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Renaissance Newark Foundation Launched "Bank On It" Series to Help Newark-Area Small Businesses Build Stronger Financial Foundations

10/8/2026

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NEWARK, NJ, October 8, 2026 -- The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), kicked off its new Bank On It series on October 6. Hosted by PNC Bank at its Ironbound branch, the event was the first in a series that will be hosted by various banks and financial institutions at local branches and venues throughout the Greater Newark region.

Rather than a traditional seminar, RNF brought the conversation directly into the community, with music, refreshments, and an approachable atmosphere designed to make banking feel accessible and less intimidating for local small business owners. The kickoff centered on a simple idea: a strong banking relationship, rooted in the neighborhood, can be a cornerstone of a thriving business.

Nanette Lee, Senior VP, Regional Manager of the Parkway Region​, and other PNC representatives drew on nearly two decades of work with small businesses to cover the fundamentals of establishing a banking relationship and putting financial services to work strategically as a business grows. Lee’s topics of discussion included:

The "cash flow conversation," PNC's approach to understanding a business beyond its account balance.

Onboarding, which includes a follow-up appointment at account opening and check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days.

Merchant services, which PNC identified as one of the most underutilized tools among small businesses, since accepting credit cards creates more opportunities for customers to purchase. Fraud protection and payment solutions were highlighted as key considerations for new business clients.

Other resources, including managing cash shortfalls, accelerating receivables, home equity and personal lending, savings, investing, and retirement planning.

"Small business owners shouldn't have to walk into a bank as strangers," said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President & CEO of NRBP and RNF. "Financial empowerment starts with a relationship, and Bank On It puts bankers and entrepreneurs in the same room, in the neighborhood, having the conversations that help businesses grow."

​Future Bank On It events will connect regional business owners with financial institutions and practical resources at branches and venues across Greater Newark. Anyone interested in hosting a Bank On It session in their community, should contact Kirsten Giardi at [email protected].
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About the Renaissance Newark Foundation
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) is the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership. Committed to Newark’s bright future, 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. www.newarkrbp.org/rnf.
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NRBP to Host Fall 'Eye Opener'

9/30/2026

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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2026
Media Contact:
Newark Regional Business Partnership
[email protected]
NRBP to Host Fall 'Eye Opener' 
Program on
Scaling Newark's Talent Pipeline at Essex County College
NEWARK, NJ — September 8, 2026 -- The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) will host its fall Eye Opener program, titled "Scaling Newark's Talent Pipeline," on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Essex County College in Newark, New Jersey.

The Eye Opener Program brings together employers, anchor institutions, higher education, and workforce development leaders for a timely conversation on how Greater Newark can hire, grow, and retain its workforce. With the cost of living continuing to rise, employers are under growing pressure to think strategically about attracting and keeping talent, making practical, cross-sector partnerships more critical than ever. The morning will also provide attendees with an excellent opportunity to network and build new relationships. This is proudly supported by host sponsor Essex County College and event sponsor Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ.

Event Highlights Include:
  • Fireside Chat – "Powering Newark's Workforce: Economic Realities & Regional Growth": Led by Anibal Ramos, Jr., Director of the Essex County Department of Citizen Services and head of the Department of Economic Development, Training & Employment, this discussion features Aisha Glover (Global Head of Urban Innovation, Audible) and Sara Peña (Director of External Affairs, PSEG). The conversation will explore how these two major anchor institutions approach job creation differently to drive the city's economic growth.
  • Employer Panel – "The Talent Gap: What Are You Really Looking For?": Moderated by Dr. Elvy M. Vieira, Dean of Community, Continuing Education and Workforce Development at Essex County College, this panel investigates employer expectations, skills gaps, and alignment strategies between workforce providers and industry needs. Confirmed panelists include Mitch Cahn (President, Unionwear), Karen Gaylord (Executive Director, Newark Workforce Development Board), and Vineet Wadhwa (Sr. Director of Talent Acquisition, Reworld), alongside Reywon McCarthy (VP of Human Resources) and Chiquita Monal (Director of Human Resources, RWJBarnabasHealth Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of NJ).
Registration Information:
Business leaders, human resources professionals, workforce developers, and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend. Admission is free for all NRBP members, but registration is required. To secure your spot and learn more about other ticket options, visit NRBP’s website at https://web.newarkrbp.org/events/NRBP-Eye-Opener-Scaling-Newarks-Talent-Pipeline-5882/details. 

