NJSBDC & Rutgers Host 2025 Symposium to Equip Future-Ready Small Businesses for Growth & Success
Jersey Desk/10303094

BLOOMFIELD, N.J. - JerseyDesk -- Entrepreneurs and business professionals gathered at Rutgers Business School today for the 2025 Business Resource Symposium, co-hosted by the New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) and Rutgers Business School. Themed "Future-Ready Small Businesses: Innovate • Connect • Thrive," the event united thought leaders, economic development experts, and small business champions for a half-day experience focused on sustainable growth, innovation, and strategic resource sharing.

Held at 1 Washington Park in Newark, the symposium kicked off with powerful opening remarks from:

• Kelly Brozyna, CEO & State Director, NJSBDC Statewide Network
• Dean Lei Lei, Rutgers Business School – Newark & New Brunswick
• Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, Interim Chancellor, Rutgers University–Newark

Their messages reinforced the vital role of small businesses in New Jersey's economy and the importance of equipping business owners with cutting-edge tools and access to talent.

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The day featured three expert-led panels:

1. Tapping Into Talent: How Rutgers Can Power Your Small Business
   Highlighting strategic partnerships, student collaboration, and university resources to drive innovation.
2. Financing Your Future: What Small Businesses Need to Know About Loans
   Representatives from leading financial institutions demystified loan processes and shared funding readiness tips.
3. No-Cost Growth: Government Resources Every Business Should Know
   A practical roadmap to local, state, and federal programs that support business scaling and development—at no cost.

Attendees had the opportunity to network with lenders, educators, agency leaders, and peers—gaining clarity, confidence, and contacts to help them thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Anna D. Banks, Executive Coach and Managing Director of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., shared her reflections on the day:

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"This symposium was more than a networking event—it was a masterclass in possibility. I left with actionable insights, new partnerships, and renewed confidence that small businesses like mine can thrive with the right knowledge and support. Rutgers and NJSBDC have once again proven they are champions for entrepreneurs in our communities."

The event underscored the importance of aligning academic institutions, government programs, and small business ecosystems to build a stronger, more resilient economic future for New Jersey.

To learn more about upcoming events and free business resources, visit www.njsbdc.com or https://www.njeda.gov/