The Merrimack Valley Small Business Coalition was formally launched in response to the Columbia Gas disaster with a focus on crisis response, recovery, and resiliency of the small businesses in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover. This coalition continued to evolve, grow, and provide needed support during the COVID pandemic, which immediately followed the gas disaster.

 

The coalition has become a model for systems thinking, ecosystem building and power of collective action in support of small businesses. The coalition has expanded into new communities and continues to integrate new partners from within and outside the county. As the funding from Columbia Gas disaster dissipates, the coalition has attracted state and federal monies and continues to aspire to support small businesses into the future while ensuring the Merrimack Valley is the best place for small businesses (primarily minority owned) to include, grow, and thrive.

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The Lawrence partnership is proud to manage this group of innovative professionals.

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Visit WeAreMV, the Merrimack Valley's regional business and economic development site managed by the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission in partnership with 15 cities and towns.

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