About the 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. 
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PRESS RELEASE | Kim Lewis-Collins Appointed

9/8/2026

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Newark Regional Business Partnership Appoints Kim Lewis-Collins Vice President, Marketing and Business Development

Award-winning strategist and former NYU Stern and Fortune 500 executive joins to lead marketing, communications, and corporate partnership growth across NRBP and the Renaissance Newark Foundation

NEWARK, NJ — September 8, 2026 — Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) and its 501(c)(3) affiliate, the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), proudly announce the appointment of Kim Lewis-Collins as Vice President, Marketing and Business Development. In this newly created executive leadership role, Lewis-Collins will serve as the senior brand strategist, corporate partnership architect, and growth driver for both organizations, overseeing corporate sponsorships, integrated marketing and communications, digital campaigns, and signature event promotion.

Lewis-Collins is an award-winning marketer and business leader who brings more than 20 years of experience building iconic brands and driving revenue growth. Her career includes a traditional consumer packaged goods foundation developed at Kraft, progressing to senior marketing leadership roles at prominent Fortune 500 companies including Avis Budget Group, Mondelez, and Verizon.

Widely recognized for pioneering multicultural marketing initiatives, Lewis-Collins has a proven track record of helping major brands connect with broad-based populations in authentic and culturally relevant ways. This specialized expertise aligns closely with the mission of NRBP and RNF to advance economic vitality, inclusive growth, and opportunity across Greater Newark’s diverse business community.

Most recently, Lewis-Collins served as Executive Director of the Full-time MBA Careers Team at the NYU Stern School of Business, where she guided and supported the development of the next generation of business leaders. She earned her Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising Design from Syracuse University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kim Lewis-Collins to our executive team in this vital new role. Kim brings an extraordinary depth of strategic marketing experience, a history of driving measurable revenue and brand growth for world-class organizations, and a profound commitment to multicultural engagement,” said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, NRBP’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “As NRBP and RNF continue to expand our impact across Greater Newark, Kim's leadership will be instrumental in elevating our brand visibility, deepening our corporate partnerships, and championing our business community.”

Lewis-Collins will report directly to Nixon.


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About the Newark Regional Business PartnershipAs 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. 

About Renaissance Newark Foundation
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) is the 501(c)(3) affiliate organization of NRBP. Committed to Newark’s bright future, 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. For more information about RNF, visit www.renaissancenewarkfoundation.org.
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NRBP Engage & Exchange: Members Explore Access to Capital with IFEL’s Jill Johnson

8/31/2026

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NEWARK, NJ — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) brought members together Thursday, August 27, for its monthly Engage & Exchange virtual meeting featuring Jill Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL). Johnson led a timely conversation on angel investing, access to capital, and the importance of relationships in helping entrepreneurs secure the resources they need to grow

During the conversation, Johnson challenged the idea that access to capital is simply a meritocracy, emphasizing that “capital access is a relationship problem.” She discussed persistent disparities in venture capital, the role of personal wealth and networks in determining who can access funding, and how systemic barriers can make it more difficult for underrepresented entrepreneurs to secure traditional financing.

Johnson also shared IFEL's approach to addressing these challenges through what she describes as “community as capital.” The organization's work focuses on building small-business capacity, creating relationship-capital connections through skills-based volunteerism, and expanding investor inclusion.
Among IFEL's initiatives are Making of Black Angels, Making of Latin Angels, Pipeline Angels, and Capital Circles, which encourages everyday community members to invest smaller amounts in local businesses—not just high-growth technology companies.

Johnson illustrated the potential of community-based capital through the story of Lagniappe Bakehouse, a New Orleans bakery that needed $13,000 for production equipment. With IFEL's support, the business launched a campaign through Kiva, ultimately raising $13,500 from 182 individual lenders, with an average contribution of approximately $100.
The example underscored a central theme of the discussion: community activation can be just as powerful as large checks when entrepreneurs have the relationships, tools, and networks to mobilize support.

“Entrepreneurs don't always need one large investor to move their businesses forward,” said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President & CEO of NRBP. “Today's conversation highlighted how relationships, community networks, and greater investor inclusion can help create more equitable pathways to capital and economic opportunity.”

