Boston, MA – Boston Mayor Martin Walsh and Citizens Bank CEO Bruce Van Saun will unveil a half-million investment into programming designed to provide resources and active support to Greater Boston residents who face the greatest obstacles to full-time employment – minorities, veterans, women, and at-risk youth.

This funding is designed to bridge the digital divide and close the skills gap – two pieces of the puzzle that lead to chronic unemployment and under-employment. As part of this recommitment by the city and business community, Boston Main Streets Foundation will announce the launch of a new Small Business Technology Initiative for Community and Economic Growth, with the purpose of supporting immigrant, minority and women-owned small businesses in Greater Boston.

Mayor Walsh will join Citizens executives, community leaders and colleagues for a short speaking program to officially unveil the program recipients, and provide an update on the city’s efforts combating chronic workforce issues affecting the city.  Mayor Walsh will also speak to the importance of giving opportunity to immigrant, minority and women-owned small businesses, and the role of local companies like Citizens to work on workforce and economic development.