JPMorgan Chase last month opened a new branch in Uphams Corner’s historic Pierce Building in Uphams Corner. The unveiling marked the latest development in a partnership between JPMorgan Chase and Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (Dorchester Bay EDC), which owns and operates the building.

“We’ve long viewed Dorchester as a place we wanted to be,” said Jennifer Campbell, the bank’s market director for greater Boston. “We look forward to building new relationships and helping our customers during life’s most important moments, like opening their first savings account, buying their first home, or planning for retirement. Working with Dorchester Bay EDC and as one of their anchor tenants makes this space that much more unique and exciting.”

JPMorgan Chase has committed $1.25 million to support Dorchester Bay EDC’s small business programs, which seek to provide equitable access to resources and culturally competent technical assistance for business owners of color in Dorchester, Roxbury, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, and Roslindale as they continue to recover from the impacts of the pandemic.

Through the grant, the EDC has served 15 small businesses through their business coaching and technical assistance programs. Commercial space subsidies have also supported 15 small businesses, including 8 that have Latino owners, 4 with Asian owners, and 3 that have Black owners. The awards add up to $319,000, with an average of $21,000 awarded to each business. 

Dorchester Bay says that by providing commercial space subsidies to local small businesses, the grants have helped sustain employment opportunities in Uphams Corner, with 72 jobs retained and 4 jobs created. The businesses include six restaurants and food service providers, 3 barbershops, 3 multi-service providers, a flower shop, a furniture store, and a community organization, Uphams Corner Main Street.

“Uphams Corner is poised for significant growth and investment. Dorchester Bay EDC is committed to ensuring that local residents and businesses can thrive in the neighborhood,” said CEO Kimberly R. Lyle. “We are excited to partner with JPMorgan Chase to expand opportunities for the community to build a strong financial future.”

JPMorgan Chase opened its first branch in Massachusetts in 2018; it now has 49.