Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council Awards $25.5 Million in Tax Credits to Businesses to Create, Retain Jobs   Projects include investments in Hasbro, Voya Financial, and more; Tax credits will help spur 1,318 new jobs and more than $309 million in private investment

BOSTON - Today, the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) approved 11 projects for participation in the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), a program that seeks to create new jobs and help businesses grow by offering credits to lower taxes in exchange for job creation commitments.   These projects are expected to create 1,318 net new jobs, retain 1,262 jobs statewide, and leverage more than $309 million in private investment in exchange for $25.5 million in state tax credits. Seven of this round’s applicants are manufacturers and four are projects located in Gateway Cities. Included in this round’s award recipients is Hasbro, Inc., which will relocate its Rhode Island operations to Massachusetts, a move celebrated by Governor Healey earlier this month.   “Through the Mass Leads Act, we strengthened the Economic Development Incentive Program to make it more accessible, transparent, and focused on what matters most: helping businesses grow and create jobs here in Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. "These awards show that when we partner with companies across industries, we can attract major investments, expand opportunities in every region, and keep Massachusetts the best place to do business.”  “We’re proud to award 11 new Economic Development Incentive Program awards this round,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “With these awards, businesses now have resources to renovate facilities, invest in new manufacturing equipment, and create new jobs, driving economic growth in Gateway Cities and other regions.”  "Massachusetts makes smart investments that give our business community the resources they need to thrive,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “This round of Economic Development Incentive Program awards reflects the strength of our economy in important sectors like advanced manufacturing, climatetech, R&D technology, and the creative economy, and demonstrates our commitment to creating high-quality jobs across every region of the state.”  EDIP is designed to foster job creation and stimulate business growth. A company that participates in EDIP may receive state tax credits in exchange for a commitment to create new jobs, retain existing jobs, and commit private investment to the project. This new round of tax credits is the second set of awards since the Healey-Driscoll announced reforms to EDIP in April. Initiated by the Mass Leads Act, the new EDIP increases flexibility, transparency, and access for businesses, strengthening Massachusetts’ position as a top business environment.    The EDIP certified projects include:   Hasbro, Inc. – Boston  Hasbro is a leading games, IP and toy company known for iconic brands such as Monopoly, Play-Doh, Transformers and Magic: The Gathering. The company will invest $25 million in the project and create 700 jobs in Massachusetts. The EACC has approved $14 million in EDIP tax credits.  Voya Financial Inc. – Boston  Voya provides clients with a variety of financial services, including retirement, investment, and insurance. The project involves the opening of Voya's first Boston office, including an investment of $4 million and the creation of 220 net new full-time professional service jobs between October 2025 and December 2029. The EACC approved $3.3 million in EDIP tax credits.  Saint Gobain Ceramics & Plastics Inc. – Northborough  Saint Gobain is a material manufacturer seeking to invest $120 million to turn its 26-acre campus into a world-class innovation center in Northborough and Marlborough. The project investment of $120 million will result in 13 net new jobs and the consolidation of approximately 50 jobs from other Massachusetts locations. The EACC approved $195,000 in EDIP tax credits.  Precision Optics Corporation Inc. – Littleton  Precision Optics manufactures optical medical devices for surgical and diagnostic procedures. The company will invest $2.6 million to relocate its corporate headquarters from Gardner to Littleton and expand operations, resulting in 86 new jobs. The EACC approved $1,290,000 in EDIP tax credits.  Entegris Inc. – Billerica  Entegris is an advanced manufacturing company that is planning a $100 million expansion of its headquarters, manufacturing, lab and R&D space. This project would include the retention of 439 existing jobs and creation of 200 new jobs. The EACC approved $3.5 million in EDIP tax credits.  Franklin Community Cooperative – Greenfield  The Franklin Community Cooperative is a cooperatively owned grocer operating two stores, Green Fields Market in Greenfield and McCusker's Market in Shelburne Falls. The project involves the relocation of the Green Fields Market to the former Wilson's Department Store in downtown Greenfield. The investment of $23.4 million will allow the co-op to increase its total retail space and create 20 new jobs. The EACC approved $300,000 in EDIP tax credits.  Trafa Pharmaceutical – Chicopee  Trafa Pharmaceutical is a distributor of health supplements. The company plans to construct a 50,000-square-foot distribution building that will allow for the consolidation of three warehouse buildings into a single facility and will result in 15 net new jobs. The EACC approved $225,000 in EDIP tax credits for this project.  Jain Americas – Pittsfield  Jain Americas is a manufacturer that serves the sign, display and graphic arts industries with extruded polycarbonate sheets and PVC sheets. The company intends to invest $8.5 million to purchase a building in Pittsfield and manufacturing equipment that will allow it to produce building exteriors like siding, trim, and shingles. The project will result in 31 new permanent jobs. The EACC approved $465,000 in EDIP tax credits.  Noble Carbon – Pittsfield  Noble Carbon is an energy management company that designs and manufactures smart circuit breakers to enable electrification and help homes and businesses optimize their energy usage and bills. The project involves the investment of $570,000 and the creation of six new jobs. The EACC approved $105,000 in EDIP tax credits.  Garden Properties & Development – Williamstown  Garden Properties will invest $7.7 million to rehabilitate the long-vacant Orchards Hotel in Williamstown into a fully operational hospitality venue with lodging, restaurant, and event space. The project will create 19 full-time jobs, eliminate blight, and support tourism and local economic development. The EACC approved $285,000 in EDIP tax credits.  AM Lithography – Holyoke  AM Lithography is a veteran-owned commercial printing, secondary packaging, and large format print business that has experienced significant growth. The project involves the investment of $8 million to relocate operations from Chicopee to Holyoke, retaining 124 jobs in Massachusetts and creating eight net new jobs. The EACC approved $1,860,000 in EDIP tax credits.  The Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) reviews and approves Economic Development Incentive Program projects and tax credit incentives. The EACC is part of the Executive Office of Economic Development’s Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD), which assists businesses expanding in and relocating to Massachusetts, with specific attention paid to projects that create and retain jobs and invest capital. The MOBD team provides a highly responsive, central point of contact that facilitates access to resources, expertise, and incentive programs for businesses.

