NJ Business Action Center

09/26/2023

Lots of smiles at the 23rd Annual Mayor's Breakfast, hosted by the Woodbridge Metro Chamber of Commerce!

's ED Melanie Willoughby (far right), pictured here (left to right) with Caroline Ehrlich, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, and Sandy Castor.

Melanie Willoughby participated in the "Partnership for Progress" panel at the event. Her highlights included:

- NJBAC business advocates are always available to share free, confidential information and resources
- Business Enhancement Assessments for municipalities provide essential insight, including relevant data and best practices
- Assistance available at 1-800-JERSEY-7 or live chat on business.nj.gov

09/26/2023

There are many ways consumers can reduce their carbon footprint. The "Litter-Free NJ" website offers resources on reusable bags, including printable flyers, social media posts and toolkits.

Learn more: https://litterfreenj.com/index.php

09/25/2023

G’mar Chatima Tova.

Wishing you a blessed and meaningful Yom Kippur.

09/22/2023

Looking for fun festivals and events this fall? Check out North Jersey's guide to fall festivals throughout September, which highlights events from Jack' O Lantern experiences to Oktoberfest car shows - there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Read more:
https://www.northjersey.com/story/entertainment/events/2023/09/12/our-guide-nj-must-visit-fall-festivals-2023/70785983007/

Regardless of where you find yourself in North Jersey, there's something nearby for everyone, from car shows to craft fairs and farm festivals.

09/20/2023

Did you know there are over 120,000 Hispanic-owned businesses throughout the Garden State? The NJBAC celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by supporting and empowering these businesses throughout New Jersey.

Learn more here: https://www.nj.gov/state/bac/small-business-advocates.shtml

09/18/2023

The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC) is dedicated to helping businesses grow and thrive across the state by providing them with resources to understand the current business landscape.

Learn more:
https://nj.gov/state/bac/index.shtml

09/15/2023

L’Shanah Tovah to our Jewish community. Wishing you a sweet, healthy, and joyous new year!

09/15/2023

Today is the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and the NJBAC is proud to support and provide resources for Hispanic-owned businesses throughout the state. Check out this article highlighting festivals, orchestras and dance performances throughout New Jersey to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

Read more: https://www.njfamily.com/where-to-celebrate-hispanic-heritage-month-in-nj/

There are more than 1.5 million Hispanics living in New Jersey. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, at these NJ events.

09/14/2023

Yes! The decision to start a business is an exciting time...and a time for lots of planning.

is available to help with guidance, assistance, and support.

Have a friend or family member launching or running a small business? You're invited to share our contact information with them -

1-800-JERSEY-7
Live chat on business.nj.gov

Recorded: March 22, 2023 The decision to start a business is an exciting time for any entrepreneur. However, there are many steps you will need to protect yourself from potential liability, legal and tax issues. This workshop is designed to guide you through the mechanics of starting your business a...

09/13/2023

Our team strives to take the advice that we give to thousands of New Jersey business owners and entrepreneurs each year - networking is important for business owners and entrepreneurs!

Questions about resources to help you boost your networking skills? Contact for support at 1-800-JERSEY-7 or via the live chat at business.nj.gov. We're here to help.

Deputy Chief of Staff Joe Forte and Executive Director Melanie Willoughby of NJ Business Action Center attended Choose New Jersey, Inc. Economic Development Meetup to discuss how we can work together to benefit the Garden State.

09/13/2023

Donna Rendeiro, Executive Director of the New Jersey Office of Planning Advocacy, shared her insights on "Launching the Next State Plan" at the New Jersey Planning and Redevelopment Conference 2023, where experts explore innovative land use strategies in a rapidly changing and post-pandemic world. https://nj.gov/state/planning/state-planning-commission.shtml

09/13/2023

The NJBAC provides financial resources to small businesses around the state through the NJ Economic Development Authority and community-based lending organizations. Our team works to identify specific programs to help businesses locate resources and funding to meet their goals.

Learn more: https://www.nj.gov/state/bac/small-business-advocates.shtml

09/13/2023

Webinar opportunity with New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission to get details about the application process, eligibility criteria, and other essential information about cannabis business licenses.

September 14, 2023, 2-4pm

The webinar on September 14 will review how to accurately complete the licensing process and minimize hold-ups such as cure letters. Find zoom link and more at njcrcgov.info/914webinar.

