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The Economic Development Division, in collaboration with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), is pleased to share the Commercial Leasing Handbook.

Created in 2025, this handbook helps small businesses navigate the rising costs of doing business and the risk of displacement in Somerville. It’s a useful resource for anybody looking to start or grow a business in the city. 

The handbook was developed with input from City staff, MAPC staff, commercial leasing specialists, community representatives, 20 small business owners from across Somerville, and the City’s Small Business Anti-Displacement Taskforce. It has been translated into the languages most commonly spoken by business owners. 
 

Click on the links below to access the handbook in your preferred language: 



Virtual Event 

Join us on April 10th for a virtual event to learn more about the methods to create the handbook, hosted by Economic Development and MAPC’s Senior Economic Development Planner, Camille Jonlin.

Event Details: 

  • Date: Thursday, April 10th
  • Time: 5:00-6:00 PM
  • Registration: Zoom Registration Link
  • Interpretation services available upon request.
  • A recording of the event will be accessible on this page following the event. 

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