Boch 中心舒伯特劇院 10/3-5 推出「龍與地下城：二十面酒館 」觀眾參與角色扮演劇

公關公司提供。

(Boston Orange 編譯)「龍與地下城：二十面酒館 （DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern）」隆重宣布，10月3日至10月5日在波士頓舒伯特劇院(Boch Center Shubert Theatre)的晚間場次，邀得知名馬戲團表演者與社群媒體名人Jack Lepiarz以特別來賓「Mischief」身份，加入演出。

「龍與地下城」是全球最棒的角色扮演遊戲之一。這次隆重推出的「龍與地下城：二十面酒館」屢獲殊榮，把觀眾帶離桌面，走入舞台，還每一場演出都是結合喜劇、情感與驚險刺激的沉浸式劇場體驗，和觀眾一起塑造出獨一無二的故事情節。

Jack Lepiarz。（公關公司提供。）

Jack Lepiarz以「Jacques Ze Whipper」這藝名廣為人知，是一位備受推崇的馬戲團表演者和社群媒體名人。他以在文藝復興節慶上精湛的甩鞭表演而聞名，並在線上吸引了超過三百萬粉絲的追蹤。

波士頓場次的演員陣容，除了Jack Lepiarz之外，還有近期在紐約市備受好評的製作團隊成員，包括：Will Champion，RJ Christian，Jasmin Malave，Conner Marx，R. Alex Murray，Madelyn Murphy，Diego F. Salinas，Cassidy Sledge，Alex Stompoly等人。

購票可洽舒伯特劇院售票處：265 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116，線上購票：bocenter.org，電話訂票：(866) 348-9738。六人以上團體訂票，聯繫groups@bochcenter.org。

Jack Lepiarz will embark on the journey in Boston from October 3–5, 2025. 

(BOSTON, MA) (AUGUST 20, 2025) –DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern is thrilled to announce that celebrated circus performer and social media personality Jack Lepiarz (“Jacques ze Whipper”) will join the Tavern as “Mischief” during the Boston engagement from October 3 to October 5, 2025, at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre during the evening performances only.

