Photo: The Newton-Chamber and Needham Business Association will be merging on Jan. 1. Pictured from left, Lise Elcock (Chamber membership director), Paul Good (NBA president), Rachel Hillman Foy (Chamber board chair), Greg Reibman (Chamber president), Louise Condon (NBA director/past president) and Tim Kickham (NBA director).

In an effort to increase the services and resources available to the town’s businesses and nonprofits, the Needham Business Association (NBA) and the Newton-Needham Chamber are joining forces.

The two organizations will merge their events, programs, services and advocacy under one umbrella starting Jan. 1 as part of an agreement signed Nov. 22.

All of the NBA’s best-known events, including the Street Fair, Harvest Fair, Blue Tree Lighting and annual dinner will continue alongside the 100-plus annual programs and networking events produced by the chamber.

Most importantly, the merger will enable the two business associations to strengthen their efforts championing the economic and cultural vitality of Needham, the two organizations’ leaders said. 

“For over four decades the Needham Business Association has adapted to the changing business environment to deliver the type of support and advocacy needed by Needham businesses and nonprofits,” said NBA President Paul Good. “Combining our operational and strategic resources will allow the NBA and Newton-Needham Chamber to deliver more value to every member and expand the ways we can serve our vibrant business community.”

“The NBA and the Newton-Needham Chamber have both done a great job speaking up for and serving Needham’s businesses,” said Marianne Cooley, chair of Needham’s Board of Selectmen. “This partnership makes both organizations stronger and Needham stronger too.”