In a major push to bolster the local economy, the New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC) is bringing its premier networking event, “Resources for Growth,” to Passaic County.
Scheduled for Thursday, May 21 the summit will transform William Paterson University’s main campus into a high-energy hub for entrepreneurs. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., business owners will have a “one-stop-shop” opportunity to connect directly with state leaders and local economic development experts.
Small business owners often face a labyrinth of state regulations, grant applications, and technical requirements. The “Resources for Growth” event is specifically designed to cut through that red tape by putting the decision-makers in the same room as the entrepreneurs.
“Small business owners often contend with lengthy and ever-expanding to-do lists,” Melanie Willoughby, Executive Director of the NJBAC, said. “Our event is crafted to remove obstacles and facilitate businesses’ identification of available support, bringing representatives from relevant providers conveniently to one location.”
Attendees will have the chance to engage in one-on-one consultations with approximately 40 state agencies and community partners. Whether a business is a nascent start-up or an established firm looking to scale, experts will be on hand to discuss:
- Financing and Incentives: Programs from the NJ Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).
- Energy Savings: Rebates and sustainability initiatives from the Board of Public Utilities (BPU).
- Workforce Support: Hiring and training resources from the Department of Labor.
- Technical Assistance: Guidance from the NJ Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) at William Paterson University.
The event is a joint effort between the NJBAC, the Passaic County Division of Economic Development, and the NJSBDC. It underscores a state-level commitment to the small business sector, which serves as the “engine” of New Jersey’s economic vitality.
“The small business community is the backbone of New Jersey’s economy,” Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell, who oversees the NJBAC as Secretary of State, said. “I encourage all business owners and entrepreneurs to take advantage of this in-person opportunity.”
Passaic County officials echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the local impact of such high-level access. “Their success is our priority,” said Commissioner Director Sandi Lazzara. “Through our partnership with NJBAC, we are committed to ensuring that every entrepreneur in our region has access to the connections and programs that can make a real difference.”
The “Resources for Growth” event is free to attend, but registration is required. Beyond the agency consultations, the day offers ample time for networking with regional Chambers of Commerce and fellow business owners.
Event Details:
- What: Resources for Growth Networking & Resource Event
- When: Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Where: William Paterson University, Main Campus, Wayne, NJ
- Registration: passaiccountyresourcesforgrowth.eventbrite.com
As New Jersey continues to navigate a post-pandemic economic landscape, events like this provide the critical bridge between state-level policy and the local storefronts that power Passaic County’s communities.
