Experience Princeton Awarded Transformation Grant from Main Street New Jersey (MSNJ) Program
Princeton, NJ — May 21, 2025: Experience Princeton is proud to receive a Transformation Grant in the amount of $150,000 from the Main Street New Jersey (MSNJ) program.
The grant award will provide funds for an economic feasibility study to help improve the mix and vitality of Princeton businesses, technology upgrades, and promotional activities in anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary. It will also support physical improvements including plantings, furniture, and wayfinding.
“Princeton is thrilled to be one of the newest Main Street New Jersey designated communities and to be awarded this grant,” said Experience Princeton Executive Director Isaac Kremer. Princeton was designated one of 29 Main Street New Jersey communities after a competitive application process that ended in late 2024.
Main Street New Jersey funding is part of a larger effort by Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), which administers MSNJ, to commit more resources to community revitalization programs that focus on small businesses and neighborhood improvement projects.
“Receiving the Main Street New Jersey designation is a significant honor and a reflection of our ongoing efforts to promote economic development and growth,” said Councilwoman Michelle Pirone Lambros. “This grant allows us to invest in a range of valuable initiatives that support our local business and property owners.”
Established in 1989, the MSNJ program helps municipalities improve the economy, appearance, and image of their central business districts through the organization of local citizens and resources. Municipalities must apply and be selected to join the program. These designated communities receive technical support and training to assist in restoring their main streets as centers of economic and social activity.
“This grant is a smart investment in Princeton’s future,” said New Jersey State Senator Andrew Zwicker (LD-16). “Not only will this money strengthen our small business community and ensure downtown Princeton remains vibrant and inclusive, but we can now look forward to showcasing the town’s rich history for America’s 250th anniversary. I’m proud to see Princeton recognized as a Main Street New Jersey community and grateful for the state’s continued commitment to local economic development.”
The Transformation Grants, which are funding awards of up to $150,000, are aimed at assisting projects that can be completed in twelve months or less.
“Princeton is a must-see for tourists coming to Mercer and New Jersey, making it a great fit for Main Street designation and this transformation grant,” said County Executive Dan Benson. “Princeton has always been innovative in both economic development and the creation of tourism opportunities for locals and visitors alike.”
Experience Princeton has partnered with the Municipality to plan and get approvals for a number of projects, some of which will start immediately and others that will be implemented over the coming months. All work is expected to be completed before June 1, 2026.
CONTACT
Isaac Kremer, Executive Director, Experience Princeton | Isaac@princetonbusiness.org | 313-268-4356
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Experience Princeton is a nonprofit organization established in 2022 as a Special Improvement District (SID) dedicated to strengthening and promoting all of Princeton, New Jersey, through placemaking, marketing and economic development.
