New Jersey’s small businesses are a critical component to New Jersey’s economy. In fact, the State ranks 11th in the number of small businesses in the U.S., with over 861,000 enterprises and counting. That’s impressive, considering New Jersey ranks 47th in size! The State is spearheading programs that make it easier for small businesses to flourish, including free small business consulting services offered by the New Jersey Business Action Center. If you’re ready to launch or grow your venture, New Jersey is proactive and pro-business. Our office also hosts “Resource for Growth” events throughout the year that match business owners with state and county representatives, lenders, and community partners, including the New Jersey Small Business Development Center and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.

Small Business Advocacy

NJBAC’s Small Business Advocates supports small business throughout the state. From startups to main street businesses, our Advocates can help you access a variety of resources tailored to meet your needs including:

• Mentoring Assistance
  Whether you are already in business or just starting, having a mentor provides a valuable resource. From creating a business plan to preparing financial statements or developing valuable social media strategies having a business mentor can help your business succeed. The Small Business Advocacy unit will help connect you with programs around the state that offer one on one mentoring opportunities.
• Financial Resources
  Our Advocates can refer you to a variety of financing options available to your business through the NJ Economic Development Authority and community based micro-lending organizations. We can identify the specific programs for which your business may be eligible and help locate the resources that best meet your needs. Furthermore, we can assist you with credit repair services to help position a favorable application process.
• Licensing and Professional Certifications
  We offer services that can help you trouble shoot issues you may encounter with licensing or professional certifications.
• Navigating Regulatory Processes
  Advocating on your behalf, we can coordinate with other state departments to quickly identify any challenges and formulate a sound and effective solution. We can also provide redevelopment guidance and coordination for municipalities and developers.
• Labor and Workforce Issues
  Hiring and retaining the right people is crucial to the success of your business. We can guide companies through the variety of state training grants and resources to help you recruit the best staff or train new and current employees. Advocates can help provide information on issues regarding employer responsibilities.
• Procurement Assistance
  When it comes to government contracts, New Jersey offers a variety of resources to help small companies take advantage of these important opportunities. From training and technical assistance, to email notification of requests for proposal (RFPs), our Advocates can provide businesses with essential information and be better positioned to compete for government contracts.
• Export Assistance
  If you are a small business owner and considering exporting, our Advocates can equip you with valuable information to help you grow your business globally. From exporting basics about regulatory compliance, custom procedures, reporting or other topics we can put you in touch with our team of International Advocates from NJBAC’s Office of Export Promotion who can help you lay the ground work for global success.
• Business Helpline 1-800-Jersey-7
  Staffed by our Advocates, business support is just one call away. We offer guidance in both English and Spanish on starting a business, incorporating, and accessing government resources. Our Call Center also serves as an important resource in the event of emergencies, storms, and other disasters, providing crucial information and guidance to help businesses recover quickly after a crisis.

For more information call our Business Helpline 1-800-Jersey-7 or (1-800-537-7397)