State and Federal Resources Lawrence Businesses Should Be Using

Starting or growing a small business means wearing a lot of hats. Between navigating permits, managing finances, and trying to find customers, it's easy to miss something important — like the fact that there are several free or low-cost programs specifically designed to help businesses like yours succeed. Many Lawrence business owners don't know these resources exist. Here's a rundown of the most valuable ones.

Mercer County Office of Economic Development (MCOED)

Your first call after the Township's Community Aide might be to the Mercer County Office of Economic Development. MCOED offers workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and financial assistance programs for small and large businesses alike. Because it operates at the county level, it has a good feel for the regional economic landscape and can connect you with programs and people that go beyond what any single municipality can offer.

The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC)

The NJBAC is one of the most underused resources available to New Jersey entrepreneurs. Think of it as a concierge service for businesses: you describe your situation and they connect you with the right state agency, program, or expert. Whether you're looking for funding, need help with licensing, or are trying to figure out how to expand your workforce, the NJBAC can point you in the right direction without charging you for the guidance.

Business.NJ.gov

Before you spend hours searching different state agency websites, start at Business.NJ.gov. It's the state's consolidated hub for business-related regulations, registration steps, hiring guidance, and funding opportunities. If you're a new business owner trying to understand what the state requires of you — and what it can offer you — this is the most efficient place to get oriented.

Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency dedicated exclusively to small businesses. It offers counseling, help accessing capital, and contracting assistance. For Lawrence businesses looking to grow, the SBA's loan programs and its network of local advisors can be especially valuable. If you've been turned down for conventional financing or aren't sure what your options are, the SBA is worth a call.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The SBDC is closely related to the SBA but operates through a network of regional centers, often housed at universities. SBDC advisors work directly with business owners on everything from writing a business plan to understanding your financials to preparing for a loan application. The service is free, the advisors are experienced, and the sessions are confidential. For any Lawrence business owner who feels like they could use a knowledgeable second opinion, the SBDC is an excellent resource.

NJ Department of Labor (NJDOL)

Once you start hiring, the NJ Department of Labor becomes relevant. NJDOL sets standards for wage compliance, handles unemployment and temporary disability insurance, and administers workforce development programs. If you're planning to grow your team, it's worth getting familiar with what the NJDOL requires — and what it offers, including training programs that can help upskill your employees.

New Jersey Department of Treasury

The NJ Department of Treasury oversees taxation and benefits administration at the state level. For small business owners managing state tax obligations, understanding how the Treasury's programs interact with your business structure is important. It's also the agency to know if you offer employee pension or benefits plans.

New Jersey Sustainable Business Registry

If your business has a commitment to environmental or social responsibility, the NJ Sustainable Business Registry offers recognition and promotion for companies that meet its standards. Being listed signals to customers that you take sustainability seriously — and it connects you with a network of like-minded businesses across the state.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

No resource list would be complete without mentioning the IRS. Beyond tax obligations, the IRS is where you obtain your Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you'll need to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. If you haven't registered yet, it's one of the first steps to take.

Lawrence Township's Community Aide can help you navigate many of these resources and connect you with the right contacts. Reach them at 609-844-7074. You can also view the full Lawrence Township Business Manual for a complete reference guide to local, county, state, and federal resources.