Trenton, NJ – Reaffirming the Administration’s commitment to economic development, Acting Governor Kim Guadagno today addressed the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) at the Chamber’s “Access to Capital” luncheon in Englewood to present the resources and business incentives offered by the state.
 

“We are so proud of the work the Administration has done throughout the State to make New Jersey an attractive place to do business,” said Acting Governor Guadagno. “The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey has been our partner for many years, and I appreciate the opportunity to share information that will help their businesses – and businesses across New Jersey – find new ways to develop.” 

Comprised of members representing a wide variety of industries, government agencies and retail businesses, the Chamber supports entrepreneurship and capitalistic initiatives dedicated to sustaining African American communities and businesses throughout the state.  The AACCNJ provides programming and resources for its members, including workforce recruitment and training and access to procurement opportunities.  The panel discussion at the luncheon was focused on business financing, including data on small business loans and financing options through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. 

“The Acting Governor’s presence and participation at today’s event underscores our strategic alliance, solidifies our partnership, and enhances the credibility of the mission of the AACCNJ, while strengthening our viability in the marketplace,” said John E. Harmon, Sr., President and CEO of the AACCNJ.  Mr. Harmon was also installed as the Chairman of the Board for the National Black Chamber of Commerce in May. 

In conjunction with the luncheon and panel discussion, the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development will today join the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey in a career fair organized to recruit more than 100 candidates for employment with TD Bank in positions ranging from customer service representatives to head tellers. The Department will assist TD Bank in processing and screening hundreds of pre-registered applicants expected to gather at the Crowne Plaza Hotel throughout the afternoon.  

The career fair highlights the Chamber’s new role as the operator of the Financial Services Talent Network, one of seven Talent Networks created by the Department of Labor around seven industry clusters that drive the state’s economy. More than two-thirds of New Jersey workers are employed in the seven industry clusters, which account for more than two-thirds of wages paid in New Jersey. 

“We have always worked well with the African American Chamber, and having them take charge of our Financial Services Talent Network is a natural extension of that strong partnership,” said Harold J. Wirths, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. “This is a particularly important industry cluster for New Jersey, and we are confident our Talent Network under the Chamber's stewardship will continue to connect employers with the talented employees they need to grow.” 

The other six Talent Network industry clusters are: Transportation, Logistics & Distribution; Technology & Entrepreneurship; Life Sciences; Advanced Manufacturing; Health Care; and Retail, Hospitality & Tourism. 

Anyone interested in more information about New Jersey’s Talent Networks should visit the Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s website at http://careerconnections.nj.gov/careerconnections/partners/talent/talent_networks.shtml. 

Businesses considering a move or in need of assistance are encouraged to call New Jersey’s Business Action Center at (866) 534-7789 or visit the State’s Business Portal at www.newjerseybusiness.gov.

Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno greeted the African American Chamber of Commerce of
New Jersey at their luncheon in Englewood before the Chamber joined the state Department
of Labor and Workforce Development in hosting a job fair to recruit more than 100
candidates for employment with TD Bank.