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Peter Dunn, Chief Development Officer

The Executive Office of Economic Development’s goal is to create an environment within Worcester that is conducive to both business and residential growth and progress. The Department stands ready to assist in all aspects of the development process, including identifying a site, securing financing, and obtaining permits. Our highly professional and motivated staff has access to financial and technical programs available through local, state and federal government, as well as through public/private collaborative efforts of the City, local banking institutions and other business assistance agencies.

What We Do

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Graphic of Blue and White Storefront with Gold Coin Stacks and Blue Bar Graph in the Background

Business & Community

The City of Worcester assists in the business and community development process, including identifying sites, securing the required local and state permitting and providing support through various business assistance tools.

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Business Man Holding a Wooden House in His Hands

Housing & Neighborhood

Housing & Neighborhood Development is responsible for assisting and supporting housing rehabilitation, new construction and developing and administering programs to improve the quality of life within the neighborhoods of the city.
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People Gathered Around a Table with Papers and Charts

Planning & Regulatory

The Division of Planning & Regulatory Services works to support and guide the City’s future development by balancing quality-of-life, long term sustainability, and economic competitive advantage.
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Financial Assistance

Economic • Facade • Housing • HUD • Vacant Storefront • Microloan • Small Business

Learn more about obtaining financial assistance from the Executive Office of Economic Development.

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Grant Programs

The City of Worcester offer a variety of grant programs to assist local artists, businesses and residents.

Arts & Culture Grants Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) Housing & Neighborhood Grants

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American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)

Worcester was awarded approximately $146 million from the US Department of Treasury and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts related to American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.

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News & Announcements

Group of People Sitting Around Conference Table with Blueprints and Building Plans Being Reviewed

Pre-Development Consultations

Interdepartmental Review Team meetings are offered free of charge and are designed to assist developers and land owners in the pre-development stages of potential and proposed projects with questions relating to permitting processes, zoning compliance, engineering standards and land use policy considerations.

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View of Shrewsbury Street Restaurants

Start a Business

Whether you are starting a business or already have an established business, the staff of the Economic Development Office are ready to offer innovative municipal support for business development or discuss any issues or questions you may have about the City.

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Contact Information

Address

Economic Development
City Hall 4th Floor
455 Main Street
Worcester, MA 01608

Contact

Phone: 508-799-1400
Fax: 508-799-1406
Email Us

Hours

Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.