The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), in partnership with Small Business Strong and Mill Cities Community Investments, have launched the Minority Certification Cohort Program. The program, funded by the Eastern Bank Foundation, will guide Merrimack Valley businesses through the process of achieving state certification as women or minority owned.

Throughout this program, cohort participants will gain invaluable access to the tools, resources, and support they need to grow their businesses. In addition to the ultimate goal of attaining certification, the program will provide business owners with a dedicated business advisor to assist them with other operational challenges.

The program’s kickoff event was held at the UMass Lowell iHub back in September, where small business owners from Lawrence, Haverhill, Methuen, and North Andover gathered to meet with their fellow cohort members as well as the technical advisors who will be assisting them through this process. These entrepreneurs represent a diverse range of industries – including restaurants, accounting, the auto industry, home improvement, and transportation. While their backgrounds and industries may vary, they share common concerns – from securing contracts to expanding their marketing efforts. This program will serve as a great opportunity for local business owners to convene and learn from their peers and accomplished business advisors.

The program will consist of seven virtual classroom sessions and three in-person events, including a fair on Accessing Capital, which cohort members attended on October 11th at the UMass Lowell iHub in Haverhill. Stay tuned for more details on this program and future events!