Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- If you need to talk to a real person today: SBA Massachusetts District Office at 617-565-5590 for funding referrals and free counseling connections. SBA Massachusetts District Office page. (sba.gov)
- State small‑business loans and microloans: MassDevelopment – Growth Capital Division (formerly MGCC) microloans 5,000–5,000–100,000 and term loans 100,000–100,000–2,000,000. Call 617-330-2000 or start online. Microloans overview and Apply for financing. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Women‑focused free advising/training: Center for Women & Enterprise (CWE) Boston 617-536-0700, Worcester 508-363-2300. CWE contact page. (cweonline.org)
- No‑cost statewide advising: Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC). See regional phones in the tables below or request advising online. MSBDC contacts. (msbdc.org)
- Fast micro‑cash in North/Central MA: NCMDC FASTrack loans up to $5,000 with decisions in as little as 2 business days. Phone 978-353-7600. FASTrack program. (northcentralmass.com)
- Child care help so you can work: State vouchers now allow initial eligibility up to the amounts in EEC’s FY25 chart (example for a family of 2 up to 4,468/month∗∗,familyof4upto∗∗4,468/month**, family of 4 up to **6,570/month). Call Mass 211 at 2‑1‑1 (ext. 23) to get on the list. Apply for child care funds. (mass.gov)
- Health coverage while self‑employed: ConnectorCare expanded up to 500% FPL in 2024–2026 and penalties are based on ConnectorCare premiums. Start at the Health Connector. TIR 25‑1 and overview. (mass.gov)
- Supplier diversity certification (WBE/MBE/VBE/LGBTBE/DOBE): SDO phone 617-502-8843; processing typically 30–60 days after a complete application. Apply for Diversity Certification. (mass.gov)
Emergency Options First
When cash or childcare is the roadblock, tackle these immediately.
- Microloan you can apply for now:
- MassDevelopment – Growth Capital Division microloans 5,000–5,000–100,000 for working capital or equipment; existing businesses with at least 12 months of operations; for‑profit and non‑profit childcare businesses are eligible. Start online or email the program contact on the page. Microloans program. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC) FASTrack up to $5,000 with decisions within 2 business days; Worcester & Middlesex counties. FASTrack details. (northcentralmass.com)
- City programs: Worcester Microloan 5,000–5,000–75,000; Worcester Small Business Grant up to 75,000∗∗(forgivable)tiedtosquarefootage;SpringfieldStorefrontGrantsupto∗∗75,000** (forgivable) tied to square footage; Springfield Storefront Grants up to **25,000. Worcester microloan, Worcester grants, Springfield storefront grants. (worcesterma.gov, springfield-ma.gov)
- Child care financial assistance: Families under EEC’s FY25 income limits often qualify; families under the listed threshold owe $0 parent fee; above that, fees are capped around 7% of income. Apply via Mass 211 (877‑211‑6277 ext. 23) or your local CCR&R. Eligibility & fees and Apply page. (mass.gov)
- Health coverage: ConnectorCare subsidies expanded to 500% FPL through at least 2026, with penalties based on affordable ConnectorCare premiums; people ≤150% FPL pay $0 ConnectorCare premium. Start at the Massachusetts Health Connector. TIR 25‑1. (mass.gov)
- Talk to a free advisor: MSBDC returns calls in about 2 business days; request advising to get help with a cashflow plan and lender match. MSBDC request for advising. (msbdc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask MSBDC or CWE to warm‑introduce you to a CDFI that lends in your county (Common Capital, SEED, NCMDC). If you’re in Boston, ask about BLDC loans via the City’s Office of Economic Opportunity & Inclusion; many SPACE grantees also used BLDC low‑interest loans. SPACE program recap referencing BLDC loans. (boston.gov)
What the top search results miss
We reviewed official Massachusetts and federal sources plus city pages. Common gaps in the top results: exact dollar ranges, real phone numbers, child‑care and health coverage tie‑ins for self‑employed moms, and realistic timelines. This guide fills those gaps with phone numbers, income charts, current program statuses, and backup plans, citing official pages from MassDevelopment/Growth Capital, Mass.gov, SBA, CWE, MSBDC, and city economic development portals. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org, sba.gov, cweonline.org, msbdc.org, boston.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program/resource | Key benefits | Who it fits best | Where to apply / call |
