WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Small businesses in Westfield that have been in business for three years or less may qualify for free training.
The City of Westfield announced that its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is funding the Business Blueprint Program through Valley Community Development and Cities Gateway consultants. A Northampton-based nonprofit called Valley Community Development has provided technical assistance to more than 2,000 entrepreneurs.
Business Blueprint Program
The eight-week program beginning in March will help with business and financial planning, elevator pitches, leadership training and grant awards to strengthen infrastructure. Those interested should contact Jack Clemente at 413-478-3089 or jack@citiesgateway.com. The deadline to apply is Feb. 10, and businesses must be located in Westfield, earn no more than 80% of the area’s median income, and have been in business for no more than three years.
“The CDBG program provides the City with some flexibility in developing a business assistance program for small businesses,” Mayor McCabe said. “This project is a new venture for Westfield because Valley CDC and its team have the network and experience to provide valuable training in budgeting, forecasting, improving internal operations and identifying efficiencies,” he continued.
