City Manager & CSBBN: Disparity Study Follow-Up & Community Conversation

On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, the Cambridge-Somerville Black Business Network (CSBBN), in collaboration with the Sustainable Business Network (SBN) and Cambridge Local First, hosted a Disparity Study Follow-Up & Community Conversation at the Cambridge Public Library – Central Square Branch.

The event brought together the City Manager, city staff, and members of the local business community to discuss findings from the City’s Disparity Study and explore next steps toward advancing equity in public contracting and economic opportunity.

Attendees heard updates directly from city leadership, engaged in meaningful dialogue, and shared their experiences as small business owners and community advocates. The discussion underscored the ongoing challenges faced by minority- and women-owned businesses and the importance of collaboration, transparency, and accountability between the City and local organizations.

Through this conversation, CSBBN reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable business ecosystem one that empowers all entrepreneurs to thrive in Cambridge.