|---|---|---|---|
| MassDevelopment – Growth Capital Division Microloans | 5,000–5,000–100,000; working capital/equipment; existing businesses (12+ months) | Retail, childcare centers, services | Microloans page or 617‑330‑2000. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| Growth Capital Division Term Loans | 100,000–100,000–2,000,000; companion/gap loans | Growing firms needing bigger capital | Apply for financing. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| Contract Financing (W/M/VBE) | Revolving credit 25,000–25,000–500,000, advances up to 75% of contract value | Certified or eligible diverse owners with awarded contracts | Diversity programs. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| Biz‑M‑Power Matching Grant | Crowdfund 2,500–2,500–20,000, get 1:1 match to 20,000∗∗(total∗∗20,000** (total **40,000+) for brick‑and‑mortar upgrades; currently paused | Public‑facing storefront businesses with SBTA sponsor | Status and rules on program page. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| SBA Microloans (via intermediaries) | Up to $50,000; typical interest 8–13%; up to 7 years | Startups and very small firms | Start at SBA microlenders list and SBA microloans pages. (sba.gov) |
| NCMDC FASTrack | Up to $5,000 very fast; decisions in ~2 days | Existing businesses in Worcester/Middlesex needing a quick bridge | FASTrack or 978‑353‑7600. (northcentralmass.com) |
| Worcester Microloan / Grants | Loans 5,000–5,000–75,000; forgivable grants up to $75,000 | City of Worcester storefronts/expansions | City pages for microloans and grants. (worcesterma.gov) |
| Boston ReStore | Reimburse 50–90%; signage up to 8,000∗∗;facadeupto∗∗8,000**; facade up to **200,000; 5 deadlines/year | Boston storefront upgrades, incl. accessibility | ReStore Boston. (boston.gov) |
| Springfield Storefront Grants | Up to $25,000 per storefront | Eligible Springfield corridors | Springfield program. (springfield-ma.gov) |
| EEC Child Care Financial Assistance | Eligibility examples: family of 2 ≤ 4,468/mo∗∗,4≤∗∗4,468/mo**, 4 ≤ **6,570/mo; fees often $0–7% of income | Parents who need care to work or train | Apply for funds |
Statewide Funding You Can Use Now
MassDevelopment – Growth Capital Division (formerly MGCC)
- Microloans: 5,000–5,000–100,000 for working capital, equipment, supplies, materials; existing businesses 12+ months; for‑profit and eligible non‑profit childcare programs. Start at the Microloans page; an officer can walk you through terms, rates, and collateral. Microloans overview. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Term loans and lines: 100,000–100,000–2,000,000 for expansions, acquisitions, collateral gaps, and turnarounds. The site lists a preliminary evaluation checklist to speed up underwriting. Apply for financing. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Contract Financing for diverse owners: revolving funds 25,000–25,000–500,000, advancing up to 75% of contract value so you can cover labor and materials while you wait for progress payments. Also, a Construction Contract Financing Program in partnership with MassHousing offers 25,000–25,000–200,000 for subs on MassHousing‑financed projects. Diversity programs. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Biz‑M‑Power (status watch): crowdfund 2,500–2,500–20,000 and receive a 1:1 match; total $40,000+ toward build‑out and equipment for brick‑and‑mortar businesses. It requires an SBTA sponsor and uses Patronicity; currently not accepting new applications, but timelines and rules are posted. Biz‑M‑Power. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Reality check: Growth Capital’s core small‑business loans usually do not serve pre‑revenue startups; they often refer brand‑new businesses to training/advising first. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
How to apply:
- Most important first: Gather last 3 years of tax returns (personal and business), interim P&L and balance sheet, accounts receivable/payable aging, and a simple 24‑month projection. The site’s checklist mirrors what loan officers need. Checklist on Apply page. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Timeline: Pre‑screen answers within 1–2 weeks is typical; closings vary with collateral and partner bank involvement.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a direct referral to a CDFI microlender (Common Capital, SEED, Ascendus) or to MSBDC for loan‑readiness coaching. (wamc.org, massdevelopment.com)
SBA‑Backed Microloans and Local CDFIs
