It was a bright summer day when business owners, local leaders and community members filed into Harvard Square’s dimly lit and aesthetically retro Comedy Studio. As people mingled, sipping coffee and feasting on a full service breakfast, they eagerly awaited a day of learning and networking. What they didn’t anticipate was a day defined by optimism and community, catalyzed by the powerful force of solidarity. This was because that bright summer day wasn’t just any day: it was 617 Day.
On June 17, 2025, Cambridge Local First (CLF) hosted its inaugural 617 Day Small Business Summit. 617 Day is an unofficial holiday that CLF chose to celebrate independently owned businesses in Cambridge and surrounding neighborhoods. At the helm of an alliance of more than 300 local businesses, CLF’s Board Chair Kari Kuelzer, who also owns and operates Grendel’s Den and The Sea Hag, thought 617 Day would be the perfect opportunity to commemorate the Main Street economy that powers our community.
At last year’s Summit, three panels captivated the audience with their insights. Creative Capital Solutions tackled the difficulties faced by small businesses in accessing capital, as they often struggle to compete with larger institutions. The Inclusive Imperative made the case that diversity, equity, and inclusion are, in the long run, effective business policies for employee retention and customer satisfaction. And The Creative Economy discussed the unique challenges faced by independent businesses in the creative and entertainment spaces. After an incredible program, Jenny Bonham-Carter and friends, all local musicians, closed out the day with a performance of “Lean on Me,” a call to uplift our neighbors in trying times. It did not disappoint.
This year, CLF is upping the Summit ante with panels focusing on the impact of artificial intelligence on small businesses, sustainable and local alternatives to Amazon and the power of local media. The 617 Day Small Business Summit will be held in Somerville atop the USQ Building, featuring beautiful views of the city and beyond. Tickets are available to all members of the community who are passionate about uplifting their neighbors, and who appreciate the small businesses that make Cambridge and Greater Boston what it is.
To reserve a spot at this year’s Summit, CLF has provided special registration for Cambridge Day readers.
Kieran Kelly, Associate Director, Cambridge Local First
(This article is sponsored by Cambridge Local First, bringing people and small businesses together in our community since 2005. Cambridgelocalfirst.org.)
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