Federal Funding Helps Malden Businesses With Chamber Membership

MALDEN, MA — The city used funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to create a new program aimed at strengthening Malden's local businesses.

The program will cover the cost of membership dues for businesses and first-time members of the Malden Chamber of Commerce, with half the funds allotted for traditionally underserved businesses, such as those that are woman- or minority-owned.

"This effort to support our businesses through these chamber memberships is an investment into our business eco-system that goes beyond today," Councillor Debbie DeMaria said. "It is the hope that this financial influx will offer our business community a hand up rather than a handout."

Membership allows businesses to access the networking and support systems that the chamber has provided during its 130 years in Malden. Additionally, the remaining funds are slated for first-time business memberships that the chamber determines are strategically beneficial to the overall membership.

This new influx of members will give the chamber necessary funding to provide more business-support services, such as seminars and best practices.

The Malden Business Support Team consists of DeMaria, Business Development Officer Kevin Duffy, and resident member and business owner Kashawna Harling.