The Engage & Exchange also provided members an opportunity to share updates and connect with one another. Member discussion included opportunities related to mobile EV charging, commercial real estate financing, and growing a wine business, reinforcing the value of NRBP's member-to-member exchange.
NRBP also shared several organizational updates, including its current membership drive, newly monetized newsletter sponsorship opportunities, the completion of recording Engage & Exchange Podcast Season Two, upcoming programming, and the continued growth of initiatives supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The NRBP Engage & Exchange is a monthly members-only virtual gathering designed to connect members with thought leaders, timely business insights, and one another. Through conversations like Thursday's discussion, NRBP continues to create opportunities for its members to exchange ideas, build relationships, and strengthen the Greater Newark business community.
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About the 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. 
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Newark Regional Business Partnership Brings Community Together to Reflect on Newark Fan Village Success and What Comes Next

8/19/2026

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NEWARK, NJ (August 18, 2026) — Despite steady rain, local leaders, small business owners, and community partners gathered at First Presbyterian Church for Newark and the World Cup: A Community Debrief, convened by the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) on August 17, 2026. The conversation celebrated what Newark accomplished during the 39-day Newark Fan Village while taking an honest look at the lessons, challenges, and opportunities that can shape the city’s approach to future international events.

According to event organizers Kreshnik Berisha and Gabe Ribeiro, more than 144,000 visitors experienced free games, music, and cultural programming at the Fan Village, which operated for 39 consecutive days without a single public safety incident. What began as a grassroots idea developed through weekly community meetings in January 2026 grew into one of New Jersey’s most successful World Cup gathering places.
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The debrief brought together Councilmen Michael Silva and C. Lawrence Crump, representatives of Councilwomen Amina Bey and Louise Scott-Rountree, and the organizers and partners who helped bring the Fan Village to life. Participants reflected on the collaboration, determination, and community spirit that made the effort possible.

“It was where the world came together,” Silva said, calling it one of the proudest moments of his career.

The discussion also highlighted the Fan Village’s broader economic and civic impact. Berisha and Ribeiro shared the realities of building and sustaining a major activation with limited resources, while Oya Tukel, Dean of the Martin Tuchman School of Management at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), revealed findings from a social media geofencing project commissioned by NJIT. The project analyzed activity from more than 4,000 accounts across 60 countries and found that approximately 75% of the social media sentiment captured during match times was positive.

Key partnerships made the scale possible, including a sponsorship from Anheuser-Busch and a FIFA viewing license that allowed organizers to show the matches to the crowds. Organizers credited a wide network of collaborators, including Plusable, Sihana Hospitality Group, CasaNova, John Schreiber and NJPAC, public safety partners, and the late Al Coutinho, whose contributions were remembered warmly.

Looking ahead to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, UEFA European Championship, Africa Cup of Nations, Copa América, and other major events, participants identified several priorities: start planning early, strengthen citywide collaboration, measure impact across all five wards, engage county partners, and market Newark as a destination capable of welcoming the world.

For Berisha, the opportunity is clear: “Why not Newark?” He urged the city and its partners to approach these opportunities with confidence as New Jersey’s premier host destination.

“The Newark Fan Village showed what is possible when a community comes together around a shared vision,” said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President and CEO of NRBP. “Its success gives us an opportunity to think bigger about Newark’s future. We can build on this momentum, welcome the world with confidence, and ensure that the benefits of major international events reach businesses, residents, and neighborhoods across all five wards. The Fan Village was more than a successful World Cup celebration—it was a blueprint for what Newark can accomplish together.”

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About the 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.
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Ferlanda Fox Nixon Earns Elite Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) Designation

7/29/2026

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PictureFerlanda Fox Nixon, Esq., CCE, CAE, IOM
NEWARK, N.J. (July 27, 2026) — Ferlanda Fox Nixon, Newark Regional Business Partnership President & CEO, has been designated a Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Virginia, that has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.
 
The CCE program assesses and tests the applicant's knowledge of core chamber management areas: management, planning and development, membership, communications, revenue, and operations. Chamber professionals who are designated CCEs earned this prestigious recognition through hard work, countless hours of dedication to their field and leadership of their chamber to achieve the chamber’s goals.
 
"Certified Chamber Executives represent the highest level of professional achievement in our industry," said Justin McLaughlin, CCE, executive vice president and COO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber and chair of the CCE Commission. "This year's recipients have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to leadership, innovation, and excellence, setting an example for chamber professionals across the country."
 
Nixon is one of 19 chamber professionals from across 12 states, to earn the Certified Chamber Executive designation in 2026. The first CCE designation was conferred more than 40 years ago. It is recognized as the highest and most elite professional designation in the chamber profession. It’s the only globally-recognized certification program exclusive to the chamber of commerce industry.
 
