NEWARK, NJ--With the hopes of growing New Jersey's economy through entrepreneurial inclusion, Gov.-elect Phil Murphy and Lt. Gov.-elect Sheila Oliver will be leading a workshop in Newark Monday.

Small business owners and entrepreneurs are invited to participate in the workshop, which will be hosted by Metropolitan Baptist Church Rev. Pastor David Jefferson, Sr. and will include U.S. Sen. Cory Booker and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka.

Business Consultant Randall Pinkett, the 2005 winner of season four of The Apprentice, will also be part of the panel.

Sign Up for Newark Newsletter Our newsletter delivers the local news that you can trust. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. You have successfully signed up for the TAPinto Newark Newsletter.

Pinkett, the co-founder and CEO of business consulting firm BCT Partners, was the first African American to win on the show and undertook a year-long apprenticeship with Trump Entertainment Resorts in Atlantic City.

Others on the panel include African American Chamber of Commerce Executive Director John Harmon, McKInsey and Company Senior Partner Steven Van Kuiken and Essex County Urban League President Vivian Fraser.

Joining Jefferson will be National Action Network CEO Rev. Al Sharpton and National Action Network Tech World Director Rev. Steffie Bartley.

“We must create an environment in New Jersey for small business owners, entrepreneurs and others to participate in the New Jersey economy,” Jefferson said. “The speakers will provide insight on the challenges and opportunities, and business opportunities we can expect with the new leadership in the New Jersey statehouse.”

MBC annually hosts a program to further Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s work on employment opportunity, pay equity and justice.





“This is why we host a program on this day off of work for so many, Jefferson said. “This year, with a new governor and lieutenant governor, comes new opportunities. We want to capture every opportunity to move our people and our communities forward. This workshop and panel discussion will help us do that.”

The workshop will be held on Monday, January 15, at 2:30 p.m. at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 149 Springfield Ave. in Newark.

To register visit www.mbcmetroworks.org or call 642-2267. Preregistration is suggested but not required to participate.