It may have been dark inside Court Theater on Thursday evening, January 8, but for many Huntingdon business owners, a new light shone on the town’s future and growth.
A group of business owners and other stakeholders met at the theater to lay the foundation of what will be known as the Huntingdon Small Business Association (HSBA).
Various businesses were represented across a range of industries, including retail, food, entertainment, insurance, banking, law, funeral services, media, and more.
Kate Carter-Matlock, owner of Cupkate’s led the meeting, which formed the structure of the association’s board and mission.
She explained that the association would be its own, independent entity.
“This is us. We are self-sufficient,” Carter-Matlock said. “Town Hall is going to support us, not manage us. They’re here to help guide us, but this is ours.”
The group chose members for a seven-person council, agreed on HSBA’s mission statement and goals, and set the date and time for the next meeting.
The council consists of Adam Crews, Amanda Pruitt, Drew Powell, Genji Prater, Jesse Joseph, Kate Carter-Matlock, and Melanie Strop.
Members in attendance also voted to register HSBA as an official Association, which will open the group up to several grant opportunities.
The group’s stated mission is “To work as a united community, to enhance the beauty, inclusivity, and vitality of Huntingdon through strong collaboration, clear communication, and meaningful partnerships with local schools, civic organizations, and town leadership. We aim to elevate Huntingdon as a vibrant, welcoming destination. Our mission is to support long term economic growth, foster civic pride, and create a thriving town filled with opportunity, connection, and shared progress.”
HSBA’s Objectives focus on strengthening communication and collaboration among businesses, City Hall, schools, civic groups, and community organizations through regular meetings and shared initiatives.
HSBA’s goals include a unified effort between businesses to strengthen Huntingdon’s identity. This includes the creation of town merchandise in partnership with local Huntingdon High School’s STEAM program.
Additional priorities include supporting and expanding community events, welcoming new residents through business engagement and resource sharing, and promoting long-term economic growth by sharing grant opportunities, offering optional business workshops, and emphasizing beautification and inclusivity.
The group’s next meeting will be Thursday, February 12 at 5 p.m. at the Colonial Tea Room.
“This town isn’t going to grow unless we push it forward together,” Carter-Matlock said. “There’s so much opportunity here if we’re willing to work cohesively.”
