Project Abstract
Businesses in Berkshire and Franklin counties face many challenges. The Mohawk Trail Woodlands Partnership (MTWP), comprised of representatives from twenty one towns in the region, is investigating ways to improve the regional economy. We worked with the Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Mohawk Trail Woodlands Partnership to evaluate seven programs proposed by the MTWP to help local wood and tourism businesses. We conducted interviews with five businesses in the region to obtain their opinions on the programs and to create profiles for each business illustrating their challenges and strategies to overcome them. Lastly, we provided recommendations on how to improve the seven plans, marketing, internet infrastructure, and tourism in the region.