Nixon began her chamber executive career in 2021 at the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and, just three years later, was appointed President & CEO of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, a trajectory that reflects both her rapid professional growth and the trust placed in her leadership. She is the first woman and first person of color to lead NRBP in the organization's 157-year history. With her CCE designation, Nixon becomes the only credentialed Certified Chamber Executive in New Jersey and only the second African American woman to earn the designation in the program's more than 40-year history.

Learn more about ACCE’s CCE program by visiting www.ACCE.org/CCE.

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NRBP Launches Manufacturing Council to Strengthen Greater Newark's Manufacturing Ecosystem

7/20/2026

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NRBP members and makers in the "Newark Corner" at the 2024 Manufacturing Day. L-r: Florence Dennis, Flows Tasty Treats; Michael Formack, NJMEP (former); Krista Senna, GlassRoots; LaShonda Tyree, Nyah Beauty; and Reis Chester, ReisFields LLC.

NEWARK, N.J. (June 20, 2026)
– The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) announced the launch of its Manufacturing Council, a new industry council that will bring together NRBP members across the manufacturing ecosystem to foster collaboration and support business growth throughout the Greater Newark region.

The Manufacturing Council joins NRBP's growing portfolio of industry councils, alongside its Real Estate Council, Transportation Council, Nonprofits Council, Entrepreneurs Council, and Women’s Council. This group will serve as a forum for manufacturers, suppliers, logistics providers, financial institutions, professional service firms, workforce development organizations, and economic development partners to connect, collaborate, and address issues impacting the region's manufacturing sector. Additionally, members will contribute to a stronger collective voice for the manufacturing sector across Greater Newark.

Manufacturing is a vital part of Greater Newark's economy, supporting local jobs, driving innovation, and contributing to the region's economic competitiveness. Many manufacturers spend their time focused on running and growing their businesses, leaving few opportunities to connect with peers. The Manufacturing Council creates a space for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership development across the manufacturing ecosystem.

"Manufacturing has long been one of the driving forces behind Greater Newark's economy," said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President and CEO of the Newark Regional Business Partnership. "Our region's manufacturers don't operate in isolation. They rely on a network of financial institutions, logistics providers, workforce partners, professional service firms, and public agencies that help their businesses thrive. The Manufacturing Council convenes the full range of stakeholders to foster collaboration, support business growth, and ensure the manufacturing sector continues to play a central role in our region's future."

Mitch Cahn, Vice Chair of NRBP's Board of Directors and President of Unionwear, and NRBP Board Member Emily Manz, Chief Business Development Officer and Director of Marketing at Invest Newark, led the effort to establish the Manufacturing Council, bringing together an inaugural group of member organizations committed to strengthening the region's manufacturing sector.

Through educational programs, networking opportunities, facility tours, and discussions focused on workforce development, supply chain connections, and business growth, the council will create meaningful opportunities for members to learn from one another while elevating the voice of Greater Newark's manufacturing community. One of its first activities will be participation in the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program’s (NJMEP) ‘Made in New Jersey’ Manufacturing Day on October 2, 2026.

The council launches with an inaugural group of members representing manufacturing, economic development, workforce development, logistics, banking, construction, legal services, technology, and professional services, including:
  • 1st Street Partnership
  • CMIT Solutions of The Meadowlands
  • Invest Newark
  • JVS
  • Kearny Bank
  • Makerhoods
  • McCarter & English
  • NJMEP
  • Nyah Beauty
  • Phelps Construction Group
  • Real Time Logistics
  • Union County Savings Bank
  • Unionwear
  • VHB
 
NRBP will continue to expand the council's membership and welcomes organizations that manufacture products or provide services supporting the manufacturing sector.
Organizations interested in learning more about the Manufacturing Council should contact Kirsten Giardi NRBP’s SVP of Strategic Growth & Member Experience ([email protected]).


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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, visi
t www.newarkrbp.org.
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NRBP Membership Drive: Join Us in Strengthening Newark!

6/3/2026

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written by Ferlanda Fox Nixon, Esq., President & CEO, NRBP

We are more than five months into our second annual membership drive, and I am thrilled to share the incredible progress we are making together! The energy, commitment, and advocacy being shown for the Newark Regional Business Partnership are nothing short of inspiring.
 
Record-Breaking Results
I am proud to announce that, to date, we have welcomed 14 new members into the NRBP family through this drive. To put this in perspective, this time last year we were celebrating seven new additions. By mobilizing our network, we have nearly doubled our efforts, significantly strengthening the collective voice and reach of our region’s business community. Last year, Frank Ferruggia (McCarter & English) set the standard by recruiting the most new members with two.
 
