Aliesha Porcena Named Director of Small Business

Porcena most recently served as the Director of Growth, Equity & Impact at Interise, a national economic development nonprofit focused on closing the racial wealth gap through small business growth. Much of her work focused on business development and working closely with the Small Business Administration to deliver programming across the country. 

"Our small businesses uplift families across our neighborhoods, serve as cultural hubs for neighborhoods, and drive Boston’s economy," said Mayor Michelle Wu. "I'm excited for Aliesha's leadership to support all of our small businesses as we continue to take steps in our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and use all of our city's resources to build wealth and opportunity in every community."

“Aliesha’s role at Interise and experience in business development will make her a great asset to our small business community,” said Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. “As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, Aliesha and her team will continue to support our small businesses and help to keep their doors open.” 

Porcena’s experience in strategic growth and partnership development in new and existing markets will be important in ensuring that we meet the priorities of the Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion — continued support to our small business community and activating spaces across our neighborhoods. 

In this role, she oversees direct services and programming that supports over 40,000 small businesses. In partnership with Boston's small business community, Porcena helps build an inclusive, equitable, and accessible economy that works for all residents.

“I am deeply honored to serve in Mayor Wu's administration as Director of Small Business in the Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion under Chief Idowu, ” said Aliesha Porcena. “As a native of Boston and proud daughter of Haitian immigrants, I know first hand the power of creating an inclusive economy. Our small businesses are a source of strength and community for our residents. I am excited to serve the City of Boston at a pivotal time and work in partnership to help our small businesses thrive in today's economy.” 

Porcena holds a Masters of Arts in Public Policy from Tufts University, and was a Neighborhood Fellow. She graduated from Northeastern University with a Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and International Affairs. The proud daughter of Haitian immigrants, Porcena is a lifelong Boston native currently residing in Dorchester. In service to her community, she is active on the board of Girls LEAP and with the Cummings Foundation.