Gateway Cities Innovation Institute

The Gateway Cities Innovation Institute works to unlock the economic potential of small to mid-size regional cities. Leveraging MassINC’s research, polling, and policy team, the Institute strengthens connections across communities and helps Gateway City leaders develop and advance a shared policy agenda.

Latest Research and Updates

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Event Recap — Gateway Cities

13th Annual Gateway Cities Innovation Summit

On October 28, leaders from across Massachusetts gathered in Lowell to explore how regional collaboration can drive inclusive growth in a changing economy.

October 30, 2025

Announcement — Gateway Cities

Announcing the 2025 Gateway Cities Innovation Award Honorees

October 20, 2025

Public Commentary — Gateway Cities

Uneven Gateway Cities Housing Production May Indicate Bigger Problems Ahead

October 5, 2025

Research — Gateway Cities

2025 Gateway Cities Housing Monitor

September 17, 2025

Featured Research

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Research — Gateway Cities

District Management for Downtown Vitality

Commercial districts need a high volume of foot traffic to support thriving small businesses. Supplemental district management services can dramatically increase this pedestrian activity.

Key Takeaways

District management organizations (DMOs) encourage thriving local commercial districts for small businesses to flourish.
DMOs require an annual operating budget of between $200,000 – $700,000 depending on the district size. Increased state funding could ease the operating gap DMOs typically face.
Between now and 2030, cohorts of 5 large DMOs could be supported each year starting at $500,000 and peaking at $5.5 million annually. These DMOs could general $13 million annually for local revitalization.

Gateway Cities Journal

News and information for everyone who cares about Gateway Cities. The Gateway Cities Journal is a biweekly blog covering state and local policy topics, including analysis, news coverage, and links to resources of interest to these communities.

Newsletter — Gateway Cities

Downtowns Get a Little Love

Massachusetts is giving its downtowns some Valentine’s Day attention with a new MDI Capital program aimed at funding local planning and streetscape improvements to spark economic vitality and replace last year’s defunded initiative.

February 17, 2026