L
ynn Tokarczyk is the founder and president of Business Development Strategies, Inc., a Massachusetts-based firm that helps companies secure government tax incentives. Her clients include prominent brands such as MilliporeSigma, Analog Devices, and TripAdvisor. By leveraging her expertise in sales and business development, Ms. Tokarczyk has helped companies remain in Massachusetts and contribute positively to the state's economy.
Ms. Tokarczyk began her career as a retail boutique owner before joining the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) under Governor Cellucci's administration. She later worked at Ernst & Young, where she managed the New England Area State and Local Tax Incentives practice. In 2003, she founded BDS, which has since become a leading authority on government tax incentives.
BDS specializes in identifying, negotiating, and securing tax incentives for companies undertaking real estate expansion and relocation projects. The firm's team of subject matter specialists has helped over 200 companies secure combined tax savings of more than $300 million, retain 30,000 jobs, and create 15,000 new positions. These companies have infused over $1 billion into local economies in Massachusetts cities and towns.
Ms. Tokarczyk will be honored with the Outstanding Women of 2025 award at the annual Women of the Year awards gala on March 12, 2025. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of Associated Industries of Massachusetts. Her work has been recognized with the 2019 Next Century Award from AIM, which also named her Top Job Creator.
In a recent Q&A session, Ms. Tokarczyk attributed her success to tenacity and building lasting relationships. She emphasized the importance of staying focused and committed to delivering on commitments. When asked about her hobbies and interests, she mentioned her love for music, ballroom dancing, and pickleball. Her favorite books include fiction by Pamela Kelley and business books such as "Atomic Habits" by James Clear.
Ms. Tokarczyk's core values include honesty, loyalty, authenticity, respect, a sense of urgency, and delivering on commitments. She inspires others with her positive attitude and resilience, citing Valerie Bertinelli as someone she would like to meet due to her upbeat nature and success story.