 

Tickets for the Boston engagement of DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern are available at the Shubert Theatre box office [265 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116], by visiting bochcenter.org, or by calling (866) 348-9738. Group orders of six or more may be placed by contacting groups@bochcenter.org. 

Jack Lepiarz (“Jacques ze Whipper”) joins previously announced cast members direct from the recent ground-breaking New York City production, including Will Champion, RJ Christian, Jasmin Malave, Conner Marx, R. Alex Murray, Madelyn Murphy, Diego F. Salinas, Cassidy Sledge and Alex Stompoly. 

 

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, the World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game® introduces DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern. This award-winning immersive theater experience takes audiences beyond the tabletop and onto the stage where each performance combines comedy, emotion, and thrilling moments to deliver a unique narrative shaped by the audience. 

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, the World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game®, introduces DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern. This award-winning immersive theater experience takes audiences beyond the tabletop and onto the stage where each performance combines comedy, emotion, and thrilling moments to deliver a unique narrative shaped by the audience.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern was created by David Carpenter and co-produced by David Carpenter and Showpath Entertainment Ltd under license by Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast.

Mass Cultural Council Launches FY26 Grants for Creative Individuals

Funding Opportunity: Mass Cultural Council Launches FY26 Grants for Creative Individuals

BOSTON – Applications are now being accepted to Mass Cultural Council’s Grants for Creative Individuals FY26 grant round.   This funding opportunity provides unrestricted grants of $5,000 to Massachusetts artists, culture bearers, and creative practitioners to equitably advance creative expression throughout our diverse communities. Mass Cultural Council expects to invest $2.27 million into the program this year, awarding up to 454 grants in total. As the Commonwealth’s independent state arts agency, Mass Cultural Council is charged with bolstering the cultural sector, thereby advancing economic vitality, supporting transformational change, and celebrating, preserving, and inspiring creativity across all Massachusetts communities. These grants are available for Massachusetts residents who are active in any artistic/creative discipline. This is Mass Cultural Council’s primary grant program to support individual artists, with eligible disciplines including: community-based arts, crafts, design, digital, film/video, folk/world/traditional arts, native/indigenous arts, literature, music, performance, photography, theater, visual arts, and other diverse cultural experiences.   Key dates for the FY26 Grants for Creative Individuals program include: Application Opens - September 16, 2025 Info Session - September 18, 2025 (ASL interpretation and live captions will be provided) Próximamente estará disponible una sesión informativa virtual en español. Applications Due - October 28, 2025 (11:59PM) Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines for more information, including eligibility rules and instructions on how to apply.   For information and to stay up to date on other Mass Cultural Council funding opportunities this fiscal year, prospective applicants are encouraged to follow the Agency on social media - @MassCultural – or sign up to receive the monthly Power of Culture e-newsletter.

Governor Healey Announces DRIVE Acceleration Team Members to Advance Research and Discovery in Massachusetts

Governor Healey Announces DRIVE Acceleration Team Members to Advance Research and Discovery in Massachusetts 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey announced members of her new DRIVE Acceleration Team to advance research and discovery in Massachusetts. Governor Healey signed an Executive Order on August 1 creating this team as part of her Discovery, Research, Innovation for a Vibrant Economy, DRIVE Initiative, which aims to grow Massachusetts’s world-renowned research and innovation economy and create thousands of new jobs.  

The Acceleration Team is charged with exploring new methods and strategies to strengthen Massachusetts’ research and innovation ecosystem, which employs tens of thousands of people in education, health care, life sciences and advanced manufacturing, while also sustaining jobs in construction, food services, retail, transportation and more. The group will evaluate opportunities to bolster the sector, including proposing funding structures to finance research projects and developing public-private partnerships across industries to improve its resilience.  

“People around the world rely on the cures and scientific advancements that come from Massachusetts researchers,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Not only is our work critical to global health, but it is the economic lifeblood of our economy. The work of this group and my recently filed DRIVE legislation will allow Massachusetts to preserve jobs, strengthen our economy and continue to be a global leader in innovation.”  

“The research and innovation sector is a powerhouse for the Massachusetts economy. By bringing together this group of experts, we will ensure we pull out every stop to grow this critical ecosystem for years to come,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “I'm grateful to the DRIVE appointees for dedicating their time to this critical work.” 

