Our Projects

  • Four men fixing bikes

    The Bike Place

    Just about everyone can benefit from riding a bicycle. The Bike Place in Princeton, IL makes that idea a reality by rescuing, repairing, recycling and distributing new and used bikes. Stop by our shop to take one for a ride. We Pedal it Forward!

  • Norman Rockwell & Maggie Meiners

    Four Freedoms & Beyond

    Using art to celebrate and reflect on core American values, this project aims to bridge American divisions with collaborative, empathetic community events, awards, art, written publications, and more.

  • images of newspaper ads promoting people in the community

    Promoting Our Hometown

    Recognizing, inspiring, rewarding, and promoting those who exemplify just what makes Princeton such a good place to live. A strong community is built by those who support and respect each other.

  • flowers arranged in the form of a mandala

    Trees, Gardens, & Flowers...

    From sponsoring Mainstreet flower pots to picking up roadside garbage, we have helped enhance the natural beauty of our home. We aren’t afraid to get dirt on our hands to help our town and our earth!

  • A building with public art and a building without public art

    How does a town express itseslf?

    Public Art! Created public art can contribute to a community's identity, foster pride and a sense of belonging, and attract visitors. It can play an important part in making us unique, while portraying our pride in our town, our community, and our history.

  • Hands painted to make a heart

    Civic Participation

    A healthy community requires residents who understand the challenges and limits of good government. Built upon strong community connections and educated voters, we can focus on abundance instead of scarcity; on growing from our strengths, not weaknesses.

  • A business sign that says yes we're open

    Think Local First.

    In a world economy where large corporations dominate public attention and sap at their wallets, we support the idea of thinking local first. Midwest Partners is committed to preserving and protecting the vitality of locally owned independent businesses.

  • A portrait of Owen Lovejoy

    Honoring Lovejoy

    Princeton preacher and Congressman Owen Lovejoy was one of the the country’s most outspoken advocates against slavery during the time of Lincoln and the civil war. His homestead was a stop on the Underground Railroad more than 170 years ago.

  • A stack of books

    Reading, Books, and Libraries of all Sizes

    Being able to read well is more important than ever in a fast-paced interconnected society and economy. And the love of reading that leads to a full, productive life—and jobs—can be nurtured. Midwest Partners supports uniquely successful efforts to promote reading.

  • The letter B in a circle

    The Place to "B"

    There is no “Planet B,” they say. This is it. We’re here. Now. In North Central Illinois. While transforming the global economy to benefit all people and communities throughout the entire planet seems a little ambitious, we can start where we live, work, create, learn and play. That’s what we aspire to be. Thus, The B Store.

  • A sunny office with a table and chairs

    A Place to Meet

    What can you do with an old baggage room at a historic train station used by 40,000 or more people every year? Make it into a place to meet, solve problems, and explore possibilities. Come in, have a cup of coffee, and talk with us. Your idea could be the next project we support!

  • Thanks

    We couldn't do it without you.

    Yes, one person can make a difference. But hundreds of people have contributed to the efforts begun by Midwest Partners since 2015. They lead by example. You can be like them and accept our thanks.