Celebrating Our Advocates
The competition is fierce, and the enthusiasm to grow our network is palpable. Please join me in acknowledging the individuals currently topping our leaderboard:
 
  • First Place: Ari Fox (Audible, Inc.) is in the lead with four new members secured!

  • Second Place (Tied): Mitch Cahn (Unionwear) and Anthony Marin (MIG Real Estate), each with two impressive recruitments.

  • Our Momentum Builders: A sincere thank you to Chanice Fish (Taste of the Caribbean Restaurant & Catering), Nathaniel Cooke (Propel America), Emily Manz (Invest Newark), Kevin Callaghan (City of Newark), Deidra Viney (Express Employment Professionals), and Dee Asch (GPS Consultants, LLC), who have each successfully onboarded one new member.
 
Why Join the NRBP Now?
Whether you are a long-standing member or a business leader considering joining us for the first time, you are entering a community that is more active and connected than ever before.
 
Membership in the Greater Newark’s premier chamber of commerce provides:
  • Strategic Connections: Participate in our Engage and Exchange initiative, featuring our CEO Updates & Member Forum, high-impact networking events, and our podcast series where members share their stories with a broader audience.

  • Advocacy and Leadership: Join a network that serves as a trusted partner for business success and a steward of regional economic growth.

  • Enhanced Value: With our updated dues structure, we have refined our offerings to ensure that every organization, from small enterprises to established firms, receives maximum benefit and return on investment.
 
Let’s Cross the Finish Line Strong!
We have until August 31, 2026, to keep this momentum going. I encourage all our members to continue sharing the value of an NRBP membership with your colleagues and peers. For those of you who have been considering membership, there has never been a better time to get involved and add your voice to the conversation.
 
If you have questions about how to join or how to participate in this drive, our membership team, led by Kirsten Giardi, is here to assist you. Reach out to Kirsten at [email protected] or 973-242-4228.
 

Thank you for your dedication to Newark and for your continued belief in the power of this chamber of commerce. Let’s make the final stretch of this drive our most successful yet!
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NRBP Honors Thirteen Industry Leaders at the 2026 Transportation Awards Breakfast

5/13/2026

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Group photo of the 2026 awardees along with Chairman O'Toole, Commissioner Jain, and members of NRBP's Board of Directors​ (photo credit: NRBP/KingsLikeness LLC)

Newark, NJ (May 13, 2026)
— The Newark Regional Business Partnership recently welcomed business, government, and transportation sector leaders to its 2026 Transportation Awards Breakfast, hosted at the Best Western Robert Treat Hotel in Newark. Presented in collaboration with NRBP’s Transportation Council, the annual program recognizes professionals, organizations, and projects that are advancing mobility, infrastructure, economic growth, and regional connectivity throughout Greater Newark and beyond. This year’s event continued NRBP’s tradition of honoring both executive leadership and frontline transportation professionals whose work keeps the region moving every day.
 
Featured remarks were delivered by Kevin O'Toole, Chairman of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Priya Jain, newly appointed Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation.
 
During his remarks, Chairman O’Toole emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and public service in advancing transportation infrastructure and economic opportunity throughout the region. “If Newark is doing well, the state will do well, New York will do well, and so will the region,” O’Toole said.
 
He also highlighted the deep commitment of the transportation workforce across agencies, noting that long-tenured professionals reflect a strong culture of public service and institutional dedication. At the same time, he underscored the importance of inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in transportation and infrastructure, calling attention to the need to cultivate emerging professionals who will carry forward the region’s mission-driven work. He pointed to Ryan Hatch, one of this year’s honorees, who has been with the agency for six years and has already made significant contributions, as an example of next gen talent making an impact in the sector. He concluded by addressing the broader transportation community across the Port Authority and partner agencies, stating, “What you’re doing is more than a job; it’s a mission. Thank you for being part of this mission and dream.”
 
Commissioner Jain followed Chairman O’Toole and highlighted the interconnected nature of the region’s transportation systems, underscoring the importance of coordination, transparency, and innovation in meeting the region’s evolving infrastructure needs. She noted that fragmented decision-making and uncertainty in project delivery can have real economic consequences, emphasizing the importance of improving responsiveness and accountability across government operations.
 
To advance that goal, she pointed to new tools such as the state’s Permitting Dashboard, designed to provide real-time visibility into infrastructure project status and improve transparency for stakeholders.
 
