Greater Ashmont Main Street

Greater Ashmont Main Street is a nonprofit working to keep the Ashmont business district in Dorchester attractive, thriving and connected. Its work falls into three areas: maintaining a welcoming streetscape that brings foot traffic, promoting a diverse mix of businesses, and hosting events that bring neighbors and merchants together. The organization says it is guided by both data and community feedback, adjusting its programs to what the district actually needs.

Executive Director Elle Marrone, an entrepreneur and artist, brings an arts and placemaking approach to economic development, and staff members are Dorchester residents with backgrounds in music programming, education and community organizing. The calendar includes the annual Ashmont Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday, which leads into the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Ashmont Plaza, plus seasonal events such as a back-to-school Swap Fest with a volunteer mending station for worn clothing.

What to Know

• A free monthly networking breakfast is open to Dorchester entrepreneurs, business support professionals and creatives.
• Residents can get involved by joining a committee or volunteering.
• The Holiday Market recruits food and craft vendors to sell their goods.