NJIT to Host Gubernatorial Candidates' Discussion on the Future of Diverse NJ Businesses

Published: Monday, January 27, 2025

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) will host a pivotal forum March 19, where gubernatorial candidates will outline their visions for the future of New Jersey’s diverse business community. Presented by the New Jersey Diverse Business Advisory Council (NJDBAC) and other state business organizations, the event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders at NJIT’s Newark campus.

The 10 gubernatorial candidates have been invited to participate in the discussion at noon in NJIT’s Jim Wise Theatre in Kupfrian Hall. The event is free to the public, but pre-registration is required here. 

“New Jersey thrives when its diverse business community thrives,” said Elisa Charters, co-founder of Latina Surge, member of the NJDBAC and an NJIT trustee. “This event is a vital platform to hold our candidates accountable for creating policies that support opportunities for all businesses.” Latina Surge National is dedicated to empowering underrepresented groups and advancing multicultural leadership in the corporate world.

The forum will address critical issues affecting New Jersey’s business community, including:

  • Workforce development and talent pipelines
  • Support for small and minority-owned businesses, building on recommendations from the state’s 2024 Disparity Study
  • Economic policies shaping business growth and innovation for businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+ community members and veterans

The gubernatorial candidates running in the GOP primary are state Sen. Jon Bramnick, former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, former state Sen. Ed Durr and conservative radio host Bill Spadea. Candidates running in the Democratic primary include Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, Congressman Josh Gottheimer, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Education Association President Sean Spiller and former state Senate President Steve Sweeney. 

The winner of each political party’s June 10 primary will face off in the Nov. 4 General Election.