B
OSTON – The BASE, a nonprofit that uses sports as a vehicle for youth development, has secured a $2.8 million tax-exempt bond through MassDevelopment. The bond will help the organization purchase its headquarters at 150 Shirley St. in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood and an adjacent parcel of land for parking.

    The BASE plans to use the funds raised from local philanthropies and bond proceeds to buy the building, which it previously leased. Eastern Bank purchased the bond, enabling The BASE to achieve a lower cost of capital. This will allow the organization to expand its programs and serve more young people in Roxbury and across Greater Boston.

    "We're proud to help The BASE solidify its presence in the Roxbury community," said MassDevelopment Deputy Director Marcos Marrero. "This transaction will have a positive impact on the lives of many young residents."

    The BASE, founded in 2013, operates in Greater Boston and Chicago, providing student athletes with year-round training, academic support, and access to college resources. The organization serves over 1,300 youth annually through its programs, leagues, and events.

    MassDevelopment worked with Eastern Bank to deliver low-cost financing for the transaction. "We're grateful for MassDevelopment's partnership in helping us secure this financing," said The BASE President Steph Lewis. "With our own facility, we'll be able to expand our reach and serve even more young people."

    The bond issuance is part of MassDevelopment's efforts to stimulate economic growth across Massachusetts. In FY2024, the agency financed or managed 349 projects generating over $3.5 billion in investment and creating or supporting 22,426 jobs.