Support for Small Business Programs Helps Ensure Economic Opportunities

Cambridge is helping ensure that our commercial districts remain vibrant community hubs, thanks to a suite of innovative programs from the Economic Opportunity and Development Division. A series of programs were designed and activated in Fiscal Year 2025.

Commercial District Programming Highlights

• Boosting Business Blocks supported six neighborhood activations—in Central Square, East Cambridge, Harvard Square, Huron Village & Observatory Hill, Kendall Square, and North Mass Ave/Porter Square—funding installations, programming, and pop-ups that enliven shopfronts and streetscapes.
• Cambridge Plays brought 15 free summer events to squares and parks citywide, creating moments of surprise, delight, and community connection.
• Cambridge NITES hosted six evening events across key commercial corridors, giving families and visitors new reasons to explore the City after dark.

Each initiative helped local businesses welcome new customers, extend business hours, and deepen their relationship with residents and visitors. With grant funding, workshops, and technical support, these efforts aren’t just boosting local businesses—they’re bringing neighborhoods to life.