FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 01/30/2026
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
508-782-8629
City of Framingham Announces Microenterprise Assistance Grant Program for Small Businesses
FRAMINGHAM –The City of Framingham is now accepting applications for its Microenterprise Assistance Program (MAP), a grant initiative designed to support small and start-up businesses located in Framingham.
The program is funded through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the City’s Community Development Program within the Division of Planning and Community Development.
The program will award 10 one-time grants of $7,200 to eligible microenterprises.
Funding is limited.
Preference will be given to first-time applicants.
Microenterprise Assistance Program is open to all business sectors legal under federal law, including industry, retail, services, agriculture, and tourism. The program is designed to assist entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional bank financing due to limited credit history, lack of collateral, or being early in their business development.
The City’s focus is on job creation, income growth, and strengthening the local economy.
City officials encourage small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply. Whether launching a new idea or working to grow an existing small business, this program is intended to provide meaningful support.
Eligibility Requirements
Businesses must be physically located in Framingham and submit a business plan as part of the application.
Start-up businesses must:
- Be owned by low- to moderate-income persons or
- Create jobs, the majority of which will be available to low- to moderate-income individuals.
Existing businesses must:
- Have five or fewer employees, including the owner
- Be owned by a low- or moderate-income person
- Use funds specifically to expand business offerings
Priority will be given to businesses located within low-income census tracts.
Allowable Uses of Funds
Grant funds may be used for:
- Payroll expenses
- Lease or business mortgage payments
- Purchase of equipment to expand business services or products
Application Process
- Prospective applicants contact the Community Development Program.
- Applicants complete and submit the grant application.
- Applications must be submitted no later than March 15, 2026.
- The City will review applications and income documentation.
- Approved applicants will receive a commitment letter and sign a grant agreement.
- Grant recipients must provide documentation showing how funds were used.
Applications are available in English, Portuguese (Brazilian), and Spanish on the City’s website at - Microenterprise Assistance Grant Program | City of Framingham, MA Official Website
Program Contact:
Nate Doyen-Charon
Community Development Coordinator
Planning & Community Development Division
Phone: 508-532-5457
Email: ndoyencharon@framinghamma.gov
Stay Informed
Residents are urged to follow official City communication channels for news and updates from the City of Framingham at:
- City website at www.framinghamMA.gov
- City social media channels including Facebook, X, Instagram, etc.
- The City’s Sunday newsletter (sign up here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/bFVxFV3)
- NotifyMe alert system for text and/or email alerts (sign up here: https://framinghamma.gov/list.aspx)
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