# NBEDC Annual Meeting, 10/29/26

The New Bedford Economic Development Council’s 2026 annual meeting was held October 29, 2026. No procurement award, bid approval, or spending contract vote was recorded. The meeting highlighted the Whaling Museum expansion, a 20,000-square-foot project expected to open in less than 10 months. The museum’s president said the city awarded $3 million in ARPA funding toward the project and that Machado Silvetti was selected through a competitive RFP for architectural services. The project also includes planned space for a café operated in partnership with a local business. The mayor cited ongoing infrastructure investment, including a roughly $300 million upgrade to the I-195 viaduct and the nearing completion of Leonard’s Wharf work.

The treasurer reported nearly $4.4 million in combined grant and lending support, completion of a $75,000 SBA technical-assistance program with approval to continue the work in 2027, and loans to 16 businesses totaling $68,000; the year-end loan portfolio exceeded $3 million. The council approved the prior meeting minutes and treasurer’s report and held its annual elections, with no procurement-related motions. Speakers also credited city and other grant funding, corporate sponsorships, and lending partnerships with supporting economic development and small businesses.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 29, 2026

### Sources
- [NBEDC Annual Meeting, 10/29/26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7FUGvRDwMo) - City of New Bedford