Trenton - The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), in partnership with the Middlesex County Office of Business Engagement, Department of Economic Development, is pleased to announce its upcoming "Resources for Growth" networking and resource event for small businesses. Scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Middlesex College’s main campus in Edison, NJ.

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

"This event underscores our commitment to supporting the backbone of New Jersey's economy – the small business community," remarked Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the NJBAC in her capacity as Secretary of State. "By investing in events like 'Resources for Growth,' we're ensuring the economic vitality of our state and paving the way for a prosperous future statewide."

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 in identifying 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 connect and network with agencies, and learn about a wide range of topics including financing, contracting or certification, hiring, and energy rebates.

“Small businesses are the backbone of a robust economy, and Middlesex County is proud to support our local business community,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “As an epicenter for innovation, we are excited to collaborate with the New Jersey Business Action Center to bring the 'Resources for Growth' event to Middlesex College, offering start-ups and small businesses access to the tools, resources, and connections they need in order to succeed.”

“Helping businesses grow and thrive is at the core of what we do and critical to Middlesex County’s economic success,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum, Chair of the Economic Development Committee. “Partnering with the New Jersey Business Action Center on the 'Resources for Growth' event aligns with our commitment to strengthening our local business community. I encourage entrepreneurs and small business owners to take advantage of this excellent opportunity to gain meaningful insights and get access to resources.”

Registration for the July 16 event is free but required. Interested participants can register in advance at https://middlesexcountyresourcesforgrowth.eventbrite.com.

For those who are unable to attend the July 16 event, NJBAC will host a “Resources for Growth” event on September 26, 2025, at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, NJ.

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.