University hosts business summit

By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent

Entrepreneurs, local business owners and employees gathered on Tuesday, Sept. 12, at Kean University’s Liberty Hall Academic Building in Union, to attend the first-ever Union County WORKS Business Summit.

The goal of the summit is to cultivate growth of local businesses and further strengthen the bond between the Union County American Job Center and the business community. The event was open to the public and free of charge for registered guests.

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Guests were able to listen to expert panelists offering their valuable information for businesses of all sizes, followed by question-and-answer sessions, lunch catered by Gourmet Dining and the opportunity to network. There were also several vendor tables providing educational information and resources.

Leodaris Allen, a program coordinator for Hillside Family Success Center, said, “A lot of times, people are not aware of resources just around the corner. We understand hard times can come to anyone. We will support you. We welcome anyone.”

Ajsha Bajcina-Berisha of Linden, began her business, petcarespot, last October. She said, “It’s slow. I don’t advertise. It’s word of mouth. I’m trying to figure out what the demand is. I’m learning as I’m going.”

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Erica “E” Bradshaw, CEO of Bradshaw Creative Services, a fine, creative and performing arts studio in Union, uses art to uplift, motivate and inspire

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