Guest Speakers

Running a business comes with challenges that don’t always have obvious solutions. Finding financing, navigating state regulations, hiring employees, expanding into new markets, and securing government contracts can require expertise and connections that many small business owners don’t have readily available. What many New Jersey business owners may not realize is that the state offers … Read more

Downtown Toms River is changing, and much of that work is centered on a simple idea: give people more reasons to visit, stay, return and support the businesses and organizations that call downtown home. At a recent Ocean County Business Association meeting, guest speaker Melissa “MJ” Fernandez-Torres shared an inside look at that work. As … Read more

At a recent OCBA networking lunch, members heard from Chris Emigholz, Chief Government Affairs Officer at the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA). His presentation offered a clear, honest look at the current economic climate in New Jersey and how state-level decisions are directly impacting local businesses here in Ocean County. For business owners, … Read more

At a recent OCBA lunch meeting, Diana Monti (Center Operator) and Sylvia Hernandez (Business Services) explained, in practical terms, how the Ocean County Career Center helps local companies fill jobs, reduce onboarding costs, and build a steady talent pipeline. Below is a detailed summary you can use to hire faster and smarter in Ocean County. … Read more

At our recent Ocean County Business Association (OCBA) lunch meeting, we were fortunate to hear from Becky Laboy, Education Outreach Specialist with the Ocean County Soil Conservation District. Becky shared an informative presentation that brought home the importance of soil health, sustainable landscaping, and the role every business and resident can play in supporting a … Read more

If you’re a startup, a long-established company, a nonprofit, or a sole proprietor, NJEDA offers funding programs designed to help your business grow and succeed. Here are key takeaways from Kathy’s presentation: Key NJEDA Grant Programs 1. Small Business E-Commerce Support Program Designed to help businesses build or improve their e-commerce presence. Businesses are required … Read more

At the February 20, 2025 Ocean County Business Association (OCBA) lunch meeting, members had the opportunity to hear from two distinguished guest speakers: Jennifer Bacchione, Ocean County Commissioner, Liaison Business Development & Tourism and former Berkeley Board of Education President, and Ronald Heinzman, Director of the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs. Their presentations provided … Read more

The Ocean County Business Association (OCBA) is excited to announce our upcoming guest speakers for 2025! Each month, we welcome industry leaders and community advocates to share insights, updates, and valuable resources with our members. These speakers bring expertise in business development, community initiatives, environmental sustainability, and more. Mark Your Calendars! February 20, 2025Speaker: Ms. … Read more

At this month’s Ocean County Business Association (OCBA) networking lunch meeting, we had the pleasure of hosting Chris Aviles (known to us as “Chris from Garden State Esports”), who runs a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of competitive gaming—also known as esports—to students across New Jersey. A Homegrown Leader in Esports Chris, a … Read more

When it comes to dentistry, the combination of advanced technology and compassionate care can lead to profound changes in patients’ lives. Dr. Zaki Sadiq, a dedicated dentist specializing in implants and reconstructive surgery, emphasizes the importance of modern techniques in delivering effective dental care. In this video he does a presentation as a guest speaker … Read more