Gov. Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday outlined an agenda focused on improving New Jersey’s business climate and expanding the state’s economy, telling business leaders that government must become a more efficient and reliable partner for growth.
“We all know that New Jersey has the best business in the world,” Sherrill said. “What we need to make sure of, as we go forward, is New Jersey is the best place to DO business in the world.”
Speaking at the ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo, Sherrill emphasized her administration's efforts to streamline permitting, reduce delays, modernize state operations, and to create a more predictable environment for companies to invest and hire.
“Permitting is too slow, licensing is black box, and projects fail because they can’t afford the uncertainty or wait,” Sherrill said. “Too many businesses have told me they had to move out of the state to grow or get by.”
She added, “We can’t afford to have regulation on the books that refer to microfiche or floppy discs.”
Her remarks headlined Day 1 of the Summit, which has drawn business executives, policymakers and industry leaders from across the state to discuss the New Jersey’s economic competitiveness.
A Full Day of Business‑Focused Panels and Talks
After opening remarks from Chamber President Tom Bracken and co‑host Rich Butkus of Control Point Associates, the Day 1 agenda, which is ongoing, has featured a series of panels and keynote discussions examining New Jersey’s economy.
The panels include:
- A New Jersey Success Story: John A. Gallucci Jr., CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, discussed the challenges, lessons and entrepreneurial drive behind building a thriving health care business.
- Economic Competitiveness: U.S. Sen. Andy Kim and Neil Bradley, executive vice president and chief policy officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce discussed what New Jersey can do to strengthen its economic reputation.
- Energy Leadership: Industry executives explored balancing cost, reliability and sustainability.
- Higher Education & Workforce: College and university leaders discussed financial challenges and aligning education with workforce needs.
- Innovation Economy: Business leaders highlighted growth in sectors such as technology, AI and logistics.
- Healthcare Leadership: Hospital executives addressed workforce pressures and financial challenges.
- Economic Development: Experts shared strategies to attract investment and support business expansion.
- FIFA World Cup Opportunities: Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26™ New York New Jersey Host Committee, will soon take the stage to outline how New Jersey businesses can benefit from the world’s biggest soccer tournament.
- CEO Conversation: United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby is scheduled to soon be Day 1’s final speaker to discuss the economy, the aviation industry and United Airlines’ commitment to N.J.
The Summit continues tomorrow, April 1, with a networking breakfast starting at 8:15 a.m. followed by a panel featuring Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell, Amtrak Chairman Anthony Coscia, and PSEG President & CEO Ralph LaRossa. It will focus on critical issues and economic growth opportunities – and how they will be addressed by the Sherrill administration and state legislative leaders.