Newark has always been a city that knows how to host the world. But today, the stakes and excitement have reached a fever pitch.
 
Following Governor Sherrill’s recent "pivot" to a statewide World Cup Community Initiative, the Newark Regional Business Partnership convened more than 35 of our city’s influential leaders this past Monday. Representing our universities, cultural anchors, small businesses, community and business development organizations, and city government, the message was clear:
 
Newark is ready to be the "First Stop" for the world.
 
We are envisioning a city fully activated with lots of fun, flavor, and fandom. Imagine the streets of Newark during the tournament with the same electric, non-stop energy of New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Picture the Ironbound’s soccer soul, the North Ward’s historic greenspace, and Downtown’s cultural power all linked by a seamless fan path. From the first whistle at sunrise to the final celebration at midnight, we want fans to land at EWR and realize they don’t need to go anywhere else.
 
The "Newark-First" Engine is Already Running: Our Monday convening revealed an incredible amount of momentum already happening on the ground:

• Newark Happening’s website is filled with lots of information for curious travelers, residents, and fans to fully “Experience Newark.”
• Micro-grants are available to help local groups bring their activation dreams to life.
  • Experience Newark Event Sponsorship Program
  • North to Shore Newark Community Grants
• Invest Newark will be launching a series of free workshops to ensure our small businesses are equipped to capture every dollar of this economic wave.

The Countdown is On: The NJEDA Board is set to formally approve the state’s World Cup Community Initiative on March 12, but we aren't waiting for the ink to dry. To ensure our city is the most prepared in the state, remember that Special Permit applications must be submitted to the City of Newark by March 31 for adequate consideration. Feel free to contact Victoria Walker at walkervi@ci.newark.nj.us or Melvin Waldrop at waldropm@ci.newark.nj.us if you have any questions.
 
This is our time to show the world the grit, the soul, and the hospitality of the Brick City. Whether you are a restaurateur in the East Ward or a nonprofit in the West Ward or South Ward, there is a place for you in this victory.
 
Let’s make Newark the heartbeat of 2026!

Newark, NJ | February 9, 2026 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is proud to announce the formation of its new Real Estate Council, an initiative designed to bring together a diverse group of NRBP members to create a trusted forum for candid, in-depth dialogue around real estate development in the Greater Newark region. In addition to sharing perspectives and surfacing challenges and opportunities, Council members will play an instrumental role in shaping NRBP’s annual Real Estate Market Forum, one of the organization’s signature events, helping to ensure its relevance, impact, and alignment with market realities.
 
“Real estate plays a critical role in shaping the future of Newark and our broader region,” said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President and CEO of the Newark Regional Business Partnership. “By launching the Real Estate Council, we are creating a space for industry leaders to come together, exchange insights, and help guide high impact programming. We’re excited to engage and learn directly from this community as we continue to build programs that support thoughtful growth and neighborhood transformation.”
 
NRBP’s Real Estate Council was initiated by NRBP members Frank Ferruggia, Partner, McCarter & English, LLP and NRBP Board Member; and Carissa Borraggine, Realtor & Business Broker. The Council includes the following NRBP member organizations, among many others:  

• Audible
• Carissa Borraggine, Realtor & Business Broker
• CBRE 
• CenterPoint Properties 
• Clinton Hill Community Action
• Connell Foley 
• CSG Law
• The Da Silva Team
• Edison Properties
• EqualSpace
• FBT Gibbons 
• K&L Gates
• Makerhoods
• McCarter & English, LLP
• MIG Real Estate
• Montclair State University
• New Community Corporation
• Newark Housing Authority
• New Jersey Institute of Technology
• ONYX / One Gateway Center 
• OPEX CRE Management LLC
• PNC Bank
• Savills
• Turner Construction Co
• Turning Point Community Services
• University Hospital 

“The Newark business community and the Newark Regional Business Partnership have always been committed to the growth and development of our city and the greater region,” said Ferruggia. “The Real Estate Council will contribute to that mission by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas, education, and advocacy for those interested in the success of real estate development in Greater Newark.”
 
The Real Estate Council is open to NRBP members whose work intersects with real estate, development, finance, design, construction, and related fields. Through ongoing engagement, the Council will help ensure that NRBP’s real estate programming continues to reflect the priorities and perspectives of those actively shaping the region.
 
The Real Estate Council joins NRBP’s growing slate of industry- and affinity-based councils, including Transportation, Nonprofit, Entrepreneur, and Women’s, designed to deepen member engagement and foster meaningful collaboration across the Greater Newark region and beyond. Together, these councils expand opportunities for NRBP members to build relationships with like-minded, industry-focused peers while contributing to dialogue and programming that supports the continued growth of Newark and the surrounding region.
 