The group is chaired by Governor Healey’s Director of Federal Funds and Infrastructure Quentin Palfrey, and includes leaders from the science research sector, higher education, labor, business groups and philanthropists.   

“The importance of the research and innovation sector to both the Massachusetts economy and global health cannot be overstated,” said Federal Funds and Infrastructure Director Quentin Palfrey. “Now is the time to think big about how to grow this sector, create more jobs, and strengthen our leadership globally, and I look forward to working with DRIVE members to carry out this critical work.” 

“Massachusetts’s research ecosystem is one of our most valuable assets as a state,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. “By bringing together a range of experts with diverse perspectives, the DRIVE Acceleration Team has a tremendous opportunity to chart the course forward for Massachusetts’s nation-leading innovation sector.” 

As part of the DRIVE Initiative, Governor Healey has also filed legislation that proposes investing $400 million in state funds to leverage private and institutional resources to supercharge the sector and retain world-class talent. 

See the Governor’s appointees to DRIVE below. In addition to these members, there will be both Legislative and Administration appointees as listed in the Governor’s Executive Order here. 

• Dr. John Shaw, Vice Provost for Research, Harvard University 

• Dr. Sarah Fortune, Chair of the Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  

• Dr. George Q. Daley, Dean, Harvard Medical School 

• Dr. Ian Waitz, Vice President of Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

• Dr. Akram Alshawabkeh, Interim Senior Vice Provost, Northeastern University  

• Dr. Gloria S. Waters, University Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Boston University  

• Dr. Bernard Arulanandum, Vice Provost for Research, Tufts University  

• Dr. Eric W. Dickson, President and CEO, UMass Memorial Health  

• Dr. Michael F. Collins, Chancellor, UMass Chan Medical School 

• Dr. Eric S. Lander, Founding Director, BROAD Institute 

• Leslie-Ann McGee, Chief Innovation Officer, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI)  

• Nate Mackinnon, Executive Director, Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges 

• Dr. Linda Thompson, President, Westfield State University 

• Danielle R. Holley, President, Mount Holyoke College 

• Dr. Jennifer Anne Hanselman, Associate Provost and Dean of Research, Clark University 

• Dr. Sarah Willie-LeBreton, President, Smith College 

• Dr. Bogdan Vernescu, Vice President and Vice Provost for Research, Worcester Polytechnic Institute 

• Dr. Paul Anderson, Chief Academic Officer, Mass General Brigham 

• Michelle Cox, Senior Vice President, Research Operations, Dana Farber Cancer Institute 

• Dr. Gyongyi Szabo, Chief Academic Office, Beth Israel Lahey Health  

• Irene Abrams, Vice President, Technology Development & New Ventures, Boston Children’s Hospital  

• Dr. Nahid Bhadelia, Director, BU Center on Emerging Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center  

• Steve Walsh, President and CEO, Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association  

• Dr. Andrew W. Artenstein, Chief Physician Executive and Chief Academic Officer, Baystate Health  

• Dr. Elizabeth Nabel, Advisory Board Chair, Strategic Counsel to ModeX Therapeutics 

• Brian Johnson, President, MassMEDIC  

• Kendalle Burlin O’Connell, President and CEO, MassBio  

• Oliver Dodd, COO and Co-Founder, Nucleate 

• Rob McCarron, President and CEO, AICUM 

• Jodie Morrison, CEO, Q32 Bio 

• Dr. Vanessa Bradford Kerry, Co-Founder and CEO, Seed Global Health 

• Julie Kim, President, US Business Unit, US Country Head and Interim Head of Global Portfolio Division, Takeda Pharmaceuticals  

• James E. Rooney, President and CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce  

• Brooke Thomson, President and CEO, Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) 

• Doug Howgate, President, Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation 

• JD Chesloff, President and CEO, Massachusetts Business Roundtable  

• Max Page, President, Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) 

• Chrissy Lynch, President, Massachusetts AFL-CIO 

• Frank Callahan, President, Massachusetts Building Trades Union (MBTU) 

• Jessica Tang, President, American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Massachusetts 

