Princeton eBikes Puts a New Spin on Giving Back to Mercer County Youth

What if buying a bike could do more than get you where you’re going? 

At Princeton eBikes, profits benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County, turning the sale of electric bicycles into ongoing support for programs and opportunities for local youth. Since its launch, the mission-driven retailer has sold more than 1,000 bikes, combining a passion for cycling with a business built around giving back. 

Princeton eBikes is committed to maintaining a first-class e-bike shop while supporting kids in Trenton. The shop provides professional repair and service for every bike it sells,  ensuring customers receive quality care and support. 

For founder Russ White, creating a lasting source of support for the Club was central to the idea from the beginning. 

“I got excited about creating an ongoing business that would generate income for the Boys  & Girls Club on a permanent basis, long after I’m gone,” White said. 

White had already seen what could happen when bicycles and a larger purpose came together. More than 15 years ago, he founded the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County Bike  Exchange (BEX), where donated bicycles are refurbished and sold to benefit the Club. Its success planted the seed for another venture—this time focused entirely on electric bikes.

That venture became Princeton eBikes. 

A serious cyclist himself, White saw the growing appeal of e-bikes, which can help riders tackle hills, travel farther, and continue cycling with an extra boost when they need it. At  Princeton eBikes, customers can explore different models, get personalized guidance, and take test rides before finding the bike that’s right for them. 

And the mission has traveled with the bikes. White said customers have come from across New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania to shop at Princeton eBikes, with some drawn in part by the opportunity to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County through their purchase. 

Behind the venture is an idea White encountered through his involvement with the Club:  social entrepreneurship, or using a business to support a social mission. Rather than a one-time fundraiser, Princeton eBikes was created to provide a source of support that could continue year after year. 

“Princeton eBikes is focused on maintaining a first-class bike shop while supporting the amazing young people served by Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County,” White said. 

Profits from Princeton eBikes support Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County programs and services, helping provide educational programs, mentoring, recreation, college and career preparation, and other opportunities for young people throughout the community. 

“What makes Princeton eBikes so special is that giving back is built into the business,”  said Reginald J. Coleman, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County.  “Russ and the Princeton eBikes team have created an innovative model that turns their  passion for cycling into ongoing support for the young people we serve.” 

More than 1,000 bikes later, Princeton eBikes continues to show how a business built around giving back can create a lasting impact for local youth. 

Visit Princeton eBikes at the Lawrence Shopping Center, Unit 13