SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council approved new projects in gateway cities to receive $1.8 million in tax credits. These projects will help to create 125 new jobs, retain 40 existing jobs, and allow for private investments. Many projects will benefit towns and cities throughout Massachusetts including in Northampton, Westfield, and Springfield through a Vacant Storefront Program. The City of Springfield approved Mason Square as a vacant storefront district and they are working towards improvements. The focus area in Mason Square includes Wilbraham Avenue from King Street to McKnight Street and State Street from Berlin Street to Terrence Street. This Springfield district has 17 available vacant storefronts and they plan to bring in many more, helping the community to access the resources. With this project, the city set aside $500,000 in funds for small business assistance programs for the 2025 fiscal year with a match of up to $50,000 per business. “This round of awards through the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council will support small businesses that bring economic energy to our communities and manufacturers seeking to expand their footprint in Massachusetts,” said Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. “We are proud to offer this vital economic development tool that helps make our state the best place for businesses to launch, grow, and succeed.”  “The Economic Assistance Coordinating Council is dedicated to supporting businesses of all sizes and across every sector as they grow their operations and create new jobs in Massachusetts cities and towns,” said Undersecretary of Economic Foundations Ashley Stolba. “We look forward to seeing how this round of awards will benefit economic activity across the state in the years to come."  Toasted, a breakfast and lunch restaurant featuring a full café bar with barista drinks in Northampton, was awarded $10,000 in state tax credits and a $10,000 municipal grant from the city Comfort Bagel which opened in Westfield was awarded $10,000 in state tax credits and $14,265 from the city through the Community Development Block Grant program. Local News Headlines Cold weather may cause battery and tire issues Revenge porn law implemented in West Springfield Family homelessness on the rise in Massachusetts Springfield City Council sets goals for 2025 legislative year WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.