Want to Launch a Business in Worcester? Check Out These Resources

Center for Women & Enterprise

You’ve got a really great idea, but you’re not sure where to start your endeavor. Thankfully, you have a wealth of vital resources if you live in Central Massachusetts. For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch a business in Worcester, there are plenty of incubators and accelerators that can help turn those big dreams into realities. Check out these seven:

Find Help to Launch a Business in Worcester

Center for Women & Enterprise: This nonprofit organization opened in 1999 and helps women launch and sustain businesses, offering consultations, workshops and many networking opportunities. 

Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives: MBI assists entrepreneurs and startups in advancing their health and life science ideas. Since 2000, MBI has incubated more than 190 companies that have created 1,800 jobs and raised nearly $2 billion in capital. 

StartUp Worcester: The Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce partners with WorcLab and the Venture Forum on this program that helps attract and incubate new businesses. A key perk for entrepreneurs is a one-year free membership to all of the organizations. 

SBDC at Clark University: The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free services that educate entrepreneurs about business operations, such as marketing, financing and creating a business plan. 

EforAll: EforAll helps under-represented individuals successfully start their businesses. A 12-week business accelerator program, pitch contests and mentorship opportunities are a few of the resources that support EforAll’s mission to bolster entrepreneurs. 

WorcLab: This 10,000-square-foot incubator space is home to about 25 member startups, with tenants primarily specializing in technology. WorcLab has advanced equipment on-site, including 3D printers and a laser cutter. 

Worcester Regional Food Hub: More than 100 food-related businesses in the area have launched after getting their start at the Worcester Regional Food Hub. Local brands that have passed through the incubator include AZ Nordic Kvass, Bali Marle, Minuteman Kettle Corn, Nutty Bird Granola, Stretch’s Pickles and Urban Spice World.