What is the entrepreneurship forum?
In an effort to help mitigate barriers for minority and female small business owners, the Market launched a two-part program to increase education, opportunity, and access to the downtown stage: the Boston Public Market Entrepreneurship Forum, powered by Citizens. This six-seminar series supports financial and business development of our small business community. The forum culminates in the Cheryl Cronin Entrepreneurship Forum Award, which offers local minority-owned businesses the opportunity to sell their wares in the Market, free of charge for up to one year.
Business education
Six-monthly business education seminars featuring speaking panels by industry leaders on key topics: strategic planning, branding, marketing, operations, networking, and more.
award competition
Eligible participants will compete for the Cheryl Cronin Entrepreneurship Forum Award for free retail space in Boston Public Market for up to a year and grant stipends for start-up costs. One to three small businesses will receive the award.
2026-27 timeline
Cheryl Cronin Entrepreneurship Forum Award
Cheryl Cronin, as CEO from 2016–2026, led the Boston Public Market with vision, generosity, and a deep belief in the power of entrepreneurship to strengthen communities. During her decade of leadership, Cheryl championed small businesses by expanding access to mentorship, resources, and opportunity—helping countless entrepreneurs and creating pathways for their bold ideas to take root, grow, and thrive.
Founded in 2022 under her leadership and in partnership with Citizens, the Entrepreneurship Forum was created to educate, connect, and elevate emerging entrepreneurs, and is honored today as the Cheryl Cronin Entrepreneurship Forum Award.
In the Media
questions?
Please reach out to Chelsea Doliner at cdoliner@bostonpublicmarket.org