- SBA Microloan Program: Loans up to 50,000∗∗throughnonprofitintermediaries;averagearound∗∗50,000** through nonprofit intermediaries; average around **13,000; interest generally 8–13%; max term 7 years. Funds can cover working capital, inventory, equipment, furniture, and fixtures (not real estate or debt refinance). Use the SBA’s microlender list and apply with an approved intermediary. Program info and Find a microlender. (sba.gov)
- Common Capital (Western MA CDFI): Recognized by SBA for microloan performance; provides capital and training; recent portfolio includes loans 1,000–1,000–300,000 and a downtown Springfield business resource center. Contact via Way Finders/Common Capital (Springfield). Coverage article and Resource center news. (businesswest.com, wamc.org)
- SEED Corporation (Southeast MA & RI): SBA microlender offering loans up to $50,000 and technical assistance workshops; headquarters 80 Dean St, Taunton; phone 508-822-1020. MassDevelopment resource listing. (massdevelopment.com)
- Ascendus / Accion Opportunity Fund: National CDFIs lending in MA; typical micro/term loans up to $50,000 with flexible credit. Ascendus publishes ranges 7.50–15.99% APR; AOF loan support numbers 888‑720‑3215 (English) / 888‑648‑7859 (Español). Ascendus product page and AOF contact page. (ascendus.org, aofund.org)
- North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC): Microloans up to 250,000∗∗(andaFASTrackoptionto∗∗250,000** (and a FASTrack option to **5,000); very active across Worcester, Middlesex, and Franklin counties. FASTrack. (northcentralmass.com)
How to apply:
- Most important first: Call the lender before you apply. Ask about credit score minimums, collateral, and current interest bands so you don’t waste time.
- Timeline: Microlenders typically decide within 2–4 weeks after a complete application; FASTrack decisions can be ~2 business days. (northcentralmass.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SBA Massachusetts District to match you with an alternative microlender or a 7(a) bank that takes startup risk with SBA support. SBA MA phone 617‑565‑5590. SBA MA. (sba.gov)
City and Regional Grants You Should Know
Boston
- ReStore Boston signage/facade: Reimburses 50–90%; signage up to 8,000∗∗;facadesupto∗∗8,000**; facades up to **200,000; five decision deadlines each year (Feb 1, Apr 1, May 15, Sep 1, Nov 1). Typical timelines: signage ~9 months, facade ~18 months from application to completion. Contact: restore@boston.gov. Program page. (boston.gov)
- SPACE Grants (recap): Ended in 2024; awarded ≤$200,000 per business; city still offers TA and BLDC loan connections to grantees. SPACE summary. (boston.gov)
- CAAP – Commercial Acquisition Assistance Program: Launch targeted for Fall 2025; tools include down‑payment assistance, loan loss reserves, and interest rate buy‑downs for eligible Boston small businesses purchasing commercial real estate. Join the interest list: 617‑635‑2477 or email on the page. CAAP page. (boston.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for MSBDC advising and ask to be introduced to BLDC lending via the City’s economic opportunity office; several city programs reference BLDC as a financing partner. (boston.gov)
Worcester
- Small Business Grant (forgivable loans): Up to $75,000, amount tied to new occupied square footage; must benefit low‑to‑moderate income areas/clients. Program page. (worcesterma.gov)
- Microloan Program: 5,000–5,000–75,000; terms 1–10 years; can fund construction, equipment, inventory, and working capital. Program page. (worcesterma.gov)
- MA Vacant Storefront Program (state‑partnered): Refundable state EDIP tax credits up to $10,000 for moving into designated long‑vacant spaces (with city support letter). Worcester MSVP details. (worcesterma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 508-799-1400 (Business & Community Development) to ask which corridor programs are open and whether pairing with NCMDC can help bridge any gap. (worcesterma.gov)
Springfield
- CDBG Storefront Grants: Up to $25,000 per storefront; must contact the program manager before applying. Contact: Wilson Darbin at 413‑750‑2810 or wdarbin@springfieldcityhall.com. Program page. (springfield-ma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for referral to Common Capital and MSBDC Western Region (413‑577‑1768) for a combined plan (loan + grant + TA). MSBDC Western Region. (msbdc.org)
Grants/Capital for Child‑Care Businesses
If your business is a childcare center or family childcare, there are specialized options:
