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Business Front Door: A New Gateway for Chatham-Area Businesses

On 22 July, the Healey-Driscoll Administration unveiled the Business Front Door (BFD)—a first-of-its-kind online platform that pulls together Massachusetts incentives, permits and expert support into one easy-to-use hub.

What exactly is the Business Front Door?

According to the Executive Office of Economic Development, the BFD is “a modern, user-friendly online platform that connects businesses to Massachusetts’ resources in a single destination.” Here’s what you can do after a quick sign-up at mass.gov/BFD:

  • Work with your own “Navigator.” A concierge-style advisor helps you locate and apply for the right grants, loans and tax incentives.

  • Browse a personalized dashboard listing current funding programs, permitting guidance and other opportunities.

  • Get rapid answers on permits, regulations and compliance questions without bouncing between agencies.

Why it matters to Chatham’s business community

Small businesses on the Lower Cape often juggle seasonal demand, complex coastal regulations and limited staff time. The BFD directly addresses those pain points by offering:

  1. One clear doorway. No more guessing which state office to call—BFD provides a single point of contact.

  2. Faster growth paths. By surfacing tailored incentives, the platform aims to “drive business creation, growth, and job opportunities statewide.”

  3. Virtual office hours. Can’t leave Main Street during peak season? Schedule an online session with Team MA’s experts for real-time guidance.

Key features at a glance

Feature What It Means for You
Concierge Navigator A dedicated specialist who learns your goals and steers you toward the best resources.
Custom Dashboard A living list of grants, incentives and deadlines—no more tracking spreadsheets.
Permit & Regulation Help Direct answers on zoning, environmental rules and licensing.
Open Virtual Office Hours Face-to-face video support without the commute to Boston.

Getting started in three simple steps

  1. Visit mass.gov/BFD and click “Get Started.”

  2. Complete the short intake form—industry, location and growth needs—to be matched with a Navigator.

  3. Explore your dashboard, then apply for relevant programs or schedule a follow-up call for deeper support.

Tip for Chamber members: Mention that you’re part of the Chatham Chamber of Commerce when talking with your Navigator. It helps them understand our region’s unique coastal economy and tourism cycle.

Frequently asked questions

Is the BFD only for start-ups?
No. The platform is designed for “businesses of all sizes, from all sectors,” whether you’re opening a café on Main Street or expanding a marine-tech firm.

Does it replace local resources?
Think of it as a complement. You’ll still work with town officials for local permitting, but the BFD streamlines state-level incentives and compliance.

What does it cost?
The service is free—funded by the Commonwealth to spur economic growth across Massachusetts.

A call to action for Chatham entrepreneurs

The Business Front Door was built “in response to feedback… that state resources felt complicated to navigate.” By centralizing expert guidance and funding information, it removes barriers that often slow Cape Cod businesses.

Ready to open that door? Head to mass.gov/BFD today, complete the quick intake, and let your dedicated Navigator show you every state-level tool available to help your venture thrive.

For questions—or to share your success story—reach out to the Chatham Chamber of Commerce. Together, we’ll make sure our local businesses get the resources they deserve.

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