• Zoe Carey, United Auto Workers  

• Rebecca Davis, COO, Massachusetts Competitive Partnership (MACP) 

• Dr. John Holdren, Professor, Harvard Kennedy School 

• Dr. Alondra Nelson, Professor, Institute of Advanced Study 

• Dr. Rafael Reif, President Emeritus, Massachusetts Institute of Technology  

• Kei Koizumi, former Special Assistant to the President for the Office of Science and Technology Policy 

• Cristin Dorgelo, Senior Fellow at Federation of American Scientists  

• Daniel Correa, CEO at Federation of American Scientists  

• Kumar Garg, President, Renaissance Philanthropy  

• Dr. David E. Golan, Dean for Research Initiatives and Global Programs, Harvard Medical School  

• Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Senior Fellow, Harvard Kennedy School  

• Dr. Nipam Patel, Director of the Marine Biological Laboratory and Professor at University of Chicago 

• Mark Nunnelly, Former Managing Director, Bain Capital 

• Jamie Goldstein, Founding/Managing Partner, Pillar VC  

• Tracy Palandjian, CEO and Co-Founder, Social Finance 

• Gerald Chertavian, Founder and Advisor, Year Up 

• Tom Kuo, Co-Founder and Managing Director, A-Street 

華埠社區會議討論街頭有人銷贓問題（圖片）

 

MAYOR MICHELLE WU OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ANNUAL LEGACY BUSINESS AWARD NOMINATIONS

MAYOR MICHELLE WU OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ANNUAL LEGACY BUSINESS AWARD NOMINATIONS Residents are encouraged to nominate iconic, long-standing businesses located within the city by October 31, 2025

BOSTON - Tuesday, September 16, 2025 - Today, Mayor Michelle Wu announced the launch of the nomination period for the fourth annual Legacy Business Awards. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, October 31, 2025. Residents are encouraged to nominate long standing businesses that have been located within the city of Boston for at least 10 years and contribute to the cultural, historical, and societal fabric of their community or neighborhood. To nominate a business, residents can use the online form, visit their local Boston Public Library branch for assistance filling out the form, or call the Office of Small Business at 617-635-0355 for assistance. To date, 90 local businesses representing 3,509 years of service to Boston’s neighborhoods have been honored through the Legacy Business Program. By recognizing and supporting legacy businesses on an annual basis, this program supports Mayor Wu’s vision for Boston being a family-friendly and vibrant city that creates more opportunities for residents to build generational wealth. “Boston’s long-standing businesses serve as anchors for our residents and families, connecting our neighborhoods and communities across the city,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for our fourth class of legacy business awardees and encourage residents to nominate local businesses who make our communities strong, vibrant and welcoming for everyone.” "The Legacy Business Award gives the city a chance to not only recognize. but invest in our small businesses, which are vital to our neighborhoods," said City Councilor Brian Worrell (District 4), chair of the Small Business and Professional Licensure Committee. "The list of past winners provides a clear picture of our city's rich history, and I hope this next round can continue that legacy of small businesses thriving in the years to come."  After the nomination period closes, the Office of Small Business verifies eligibility for all nominees and submits a list of nominated, eligible businesses to the City Council. City Councilors then create a shortlist of potential awardees. Next, a committee—led by the Office of Small Business—will review this shortlist and submit a list of finalists to Mayor Wu. Selections are based on application scoring and community support. The committee ensures the list is representative of Boston by industry, neighborhood, gender, and race. “We encourage residents across the city to honor the impact small business owners make in our neighborhoods,” said Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. “This signature initiative of the Office of Small Business continues to ensure the stability of these community treasures for generations to come.”   The City of Boston will recognize the 30 Legacy Business Award winners at a public awards ceremony on June 1, 2026. The Office of Small Business will provide awardees with access to grant funding, a commercial lease toolkit, free legal consultation, support with succession planning, and other technical assistance related to the health and success of long-term businesses.  “It’s crucial to honor our small businesses who have been staples in our communities, weathered the storm, and continue to provide goods and much needed services to our communities,” said Aliesha Porcena, Director of Small Business for the City of Boston. “I love that residents drive the nomination process, because our legacy businesses are very much part of the vibrancy and culture of our neighborhoods. They are a reflection of us. Our Office will work to make sure these businesses—and other small businesses in Boston—have the resources, tools, and support they need to continue to thrive.” “Yoma Burmese Restaurant has proudly served the community for over 18 years, sharing not only the rich and diverse flavors of Burmese cuisine but also representing the culture, traditions, and spirit of Burma,” said 2025 Legacy Business winners Yoma Burmese Restaurant owners Sai and Thawdar Kyaw. “This award is a meaningful recognition of the hard work, resilience, and community support that have sustained us over the years. We are deeply honored and proud to be part of the city’s diverse and vibrant small business community.” “With a handful of Irish recipes and a Hobart mixer bought at auction, we opened up Greenhills Irish Bakery and got to work,” said 2025 Legacy Business winners Greenhills Irish Bakery owners Cindy and Dermot Quinn.  “We didn’t realize how heartily the neighborhood would befriend us. Owning and operating our business has provided an immense sense of community as we have gotten to know so many customers in Adams Village over the last 34 years. It is ‘icing on the cake’ to be recognized by the city with the Legacy award. Thank you, Boston!” The nomination form is available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese, Cape Verdean Creole, Portuguese, Somali, Russian, and French. Nominations are limited to one per resident. To learn more, visit the Legacy Business Program website.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $9 Million in Literacy Launch Grants

 Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $9 Million in Literacy Launch Grants 

EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that it is awarding over $9 million in Partnership for Reading Success - Massachusetts (PRISM) I continuation grants to 15 school districts as part of Governor Healey’s Literacy Launch initiative. These grants enable districts to implement high-quality, evidence-based reading instruction through literacy materials, technical support, coaching and professional development.  

Literacy Launch: Reading Success from Age 3 through Grade 3 is a multiyear early literacy initiative to help districts transition to evidence-based early literacy programs. This funding represents a key investment in the future of early learners, helping equip students with the reading and writing skills necessary for academic success and lifelong learning.  

“Literacy Launch is a historic investment in early literacy for our students. These continuation grants represent our commitment to make sure all of our students can read and read well,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I want to thank the Legislature for their continued support of Literacy Launch and partnership in this important work.”  

“Ensuring every student has access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction in early literacy is essential for Massachusetts families,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “Through PRISM I continuation grants, we are providing children the support they need to excel and thrive in the future.”  

The second year of this multi-year strategy is supported by the fiscal year 2026 budget and the federal Comprehensive Literacy State Development grant. Awardees will receive professional development; support to continue partnerships with community-based preschool providers to align evidence-based early curriculum, instruction and assessment across the community; and funding for early literacy screening assessments, coaching support and to cover staffing costs for roles like literacy coaches or reading specialists through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in partnership with the Department of Early Education and Care. 

“Culturally and linguistically sustaining practices and evidence-based early literacy are fundamental to achieving excellence and equity in education,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “The PRISM I program will continue to help districts improve literacy programming, ensuring that our youngest learners build a strong literacy foundation that will support their success throughout their education.”  

“The PRISM I continuation grants are designed to help districts make lasting improvements in how they deliver early literacy instruction,” said Pedro Martinez, commissioner of elementary and secondary education. “These structures will continue supporting student success long after the grant period ends.”  

“The continuation of the PRISM I grants is essential to advancing our statewide commitment to early literacy,” said Department of Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. “Providing educators with the tools and training they need to strengthen literacy instruction ensures that every child has the opportunity to build a strong foundation in reading to support success in school and beyond.” 

Today’s grant awards come after a summer of investments the administration and state legislature have made in literacy: 

• The administration launched the first Literacy Launch Institutes, providing free in-person early literacy training and professional development for nearly 600 educators from across the state in August. 
• The administration visited Easthampton to award $9.3 million in Literacy Launch PRISM II grants to 30 school districts to help implement high-quality early literacy instructional materials. 
• The administration also awarded $3.3 million in PRISM III literacy grants to 25 school districts to support the purchase of high-quality instructional materials for grades 4-12 and professional learning support. 
• The administration celebrated Massachusetts’ $25 million investment in no-cost, high-dosage early literacy tutoring for 272 elementary schools with a classroom visit to Dewing Elementary School in Tewksbury. 
• The administration awarded $800,000 in grants to 17 school districts and 14 colleges to support over 350 teacher candidates this year to complete their elementary, early childhood, or moderate disabilities teacher preparation programs. 