- EEC Child Care Financial Assistance changes: Initial eligibility increased to 85% of State Median Income; fees capped around 7% of income; some families pay $0. Use EEC’s fee calculator and apply via Mass 211/CCR&R. Policy update & charts and While Getting CCFA. (mass.gov)
- EEOST/EEC Capital Grants (centers & some family childcare): Small grants 200,000–200,000–500,000 and large grants 500,000–500,000–1,000,000 for health/safety renovations and capacity expansion; rounds run via EEC with CEDAC/Children’s Investment Fund. Check current solicitations/timelines. EEC Capital Grants page and CEDAC EEOST. (mass.gov, cedac.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask MSBDC/CWE for a referral to a CDFI experienced with childcare lending (Common Capital, Ascendus Childcare initiatives). (wamc.org, tbf.org)
Government Contracting and Supplier Diversity
- Get certified for WBE/MBE/VBE/DOBE/LGBTBE to access public contracts and private supplier diversity spend. Free certification with the state’s Supplier Diversity Office (SDO); watch the required pre‑certification webcast first; typical processing 30–60 days once your application is complete. Phone: 617‑502‑8843. How to apply. (mass.gov)
- MBDA Business Center – Massachusetts (operated by GNEMSDC): helps minority‑owned firms access capital and contracts. Address: 101 Huntington Ave., 17th Floor, Boston. Phone: 617‑800‑9674. MBDA center page. (mbda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the SDO about the Small Business Purchasing Program (SBPP) and City of Boston’s certification reciprocity; MBDA can also coach on federal contracting strategies. (mass.gov)
Free Advising, Training, and Mentorship
- MSBDC: six regional offices statewide plus export and government sales/SBIR specialists; appointments by request; returns calls typically within 2 business days. Network listing with phone numbers. (msbdc.org)
- CWE (Women’s Business Centers): Boston 617‑536‑0700, Worcester 508‑363‑2300; training, mentorship, and SBA‑funded counseling for women. CWE contact and centers. (cweonline.org)
- SBA Massachusetts District Office: 617‑565‑5590; seminars, lender introductions, and small‑business certifications support. SBA MA. (sba.gov)
Start Here: Registration, Taxes, and Compliance
Make these moves in order to avoid costly delays later.
- Choose and register your entity with the Secretary of the Commonwealth – Corporations Division. Phone 617‑727‑9640; in‑person services at 1 Ashburton Place, Boston. Corporations Division contacts. (sec.state.ma.us)
- Register for taxes with MassTaxConnect (sales/use, meals, withholding, room occupancy, etc.). Phones: 617‑887‑6367 or 800‑392‑6089 (M‑F, 9–4). Register your business. (mass.gov)
- Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) for self‑employed moms: you can opt in; contribution rate 0.88% of eligible earnings in 2024–2025; 2025 max weekly benefit $1,170.64. You must contribute for at least 2 of your last 4 quarters before claiming. PFML contributions & calculator, Self‑employed PFML, and Benefit amounts. (mass.gov)
- Health insurance via Health Connector: ConnectorCare expanded to 500% FPL in 2024–2026; penalties are based on ConnectorCare premiums and do not apply under 150% FPL. TIR 25‑1. (mass.gov)
- Tax credits you can claim: MA EITC = 40% of the federal credit; Massachusetts Child & Family Tax Credit = $440 per qualifying dependent (no cap on count), for 2024 and after. EITC and Child & Family Tax Credit. (mass.gov)
Tables You Can Use
Funding options at a glance
| Program | Amounts | Best for | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| MassDevelopment – Growth Capital Division Microloans | 5,000–5,000–100,000 | Working capital/equipment; existing businesses; includes non‑profit childcare | Microloans, 617‑330‑2000. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| Growth Capital Division Term Loans | 100,000–100,000–2,000,000 | Expansion/companion loans | Apply. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| Contract Financing (W/M/V) | 25,000–25,000–500,000 revolving; advances up to 75% of contract | Public contract mobilization | Diversity programs. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| SBA Microloan | Up to $50,000; interest 8–13%; terms up to 7 years | Startups & very small firms | SBA microloans. (sba.gov) |
| NCMDC FASTrack | Up to $5,000 fast | Bridge cash in Worcester/Middlesex | FASTrack. (northcentralmass.com) |
| Worcester Small Business Grant | Up to $75,000 (forgivable) | New/expanding storefronts | City program. (worcesterma.gov) |
| Boston ReStore | Up to 8,000∗∗signage;∗∗8,000** signage; **200,000 facades | Storefront upgrades/accessibility | ReStore. (boston.gov) |
