry and profession in the region.

  • Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce promotes and perpetuates the business, commercial, manufacturing and civic interests of Easthampton; advances the agricultural interests of the area, to develop a public spirit in all, whereby it may put forth a unified effort to aid the community and to make it a more prosperous, more beautiful and a better place in which to live.

  • Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce provides direct business support and advocacy, as well as provides social and informational activities to the business community it represents.

  • Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce, a business organization committed to serving its members by supporting and advocating for an environment where members and their communities prosper, serves 14 cities and towns in the greater Haverhill area including the towns of Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Merrimac and West Newbury.

  • Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven organization whose mission is to strengthen the economy of Greater Holyoke by representing and involving the business community in public policy decisions affecting the business climate, by helping individual businesses to prosper, and by creating a community environment conducive to economic opportunity and a positive quality of life.

  • Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce is over 750 members strong and serves the towns of Chelmsford, Dracut, Lowell, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro and Westford.

  • Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a strong, respected business organization known for its abilities to lead, inform, promote, manage, unify and satisfy the needs of more than 800 members doing business in the Greater Newburyport region.

  • Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce is a business organization representing the Northampton area.

  • Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce works to benefit the community and represents its business membership. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Hampden/Wilbraham Chamber of Commerce , in its four years of existence, has doubled its membership and is now nearly 100 members strong. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Harwich Chamber of Commerce

  • Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce is an organization of businesses, individuals and institutions committed to the economic development of the Spanish and Portuguese speaking communities in the Northeast United States.

  • Holden Area Chamber of Commerce serves the towns of Holden, Princeton, Rutland and Paxton by promoting and enhancing the business climate, developing a positive economic environment and contributing to the betterment of the community.

  • Hyannis Area Chamber of Commerce fosters, enhances and promotes a favorable business climate in the greater Hyannis area and the seven villages of Barnstable.

  • Lee Chamber of Commerce

  • Lenox Chamber of Commerce

  • Lexington Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization, comprised of local businesses, professional and civic-minded people, dedicated to representing and protecting the interests of the business community.

  • Ludlow Chamber of Commerce represents its nearly 120 members by providing business support on a local level to meet local needs. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Lynn Area Chamber of Commerce is a strong business organization of over 900 business people and professionals working to provide member programs, community programs and public advocacy to make the Lynn area a better place to live, to work and to do business. It serves the towns of Lynn, Lynnfield, Swampscott and Nahant.

  • Malden Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting its members and strengthening the economic growth of its region.

  • Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, created in 1951, is an advocate for its members and the Marblehead business community.

  • Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce advocates and promotes business and civic interests, in close harmony with the overall welfare of the community, in order to encourage development and growth in the area.

  • Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce members have access to a wonderful and broad-reaching resource of information, promotion and networking, including participation on their website.

  • Mashpee Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic and growing business membership organization providing it's members with ways to develop their business.

  • Massachusetts Latino Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit statewide agency that seeks to serve and strengthen Latino businesses. Services include a marketing component that helps businesses market their products and services to the Latino community through market research and direct contact with the Spanish-speaking media.

  • Melrose Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary membership organization whose primary goal is to work towards increasing the visibility of the Melrose business and professional community and to provide programs, publicity and public relations strategies that will attract more residents to shop and do business locally. 

  • Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce serves over 1,000 members in Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, North Andover, Greater Haverhill, Greater Lowell and throughout the communities of the Merrimack Valley.

  • Metro South Chamber of Commerce serves the interests of member businesses while providing community leadership to ensure the economic advancement of the Metro South region which includes the towns of Abington, Avon Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Holbrook, Norwell, Randolph, Rockland, Sharon, Stoughton, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

  • MetroWest Chamber of Commerce has programs in place to insure that the Framingham area continues its leadership position as a business and manufacturing center well into the millennium.

  • Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce serves the core communities of Acton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Littleton, Maynard, Stow and Westford by voicing support for and advocating the promotion of business. 

