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:
Board Leadership Appointments During the Annual Meeting, NRBP announced its incoming Board leadership:
NRBP also welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors:
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. # # # 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.
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 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:
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/ |
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