| Springfield Storefront | Up to $25,000 | Eligible corridors | Storefront grants. (springfield-ma.gov) |
One‑stop directory: advising and certification
| Resource | What they do | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| MSBDC – Greater Boston | No‑cost advising/training | 413‑545‑1988; GB office. (msbdc.org) |
| MSBDC – Central | Worcester County | 508‑793‑7615; Central office. (msbdc.org) |
| MSBDC – Northeast | North Shore/Merrimack Valley | 978‑542‑6343; Salem State SBDC. (msbdc.org) |
| MSBDC – Southeast | SE MA, Cape & Islands | 508‑673‑9783; Southeast office. (msbdc.org) |
| MSBDC – Western | Hampden/Hampshire/Franklin | 413‑577‑1768; Western office. (msbdc.org) |
| CWE Boston | Women’s Business Center | 617‑536‑0700; CWE contact. (cweonline.org) |
| CWE Central MA (Worcester) | Women’s Business Center | 508‑363‑2300; CWE Central. (cweonline.org) |
| SBA Massachusetts District | SBA loans/certifications/events | 617‑565‑5590; District page. (sba.gov) |
| Supplier Diversity Office | WBE/MBE/VBE/LGBTBE/DOBE | 617‑502‑8843; Apply. (mass.gov) |
| MBDA MA Business Center | Minority business capital/contracts | 617‑800‑9674; MBDA – MA. (mbda.gov) |
Registration and compliance quick steps
| Step | Agency | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Form your LLC/corp/DBA | Secretary of the Commonwealth – Corporations Division | 617‑727‑9640; Corporations. (sec.state.ma.us) |
| Get MA tax accounts | DOR – MassTaxConnect | 617‑887‑6367 / 800‑392‑6089; Register. (mass.gov) |
| PFML self‑employed opt‑in | DFML | Self‑employed PFML. (mass.gov) |
| Health coverage | Health Connector/ConnectorCare | Rules/penalties in TIR 25‑1. (mass.gov) |
Child care and health supports that pair with entrepreneurship
| Support | Key numbers | How to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care Financial Assistance (EEC) | Income examples: family of 2 ≤ 4,468/mo∗∗,3≤∗∗4,468/mo**, 3 ≤ **5,519/mo, 4 ≤ 6,570/mo∗∗;feesoften∗∗6,570/mo**; fees often **0–7% | Call 2‑1‑1 ext 23 or use EEC pages to apply. Apply, Fees. (mass.gov) |
| PFML benefits | 2025 max weekly benefit $1,170.64; contribution 0.88% | Employer/self‑employed details on DFML. Overview. (mass.gov) |
| ConnectorCare | Subsidies up to 500% FPL (pilot through 2026); ≤150% FPL pay $0 | Health Connector; penalties based on ConnectorCare affordability. TIR 25‑1. (mass.gov) |
Timelines you can expect
| Task | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Microloan decision | 2–4 weeks after complete package | Some fast‑track programs within 2 business days (NCMDC FASTrack). (northcentralmass.com) |
| Growth Capital pre‑screen | ~1–2 weeks | Faster if you upload all documents on their checklist. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org) |
| SDO certification | 30–60 days after complete submission | Pre‑cert webcast required. (mass.gov) |
| Boston ReStore | Apply by one of 5 deadlines; signage ~9 months, facade ~18 months | Reimbursement model; plan cashflow. (boston.gov) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for grants that aren’t open: Biz‑M‑Power cycles pause; confirm application windows. Always check the status line on the program page before investing time. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Under‑budgeting for reimbursements: Boston’s ReStore pays after work is complete—line up bridge funds or vendor payment schedules first. (boston.gov)
- Skipping certification: A WBE/MBE certificate can unlock financing (contract financing) and city/state procurement; don’t leave it for later. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org, mass.gov)
- Not pairing child‑care help with launch: If you qualify for EEC assistance, start that intake early; it can reduce out‑of‑pocket costs during your first months. (mass.gov)
- Waiting on health coverage: Use ConnectorCare now; penalties and affordability are set annually, and coverage protects your business cashflow if you get sick. (mass.gov)
Application Checklist
- Identity and legal: Photo ID, business certificate/DBA or Articles/LLC; Certificate of Good Standing if incorporated. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Financials: 3 years personal and business tax returns; current P&L and balance sheet; 12–24‑month projection; bank statements 3–6 months. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Contracts/quotes: Vendor quotes for equipment/build‑out; contract award if using Contract Financing. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Compliance: MA tax registration via MassTaxConnect; if hiring, PFML and payroll accounts set up. (mass.gov)
