Funding Win: $450,000 Secured!

By Executive Director Robert M. George

Dear Leadership Team and Members of the RMS Board of Directors,

Roxbury Main Streets is kicking off Fiscal Year 2026 in grand style!

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to State Representative Chynah Tyler, a loyal friend and tireless advocate for Roxbury Main Streets and our small business community.

As many of you know, we have worked closely with Rep. Tyler over the past several years on multiple initiatives. I am thrilled to share that the Massachusetts State Budget was officially approved, and RMS has secured key funding that will directly benefit our community:

FY26 State Budget Allocations:

$250,000 for the Nubian Square Senior Initiative Led by Precisely Sr. Security LLC, this initiative continues important work supporting our senior population. RMS will once again serve as the fiscal conduit for this program—this time in partnership with Precisely Security. (Note: 10% of the funding will remain with RMS for administrative management.)

 $100,000 for Lower Blue Hill Avenue Businesses These funds are designated to support small businesses impacted by ongoing utility infrastructure improvements. This is the result of over a year of work alongside Carlos, Representative Tyler’s office, and the businesses in the affected area. (Note: 10% of the funding will remain with RMS for administrative management.)

$100,000 for the RMS Storefront Improvement Program This has been a personal passion project of mine since I joined RMS. After four years of collaboration with Rep. Tyler’s team, I am excited to finally see this vision receive dedicated funding. See attached.

Additional Funding from TD Bank:

Thanks to our ongoing collaboration with TD Bank, RMS has received:

• $10,000 for the upcoming Small Business Technical Assistance Program, being finalized in partnership with the City of Boston’s Small Business Development Office and TD Bank.

• $2,000 for the Annual Women’s Business Breakfast

RMS FY 26 contract with the City of Boston was approved and is making its way through the signature process.

Representative Tyler often reminds me, "Don’t lose faith, sometimes we have to go through the nose to get to the yes." Her dedication and belief in our work are deeply appreciated.

Rep. Tyler and Roxbury Main Streets hosted a Business Walk on Monday, July 21 to share this incredible news with the broader community. More details to follow.

Thank you all for your continued support, hard work, and belief in the mission of Roxbury Main Streets. We are making real progress—and there is so much more ahead.