Princeton Business Association

We strive to foster connection, promote collaboration, and give local businesses a stronger collective voice.

About

The idea for the Princeton Business Association grew out of a desire to create a more connected and supportive environment for local businesses. We're aiming to serve as a hub for communication, advocacy, and joint initiatives - whether that's marketing efforts, seasonal events, or working together on town improvements.

Our Values:

Connection

  • Planning and hosting meetings, mixers, and events to connect local business owners with one another, as well as with the community

  • Building a network of trusted referrals

  • Increasing awareness of what Princeton has to offer

    residents and visitors

Collaboration

  • Working together with other town or local organizations to promote Princeton-based events, to benefit the local community, and to identify opportunities for growth

Community

  • Participating in local events to support Princeton

  • Over the years, the number of businesses in Princeton has gradually increased, including retail, wellness services, tradespeople, artists, farms, and hospitality offerings. There’s always been a sense of informal support, whether through word-of-mouth, local social media groups, or simply neighbors helping neighbors. But we recognized that to grow further, and to help businesses thrive sustainably, we needed a more structured way to share ideas, resources, and visibility.

  • The Chamber of Commerce serves a valuable regional role, but Princeton’s small business community needed something more locally focused and accessible. Many small businesses, especially those just starting out or operating on a tight budget might feel disconnected from larger regional efforts. The PBA offers a more grassroots approach, centered on Princeton’s unique character and needs. By working together, we can strengthen the local economy, attract more visitors, and help residents discover (and support) the businesses right here in town.

  • Yes - Princeton has incredible potential as a destination, not just for skiing at Wachusett Mountain, but for hiking, biking, dining, farm experiences, the arts, and more. We want to celebrate that. Cooperative marketing, event planning, and shared signage or print materials are just a few ideas we're exploring. We’re also looking at ways to pool resources for things like advertising, professional development, or technology support - anything that can reduce costs and increase impact.

  • By sharing knowledge, cross-promoting services, referring customers, and collaborating on joint events or promotions. We’re stronger when we work together, and that’s one of the core principles behind the PBA. It might be as simple as two businesses teaming up for a holiday market, or a contractor referring a client to a local supplier - it all adds up.

  • We see the PBA as a partner to the town. Whether it's collaborating on signage, beautification projects, or grant applications, there's great potential for alignment. By acting as a collective voice for businesses, we can provide feedback on town planning efforts, support community events, and advocate for improvements that benefit everyone.

  • We’re focused on outreach - through social media, local press, direct contact, and town events - to let businesses know that this is a group for them, and that any size or type of business is welcome. At the same time, we want residents to understand that supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to strengthen the community. These businesses are owned by neighbors, friends, and families who live right here in Princeton. Whether it’s buying local, spreading the word, or just showing up to events, it all makes a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the Team

  • Gabi Bennett

    PRESIDENT

    Owner | The Barn Princeton

  • Jen Shenk

    VICE PRESIDENT

    Real Estate Broker | Keller Williams North Central

  • Anne-Marie Buchenan

    SECRETARY

    Owner | AL-AN Manufacturing

  • Alixis Van Horn

    COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

    Owner | Wachusett Botox

  • Jen Lovett

    TREASURER

    Owner | Liberty Tax