Scale Program Participants to Support Small Businesses Ability to Access to City Contracting Opportunities

Mayor Michelle Wu announced the 27 businesses selected for Boston's SCALE Program, aimed at enhancing the capacity of minority- and women-owned businesses to secure city contracts. The program provides six months of industry-specific technical assistance and grants up to $200,000, funded by a total of $6. 5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. In Fiscal Year 2024, Boston awarded $1. 9 billion in contracts, with $230.

1 million allocated to MWBEs, a 40 percent increase from the previous year. Councilor Brian Worrell stressed the importance of making city contracts more competitive and accessible for minority-owned businesses, while Segun Idowu noted the program's goal to eliminate barriers for local firms. The SCALE Program specifically targets industries such as construction, design, and food services, which represent a large share of the city's public contracts. A committee evaluated over 180 applicants based on their capacity-building narratives and commitment to public contracting. This initiative not only supports local businesses but also aims to strengthen the overall economy by fostering a competitive marketplace.

Mayor Wu expressed excitement for the program, emphasizing its role in showcasing Boston's diverse small business landscape.