Boston / Cambridge Business Grants by Industry

Agency: Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC)

This program defines the Massachusetts economy. It offers a suite of tax incentives (Investment Tax Credit, FDA User Fee Credit, Jobs Credit) to bio firms. Crucially, many of these credits are 90% refundable—meaning if you are a pre-revenue startup with no tax bill, the state cuts you a check for cash.

Agency: Commonwealth Corporation

Funded by employers themselves, the WTFP provides grants to train current and newly hired employees. The "General Program" allows for large-scale training initiatives (up to 2 years). The "Express Program" offers smaller, faster grants (up to $30k) for off-the-shelf courses for small businesses.

Agency: MassVentures

START is a catalyst for SBIR Phase II winners. It provides non-dilutive grant funding to help companies commercialize the technology they developed with federal funds. It is a "stage-gated" competition, where winners can receive up to $800,000 in total grants over three years.