Merrimack Valley Nonprofit Wins $73,205 Small Business Grant
MassDevelopment's technical assistance award will expand support for small businesses in Lawrence, Haverhill, and Methuen.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Financial Aid
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Merrimack Valley Economic Development Corporation, an affiliate nonprofit of the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, was awarded $73,205 through MassDevelopment's Small Business Technical Assistance Program on November 2, 2026. The award will expand small business support across the Merrimack Valley.
Why it matters
The program serves existing and emerging small businesses, with an emphasis on immigrant-owned, minority-owned, women-owned, and low- to moderate-income community businesses. Expanded technical assistance can help these owners access capital and financial management resources in Massachusetts.
The $73,205 award funds one-on-one business assistance, financial management, capital access, marketing, workshops, group training, and certification guidance. The extraction does not state how many businesses will be served.
The players
Merrimack Valley Economic Development Corporation
An affiliate nonprofit of the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission that supports small business development in the region.
MassDevelopment
The Massachusetts state economic development finance agency that administers the Small Business Technical Assistance Program.
The details
The program works alongside specialized consultants and community partners to deliver personalized assistance, workshops, and group training. Priority focus cities include Lawrence, Haverhill, and Methuen.
Timeline
- November 2, 2026: MassDevelopment award to Merrimack Valley Economic Development Corporation announced.
Program Context
This award is one of the regional allocations made through MassDevelopment's Small Business Technical Assistance Program, which targets immigrant-owned, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses across Massachusetts.
Small business owners in Massachusetts, particularly in Lawrence, Haverhill, and Methuen, may gain access to free one-on-one assistance, workshops, and capital access guidance. Owners can contact Merrimack Valley Economic Development Corporation to learn about available services.
The takeaway
Small business owners seeking financing and management support can explore technical assistance programs like this one before applying for capital. Early engagement with specialized consultants can clarify which services fit a business's stage.
Further reading
Explore more financial aid resources for Massachusetts small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WHAV.
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