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About Newark Regional Business Partnership
As the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, and community leaders to connect, expand their networks, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to a vibrant and competitive Greater Newark economic ecosystem. Through convenings, programs, and strategic partnerships, NRBP works to support business growth and advance Newark’s economic vitality. For more information about NRBP, visit www.newarkrbp.org.

The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is proud to announce the promotion of Kirsten Giardi to Senior Vice President, Strategic Growth & Member Experience. This elevation follows a period of significant programmatic expansion and the successful delivery of high-impact initiatives that have strengthened connections across the Greater Newark business community.
 
In her new role, Giardi will serve as the primary architect of the NRBP member value proposition. She will oversee the design of all summits, councils, and signature events, while leading efforts to secure corporate sponsorships and deepen the organization’s relationship with Newark’s vital anchor institutions.
 
"Kirsten has consistently demonstrated an ability to blend strategic vision with member-focused execution," said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President & CEO of NRBP. "Her leadership in conceptualizing our inaugural Leadership Summit and her impressive efforts to reignite our Transportation Symposium have set a new standard for how we serve our members. This promotion ensures that her talent for strategic growth remains at the heart of our mission."
 
Specifically:

• Inaugural Leadership Summit (January 2026): Giardi spearheaded a full-day convening of more than 150 business and nonprofit leaders. Designed to engage members of NRBP’s newly established Nonprofit, Women’s, and Entrepreneurs councils, the event featured tailored program tracks that addressed the distinct challenges and opportunities facing each group. Speakers included executive leaders of PSEG/PSEG Foundation, Victoria Foundation, Popular Bank, Prudential Foundation, Panasonic Foundation, and Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation.
• Transportation Symposium (November 2025): Giardi reignited this critical industry event after a multi-year hiatus, re-establishing NRBP as a central convener for regional infrastructure and transit dialogue. High-level leaders of Amtrak, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, NJ Transit, United Airlines, and the New Jersey Department of Transportation gathered to exchange insights, discuss preparedness plans, and highlight the range of interagency collaboration in anticipation of FIFA World Cup 2026TM.

 
"I am honored to step into this expanded role as the Newark Regional Business Partnership enters a new chapter," said Giardi. "The Leadership Summit’s strong turnout underscored our members’ desire for deeper cross-sector collaboration, and I look forward to building thoughtful, inclusive opportunities that support shared economic growth across the region."
 
As part of the organizational realignment, Giardi will work closely with the executive team to ensure NRBP continues to provide a world-class member experience for all organizations domiciled within the partnership's 30-mile catchment area.
 
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About Newark Regional Business Partnership
As the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, and community leaders to connect, expand their networks, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to a vibrant and competitive Greater Newark economic ecosystem. Through convenings, programs, and strategic partnerships, NRBP works to support business growth and advance Newark’s economic vitality. For more information about NRBP, visit www.newarkrbp.org.

Newark, NJ | January 20, 2026 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) welcomed nearly 160 business, nonprofit, and civic leaders from across the Greater Newark region on Friday, January 16, for its inaugural Leadership Summit, a full-day convening focused on leadership, collaboration, and building capacity across sectors that drive the region’s economy.
Held at Seton Hall University School of Law, the Summit was designed to engage members of NRBP’s Nonprofit, Women’s, and Entrepreneur Councils and featured tailored program tracks that addressed the distinct challenges and opportunities facing each group. Through moderated panels, high-impact networking, and a timely keynote address, attendees gained actionable insights, expanded their professional networks, and strengthened connections across industries.

The summit opened with welcoming remarks from Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President & CEO of NRBP, and Calvin Ledford, Jr., President, PSEG Foundation and NRBP Board Member, recognizing the collective leadership in the room and highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration. PSEG, the Summit’s Platinum Sponsor, was acknowledged for its continued investment in community impact across the region.

The program featured robust discussions across the three program tracks.

The Nonprofit Track explored the evolving relationship between the philanthropic and nonprofit communities, as well as the future of cross-sector partnerships. The first session, “Partners in Purpose: Aligning Philanthropy and Nonprofit Strategy,” was moderated by Ledford and featured leaders from the Victoria Foundation, Prudential Foundation, Panasonic Foundation, and Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation.

“Nonprofits are operating in an increasingly complex environment, and alignment with philanthropic partners has never been more critical,” said Ledford. “This conversation reinforced the importance of shared goals, transparency, creativity, and long-term thinking in driving sustainable impact for our communities.”

The second nonprofit session, “Synergy in Action: The Future of Strategic Partnerships,” was moderated by Mary Makfinsky, SVP, Director of Business Banking, Popular Bank and Chair of the NRBP Board of Directors, and brought together voices from the nonprofit, financial, and private sectors to examine how partnerships can drive stronger outcomes.

“What stood out most was the openness and honesty of the dialogue,” said Makfinsky. “True partnership requires trust, flexibility, and a willingness to listen. That kind of transparency is essential to initiating and sustaining impactful relationships."

