Business Development Workshops
Interactive Live and Online Workshops!
The Economic Opportunity and Development Division works with a variety of local organizations and professional groups to provide business development programs and services to Cambridge residents, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
Please note - Registrations close 2 HOURS BEFORE the workshop begins (unless otherwise noted below). Classes may be canceled or postponed due to lack of registration. Please call the Division at 617/349-4637 to check the status of a workshop.
All workshops are free for Cambridge business owners and residents unless otherwise noted.
If you have questions about our workshops, please contact Rona Abrahams at rabrahams@cambridgema.gov or 617/349-4637.
June
How to Hire Creative Vendors
Small businesses rely on creative professionals (like photographers, social media strategists, and web developers) to grow, but hiring them can feel confusing. This interactive workshop gives Cambridge business owners clear tools to choose the right creatives, set expectations, and invest in marketing with confidence. Participants leave with a brand worksheet and practical next steps. Facilitated by Ivelisse Morales, founder of bombilla.co.
Learn how to:
- clearly describe your brand and marketing needs.
- identify the right creative vendor for your goals.
- evaluate vendors with a simple, practical vetting framework.
- set expectations and structure a productive partnership.
- avoid common and costly hiring mistakes.
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Online with Zoom
Registration is required. Click here to register.
Cambridge Procurement Forum
Are you ready to take your business to the next level? The Cambridge Economic Opportunity & Development (EOD) team hosts the 2nd Cambridge Procurement Forum, a new space for experienced small, local, and Minority- / Women- Business Enterprises (M/WBE) to connect, learn, and grow. This virtual session will help you:
- review open bids and explore subcontracting opportunities.
- crowd-source solutions to common challenges.
- build connections and partnerships.
This workshop is open to all small, local, and diverse businesses and entrepreneurs from around the region. Cambridge residency (or business ownership) is not required. Don’t miss this chance to review real bids and connect with peers.
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Online with Zoom
Registration is required. Click here to register.