New Jersey Business Action Center to Host 'Resources for Growth' Event in Passaic County

TRENTON, NJ - The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), in partnership with the Passaic County Division of Economic Development and the New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) at William Paterson University, is pleased to announce its upcoming "Resources for Growth" networking and resource event for small businesses. Scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026, the event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at William Paterson University's main campus in Wayne, NJ.

The "Resources for Growth" event is a signature initiative by NJBAC aimed at bringing together state agencies and the small business community. Its primary objective is to help business owners and entrepreneurs discover various financing and incentive programs, technical assistance, and services state agencies provide to facilitate business growth and success.

With approximately 40 state agencies and community partners participating, attendees will have the opportunity for one-on-one conversations with representatives from:

• New Jersey Business Action Center
• New Jersey Economic Development Authority
• NJ Small Business Development Center
• New Jersey Board of Public Utilities
• Department of the Treasury
• Department of Labor and Workforce Development
• Department of Environmental Protection
• Regional Chambers of Commerce
• Various other state agencies and organizations

"The small business community is the backbone of New Jersey's economy. Events like 'Resources for Growth' are important outreach vehicles, showcasing the various programs and initiatives that are available to our small business community directly to attendees," said Lt. Governor Dale Caldwell, who oversees the NJBAC as Secretary of State. "I encourage all business owners and entrepreneurs to take advantage of this in-person opportunity."

Melanie Willoughby, Executive Director of NJBAC, emphasized the event's focus as simplifying the process for businesses to access support. "Small business owners often contend with lengthy and ever-expanding to-do lists," she stated. "Our 'Resources for Growth' event is crafted to remove obstacles and facilitate businesses' identification of available support, bringing together representatives from the relevant resource providers conveniently in one location."

The event is free to attend and is open to both start-ups and existing businesses. Attendees will have ample time to network with agencies and learn about a wide range of topics, including financing, contracting or certification, hiring, and energy rebates.

"Small businesses are the engine of Passaic County's economy, and their success is our priority. Through our partnership with NJBAC, we are committed to ensuring that every entrepreneur in our region has access to the resources, connections, and programs that can make a real difference. I encourage all business owners to join us on May 21 and take full advantage of this free opportunity," said Commissioner Director Sandi Lazzara, Passaic County Board of Commissioners.

Registration for the May 21 event is free but required. Interested participants can register in advance at https://passaiccountyresourcesforgrowth.eventbrite.com

About the New Jersey Business Action Center
The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), housed within the New Jersey Department of State and operating under the leadership of Executive Director Melanie Willoughby, is a business-first resource that offers no-cost, confidential assistance to help businesses grow. The team helps companies of all sizes save time and money by getting answers from government agencies, directing businesses to appropriate officials and contacts, and facilitating meetings and follow-ups from regulatory agencies. For additional information, call 1-800-JERSEY-7, or visit nj.gov/state/bac or visit business.nj.gov to use the LiveCHAT.