Description

Please JOIN US for an insightful discussion on how to certify your business as a M/WBE in New Jersey and access state grants and funding. This virtual roundtable will feature an expert panel sharing a step-by-step guide to help simplify the application process and explain how to obtain funding to help your business grow and prosper.

EVENT DETAILS 

Date: Thursday, 11/13/2025

Time: 8:00 am - 9:00 am

9:00 am - 9:30 am: Optional Q&A session

Location: Virtual Zoom Link to be provided upon registration 

MEET OUR PANELISTS

		Don Newman Manager, Office of Small Business Advocacy, NJ Business Action Center, New Jersey Department of State Mr. Newman serves as the Manager of Small Business Advocacy within the New Jersey Department of State, Business Action Center.  As Manager, he provides services to business of all sizes and at all stages of development, from startups through maturity. These services include identifying specific programs for which business are eligible and helping them locate the resources that best meet their needs.  In addition, Don manages the NJ Business Helpline, 1-800 JERSEY-7 and a new live chat. This year, through both platforms, his team responded to over 75,000 business questions. With over 20+ years of experience as a business advocate, Mr. Newman has assisted countless businesses grow and prosper in our state.  Prior to joining state government, Don managed and worked for several small businesses, gaining valuable experience in such varied fields as inventory management, sales, business planning, and marketing.
		Kathy Guzman Senior Small Business Liaison, New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Kathy Guzman is a Senior Small Business Liaison for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. Her role is to share information and educate business owners and community stakeholders about opportunities available to small businesses in New Jersey. Before joining NJEDA, Kathy ran a marketing, advertising and public relations company serving the unique needs of small businesses. She also served as Business Development Advocate in the Flemington NJ Business Improvement District. Kathy is passionate about sharing information and improving equal access to opportunity for New Jersey small business owners.
		Michelle Osorio Senior Small Business Liaison, New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Michelle Osorio is a Senior Small Business Liaison for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. Michelle's role is to share information and educate business owners and community stakeholders about opportunities available to small businesses in New Jersey. Michelle Osorio has spent her career supporting entrepreneurs and business owners in underrepresented communities. Michelle has helped thousands of business owners navigate the complexities of business ownership in Spanish and English. Michelle is passionate about sharing information and improving equal access to opportunities for New Jersey small business owners.

MODERATOR

Marianna Fleming Senior Project Engineer and Diver, Marine Solutions, Inc.  Marianna Fleming, PE, is the Chair of the Inclusion Committee for PWC-NJ. She is a PE-Diver for Marine Solutions, Inc.