Gov. Mikie Sherrill outlined her administration’s plan to improve New Jersey’s business climate and expand the state’s economy during remarks on March 31 at the ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo.
Sherrill said that government must become a more efficient and reliable partner for economic growth, addressing concerns about slow permitting processes, outdated regulations, and unpredictable environments for businesses looking to invest or hire. “We all know that New Jersey has the best business in the world,” Sherrill said. “What we need to make sure of, as we go forward, is New Jersey is the best place to DO business in the world.”
She told attendees that delays in permitting and licensing have caused some companies to leave the state due to uncertainty. “Permitting is too slow, licensing is black box, and projects fail because they can’t afford the uncertainty or wait,” Sherrill said. “Too many businesses have told me they had to move out of the state to grow or get by.” She also noted outdated rules: “We can’t afford to have regulation on the books that refer to microfiche or floppy discs.”
The summit featured panels on topics such as economic competitiveness, energy leadership, higher education alignment with workforce needs, innovation in technology sectors like artificial intelligence and logistics, healthcare industry challenges, strategies for attracting investment, and opportunities related to hosting FIFA World Cup events. Keynote speakers included John A. Gallucci Jr., U.S. Sen. Andy Kim alongside Neil Bradley from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Alex Lasry from FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee; and United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby.
The event was organized by the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce which supports workforce development through its foundation emphasizing skills for future jobs according to its official website. The organization works statewide with a focus on economic solutions across regions according to its official website, advances business-friendly legislation according to its official website, lobbies for policies making New Jersey appealing for businesses according to its official website, collaborates with local chambers on significant matters according to its official website, and offers networking events along with educational resources for members according to its official website.
The summit continues April 1 with a panel featuring Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell alongside Amtrak Chairman Anthony Coscia and PSEG President & CEO Ralph LaRossa discussing critical issues facing economic growth under Sherrill’s administration.
