Building Systems That Support Your Values: February Resources & Insights

By Samalid Hogan, Director of Business Support Services

February Is Where the Real Work Begins

Every January, business owners are energized. Goals are set. Plans are outlined. There is a sense of possibility, of building something better.

For impact-driven businesses and those rooted in the solidarity economy, that energy runs even deeper. We are not only thinking about revenue. We are thinking about people, workers, families, and neighborhoods. We are thinking about how our businesses circulate wealth locally and create opportunity beyond ourselves.

And then February arrives.

February is quieter. The excitement of goal setting fades, and what remains is the work. This is the month where intention meets responsibility. Where values must be backed by systems. Where impact has to be supported by structure.

From Vision to Responsibility

Impact-driven businesses are part of a larger ecosystem. When systems are unclear or finances are reactive, sustainability weakens, burnout grows, and missions are harder to protect.

The solidarity economy calls for businesses that are fair, resilient, and rooted in community. That takes more than good intentions; it takes clear systems and consistent habits.

February isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistency. Reviewing cash flow early and organizing your expenses with intention. Preparing for taxes without stress. Building clarity that supports values-driven decisions.

This is a moment to pause and ask yourself: Are our systems aligned with our values? Are we building something that can last?

February, Black History Month, and Economic Power

February is also Black History Month, a time to reflect not only on legacy, but on present-day action. Many of the principles we now associate with the solidarity economy have been practiced for generations in Black-owned businesses and communities. Supporting Black-owned and small local businesses is not just symbolic; it is an economic action. It is a way to keep dollars circulating locally, sustain livelihoods, and invest in businesses deeply connected to their communities.

For business owners, this month is a reminder that our work is part of something bigger. The systems we build today contribute to the kind of economy we want to see tomorrow. One rooted in care, equity, and shared prosperity.

Accelerate Your Impact: Massachusetts Small Business Coaching Program

At BII, we believe financial capital alone isn’t enough to build a thriving business. That’s where business coaching and technical assistance (TA) comes in. TA is the behind-the-scenes support that helps small businesses and cooperatives grow stronger, smarter, and more sustainable.

At BII, our free 1-on-1 business coaching services provided in English and Spanish include:

Capital readiness: Understanding what kind of funding fits your goals
Financial projections: Building the roadmap to a stable future
Resource navigation: Finding tools, experts, and programs that support your goals
Access to contracts: Growing your revenue through new partnerships

This program is ideal for businesses ready to scale, create good jobs, and lead with purpose. Learn more.

GreenEdge Accelerator – Accepting Applicants!

GreenEdge Accelerator is a statewide program designed to help small businesses strengthen their operations, gain critical certifications, and access contract opportunities in clean energy sectors like building retrofits, solar installations, and EV infrastructure. Plus, you can earn while you grow–participants who complete the GreenEdge Accelerator receive a $2,000 stipend at the end of the program!

With rolling admissions, businesses can apply anytime for year-round coaching. The next 8-week class session begins Spring 2026. Apply today!

Business Resources and Programs

Looking for public grants, programs and business resources? Check out our regularly updated list of resources, or reach out to the local organizations listed on our website. This month, we’re highlighting:

Join us in supporting MIRA Coalition’s (Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition) Massachusetts Businesses Pledge to Protect Our Immigrant Communities
Catch up on Governor Maura Healey’s response to ICE violence and discover what local action you can take
Massachusetts Access to Counsel Initiative (MACI) provides full legal representation in Immigration Court for income eligible immigrants. If you are working with immigrants who need legal assistance you can direct them to call the MACI Intake Line at (508) 505-4588. Individuals that call the line will go through a 15–20-minute intake process. The hotline has access to a language line to assist individuals with limited English proficiency. After the intake is done, the Massachusetts Immigrant Refugee Advocacy Coalition (“MIRA”) Intake coordinator will refer eligible individuals to an available legal service provider for potential representation. Representation is FREE under this program to income eligible immigrants. Immigrants will receive full representation in immigration court. Detained clients can ask for intake starting on December 8, 2025, and non-detained clients can call the intake number currently on M-F, 9-5 or Tues, 12-7.
Updated: Temporary Protection Status/TPS Guidance for Employers issued by the Office of the Governor Maura T. Healey and the Office of the Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. This is an important updated document to help guide employers with TPS employees or any other with an Employment Authorization Document and their questions regarding employment and possible termination. The guidance also has important legal resources for employers who might have additional questions.
Small Business for America’s Future Story Collection:

Across the country, changes in immigration enforcement activity are affecting how some communities operate day to day. In areas experiencing increased ICE enforcement and presence, small business owners have reported shifts in customer behavior, workforce availability, and overall business planning.

Small Business for America’s Future is collecting stories from small business owners to better understand these real-world economic impacts and how they show up on the ground in different regions of the country. Your experience—whatever it may be—can help provide a clearer picture of how local conditions are influencing small business stability and growth. SBAF will use your story to inform elected officials and lawmakers of the tangible impacts facing small businesses. (Please note that, given the sensitive nature of the information, all stories collected will be kept confidential and anonymous unless consent is provided).

Share Your Story with SBAF here

Cleantech Open is looking for the world’s most promising startups in the cleantech industry! Do you have an idea that could help solve an environmental or energy challenge? Apply to the 2026 accelerator to gain access to a full business development program that includes expert mentors, investor networking opportunities, industry connections, and a chance to compete regionally and nationally for cash prizes and in-kind services to launch your venture. To learn more and apply, visit cleantechopen.org/.