“Few things are more important than ensuring every child has access to high-quality reading and literacy education from a young age,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Senate was proud to secure these dollars in our budget, and I applaud the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their commitment to this initiative and for quickly delivering these resources to districts across the Commonwealth.” 

“Strong investment in evidence-based and culturally responsive early literacy programs supports our children from day one and sets them up for success down the line,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “These grants will support professional development for teachers, the purchasing of evidence-based literacy materials, costs for reading coaches and specialists, and more to ensure students have the tools they need to learn to read.” 

The PRISM I continuation grant recipients are: 

• Brockton Public Schools: $1,381,500 
• Framingham Public Schools: $394,843 
• Gateway Regional School District (in partnership with Farmington River Regional School District): $336,390 
• Haverhill Public Schools: $330,858 
• Holyoke Public Schools: $248,144 
• Lynn Public Schools: $1,833,000 
• Nashoba Regional School District: $336,390 
• New Bedford Public Schools: $1,756,875 
• Northborough Public Schools (in partnership with Southborough Public Schools): $669,818 
• Norwood Public Schools: $238,739 
• Peabody Public Schools: $1,002,600 
• Salem Public Schools: $263,716 
• Stoneham Public Schools: $390,000 

33,267 qualifier applications received for 2026 Boston Marathon

 33,267 qualifier applications received for 2026 Boston Marathon

 

BOSTON – Following a successful registration week for the 130^th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) today announced updates pertaining to the Patriots’ Day race.

 

A total of 33,267 qualifier entry applications were received during registration week (September 8-12), with athletes from 116 countries and all 50 U.S. states applying to participate in the April 20, 2026, event.

 

“Year after year, the running community looks forward to April’s Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America with anticipation and excitement,” said Jack Fleming, President and CEO of the B.A.A. “Athletes from around the globe applied to be part of the Patriots’ Day tradition, and we look forward to welcoming many to the roads leading to Boylston Street next April.”

 

Due to field size limitations, not all qualifiers will be accepted into the 130^th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America. Over the coming weeks, the Boston Athletic Association will verify all qualifier submissions, and subsequently athletes will be notified of acceptance or non-acceptance via e-mail by early October. For the 2025 Boston Marathon, the B.A.A. accepted 24,069 qualified applicants, while 12,324 applicants were unable to be accepted.

 

The B.A.A. will not predict the "cut-off" time needed to gain acceptance into the 130^th Boston Marathon and asks for athletes’ cooperation and patience during this verification process. Athletes are asked not to contact the B.A.A. to check on the status of their entry unless requested to do so by a member of our Athlete Services team. When available, information will be posted to www.baa.org and across the Boston Marathon’s social media channels.

 

Since 1970, the Boston Marathon has featured qualifying standards as a means of entry. A historical breakdown of qualifying times can be found here.

 

The qualifying window for the 131^st Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, to be held April 19, 2027, opened on September 13, 2025, and will run through the end of registration week in September 2026. Exact registration dates and entry procedures for the 2027 Boston Marathon will be announced following the 2026 Boston Marathon.

Winners of Second Annual Massachusetts Climatetech Studio Showcase Announced

Winners of Second Annual Massachusetts Climatetech Studio Showcase Announced

Nine entrepreneurial teams, working with cutting-edge climate technologies, pitched solutions aimed at advancing Massachusetts' climate innovation economy

BOSTON, MA – The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and FedTech are proud to announce the winners of the second annual Massachusetts Climatetech Studio Showcase, held last Thursday during Startup Boston Week at Suffolk University. The pitch competition and showcase marked the culmination of the second Massachusetts Climatetech Studio cohort, a groundbreaking initiative designed to foster climate innovation through entrepreneurship.

26 entrepreneurs, organized into nine teams, pitched their cutting-edge climate technologies to a distinguished panel of judges. These teams were selected from a highly competitive pool of over 214 applicants to participate in the Climatetech Studio program, which MassCEC launched last year in collaboration with FedTech. The cohort features a diverse group of innovators, with 16 participants from Massachusetts and additional entrepreneurs from out of the state.

