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National Small Business Month

In the image of a medallion with varying shades of blue, sits the image of a storefront with the words "National Small Business Month May 1 - May 31, 2024"

Cambridge Celebrates National Small Business Month

In May, the City of Cambridge celebrates National Small Business Month! Join us throughout the month for webinars, networking, and other events. These activities are designed to provide resources to local small businesses and entrepreneurs and celebrate the importance of small businesses to Cambridge's vibrant community.  

Some highlights include free workshops, networking, community events, and the Small Business Resource Fair at the Cambridge Foundry. 

Events are open to all, but Cambridge business owners, entrepreneurs and residents will be prioritized. Some events require registration. Event details are subject to change.  

Start the month by exploring one of Cambridge's commercial districts and shopping small! Here are some resources to get you started: 

Use the #ShopCambMA on social media all month long as we celebrate Cambridge's small businesses. 

Thank you to partners Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Cambridge Local First, Central Square Business Improvement District, East Cambridge Business Association, Harvard Square Business Association, Kendall Square Business Association, and Cambridge-Somerville Black Business Network. 

To learn more about all the events happening during National Small Business Month, visit cambridgema.gov/smallbusinessmonth

Schedule of Events 

Please check back as events may be added throughout the month. Most events are free and open to all. 

Wednesday, May 1 

Legacy Business Luncheon, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.  

This event is closed. 

Thursday, May 2  

Business Networking Event: Highlighting AAPI Entrepreneurs, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. 

Location: Wusong Road Tiki Bar & Restaurant, 112 Mt Auburn St.

The Cambridge Community Development Department and the Boston Foundation’s Asian Business Empowerment Council host a networking event to celebrate our Asian-American / Pacific Islander (AAPI) entrepreneurs and business owners for AAPI Heritage Month. 

Registration is required. Register Online 

Cambridge Chamber of Commerce Small Business Reception, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. 

Location: East Cambridge Savings Bank, 292 Cambridge St. 

Click here for more information. This networking event is sponsored by the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce. 

Saturday, May 4

Viva Central Square Block Party, 4:00 - 11:00 p.m.

Location: Naco Taco, 19 State St.

Enjoy tacos, drinks, and entertainment curated by the Central Square Business Improvement District and Naco Taco.

Sunday, May 5 

39th Annual Harvard Square May Fair 

Location: Harvard Square 

Celebrate the return of Spring with live music and dancing, international food and drink, and artisan booths featuring eclectic art, clothing, jewelry and more. Click here for more information.  

Free to all. 

Wednesdays, May 8 and May 15 and Thursdays, May 23 and May 30 

Succession Planning Pilot Program, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 

Location: Hybrid. Online via Zoom and in person at City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, 2nd floor conference room  

Have you thought about when or how you want to sell or transfer your business? Cambridge business owners are invited to participate in four workshops designed to help you make a plan to sell or transfer your business. Facilitated by Roads Consulting Group

Registration is required. Register Online

Monday, May 13 

Small Business Resource Fair, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (noon) 

Location: The Foundry, 101 Rogers St. 

Calling all Cambridge entrepreneurs! This event is designed to provide entrepreneurship education, resources and networking opportunities for business owners and entrepreneurs to connect with industry experts, investors, mentors, and fellow business owners. Coordinated by the Brand to Profits Group.  

Registration is encouraged. Register Online

Wednesday, May 15 

Speed Networking for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs, 12:15  - 1:00 p.m. 

Location: Kendall/MIT Open Space, 292 Main St.

Join us for an informal speed networking session and build your professional network. This event is presented in collaboration with Cambridge Economic Opportunity and Development Division and MIT Open Space

Registration is encouraged. Register Online

Sunday, May 19 

Inman Eats & Crafts, 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. 

Location: Inman Square 

Celebrate the vibrancy of Inman Square! Join this annual street fair featuring diverse retailers, fabulous makers, casual eats, and culinary treats. Click here for more information. 

Free to all. 

Wednesday, May 21 

Turbocharge Your Business Workshop – Growth Strategy, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. 

Location: Online via Zoom 

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or a new small business, learn how to use your existing resources to ensure your business lasts. This workshop is part of a four-part series facilitated by Tisha Hood of Breadcrumbs Creative. 

Registration is required. Register Online

Wednesdays, May 22 – June 13 

Intermediate Social Media Strategy Series, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. 

Location: CCTV, 438 Mass Ave 

Do you have a social media presence for your business and want to take it to the next level? In this four-part workshop you'll sharpen your social media strategy and grow your audience. Presented by CCTV and Vinny Prezioso. 

Space is limited. Registration is required. Register Online 

For More Information 

If you have questions about Cambridge’s National Small Business Month activities, please contact Allyson J. Allen at aallen@cambridgema.gov or 617/349-9122.  

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