About this Event
If you're a small business owner in New Jersey—especially in rural communities—this is the room you need to be in!
Join us for a hands-on session covering business planning, AI, marketing, and talent management, plus a first look at the New Jersey Rural Business Academy—a new initiative designed to equip rural entrepreneurs with the tools and training they need to scale sustainably.
What you’ll gain:
✔ Insight into state programs available now
✔ Connections to decision-makers supporting small businesses
✔ A first look at the NJ Rural Business Academy and how to participate
You’ll hear from:
- Richard Stern, Rural Development State Director, USDA
- Omar Buendia, Senior Loan Officer, RBAC
- Lina M. Gomez Osorio, Lender Relations Specialist, SBA
- Donald Newman, Manager of Small Business Advocacy, NJBAC
- Kathy Guzman, Small Business Liaison, NJEDA
- Lilian Mauro, Regional Director, NJSBDC The College of New Jersey
- Melissa Rosario, Regional Director, NJSBDC at William Paterson University
- Juan Brea, NJSBDC Sr. Consultant
- Katherine Zobre, NJSBDC Sr. Consultant
- Sabrina Ali Matera, NJSBDC Sr. Consultant
We will cover:
- Business Strategy and Planning
- How rural businesses are being prioritized and supported
- Hiring and Talent Management
- AI and Brand Marketing Fundamentals
Who should attend:
- Small business owners
- Entrepreneurs and startups
- Rural business operators
- Anyone looking to grow their business
⚠️ Limited seating — secure your spot today.
Disclaimer: This training event is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, I certify that I am legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and Executive Order 14218 ‘Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Bordersʼ (February 19, 2025).
Agenda
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Registration, Networking & Brunch
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Resources Panel Discussion
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:15 PM
Short Break
🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:45 PM
Breakout Sessions
Info: Hear from industry experts:
Sabrina Matera on Brand, Marketing & AI Fundamentals, Katherine Zorbe on Hiring & Talent Management, & Juan Brea on Rural Business Strategy & Planning
🕑: 03:45 PM - 04:00 PM
Closing
Event venue & nearby stays
Hunterdon County Library, 314 New Jersey 12, Flemington, United States
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