The Nov. 6 event will honor 8 companies that continue diversity initiatives
The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce will recognize eight New Jersey organizations next week that continue to demonstrate leadership, vision, and measurable commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in their workplaces and the communities they serve. The third annual Trailblazer Impact Honors Reception – featuring a cocktail networking reception, a panel discussion and awards presentation – will take place on Thursday, Nov. 6, from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Pines Manor in Edison.
Ray Zardetto, the chamber’s senior vice president of communications and events from 2010 to 2022, passed away on October 8.
“We are saddened and shocked by the sudden news of Ray’s passing,” said Tom Bracken, president & CEO. “He was an inspiring presence and a strong leader on the Chamber team during his 12 years with us – and he leaves an indelible mark on the Chamber and New Jersey’s business community.”
Award Reception is at EisnerAmper Headquarters in Iselin on Oct. 22
The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce announced that five state legislators will receive the Chamber’s biannual Legislator of the Year Awards. The State Chamber further announced that three leaders – inside and outside of government – will receive awards for their outstanding work to make New Jersey a great place to live and work.
We are deeply concerned by the news regarding NJ PBS. This is a devastating loss for the state’s identity.
Although there will be ongoing news coverage through WNET, it is still a blow to a state that is already underserved by media coverage and urgently needs a strong voice dedicated to New Jersey’s issues.
New Jersey’s August 2025 tax revenue numbers should be setting off alarm bells in Trenton. While some may dismiss weak early-year returns as insignificant, the scale of the decline in business taxes cannot be ignored. These numbers are not just a statistical blip – they are a warning sign that the state’s economic engine is stalling, and that business growth must become a central priority for policymakers.
As we move into mid-September, New Jersey finds itself at a critical crossroads. The gubernatorial election is quickly approaching, and with it comes an opportunity to set the course for our state’s economic future. The stakes are higher than ever. Uncertainty continues to surround both the national and state economies, and our next governor and legislature must make the economy a top priority. New Jersey must be positioned not only to grow in good times but also to withstand the next downturn that might come.
New Jersey is entering a pivotal period of transition as the 2025 gubernatorial campaign takes shape. This election presents a vital opportunity to reset the state’s priorities and chart a course toward long-term economic growth and fiscal stability. The New Jersey Chamber urges the next governor and Legislature to place economic competitiveness and responsible budgeting at the forefront of their agenda. The following priorities reflect the core issues that the next administration and Legislature must address to build a stronger, more competitive, and more inclusive New Jersey economy.
He succeeds Passaic County Community College President Dr. Steven Rose
Dr. Ali A. Houshmand, president of Rowan University and a nationally recognized advocate for access, affordability, and economic development in higher education, has been elected chairman of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
As New Jersey enters a pivotal period of political transition with the 2025 gubernatorial election on the horizon, we are also entering an economic inflection point. This election presents a critical opportunity to realign the state’s priorities and confront the serious economic headwinds that continue to grow. The next governor – regardless of party or platform – must make New Jersey’s economy the top priority from day one.
The results of CNBC’s 2025 Top States for Business rankings—placing New Jersey at No. 30 overall (we were No. 19 in 2023) and an alarming No. 49 in Business Friendliness—are disappointing, but unfortunately, not surprising. These rankings reflect what many in the business community have long known: there is a lack of focus in New Jersey on economic growth and creating a welcoming environment for businesses.