With $2.5M from Barr, MassDevelopment launches North Adams creative district pilot program

The Massachusetts state economic development agency, MassDevelopment, has announced a $2.5 million grant from the Barr Foundation to fund a three-year Creative District pilot program in North Adams. The initiative will leverage arts and culture to drive equitable economic growth, strengthen downtown revitalization, and support small businesses and creative entrepreneurs. The grant will provide dedicated staff capacity through a Creative District fellow, along with technical assistance, flexible funding, and planning resources. The program builds on MassDevelopment and Barr Foundation’s creative economy collaboration, expanding place-based strategies designed to foster inclusive growth and long-term community investment.