Dubbed "Create Boston," the initiative, developed by the BostonRedevelopment Authority in conjunction with Mayor Thomas Menino,will allow entrepreneurs in the music, drama, arts and crafts,media and movie businesses tap into city resources that offerassistance with site selection and permitting, low-interest loans,workforce development and business advocacy.

"It's the right time to bring everyone together and highlightthe creative industries and help them grow and give themassistance," Menino said in announcing the initiative.

That assistance includes low-cost loans of up to $2 million thatcould be made available to several businesses over the next 18months. Although many creative businesses can tap into low-interestloans through the Boston Local Development Corp., the city hopes aspecial loan program will better serve the area's creativetalent.