Candidates for the New Jersey gubernatorial race in 2025 will present their strategies to support the state's small diverse businesses at a forum organized by the New Jersey Diverse Business Advisory Council (NJDBAC). The event is scheduled for March 19 at the Jim Wise Theatre, located in Kupfrian Hall at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark. Although open to the public, attendees must pre-register.
The NJDBAC aims to create a platform where candidates can discuss their plans for promoting an inclusive business environment. "New Jersey thrives when its diverse business community thrives," said Elisa Charters, co-founder of Latina Surge and NJDBAC member. She emphasized the importance of holding candidates accountable for supporting policies that benefit all businesses.
The forum will address several key issues: immediate actions to increase procurement opportunities for small and diverse businesses, building on findings from the state's 2024 Disparity Study, enhancing resources for minority-owned businesses, and developing legislative strategies to promote inclusivity.
Republican candidates include state Sen. Jon Bramnick, former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, former state Sen. Ed Durr, and conservative radio host Bill Spadea. Democratic candidates are 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 primary winners from each party will compete in the general election on November 4.
The NJDBAC comprises various chambers of commerce and advocacy groups dedicated to expanding procurement opportunities for diverse businesses. Their partners include organizations representing women-owned, Black-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, Hispanic-owned, Asian-owned, and veteran-owned businesses.
