Becoming a member means joining a network committed to strengthening our region's businesses and communities. Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or local supporter, there’s never been a better time to join.

We’re excited to announce new benefits for QVCDC Members!

For just $25.00 a year, individuals and businesses can become members of the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation and enjoy exclusive perks while supporting local economic development.

Membership now includes: 

Your business logo featured on our website with a link to your preferred webpage or social media profile

Invitation to our Annual Meeting to connect with regional stakeholders

Invitation to our “Donuts with Delegates” event with elected officials and community leaders

Promotion of your business on our social media channels and in our newsletters

FREE Notary Public Services

ServSafe Food Handler class & exam

9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

This class is held in-person class with a written exam

(test results typically emailed within 14 days)

$50 per person

Description: This course is a great introduction to food safety and is appropriate for all ages and skills. Servers, volunteers, high school students, and other non-supervisory food employees will gain the necessary knowledge to handle and serve safe food. Many Health Departments suggest having all employees trained in food safety, and this is an affordable option!

Following this session, we will be holding an AllerTrain Class & Exam: this is a class is great add-on to the Food Handler Certification. Please use the AllerTrain link to register.

AllerTrain class & exam

1 PM-4 PM

This class is held in person with a written exam

(results typically emailed within 14 days)

$75 per person

Description:

New course! Now offering AllerTrain course and exam to become certified in Allergen Awareness. This course is approved in Massachusetts and is required for permitted establishments. The course is ideal for all ages and experiences. Food allergies affect millions of people in the US, and allergic reactions cost millions of dollars each year; this course prepares food employees for handling and preparing safe foods for all guests.

We are offering the ServSafe Food Handler class and exam before this class. The Food Handler class is a complement to your Allertrain certification. To register for the Food Handler Class and exam, please use the Food Handler registration link.

Our Business Planning Workshop is back!

Are you a new entrepreneur?

A young enthusiast eager to kickstart your business journey? 

Or a current small business owner seeking direction to maximize your growth?

Join us for an empowering workshop designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the world of entrepreneurship.

What you’ll gain:

• Build your Business Team
• Develop a plan for success
• Strategic Marketing Approaches to Expand Your Reach
• Discover Financing Opportunities
• An additional personalized session focused on learning how to project your income and expenses

Whether you're a current small business owner in need of guidance or a budding entrepreneur with a vision, this workshop is your gateway to success!

There will be 5 Workshop Sessions:

• Monday, November 3, 2025, 6 pm-7:30 pm
• Wednesday, November 5 2026, 2025, 6 pm-7:30 pm
• Monday, November 10, 2025, 6 pm-7:30 pm
• Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 6 pm-7:30 pm

A 1:1 session will be scheduled upon completion of the workshop

All sessions will be held at: E2E 79 Main Street, Ware, MA 01082

Business Planning is $99 if registered before 10/31/2025

Financial Assistance is available for income-qualified small businesses. 

For small businesses interested in financial assistance: Please contact Lindsay at 413-497-4409 or Lindsaya@qvcdc.org BEFORE registering for this workshop

Rise and Shine with QuickBooks Online!

About the Series:  This training series is designed for beginners who want to master the fundamentals of QuickBooks Online (QBO) quickly and effectively. This 5-part course provides a hands-on introduction to QBO using real-world scenarios and sample company data.

Beginner Series Sessions and Topics:

1. Wednesday, Nov 5, 2025, 8 am-9 am -  QuickBooks Set Up & Navigation

2. Wednesday, Nov 19, 2025, 8 am-9 am – The Chart of Accounts

3. Wednesday, December 3, 2025, 8 am-9 am– Vendors & Expenses

4. Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 8 am-9 am – Customers & Sales

5. Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 8 am-9 am– The Bank Feed

Registration for QuickBooks Breakfast Series: Advanced Cohort is also available on CourseStorm. 

There will be a bonus class: QuickBooks AI available at no cost to participants who complete both the Beginner and Advanced Series.

This workshop is ideal for new and existing small businesses aiming to enhance their marketing knowledge and drive growth.

Elevate your marketing game by attending our Small Business Marketing Workshop featuring:

Fundamentals of Marketing

Explore the essentials of marketing with a focus on discovering your unique value proposition, crafting customer-first stories, and developing a strategic marketing plan. This class equips you with the knowledge to articulate what sets your business apart, connect with your audience on a deeper level, and create a roadmap to guide your marketing efforts efficiently.

Social Media Marketing

Learn to captivate and expand your audience with our Social Media Marketing course. Gain skills in creating engaging content and leveraging social platforms to elevate your small business's online presence and increase sales.

This class will be held on 2 different dates:

Saturday, November 8, 2025 9 am - 2 pm

or

Saturday, April 18, 2026 9 am-2 pm

This workshop is presented by Aaron J.Keyes, marketing professional. 

This workshop is held IN-PERSON only. Seats will be limited

Food Trucks 

10am-Noon

$100 per person for each class 

Description: Reviews the regulations and best practices for Food Trucks in Massachusetts and includes opportunity for class discussion and Q&A. Geared toward those looking for information before purchasing a food truck but also a great source of information for those navigating an established business.

Each completed class includes a $25 credit toward ServSafe Manager course booked through QVCDC and attended by 6/30/2026!

Residential Kitchens

12:30 PM-2:30PM

$100 per person for each class 

Reviews the regulations and best practices for Residential Kitchens in Massachusetts and includes opportunity for class discussion and Q&A.

Geared toward those looking for information before opening a residential kitchen, but also a great source of information for those navigating an established business.

Each completed class includes a $25 credit toward ServSafe Manager course booked through QVCDC and attended by 6/30/2026!