“Massachusetts is home to some of the brightest minds in climatetech, and this program shows what happens when we give entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed,” saidEnergy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This cohort is advancing solutions that will transform industries, strengthen our economy, and open doors for new opportunities across the state.”

Over the past 16 weeks, participants worked closely with technology inventors, expert coaches, and industry advisors to assess commercialization pathways, validate business models, and form the foundations of new climatetech ventures. Each team was paired with game-changing climate-related intellectual property (IP), seven of which originated from Massachusetts-based research institutions. The winning teams were chosen based on their innovative solutions, market potential, and ability to help the state accelerate solutions to climate and energy challenges.

“The Massachusetts Climatetech Studio is more than a pitch competition. It’s a starting point for next-generation climatetech companies,” said MassCEC CEO Dr. Emily Reichert. “By pairing talented entrepreneurs with breakthrough research, we have created a powerful engine for innovation, commercialization, and job growth, right here in Massachusetts. I’m incredibly proud of the progress this year’s teams have made in just a few months, and I’m excited to see their impact.”

Winning Teams:

1. Thalon Materials – Nuha Abousam, Travis Hampton, Stephen Buchanan
• Tech Source: Worcester Polytechnic Institute
• Thalon Materials supplies automotive and defense manufacturers with clean, domestic magnesium metal. Using a patented electrolysis process, we produce low-carbon, cost-competitive magnesium without toxic byproducts. Our process cuts the carbon footprint of today’s dominant production method by more than 10x and can uniquely repurpose idle aluminum smelters for production.
2. Mirra – Kirthika Padmanabhan, Elizabeth Bridges, Christa Campbell
• Tech Source: Northeastern University
• Mirra is on a mission to replace artificial food dyes with plant-based, high-performing colorants that are UV-resistant and fully biodegradable. Starting with white, our colorants replace petroleum derived and mined pigments like titanium dioxide in food - a multi-billion-dollar global market under consumer and regulatory pressure. Starting with a patented technology developed at Northeastern University, Mirra is building colorants with drop-in compatibility, giving brands a safe, sustainable, and vibrant alternative.
3. JUNTO – David Thompson, Tao Dai
• Tech Source: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• JUNTO is developing next-generation batteries that are safer, more energy dense, and easier to manufacture, tailored for the electric vehicle market. By leveraging abundant and sustainable materials, we enable scalable, cost-effective solutions that accelerate the transition to clean mobility.

The first-place team received $50,000, while the second- and third-place teams received $30,000 and $20,000, respectively. All nine teams are eligible for MassCEC and FedTech's alumni services to help them continue their ventures. Alum services include access to a pool of grant money, an Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR), custom workshops, consulting services, and a tailored menu of services, opportunities, and programs for startups in Massachusetts.

“This cohort exemplifies what’s possible when innovators, researchers, and industry partners come together around bold ideas,” said FedTech Chief Delivery Officer, Robyn Brazzil. “We’re thrilled to see these teams take the next step in bringing their solutions to life, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with MassCEC to accelerate climatetech business growth.”

"The Clean Energy Center is fostering growth and innovation through the Massachusetts Climatetech Studio Showcase,” said State Senator Barry Finegold (D-Andover). “These technologies are a cornerstone of the Massachusetts economy, and the innovators at their helm should be recognized and encouraged.”

"I would like to congratulate the three teams who have been selected as winners for the second annual Massachusetts Climatetech Studio Showcase and the many other participants of this showcase," said State Representative Carole Fiola (D-Fall River). “The hard work, dedication, and innovation of these teams will continue to play a key role in the state addressing our problems related to climate change and in developing future technologies and ideas to spur sustainable, affordable and reliable energy sources."

The Massachusetts Climatetech Studio was created to drive innovation and investment in early-stage climate technologies—especially in sectors where it is challenging to reduce carbon emissions. This initiative is the first of its kind in the state, actively assembling talented teams, providing them with expert guidance and education, and facilitating the commercialization of climate-related IP. By offering this level of support, the Studio is addressing a critical gap in Massachusetts' efforts to accelerate the development of breakthrough solutions.