09/11/2023

Today, the NJBAC remembers all the lives lost and affected by the tragic events of September 11 and extends our heartfelt condolences to their families.

09/11/2023

Please join us in extending our heartfelt congratulations to Lt. Governor Tahesha Way!

09/08/2023

Governor Phil Murphy today announced that Secretary of State Tahesha L. Way has been sworn in as the new Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey. Tahesha Way, a true public servant with over two decades of experience, has been an outstanding advocate for New Jersey. Congratulations to Lieutenant Governor Tahesha L. Way on this well-deserved appointment!

Governor Murphy Announces the Next Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey in Trenton on September 8, 2023.

09/08/2023

Looking for fun activities to do with friends and family that won't break the bank? Check out this NJ Family article highlighting free festivals, carnivals and shows around this September: https://www.njfamily.com/free-things-to-do-with-the-kids-in-september/

After spending money on school supplies, you'll want to check out these free things to do in New Jersey during September.

09/07/2023

Great opportunity to meet business experts who can help take owners to the next level. Sophie Werner, Global Business Advocate with the Office of Export Promotions, will be there and ready to talk export possibilities.

Will we see you there?

09/07/2023

Have you reserved your spot at our Resources for Growth event? Be sure to register today!

https://NJBAC-ResourcesforGrowthAtlantic.eventbrite.com

If you are a business owner and/or aspiring entrepreneur, join New Jersey's Secretary of State, the Honorable Tahesha Way, Melanie Willoughby, Executive Director of the NJ Business Action Center, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, NJ Small Business Development Center , Atlantic County Economic Alliance, and our Chamber to discover the incentives and services that are available to help your business grow and thrive in New Jersey.

The FREE in-person business event will be held at Stockton University in the Student Center Campus Event Room on September 27, 2023, from 1pm-5pm. Entrance and Registration will begin at 12:30pm!

Register now: https://business.acchamber.com/events/details/southern-regional-resources-for-growth-5150?calendarMonth=2023-09-01

09/07/2023

New Jersey received the third highest amount - $850,000 - in the country!

Are you a small business owner interested in learning more about eligibility requirements for NJSTEP?

You're invited to contact us. All services are free and confidential.

WASHINGTON – Today, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S.

09/06/2023

The NJBAC advises New Jersey businesses on available workforce development services, programs, systems and networks that provide employers and businesses with access to skilled workers.

Learn more here: https://nj.gov/state/bac/workforce-development-services.shtml

09/05/2023

Did you know New Jersey is home to over 950,000 small business enterprises? The Garden State is a prime location for launching a new business due to its proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, quality of life, and business community.

Check out this Forbes article detailing how to obtain a business license in the state: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/new-jersey-business-license/

Home to over 953,000 small businesses, New Jersey is an optimal destination for establishing any venture. Its strategic proximity to the bustling cities of New York City and Philadelphia offers a clear advantage for many businesses. While obtaining a business license in New Jersey may seem daunting,

09/04/2023

From the team -
Happy Labor Day!

Thank you to all New Jersey workers, including our own colleagues at the Department of State. Happy Labor Day!

09/02/2023

| “Exporting USA Goods & Import Products. Transportation & Logistics”, organized by International Affairs Committee of Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce - hclacc. | Our expert speakers will shed light on the latest trends, regulations, and strategies for successful U.S. goods export, opening doors to lucrative markets around the world. In addition, uncover a diverse range of import products that hold the potential to transform your business and boost profitability.

CERTIFICATE WILL BE AWARDED
DATE: Tuesday, September 12th, 2023 | TIME: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM EDT (Registration will begin at 8:30 am) | WHERE: Courtyard by Marriott Edgewater NYC Area (3 Pembroke Place, Edgewater, NJ 07020)
REGISTRATION: https://bit.ly/44KdIfd
INFO: 551.306.1212 | 201.875.0220 | [email protected]

PRO ECUADOR | Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica | Consulado General de El Salvador en Elizabeth, New Jersey | Consulado General de Guatemala en Nueva York | NJ Business Action Center | Latino Franchise Association |

09/01/2023

The NJBAC is launching the Cannabis Training Academy to provide no-cost technical assistance, training and mentorship to recreational cannabis license applicants to ensure they receive the support and resources they need to establish a thriving business.