  • Milford Area Chamber of Commerce unites businesses and professionals, creating a central agency which lends itself to improving business and building a better community.

  • Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce is the primary organization on Nantucket dedicated to promoting the interests of the business community. With nearly 700 business, non-profit, and individual members, the Chamber also is concerned with the ongoing viability and vitality of the island's historical, cultural, civic, environmental and recreational features that position Nantucket as a premier destination for visitors and provides a special way of life for its residents.

  • Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce supports and promotes businesses and improves the quality of life for the region it serves including the towns of Ayer, Devens, Groton, Harvard, Pepperell, Shirley and Townsend.

  • Neponset Valley Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic, fast-growing organization dedicated to serving the needs of the business community in Canton, Dedham, Foxboro, Medfield, Norwood, Sharon, Stoughton, Walpole and Westwood.

  • New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce advocates business advancement, economic growth and job creation for the benefit of the communities they serve. 

  • Newton-Needham Chamber of Commerce is an organization whose purpose is the development, encouragement, promotion, protection and advancement of the commercial, industrial, professional, financial and general business interests of Newton, Needham and neighboring areas.

  • North Attleboro & Plainville Chamber of Commerce is an association of business and community leaders whose mission is to enhance the local economic environment through educational, legislative and business development programs and services.

  • North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of business and professional people dedicated to the economic well-being of the community. It serves the towns of Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Fitchburg, Groton, Harvard, Lancaster, Leominster, Lunenburg, Pepperell, Princeton, Shirley, Sterling, Townsend and Westminster.

  • North Quabbin Chamber of Commerce serves the business community of the nine town North Quabbin area and helps improve the business climate in the area.

  • North Shore Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to actively shaping public policy and events so that decisions by business and government result in an improved economy and quality of life for the region.

  • North Suburban Chamber of Commerce is an organization dedicated to improving the economic climate and quality of life in suburban communities north of Boston.

  • Peabody Chamber of Commerce is an active support organization committed to providing business, government and community information resources and opportunities to its members, and being an involved corporate citizen in the community.

  • Provincetown Chamber of Commerce encourages and promotes the civic, commercial, and social betterment for residents and visitors.

  • Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce, a business association of over 625 members across the lower South Shore, assists and promotes the region's business community.

  • Quaboag Valley Chamber of Commerce is the leading advocate for business and community development in the Quaboag Valley and provides members with a voice in political, social and economic issues. It serves the towns of Belchertown, Brimfield, Brookfield, East Brookfield, Holland, Monson, North Brookfield, Palmer, Wales, Ware, Warren and West Brookfield.

  • Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce is a vital organization that serves to foster pride and promotes interest in the towns of Reading.

  • Revere Chamber of Commerce exists to promote civic responsibility; to further a better understanding between the public and business people; to encourage a close personal and business relationship among the business people of the City; to encourage and develop a healthy environment for business in the City; to enhance the purchasing power of the public; to cooperate with any governmental unit or agency to effectuate the foregoing purposes; and to work so that in the end, the City of Revere will continue to be a better place in which to live and work.

  • Rockport Chamber of Commerce is a member organization serving the North Shore town of Rockport.

  • Salem Chamber of Commerce concentrates resources and energies on strengthening economic development of manufacturing, retail, tourism, service and educational sectors.

  • Salisbury Chamber of Commerce

  • Saugus Chamber of Commerce/Route One Area Business Association is a private, non-profit business and professional organization whose our membership consists of  local men and women from both large and small businesses, industries and professionals all working harmoniously to improve the business climate and the area's economic well-being.

  • Somerville Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization for businesses operating in Somerville or the surrounding communities.

  • South Shore Chamber of Commerce is a 2800-member-strong business organization dedicated to serving the interests of the local business community through community outreach, government relations and economic development assistance.

  • Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce serves the towns of Great Barrington, Sheffield, Egremont, Otis, New Marlborough, Monterey, Sandisfield, Alford and Mount Washington.

  • Springfield Chamber of Commerce has more than 800 members and is at the geographical center of the ACCGS and takes pride in its legislative and educational efforts. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce provides leadership to promote improve and preserve the economic welfare of the Town of Stockbridge and its environs. It is a nonprofit organization that exists for businesses of all sizes. Members are the driving force behind the Chamber.

  • Stoneham Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization comprised of local business, professional and civic-minded people working together to protect, strengthen and promote the economic, cultural and civic welfare of Stoneham.

  • Stoughton Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1938 and organized as a non-profit corporation whose main goals and objectives are to aid and promote local business throughout the Town of Stoughton. The Chamber is committed to advocating Stoughton businesses and business owners on matters of local and political importance and to promote a healthy and successful business environment in and around Stoughton.

  • Taunton Area Chamber of Commerce serves both the businesses and residents in the heart of Southeastern Massachusetts. The service area includes the City of Taunton and the surrounding towns of Berkley, Dighton, Raynham and Rehoboth.

  • Tri-Community Area Chamber of Commerce is a 585 member business organization encompassing the towns in a 30 mile radius of Southbridge including Brimfield, the Brookfields, Charlton, Dudley, Holland, Oxford, Spencer, Sturbridge, Wales and Webster.

  • Tri-Town Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit corporation whose mission is to advance the interests of businesses in the three towns of Foxboro, Mansfield and Norton.

  • United Chamber of Commerce develops a thriving region through the support and advocacy of its business community. It serves over 850 businesses in the tri-center region of Southeastern Massachusetts including the towns of Bellingham, Blackstone, Foxboro, Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk and Wrentham.

  • Wachusett Chamber of Commerce is a business advocacy, community and economic development association committed to the support of its members' growth and success and the development of a positive and healthy economic climate for the area communities of Berlin, Bolton, Boylston, Clinton, Harvard, Lancaster, Sterling, West Boylston and nearby towns.

  • Wakefield Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization which receives no public funding, works hard to promote Wakefield as a good place in which to live and do business. Services are provided solely through the dues contributions of its member businesses.

  • Walpole Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1955, is an organization of over 190 companies and individuals dedicated to making the area’s economy prosper. The directors and membership typically come from companies of 1 to 5 employees, but it's also represented by corporations with hundreds of associates. 

  • Waltham West Suburban Chamber of Commerce is a vibrant, growing organization that addresses key issues concerning economic development, legislation, regional tourism, transportation, and overall quality of life in the Waltham, Weston and Lincoln area.

  • Watertown-Belmont Chamber of Commerce provides members with leadership, programs and services that promote business and community advancement.

  • Wellesley Chamber of Commerce was incorporated and exists for the purpose of advancing the commercial, industrial, professional, civic, educational, cultural and general interests of Wellesley.

  • West Springfield Chamber of Commerce represents nearly 250 businesses of all sizes, industry and profession and provides programs designed to meet the needs of West Springfield members. A member of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Inc.

  • Western Mass Hispanic Chamber of Commerce provides the interest, development and the economic well being of the Community in Holyoke and the surrounding communities.

  • Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is committed to the support and promotion of the Wilmington area businesses in harmony with the community.

  • Winchester Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization, almost totally comprised of volunteers dedicated to creating a better business environment for Winchester.

  • Winthrop Chamber of Commerce is a wide selection of businesspeople working in conjunction with the Town’s elected and appointed officials. Its goal is to foster the economic enhancement of Winthrop’s businesses and business districts so as to maintain long-term economic vitality and growth.

  • Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce has been the voice of the business community for 125 years and will continue to provide the leadership necessary for the city and region to grow and succeed.

  • Yarmouth Area Chamber of Commerce  promotes, advocates for, educates, assists and involves both its members and the Yarmouth community.

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