EB Business Development – Old Colony Planning

East Bridgewater Business Development Project

Overview

The Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) collaborated with the Town of East Bridgewater to support local economic recovery and growth through targeted business support initiatives and holistic economic development planning. This initiative, funded by a $153,000 earmark from the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund (CSFRF) under Chapter 268 of the Acts of 2022, delivered expert consulting services focused on creating actionable resources, engaging residents and businesses, identifying development opportunities, and providing tailored recommendations for sustainable economic progress.

Building on East Bridgewater’s unique strengths—a welcoming Plymouth County community with close-knit neighborhoods, a historic downtown, semi-rural landscapes, and key commercial corridors along Route 18—the initiative aims to foster a thriving business ecosystem and sustainable growth that aligns with the town’s character and long-term vision.

Project Background

East Bridgewater received funding through the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) to support post-pandemic economic recovery for local businesses. Under a formal agreement, OCPC, led by its economic development team, provided project management and administrative expertise to ensure effective implementation and accountability.

OCPC has been a trusted partner on several recent projects with the Town, including the Master Plan and the Route 18 sewer installation—efforts that have laid the groundwork for growth. Building on these foundational planning and infrastructure improvements, this initiative represents a natural next step: focusing on the business community to ensure that economic development translates into tangible benefits for local enterprises and residents.

Why it Matters

Small businesses form the backbone of East Bridgewater’s economy, contributing to local jobs, community vitality, and resident quality of life. Post-pandemic challenges, including shifts in consumer behavior and infrastructure needs, highlighted opportunities to better support entrepreneurs and attract new investment.

This project addresses these by providing data-driven tools and recommendations that enhance business visibility, streamline access to resources, and promote inclusive growth. Ultimately, these efforts help position East Bridgewater as a welcoming destination for businesses and visitors, preserving its small-town charm while building resilience for future economic success.

Key Project Highlights

Comprehensive inventories of local businesses and potential development sites to improve visibility and planning
Surveys capturing perspectives from both consumers and businesses to identify needs, gaps, and opportunities
A detailed resource guide for businesses to navigate local permitting & regulatory systems, available finance tools, and standard operational challenges
A best practices report for Town leadership tailored to local conditions that outlines economic development priorities centered on business
Guidance for establishing an ongoing Economic Development Committee to sustain coordination and momentum
Establishment of a centralized online resource to support economic development, business growth, investment, and ongoing planning efforts