Business Builds Capital Grant Program
The Business Builds Capital Grant Program through the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) is offering capital reimbursable grants to business making qualified investments in Massachusetts facilities. This program is designed to spur job creation in Gateway Cities such as Barnstable and can fund projects that include construction, equipment purchases, or infrastructure improvements. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis via the MA Business Front Door and awards range from $500,000 – $2,500,000.
CapeTide Accepting Applications for Business Accelerator Program
CapeTide is a new local entrepreneur support organization that offers year-round, locally tailored support for Cape Cod’s aspiring entrepreneurs at no cost to them. Their programs are designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to test ideas, build sustainable business models, and prepare for long-term success. Through a combination of cohort-based learning, advising, access to industry experts, and peer support, participants gain practical tools, clarity, and confidence to move their businesses forward. Applications are now being accepted for their 3-week business accelerator program through April 9th.
Snack Shack Applications Now Open
The Town of Barnstable is now accepting applications for the 2026 Snack Shack Pop-Up season at the Hyannis Harbor Overlook. This turnkey, waterfront opportunity is designed for local food entrepreneurs and established businesses looking to test new concepts or expand their brand in a high-traffic seasonal market.
The 2026 season will run from June through November. Vendors may reserve the space for up to six consecutive days at a time to allow for a range of participation options.
Applications are being accepted on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early to secure preferred dates. Additional program details and applications are available online at: https://businessbarnstable.com/snack-shack-at-hyannis-harbor-overlook/
Cape Light Compact Main Streets Program
Through the Main Streets effort, Cape Light Compact offers local businesses no-cost, energy assessments. Program staff will be going door-to-door to enlist business participation in select Towns and to schedule appointments for the assessments, which will determine how your business can reduce its energy usage.
Incentives up to 90% are available for recommended improvements including but not limited to: weatherization, lighting, refrigeration, and water-saving devices.
To sign up for an assessment, please call 774-470-8998 or sign up online.
Downtown Hyannis Zoning Changes Approved
The Barnstable Town Council recently approved the following zoning changes to the downtown Hyannis zoning ordinance:
- Increased parking requirements from 1 space per dwelling unit to 1.5 spaces per dwelling unit
- Establishment of a height limit for new buildings with a 44-foot maximum established for properties in the Downtown Main Street (DMS) zoning district, and a 40-foot max for properties located in the Downtown Village (DV) zoning district
- Extension of the area where ground floor commercial space is required in development for properties located along Main Street between Ocean Street and Pleasant Street
- Modification of the zoning map for select properties from the Downtown Village (DV) zoning district to Downtown Neighborhood (DN)
For more information on these zoning changes, please contact Kyle Pedicini at kyle.pedicini@barnstable.gov
Tourism Mini-Grant Awards Announced
The Town of Barnstable is pleased to announce the recipients of the annual Tourism Mini-Grant program, with a total of $19,000 being awarded to 26 local civic and non-profit organizations. These grant awards will support programming and promotional efforts that attract visitors to the Town of Barnstable.
The Tourism Mini-Grant program is funded through a portion of the Town’s rooms tax revenue. Each year, civic associations and non-profit organizations offering programming and visitor services in Barnstable are encouraged to apply for funding through this initiative. Preference for this year’s program was given to events related to MA-250 celebrations, or events taking place during the shoulder season.
The list of 2026 grantees and their award amounts are listed here.
