What We Do
The Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) is MassDevelopment's flagship program that partners with communities to strengthen downtowns and commercial districts in Gateway Cities.
Through a three-year partnership and accelerator framework, we collaborate with cross-sector local leaders and organizations to drive meaningful district transformation. We commit intensive, multi-year resources to a neighborhood—simultaneously advancing real estate development, supporting small businesses, activating public spaces, and strengthening local economies. Our approach is direct, hands-on, and rooted in deep collaboration, helping communities build on the assets that already make them strong. By focusing on neighborhood revitalization, we aim to create lasting economic opportunities and clear pathways for wealth building for residents and local stakeholders alike.
TDI’s Theory of Change is to bring a practical toolkit of targeted financial and human capital to support this work, from small grants and technical assistance to real estate support and district level strategies. These resources are shaped by local priorities and designed to help communities move ideas into action, test what works and build momentum over time.
TDI Uses An Accelerator Model
We commit intensive resources to a district for a defined time—simultaneously working on real estate development, small business stability and growth, arts, and cultural amenities, placemaking, and targeted technical assistance and strategic planning. This work is laid on a platform of community engagement and partnership development; we require that cities assemble a cross-sector partnership to apply in the first place, and over the course of the program we work to make the partnership more representative of the neighborhood and use it as a platform to grow sustaining, working relationships.
Tools That Drive District Transformation
TDI deploys a set of tools and investments into each district, collaborating with local partners to support progress over time.
TDIFellow
An embedded mid-career practitioner who brings economic development expertise and helps facilitate collaboration and network organization across the district.
Partnership Development
A local cross-sector TDI Partnership of community leaders guides district strategy, defines goals, and governs the program's direction.
TDI Co-Investment & Technical Assistance
TDI uses a co-investment approach to support districts through small business and real estate investments, along with tailored technical assistance, leveraging in-kind contributions and local partner resources to advance district priorities.
Creative Economy Initiatives
Enhancing the outsized impact that the creative and cultural economies have on Gateway City downtowns and commercial districts.
Grow your knowledge of TDI!
Check out our new Gateway Network page to learn more about work after the accelerator.
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