Join us for a practical conversation on leasing, permitting, and what it takes to go from idea to storefront.

At the center of the region’s transit network, Downtown Boston offers unmatched access to workers, visitors, and residents, along with a dense mix of retail, dining, and cultural destinations. Downtown is one of the most visible and dynamic places to launch or expand a business — but understanding how to make it work requires the right information and connections. 

As part of Small Business Month, the Downtown Boston Alliance is convening a focused panel of practitioners actively shaping the Downtown retail landscape. Speakers include representatives from the Downtown Boston Alliance, commercial real estate, property ownership, the City of Boston’s small business team, and a business owner who has recently navigated the process. 

We’ll walk through what it takes to go from concept to opening: how to identify and evaluate space, how leasing and permitting work, and what resources are available to support your business. 

Following the panel, attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with speakers and fellow participants. For those actively exploring a location, this is a chance to begin conversations that can lead to next steps in Downtown Boston. 

Light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited and advance registration is encouraged.

We'll cover eligible project types, application tips, and share examples of successful efforts.

This meeting will be held on zoom. Please register below to receive a secure zoom meeting link. 

This meeting will be held on zoom. Please register below to receive a secure zoom meeting link. 

We will review eligibility requirements, the application process, and more. Our team is here to support you in bringing your vision to life for 2027.

Boston Centers for Youth & Families, the Public Facilities Department, the Mayor's Office of Housing, and Boston Public Schools are studying the feasibility of adding housing with a new community center and possibly an elementary school at the Jackson Mann School site in Allston-Brighton. The study tests a range of community center sizes based on the previously completed programming and siting study, as well as a mix of affordable and market-rate housing. 

The program provides landlords with incentives including signing bonuses, and a dedicated customer service provider throughout the leasing process and tenancy. Learn about the opportunities available and showcase your vacancies to individuals with vouchers who are ready to sign leases!

Learn More

Join us on Wednesday, May 27 to learn more about a variety of resources available to small businesses.

Hear from representatives of the following organizations:

• City of Boston Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion
• Retailers Association of Massachusetts
• Transamerica
• Boston Main Streets Foundation

This meeting will be held on zoom. Please register below to receive a secure zoom meeting link. 

We will review eligibility requirements, the application process, and more. Our team is here to support you in bringing your vision to life for 2027.

Join the online meeting

Would you like more affordable homeownership opportunities in your inbox? Sign up for the Boston Home Center's email list for the most up-to-date lottery listings!

Now entering it's 10th funding cycle, the CPA Grant Fund supports projects in affordable housing, open space and recreation, and historic preservation. Meet the team, explore the grant process, and get your questions answered. All are welcome! Please register below. 

MEETING LOCATION: 14 Green St Charlestown, MA 02129

TRANSIT OPTIONS: 

Orange Line: Community College Station

Bus: 92 or 93 Lines

Ferry: Navy Yard (F1)

Parking: Street parking; Nautica Garage nearby