She also highlighted the scale of upcoming regional coordination efforts, including preparations for upcoming FIFA World Cup games, calling it one of the largest transportation operations the state has ever managed. Jain noted that the event will require extensive cross-agency collaboration to ensure travel remains safe, reliable, and predictable, supported by tools such as New Jersey’s travel demand toolkit and coordinated regional planning efforts. “People do not experience transportation in a segmented way. They experience the journey,” Jain said.
 
Following remarks from the featured guest speakers, the program turned to the recognition of this year’s honorees, celebrating individuals whose leadership and service continue to advance the region’s transportation network.
 
2026 Career Achievement Honorees
  • Mary K. Murphy, Director, Planning and Regional Development, PANYNJ
  • Louis Millan, Sr. Program Director – Capital Planning, NJ TRANSIT
 
2026 Leadership Honorees
  • Parth Oza, Assistant Commissioner, Capital Program Management, NJDOT
  • Rebecca L. Scanlon, Deputy Director, Right of Way & Access Management, NJDOT
  • Anthony Fevola, Chief Engineer, NJ Transit Corp.
  • William Bisirri, Deputy Chief Engineer, NJ Transit Corp.
  • Jon Gooda, Vice President, Newark Hub, United Airlines
  • Darlene Del Rosario, Director, Station Operations Center and Move Team, United Airlines
  • Jeannie Kwon, Vice President, Mega Program Development & Coordination and Major Stations, Amtrak
  • Jessica Posner, Capital Construction Manager, Amtrak
  • Ralph J. D’Apuzzo, Assistant Director, Aviation Redevelopment, PANYNJ
  • Ryan Hatch, Program Director, AirTrain Newark Replacement, PANYNJ
  • Zoe Baldwin, Vice President, State Programs, Regional Plan Association
 
The event was sponsored by United Airlines as part of NRBP’s Transportation Series.
 
“United is honored to sponsor NRBP’s Transportation Series and support programming that highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing the transportation sector,” said Monica Slater Stokes. “Bringing together leaders from across industries is essential to advancing innovation, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring the continued success of the Greater Newark region. We are also proud to recognize this year’s Transportation Awards honorees for their leadership and contributions to the sector and to the region.”
 
Additional event sponsors: AECOM, GFT, HNTB Corporation, InGroup, Port Authority of NY & NJ, Radin Consulting, Inc., and Tonio Burgos & Associates.
 
The Transportation Series includes the Transportation Awards Breakfast (held each May) and the Transportation Symposium (held each November). Through these programs and more, NRBP continues to be a leader in convening public- and private-sector partners to strengthen regional collaboration and support the continued growth and competitiveness of Greater Newark as a global transportation and business hub.
 
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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.
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Newark Regional Business Partnership Welcomes Stacie Faber to Board of Directors

5/7/2026

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Newark, NJ (May 7, 2026) — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Stacie Faber, Business Development Manager at Turner Construction Company, to its Board of Directors. Faber succeeds long-time board representative Lawrence Boresen in the role.
 
A seasoned construction and business development professional with more than 27 years of industry experience, Faber has extensive expertise in infrastructure development, urban redevelopment, and strategic stakeholder engagement throughout New Jersey. Her appointment further strengthens NRBP’s leadership as the organization continues its work to advance economic growth and regional collaboration across Greater Newark.
 
“Stacie’s experience delivering transformative development projects and cultivating strong cross-sector partnerships will be an asset to our board and membership,” said Mary Makfinsky, SVP, Director of Business Banking at Popular Bank and Chair of NRBP’s Board of Directors.  “Her understanding of the region’s evolving development landscape and commitment to community-centered growth align closely with NRBP’s mission.”
 
In her current role with Turner Construction, Faber leads strategic growth initiatives, client engagement, and business development efforts across a range of sectors. Prior to transitioning into business development, she held several project leadership roles overseeing complex construction projects from preconstruction through delivery. She has contributed to several high-profile and transformative projects, including the Hahne & Co. Redevelopment Project in Newark, LG Headquarters, and New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s Department of Health facility in Trenton.
 
Faber is a graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. She is also a LEED Accredited Professional and holds OSHA 30 and AED/CPR/First Aid certifications.
 
“I am honored to join the NRBP Board of Directors and continue Turner Construction Company’s longstanding engagement with the organization,” said Faber. “NRBP plays an important role in convening business and community leaders to strengthen the Greater Newark region, and I look forward to contributing to that work.”
 
Through its board leadership and member engagement, NRBP continues to serve as a catalyst for regional collaboration, economic development, and business growth.

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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.

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60 Park Place, Suite 1016  | Newark, NJ  07102
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