The Centenary University Institute of Entrepreneurship, in partnership with the Hackettstown Business Improvement District (BID), will host the Small Business Summit: Growing Stronger Together on Sept. 15. The event, held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the University’s David and Carol Lackland Center, is designed to provide small business owners and entrepreneurs with the tools and connections they need to thrive.
The summit will feature a full day of workshops, panel discussions, vendors, and networking opportunities. Workshop topics are tailored to address a wide range of business needs, from marketing and finance to human resources and personal development. Sessions include “The Art of Networking for Introverts,” “The Truth About AI in Small Business Marketing,” and “Canva for Beginners.” Panels will feature representatives from local, state, and national small business organizations, as well as local business owners who will share insights on customer relations.
The Centenary University Institute of Entrepreneurship, founded in 2024, is a cornerstone of the university’s strategy to become an intellectual leader in New Jersey’s business community. Led by Director Linda Poisseroux and university President Dale Caldwell, the institute provides coaching and guidance from faculty, consultants, and students. Its mission is to partner with organizations like the Hackettstown BID to build a supportive environment for small businesses in the Skylands region and beyond.
Sponsors for the event include WRNJ, the Hackettstown Rotary Club/Foundation, and Centenary University’s Taylor Memorial Library.
The registration fee covers all event offerings and lunch. Early bird general admission is $25 per attendee with light refreshments, or $35 with lunch included. The early bird deadline is Sept. 1. Vendor registration is available for $50, which includes one lunch. Interested attendees can register online or by phone.
