Opportunities for Growth from State Resources in Manufacturing

The Chamber’s Opportunities for Growth from State Resources in Manufacturing event highlighted the wide range of programs and partnerships available to support Massachusetts manufacturers in expanding efficiently and sustainably.

Maria Nigro Di Stefano, Northeast Regional Director at the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD), discussed the state’s tax credit programs and the Business Front Door online portal. Through this portal, businesses can create a profile and be matched with a dedicated navigator who provides personalized guidance, connects them to grants and programs, and streamlines access to state resources. Di Stefano emphasized that even if a business doesn’t initially qualify for a program, MOBD staff will help identify challenges and connect owners to partners who can help. The administration’s focus is on making it easier for businesses to operate and grow effectively.

During the event, attendees shared common challenges faced by manufacturers, including extensive administrative requirements, rising production costs that outpace sales prices, and issues related to testing, production, and product shelf life. Solutions such as the Manufacturer’s Tax Credit and sales tax exemptions on utility bills (for propane and electricity) were highlighted as ways the state can help offset these burdens.

SGM Eric Nelson and Bridgetann Tavares from MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center described how their organization supports both employers and job seekers. Their primary goal is to connect people with jobs and upskill workers through federally funded training programs, including certifications in areas like project management. Bridgetann also works directly with employers to post job openings, understand on-site challenges, and connect businesses to opportunities such as OSHA safety grants. Even when they can’t directly meet a need, they ensure businesses are referred to someone who can.

Sean Kenney, Vice President of the Massachusetts Manufacturing Energy Collaborative (MassMEC), explained how the organization helps manufacturers reduce energy costs and improve competitiveness. MassMEC focuses on securing the lowest available electricity and natural gas supply rates, securing sales tax refunds where applicable, and identifying potential utility billing errors. MassMEC also assists with energy efficiency upgrades, including lighting improvements and custom utility rebates, as well as on-site solar, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Andrew Herlihy, Division Director in Haverhill’s Community Development Department, shared how local government connects businesses to available resources and partners, emphasizing that no concern is too small to address.

Across all presentations, one central theme emerged: the state’s business support network is deeply interconnected. When a business reaches out to one agency or contact, they are effectively connected to all, ensuring no business has to navigate growth challenges alone. The message was clear: there are many programs, many people, and more help available than most businesses realize. Each partner is committed to walking manufacturers through every step of the process, not simply telling them what to do.