The Women’s Track focused on leadership development and professional growth, with sessions highlighting the impact and experiences of women in STEM fields and strategies for taking calculated risks. Moderated by leaders from NJIT and NRBP, panels featured executives from Berkeley College, RWJBarnabas Health, Newark Arts, Arup, Busy Bees Learning Center, and HAX/SOSV.

In the Entrepreneur Track, participants explored holistic business practices, time management, preemptive planning, and the use of AI and emerging tools, as well as practical approaches to marketing and relationship-building. Moderated by industry experts from BINJE and Jarkara Strategies, sessions included insights from the New Jersey Small Business Development Center at Rutgers University, ExecutiveBound, Jasfel Analytics, ZAGO Manufacturing, New Jersey Urban News, The Da Silva Team, MIG Real Estate, and Impact Consulting Enterprises.

The Leadership Summit featured a rousing keynote address from Ronald Weich, Dean, Seton Hall Law, titled “The Rule of Law and the Power of Leadership: Upholding Principles in Times of Change.”  Drawing on the legacy of Congressman Peter Rodino, Weich reflected on Rodino’s principled approach to leadership and his commitment to the rule of law as a compass for decision-making. The keynote underscored how adherence to core values can guide leaders through moments of complexity and uncertainty.

“The success of our inaugural Leadership Summit affirms the value of creating space for learning and community building,” added Nixon. “This is just the beginning. We look forward to continuing to host programs that strengthen leadership, foster collaboration, and support our region’s continued growth.”

The 2026 Leadership Summit was sponsored by: PSEG (platinum sponsor); Seton Hall University/ Seton Hall University School of Law (host sponsor); Martin Tuchman School of Management at NJIT (silver sponsor); and Brilliant Smiles Pediatric Dentistry (bronze sponsor).
The Leadership Summit will be an annual event, returning in 2027. NRBP will build on the momentum of the Leadership Summit with more professional development and leadership-focused programming throughout this year.
 
# # #
About Newark Regional Business Partnership
The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, and community leaders to connect, expand their networks, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to a vibrant and competitive Greater Newark economic ecosystem. Through convenings, programs, and strategic partnerships, NRBP works to support business growth and advance Newark’s economic vitality. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org.

Newark, NJ — December 16, 2025 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), in collaboration with the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), its 501(c)(3) affiliate, hosted the Annual Meeting & Holiday Reception on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Ironside Newark. One of the organization’s most anticipated gatherings, the evening brought together NRBP members, regional business leaders, and community partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and look ahead to the organization’s future.
 
The program featured the appointment of new NRBP Board officers and members, along with the presentation of NRBP’s inaugural Milestone Champion recognition—honoring organizations that have been devoted NRBP members since the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s. These legacy members represent decades of sustained investment in Newark’s growth and a shared commitment to advancing NRBP’s mission.
 
Ferlanda Fox Nixon, NRBP’s President & CEO, shared that “this celebration not only acknowledged the exceptional leadership of our newly appointed Board officers and members but also the enduring dedication of our Milestone Champions. Their commitment, spanning decades, is the foundation of NRBP’s mission and a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our business community.”
 
Milestone Champion Honorees
NRBP proudly recognized the following organizations for their longstanding membership and impact:

• Brantley Brothers Moving & Storage Co.
• Edison Properties
• Gibbons PC
• McCarter & English LLP
• NJ Advance Media
• Prudential Financial
• PSEG
• Rutgers University–Newark
• Rutgers Health
• Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
• University Hospital
• St. Benedict’s Preparatory School

 
Board Leadership Appointments
During the Annual Meeting, NRBP announced its incoming Board leadership:

• Mary Makfinsky, Popular Bank, was appointed Chair
• Mitch Cahn, Unionwear, was appointed Vice Chair
• Napoleon Stephenson, PNC Bank, was appointed Treasurer
• Sarah Jones, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, will continue to serve as Secretary
• Jennifer Mazawey was recognized for her service as Immediate Past Chair

 
NRBP also welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors:

• Anthony Borelli, Edison Properties
• Ari Fox, Audible
• Robert Johnson, Gibbons PC
• Amar Singer, IPS Security

 
Newly appointment Board Chair Mary Makfinsky shared that “it is an honor to step into this role at a moment when NRBP is both celebrating decades of commitment and charting an ambitious path forward. I look forward to working with our Board, members, and partners to build on this strong foundation and advance opportunities that benefit the Greater Newark region.”
 
The reception featured lively networking and NRBP’s signature Holiday Market, which featured Newark-based vendors and artisans. Proceeds from the event benefited the Renaissance Newark Foundation and will support its mission to advance inclusive economic development and create pathways to opportunity for Newark’s diverse communities.
 