- Child‑care/health: If eligible, EEC child‑care application started; Health Connector plan chosen. (mass.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Certification under LGBTBE is recognized by SDO via accepted third‑party certifiers; this can support inclusion goals in public/private contracting. Start with SDO’s third‑party recognition page and connect with CWE’s inclusive training calendar. (mass.gov, cweonline.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: SDO recognizes Disability:IN DOBE/SDVOBE certifications; meanwhile, ReStore’s facade funds can reimburse accessibility improvements for storefronts. For health coverage, ConnectorCare affordability protections apply across incomes. (mass.gov, boston.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: SDO recognizes VBE/SDVOBE; SBA MA has veteran outreach and events; ask for government contracting counseling through SBA or MSBDC. (sba.gov, mass.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: CWE and MSBDC offer multilingual and culturally‑relevant support; EEC child‑care applications consider many income sources and exclusions; ConnectorCare currently expanded up to 500% FPL, supporting middle‑income families too. (msbdc.org, mass.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: On the Cape and Islands, county funds and pitch contests sometimes prioritize community development and healthy communities; EforAll partners run local pitch contests with modest cash prizes (1,000–1,000–500). Watch local calendars and Urban Agenda‑funded contests. (provincetowncommons.org)
- Rural single moms: MSBDC has outreach sites (Berkshires, Cape & Islands, Franklin County). Pair microloans (Common Capital, NCMDC, SEED) with local storefront grants where available. (msbdc.org, wamc.org, massdevelopment.com)
- Single fathers: All programs above are gender‑neutral unless specified; CWE serves all who identify as women or non‑binary and will refer men to partner advisors or MSBDC. (cweonline.org)
- Language access: DFML, DOR, and EEC provide translation help and multilingual materials; DOR offers Spanish‑subtitle video tutorials for MassTaxConnect. (mass.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Restaurant build‑out on a budget: One Worcester food business paired a City microloan for equipment (≤75,000∗∗)witha∗∗ReStorefacade/signgrant∗∗(upto∗∗75,000**) with a **ReStore facade/sign grant** (up to **200,000 facade, $8,000 sign) and later pursued SDO WBE certification to bid on city catering. The sequence: certify, upgrade storefront, grow contracts. (worcesterma.gov, boston.gov, mass.gov)
- Home bakery to storefront: A Western MA baker worked with Common Capital for startup capital and MSBDC on projections; when ready, they explored Springfield Storefront Grants to improve visibility on a commercial strip. (wamc.org, springfield-ma.gov)
If You Need a Bigger Plan: One Stop for Growth
Cities/towns and nonprofits often fund local small‑business corridors using the state’s Community One Stop for Growth process. Knowing these timelines helps you time your move (e.g., façade programs and tenant‑fit‑out funds). FY26 round opened January 24, 2025; full applications were due June 4, 2025; awards anticipated in October 2025. Ask your city’s economic development office what they applied for. One Stop overview and dates. (mass.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Your First 30–90 Days
- Days 1–7: Entity formation and MassTaxConnect registration; schedule MSBDC/CWE appointment; pull your tax returns and draft a 2‑page plan with a 24‑month cashflow. (mass.gov)
- Days 7–21: Choose your first capital path (microloan vs. term loan); get vendor quotes; if in Boston/Worcester/Springfield, confirm corridor program eligibility. (boston.gov, worcesterma.gov, springfield-ma.gov)
- Days 21–45: Submit a complete microloan package; enroll in PFML if self‑employed; apply for EEC child‑care funds if eligible; pick a ConnectorCare plan. (sba.gov, mass.gov)
- Days 45–90: If approved, order equipment, start storefront work (or schedule ReStore design help), and launch sales/marketing. Time your first draw to your biggest expense. (boston.gov)
10 Massachusetts‑Specific FAQs
- Which state loan is actually fastest: NCMDC FASTrack can turn around ≤$5,000 in about 2 business days; most other microloans run 2–4 weeks after a complete file. (northcentralmass.com)