Register for updates on the Cannabis Training Academy here: https://nj.gov/state/bac/cannabis-cta-sign-up.shtml

08/30/2023

The NJBAC is hosting a cybersecurity webinar that focuses on helping small businesses understand potential cybersecurity threats. Join us on September 21 at noon for the webinar, a Q&A session and prevention resource recommendations.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/small-business-big-threats-together-for-a-cyber-resilient-tomorrow-tickets-699336132197?aff=oddtdtcreator

08/30/2023

If you've been thinking about evaluating the health of your small business, then this is the right online event for you.

The New Jersey Redevelopment Authority Training Institute presents its new training series, Small Business 101. The first session in this series is Wellness Check, where you will learn how to evaluate the health of your small business. Register Here: https://web.cvent.com/event/0aef0d4e-6a50-4f82-8513-f470546432a0/summary

08/30/2023

"While the March on Washington's impact on racial justice in America is widely acknowledged, its focus on jobs is less often remembered. But for many of the event's organizers and participants, racial justice and economic opportunity were inseparable. In the decades following the march, several of its participants have been inducted into the Labor Hall of Honor for their contributions to the nation's workforce."

While the March on Washington's impact on racial justice in America is widely acknowledged, its focus on jobs is less often remembered. But for many of the event's organizers and participants, racial justice and economic opportunity were inseparable.

08/29/2023

In New Jersey, cannabis business applications are accepted on a rolling basis. There is no deadline to beat. Getting your application done right the first time is the fastest way to your license. Learn more at: njcrcgov.info/RecBusiness

08/29/2023

La decisión de iniciar un negocio es un momento emocionante para cualquier emprendedor. Sin embargo, hay muchos pasos que necesitará para protegerse de posibles problemas legales, fiscales y de responsabilidad. Este taller está diseñado para guiarlo a través de la mecánica de iniciar su negoci...

08/28/2023

NJBAC supports small businesses throughout the state by providing them with access to resources tailored to meet their business needs. The NJBAC offers mentoring assistance that includes support in creating a business plan, preparing financial statements and developing valuable social media strategies.

Learn more here: https://nj.gov/state/bac/small-business-advocates.shtml

08/28/2023

08/26/2023

August 26th is Women’s Equality Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment, which commemorates when women won the right to vote. The New Jersey Business Action Center recognizes the importance of this annual day of observation, as we are committed to honoring the progress made by women throughout our country’s history while continuing to advance equity for all. Women’s Equality Day dates back to 1971, when Representative Bella Abzug introduced the Women’s Equality Day resolution to Congress.

08/25/2023

Looking for things to do with friends and family in NJ's capital city? Check out this recent article highlighting museums, parks and restaurants in the Trenton area: https://www.thetravel.com/things-to-do-in-trenton-complete-guide/ -inspired-at-the-new-jersey-state-museum

Trenton, New Jersey is full of history, natural adventures, and things to do in all seasons.

08/23/2023

With the support of Secretary of State Tahesha Way, the New Jersey Business Action Center supports Black business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the state by providing them with tools and resources to help support and grow their businesses.

"I'm grateful for the ways we can work together to ensure Black business owners and entrepreneurs are included in our state's economic successes. The NJBAC is a valuable resource within my office that can help you navigate the state rules governing your business and provide potential resources, including financial support, to succeed in whatever your industry may be," said Secretary Way in a recent release.

Read more here: https://nj.gov/state/press-2023-0807.shtml

08/21/2023

Minority and women-owned businesses can receive specific certifications in New Jersey? These certifications can help these businesses obtain contracts with government entities or as subcontractors to a larger government contract.

To learn more about eligibility and registration visit: https://business.nj.gov/pages/mwbe

08/18/2023

Today's Speaker Spotlight is John Harmon, President & CEO of the The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, Inc. At the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development, he is a panelist for the Evaluating Minority Developer Programs Panel. Learn more about the conference and register at njhousingconference.com.

08/18/2023

Looking for something to do with your friends and family outdoors? Check out this NJ.com article detailing where to find the most stunning places to watch the sunrise throughout the state: https://www.nj.com/entertainment/2023/08/new-jerseys-11-most-stunning-places-to-watch-the-sunrise.html

Waking up early is worth it in New Jersey — here's where to go, from the Shore to the mountains and in between