The 2025 Annual Meeting & Holiday Reception was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors: Prudential Financial (Platinum Sponsor); Edison Properties LLC (Bronze Sponsor); Popular Bank (Holiday Market Sponsor); and United Airlines (Holiday Market Sponsor).
 
As NRBP looks ahead to 2026, the evening served as both a celebration of legacy and a reaffirmation of the Partnership’s role as a catalyst for a flourishing and inclusive region.

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About Newark Regional Business Partnership
Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization connects its members to partners and resources that can help strengthen their business and increase the economic competitiveness of Newark and the region. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org.
 
About Renaissance Newark Foundation
Committed to Newark's bright future, the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) harnesses the power of education, research, and civic participation to fuel economic development, attract businesses, and create pathways to success for Newark's diverse communities. RNF initiatives include the Small & Emerging Business Initiative (SEBI) and Navigating Newark. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org/rnf. 

Today is Giving Tuesday, the single biggest day of global generosity. If you’ve been waiting to make your gift, the time is now—because we have a brand new, high-impact program that needs your support to launch successfully.

Introducing the National Civics Bee
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, is thrilled to announce its inaugural role as a Regional Partner in the prestigious U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's National Civics Bee!

This nonpartisan competition encourages 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to deepen their understanding of American democracy and actively contribute to their communities. Students begin by submitting an essay proposing a solution to a problem facing their municipalities. The top finalists then compete in a live quiz event.

Why The National Civics Bee Matters:
The National Civics Bee is a powerful vehicle for RNF’s core mission: it inspires young minds to become informed, active citizens. By hosting the Regional Competition, RNF is directly cultivating the next generation of civic and business leaders right here in New Jersey.

Your Gift Directly Funds This Critical Launch
As a Regional Partner, RNF is responsible for funding the local elements that make this event empowering and memorable for our students. The success of the competition relies on your immediate support. Your Giving Tuesday donation today will directly support three critical needs for the Regional Competition:

• 💻 Technology for Competition: Purchasing or securing laptops or tablets for the finalists to use during the live civics quiz rounds.
• 💰 Cash Awards: Funding the cash prizes for the top regional winners, who will then advance to the State Finals.
• 📣 Promotion & Logistics: Covering the costs of outreach and promotion to ensure every eligible middle schooler in the region knows about and can participate in this free opportunity.
  

The Final Push: Support RNF Today
Last week, we highlighted our success with Navigating Newark. Today, on Giving Tuesday, we ask you to invest in the newest initiative that will shape our region's future by empowering its youth.

Informed and active citizens create a stronger country, a stronger economy, and a stronger workforce. By supporting RNF today, you are giving middle schoolers the platform, the tools, and the recognition they need to become tomorrow's leaders.

Please make your tax-deductible gift now and help us launch the inaugural National Civics Bee in New Jersey!

➡️ DONATE NOW

Thank you for being a vital partner in advancing our mission.

Newark, NJ — [December 1, 2025] — The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, today announced its inaugural involvement as a Regional Partner in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 2026 National Civics Bee®. RNF is the first institution in New Jersey to be selected to serve in this capacity, marking a significant step toward bolstering civic engagement among the state's middle school students.

The National Civics Bee® is an impactful national initiative aimed at boosting the civic knowledge, skills, and disposition of middle school students across the United States. It works through a network of state and local chambers and nonprofit organizations, helping to elevate civics as a national priority.

Rutgers Democracy Lab at the Eagleton Institute of Politics will serve as this year's State Partner. RNF, as the Regional Partner, will host a Regional Competition, while the State Partner will host the subsequent State Finals, creating an exciting pathway for student recognition.

Ferlanda Fox Nixon, who heads RNF and is the President and CEO of NRBP, expressed RNF's motivation for participating:
“The Renaissance Newark Foundation is participating in the National Civics Bee® because we believe that informed and active citizens strengthen our country, economy, and workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the vitality of all three. Through this initiative, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in New Jersey and celebrating our civic pride.”

RNF encourages eligible students to participate in this enriching competition.
•Who Can Enter: Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in New Jersey with an idea about using civics to improve their community may apply.
•Deadline: All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time.
•How to Apply: For more details about the application process, students should visit the official U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation website: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/ or visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students selected for the Regional Competition will compete for significant cash prizes:
Placement           Minimum Cash Prize
1st Place              $500
2nd Place             $250
3rd Place              $125

The date, time, and venue of the Regional Competitions are yet to be determined but will occur between March 20, 2026, and May 23, 2026.

About the Renaissance Newark Foundation
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) is the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. RNF is dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote economic growth, community development, and civic vitality in the region. www.newarkrbp.org/rnf

About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee® is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as the Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, Fisher Global Foundation, Ibis Group, The Anschutz Foundation, Wilson Garling Foundation, and other funders. civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/