Unlock the Resources You've Been Missing: NJEDA Hosts Game-Changing Fair for Small Businesses
Jersey Desk/10297602

EWING, N.J. - JerseyDesk -- Imagine what's possible when small business owners are finally connected to the right tools, funding, and guidance—all in one place. That's exactly what happened today, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at The College of New Jersey, as the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) hosted its in-person "Show Me the Resources" fair during National Small Business Week.

This powerful event brought together state agencies, small business leaders, and local champions—including Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc. and the City of East Orange—for a morning of momentum-building conversations and hands-on access to critical support.

Anna D. Banks, MAS, CHBC, Executive Coach and Founder of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., attended the event to help amplify awareness around these underutilized resources:

"So many small business owners struggle not because they lack vision—but because they lack access. This event opened doors, cleared confusion, and showed entrepreneurs what's truly possible," said Anna D. Banks. "When we connect people to programs with clarity and encouragement, we don't just support businesses—we transform communities."

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Attendees were able to explore NJEDA's wide range of business support tools—from lease and improvement grants to direct loans and sector-specific programs. The fair was hosted in partnership with the NJ Business Action Center, NJ Department of Treasury, NJ Small Business Development Centers, and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Mark Cheatam, Economic Development Manager for the City of East Orange Department of Policy, Planning and Development, emphasized the importance of events like this for municipalities across the state:

"The success of our cities depends on the success of our small businesses," said Mark Cheatam. "This event empowers us to bring back proven resources and actionable insights. When policy meets people—progress happens."

Among the NJEDA programs highlighted were:

• Small Business Improvement Grant
• Main Street Lenders Grant
• NJ Capital Access Fund
• Small Business E-Commerce Support Program
• Small Business Bonding Readiness Assistance Program
• NJ LEND and more

This event served as a vital reminder: the resources are out there—you just need to be shown where to look.

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To explore NJEDA business programs, visit https://www.njeda.gov.
To learn more about Thrive Leadership Institute's work to equip entrepreneurs for lasting success, visit https://www.annadbanks.com.