To assist in the creation of new small businesses or the physical expansion of existing small businesses in targeted commercial corridors by providing forgivable loans to qualified applicants.
Small businesses and organizations affected by the Coronavirus pandemic are encouraged to take advantage of the following programs:
New small business owners occupying vacant space, or expanding small business owners in the Commercial Area Revitalization District as well as Quinsigamond Village. The business must be located in a first-floor storefront unit with emphasis to the Creative Economy.
This program is funded through the City of Worcester's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, which are allocated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funding amount per project is based upon the total new square footage to be occupied by the entrepreneur or existing business owner. The maximum funding amount per project is not to exceed 50% of the total project cost.
| Total Square Footage to be Occupied | Maximum Funding Amount |
| Up to 2,500 Square Feet | Maximum of $10,000 |
| 2,501 to 5,000 Square Feet | Maximum of $15,000 |
| 5,001 or More Square Feet | Maximum of $20,000 |
In order to be eligible for CDBG funding, each applicant must qualify as meeting one of the following national objectives of the CDBG program:
For more information and to apply, contact:
Vaske Gjino
Business & Community Development Coordinator
508-799-1400 x31418
gjinov@worcesterma.gov
Economic Development
City Hall 4th Floor
455 Main Street
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: 508-799-1400
Fax: 508-799-1406
Email Us
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
