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Town of Acton
Office of Economic Development
Business Updates
September 2nd, 2025
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| | In This Edition | | 1) Collaboration with Minuteman Technical Institute | | 2) Acton-based business receives award | | 3) Acton Restaurant Week coming Soon | | 4) Powder Mill Road Work | | 5) Business of the Month | | 6) Support to Acton Food Pantry | | 7) Doing Business in Acton | | 8) Economic Development Committee | | 9) Business Quiz | | 10) Events | | | A Letter from the Economic Development Director | | |
Welcome!
As life settles back into its normal pace after Labor Day, we are excited to resume our calendar of ribbon cutting ceremonies. On Friday, October 17th, we will proudly celebrate two new businesses in town: Alligator Shot Tennis Boutique and J.Crew. These events are always a special opportunity to come together and welcome new members of our business community.
We are also proud to highlight the inspiring initiatives happening around us. Recently, Boston Area Gleaners received a well-deserved award recognizing their commitment to sustainability. In addition, Kitchen Outfitters is engaged in an initiative that demonstrates its commitment to the community by hosting a promotion this Saturday, September 6th, in support of the Acton Food Pantry.
Our office takes great pride in supporting our business community in pursuing initiatives that stimulate growth, sustainability, and community connection. One last remark: be sure to read to the end of this newsletter to test your knowledge of Acton businesses with our quiz, featured in every edition.
Warm regards,
Patricia Costa
Economic Development Director
To contact Patricia Costa, please email pcosta@actonma.gov or call (978) 929-6516.
| | | 1) Collaboration with Minuteman Technical Institute | | From left to right: John Mangiaratti (Town Manager), Olivia Barksdale (Conservation Agent), Lauren West (Environmental Analyst), Nancy Palladino (Executive Director, Minuteman Technical Institute), Ian Bergemann (Community Conservation Specialist), and Patricia Costa (Economic Development Director). | |
On August 26, the Office of Economic Development hosted a meeting with Nancy Palladino, Executive Director of the Minuteman Technical Institute, to discuss the syllabus for a new groundskeeping program that the institute intends to launch. Minuteman is a strong regional resource providing qualification for individuals aged 18 and over through programs such as carpentry, welding, and automotive.
Among the topics discussed, Acton staff emphasized the importance of including subjects such as native plants, mapping, equipment operation, and streetscape improvements with planters, which can help make storefronts more attractive.
| | 2) Acton-based Business receives award | | |
Acton-based Boston Area Gleaners, Inc. has been awarded $10,000 through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grant Program. The funding will support the project “Replace Cardboard Boxes with Reusable Plastic Containers for Fresh Produce Distribution,” which aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability in food distribution.
The Micro-Grant program is funded through the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program and the Green Communities Act and supports innovative initiatives that extend the lifespan of materials and reduce trash in Massachusetts. Boston Area Gleaners’ efforts exemplify the positive environmental impact of local organizations committed to reuse and waste reduction.
| | 3) Acton Restaurant Week coming soon | | |
Acton Restaurant Week is an excellent opportunity to highlight what makes your eatery stand out. Local food establishments are encouraged to participate with special promotions. If you own a food establishment and have not yet confirmed your participation, please reach out to the Office of Economic Development at (978) 929-6516.
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Svensish, MassHealth Spring, and Wendy’s remain open during the Powder Mill Road construction. If you’re visiting any of these locations, please let the construction flaggers know when you arrive and they will safely guide you to the appropriate parking area. Thank you for continuing to support our local businesses during this time! | | | | Magenta Dance Place moving to West Acton | | |
The Town of Acton is excited to share that Magenta Dance Place will be moving in September to its new location at 89 Arlington Street. For years, Magenta has created a welcoming and inspiring space where people of all ages can explore the beauty of dance. The studio offers classes ranging from kids’ ballroom and breakdancing to adult styles such as Salsa, Bachata, Swing, Argentine Tango, and wedding dance preparation. The studio also hosts monthly socials, themed dance parties, and breakdance competitions.
Magenta’s move to West Acton will not only expand opportunities for residents to enjoy dance but will also reinforce the cultural spirit and vibrancy of the village, adding another dimension to its growing mix of community-focused businesses and activities.
Magenta Dance Place - 89 Arlington Street (351) 218-9309
Instagram: @magentadanceplace
| | 6) Support to Acton Food Pantry | | |
Join Kitchen Outfitters to support the Acton Food Pantry!
On Saturday, September 6th, the shop will donate 10% of all sales to benefit the Pantry.
Donations will also be accepted in-store from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. A representative from the Food Pantry will be on-site between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to answer questions and share more about their important work in the community.
Kitchen Outfitters is at 342 Great Rd.
(978) 263-1955
| | | 7) Doing Business in Acton | | | |
This comprehensive resource is designed for both current and prospective business owners, offering valuable insights and information to help you thrive in our town. We warmly invite all residents to explore this digital booklet—just a click away!
If you prefer a printed version, hard copies are available at the Town Manager's Office in Town Hall.
[Click here to view the booklet.]
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8) Economic Development Committee
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| | Community participation is essential and your perspective can help shape Acton’s growth. Residents interested in contributing to Acton’s economic future are encouraged to apply for the Economic Development Committee and play a key role in supporting local businesses, attracting new economic opportunities, and guiding strategic initiatives that promote the town’s long-term vitality. | | | | Reach out to the Office of Economic Development for information (978) 929-6511. | | |
New Quiz:
Which Acton-based business produces musical instruments and has a global presence, selling its products on every continent?
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Last Edition:
Where in town can you find this mural painted by Shara Osgood?
Answer: The mural by Shara Osgood is located on the exterior wall of Bogi Boutique at 133 Great Road.
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Seniors Night Out
Join us on Tuesday, September 10,
6-9:00 PM at Velvet Vine Café for a special evening designed for seniors to enjoy the timeless music of the 1950s through the 1970s. There is no admission fee and guests simply pay for any food and drinks they wish to enjoy.
The event will feature special talks on skin care and emotional health, presented by Majestic Day Spa and Vibrant Focus Unlimited.
RSVP: (978) 929-651
Velvet Vine Cafe
166 Great Rd in Acton
Sep 10th, 6-9PM.
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This event is a collaboration between Velvet Vine Café, Majestic Day Spa, and Vibrant Focus Unlimited, with support from the Acton Senior Center and the Office of Economic Development.
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Stone Carving Workshop
at YV Museum
The YV Museum is proud to host the 2025 Stone Carving Symposium. Open to all skill levels, the symposium offers hands-on workshop sessions.
August 18–24, 9AM to 6PM
(617) 699-6401
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Social Dance in West Acton
Join Magenta Dance Place in celebrating its 4th anniversary with an evening of music, dancing, and fun at their new West Acton location. Guests are encouraged to wear magenta.
Saturday, September 20, 7:00 PM
$20 in advance | $30 at the door
(351) 218-9309
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