Cambridge-Somerville Black Business Network

The Cambridge-Somerville Black Business Network brings together Black entrepreneurs in Cambridge and Somerville to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive local economy. Created to help Black-owned businesses survive the pandemic and thrive afterward, it works with companies in the start-up, expansion or recovery phase and identifies programs that can help them succeed. It is facilitated by Nicola Williams of The Williams Agency.

Members gain a year of membership in Cambridge Local First and the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts, free or discounted conferences and workshops, promotion and networking, and information on funding, technical assistance and policy changes. The network also runs public events such as its Afro-Caribbean Night Marketplace Series, which pairs Black-owned vendors, music, food and art with international soccer watch parties in squares across Cambridge.

What to Know

• The network is sponsored by the Sustainable Business Network of MA and Cambridge Local First.
• Members get access to mentors, a monthly newsletter and a private Facebook group.
• Networking sessions are held at every meeting.
• A steering committee drawn from local businesses and partner organizations guides the network.