Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in South Jersey will soon have a “one-stop shop” for state support. The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC) has officially announced its next “Resources for Growth” networking event, scheduled for March 18.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Atlantic Cape Community College campus in Cape May Court House.
Designed to bridge the gap between Trenton and local business owners, the expo will feature representatives from approximately 40 state agencies and community partners. The goal is to provide a venue for one-on-one consultations regarding financing, technical assistance, and regulatory navigation.
Key participating organizations include:
- NJ Economic Development Authority (NJEDA): For loans and grants.
- Department of Labor: For workforce training and recruitment.
- Board of Public Utilities: For energy rebates and sustainability programs.
- Department of the Treasury: For certification and government contracting.
- NJ Small Business Development Center: For expert consulting and business planning.
Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell, who oversees the NJBAC as Secretary of State, emphasized the importance of bringing these resources directly to the community rather than requiring owners to seek them out individually.
“The small business community is the backbone of New Jersey’s economy,” Caldwell said. “Events like ‘Resources for Growth’ are important outreach vehicles, showcasing the various programs and initiatives available directly to attendees.”
Melanie Willoughby, executive director of the NJBAC, noted that the event is specifically structured to save time for busy professionals. “Our event is crafted to remove obstacles and facilitate businesses in identifying available support, bringing together representatives conveniently in one location,” she stated.
The “Resources for Growth” event is free to attend and open to both established businesses and early-stage start-ups. Attendees can expect to learn about:
- Financial Assistance: Navigating state-backed loans and incentive programs.
- Certifications: How to become a certified minority, woman, or veteran-owned business.
- Contracting: Tips for securing lucrative government contracts.
- Sustainability: Information on energy-efficient upgrades and available rebates.
Registration is required to attend the March 18 session. Interested participants can sign up for free by clicking here.
