Business leaders, policymakers and innovators from across the state gathered March 31 and April 1 at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center for the 2026 ReNew Jersey Summit, a two-day event focused on economic growth, innovation and strengthening New Jersey’s business climate.
ROI-NJ was on site as the summit—hosted by the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce and co-hosted by Control Point Associates, Inc.—brought together hundreds of attendees for panels, keynote speeches and networking opportunities aimed at shaping the state’s economic future.
Focus on growth and opportunity
Opening the event, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Tom Bracken emphasized the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors.
“We have an expo center where companies are showing their wares… many panels talking about different industries in New Jersey… a very full agenda today that I think will hold the interest of our audience, which could be upwards of a thousand people,” Bracken said.
He added that the summit aims to deliver meaningful insights and drive progress for businesses across the state.
“We are looking forward to passing on a lot of good information to people… raising some issues that we can hopefully take forward to make doing business in New Jersey easier… it is going to be a fun couple days,” he said.
Governor outlines pro-business agenda
A major highlight of the summit was remarks from Gov. Mikie Sherrill, who outlined her administration’s efforts to streamline government processes and reduce barriers for businesses.
“This shows the dedication and commitment we have here in New Jersey to growing our economy. We are all here today because we know New Jersey is the best state in the world. We know New Jersey has the best businesses in the world,” Sherrill said.
She emphasized that the state must continue improving its business environment moving forward.
“What we need to do and what we need to make sure of as we go forward is that New Jersey is the best state to do business in the world,” she said.
Her administration’s agenda includes simplifying permitting processes and making it easier for companies to start and expand operations in the state.
Key industries take center stage
Panels throughout the two-day event reflected the breadth of New Jersey’s economy, touching on critical sectors and emerging opportunities.
Energy leaders discussed balancing affordability, reliability and sustainability as demand increases.
Higher education officials addressed declining enrollment and the need to better align academic programs with workforce demands.
Healthcare executives examined financial pressures, staffing shortages, and long-term system stability.
Innovation and tech experts explored growth opportunities in artificial intelligence, logistics, and entertainment.
A session featuring Andy Kim and U.S. Chamber executive Neil Bradley focused on national competitiveness and how New Jersey can better position itself to attract investment.
Spotlight on small business and global events
Beyond large-scale policy discussions, the summit also highlighted opportunities for small businesses, particularly tied to major global events like the FIFA World Cup.
Gus Penaranda outlined plans for a “Plaza de Fútbol” activation at the American Dream complex, where small businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their products and services to large crowds over an extended period.
“If you did not hear, the fan festival at Liberty State Park is no longer happening, so now people are looking to do different events. Small businesses are still trying to find their opportunity in this once in a lifetime spectacle called the World Cup,” Penaranda said.
He explained that the initiative will give local businesses a significant platform.
“They are going to give small businesses the opportunity to set up inside American Dream like setting up a booth at a conference, and then they can sell their products and promote their services for 12 hours a day for 39 days straight,” he said.
Optimism around New Jersey’s economic direction
Organizers and attendees expressed optimism about the state’s direction, particularly under a new administration focused on economic growth.
“The main takeaway, I believe, will be that with the new administration, we now have a very pro-business administration that will allow us to move forward economically, which is what we have been trying to do for years. Now I think we have a great opportunity to do that,” Bracken said.
As the summit concluded, the overarching message was clear: New Jersey has the resources, talentBusiness leaders and policymakers gathered in Atlantic City for the ReNew Jersey Summit, highlighting economic growth, innovation and a pro-business agenda in New Jersey. and strategic location to compete nationally, but continued collaboration and policy reform will be critical to unlocking its full potential.