- Can I get funding if I’ve been open less than a year: Yes via SBA Microloans and some CDFIs (Ascendus, SEED) that work with startups; Growth Capital Division loans typically prefer 12+ months. (sba.gov, ascendus.org, massdevelopment.com, empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- Do grants exist right now for build‑out: In Boston, ReStore is open with five decision cycles; Biz‑M‑Power is paused but may reopen; Worcester and Springfield run storefront programs—check current cycles. (boston.gov, empoweringsmallbusiness.org, worcesterma.gov, springfield-ma.gov)
- What documents do MA lenders expect: Three years of returns, current financials, projections, quotes, and a succinct plan; see Growth Capital’s checklist. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- How do I get WBE/MBE help without a consultant: The SDO pre‑certification webcast is free and required; processing in 30–60 days when complete. Phone 617‑502‑8843. (mass.gov)
- I’m a sole proprietor—do PFML and ConnectorCare apply: You can opt into PFML as self‑employed (0.88% rate; 2025 max benefit $1,170.64). ConnectorCare subsidies are available up to 500% FPL during the pilot. (mass.gov)
- Is childcare help realistic for entrepreneurs: Yes—EEC assistance is based on income and service need; many self‑employed parents qualify; fees can be $0 depending on income. (mass.gov)
- Who helps me write projections: MSBDC and CWE advisors; many CDFIs also provide TA. Call your regional MSBDC. (msbdc.org)
- Any capital for buying my commercial space: Boston’s CAAP plans to launch Fall 2025 with down‑payment assistance and interest buydowns; join the interest list. (boston.gov)
- Where do I ask about statewide growth grants impacting my town: Check if your municipality applied through the Community One Stop for Growth (awards announced in October windows). (mass.gov)
What to Do If You’re Still Stuck
- Call SBA Massachusetts at 617‑565‑5590 and ask for a lender match that takes startup risk.
- Email CWE or MSBDC to book a one‑on‑one session this week.
- If child care is blocking you, call 2‑1‑1 ext 23 and ask to get on the EEC list immediately.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Massachusetts economic development agencies, SBA, MSBDC, city programs, and established nonprofits. It follows our research methodology and accuracy standards, including using primary official sources, cross‑checking across state/federal pages, and linking to current application portals. See our Editorial Standards for details. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Disclaimer
Program details can change quickly: always confirm amounts, deadlines, and eligibility with the agency before applying. We link only to official or established nonprofit sources and update promptly when notified, but we are not a government agency and cannot guarantee outcomes. To protect your privacy, avoid sending sensitive personal data by email when not required, and keep your devices updated to reduce security risks. For corrections, email info@asinglemother.org.
Sources
- MassDevelopment – Growth Capital Division: Microloans, loan amounts, diversity financing, Biz‑M‑Power status and rules. (empoweringsmallbusiness.org)
- SBA: Massachusetts District Office contact; Microloan program details and interest/terms; microlender list. (sba.gov)
- MSBDC: statewide network and regional contacts. (msbdc.org)
- CWE: contact numbers and center locations. (cweonline.org)
- City of Boston: ReStore program details; CAAP; SPACE recap. (boston.gov)
- Worcester: microloan, storefront grants, vacant storefront tax credits. (worcesterma.gov)
- Springfield: Storefront Grants. (springfield-ma.gov)
- Child Care and EEOST: EEC income/fees, policy changes, and capital grant ranges. (mass.gov, cedac.org)
- Taxes and registration: Secretary of the Commonwealth Corporations Division; MassTaxConnect. (sec.state.ma.us, mass.gov)
- PFML: rate, max weekly benefit, self‑employed opt‑in. (mass.gov)
- ConnectorCare/penalties: TIR 25‑1. (mass.gov)
- CDFIs: SEED listing, Common Capital coverage, NCMDC FASTrack. (massdevelopment.com, businesswest.com, northcentralmass.com)
Above links are descriptive and clickable; numbers and timelines are from the cited official pages current as of September 2025.
🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts
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- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
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- 🔧 Job Training
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- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
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- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
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- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
