NJCRC Inaugural Cohort
2024 Graduates
Congratulations to our program graduates!
NJCRC Business Accelerator—2024 Cohort 1
This IT & Cybersecurity Business Accelerator was specially designed for diverse vendors operating in the technology sector who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering a high-performing and inclusive work environment. Due to the enthusiastic response from entrepreneurs in other sectors, we opened this program to enable all vendors interested in attending.
Every Tuesday, program participants progressed through twenty customized business development sessions. Each session was led by a different ‘Thought Leader’ renowned for their expertise on the topics of capacity building, leadership development, business innovation, risk management, and/or scaling. Sessions honored the highest standards of adult learning experiences and were grounded in ‘real world’ business scenarios. Practical application of new concepts acquired was achieved through peer learning/innovation labs (small group break-out segments).
Now recruiting for Cohort 2. Check back for program information.
Meet our Class of 2024!
Yana Bartek
President
Prestware Inc.
Industry: IT Sourcing & Recruiting
Phone: 862-419-3329
Email: yana@prestware.com
Website: www.prestware.com
Gratitude Statement: “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the NJCRC Business Accelerator. The knowledge, resources, and support I've received during this program have truly been transformational for both me and Prestware Inc. This experience has taken my business to new heights. The insights I’ve gained about RFPs — how to approach them and become more visible to companies that will send them — have already had a positive impact. Additionally, creating and presenting an investor pitch deck inspired me to seek investment for our upcoming project. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Willie Mae, Covenant Business Concepts, and all the speakers who shared their knowledge and experience. I also want to thank the strategic partners — Ntouch, BCTPartners, KEAN, and the SBA — for sponsoring this amazing program. Thank you for fostering growth and empowering entrepreneurs like us, and for being a key catalyst in our journey of growth, learning, and success.”
Kemarr Brown
President
OnPoint Government Solutions
Industry: Management Consulting, Advisory
Services & Digital Transformation
Phone: 305-319-9830
Email: kemarr@onpointegov.com
Website: www.onpointegov.com
Gratitude Statement: “I’m incredibly grateful for the experience. As a Florida-based entrepreneur, the NJCRC Business Accelerator provided invaluable insights into all aspects of starting and scaling a business—from marketing, branding, and legal corporate structures to navigating grants, responding to RFPs, and doing business with the government. The focus on technology companies was particularly impressive and gave me actionable strategies for success in this competitive field. As a direct result of the program, we are now actively exploring opportunities to expand into the New Jersey and New York markets. This accelerator has been a game-changer for our future growth!”
Adrienne Fox
President
Fox Consulting
Industry: Business Services & Consulting
Phone: 973-632-0589
Email: msafox@yahoo.com
Website: Under Development
Gratitude Statement: “I am so grateful to have been part of the NJCRC Business Accelerator program. The learnings, insights and coaching provided by Covenant Business Concepts and the amazing speakers and coaches are invaluable to me as an early-stage entrepreneur. The weekly sessions provided a comprehensive program to guide me as I grow my business. Collaborating with other small business owners and building a peer network was a bonus. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all that made this amazing program possible: Ntouch, BCTPartners, KEAN, Covenant Business Concepts, Rutgers SBDC.”
Takeerah Jones
President
Busy Bee Learning Center
Industry: STEM Education Youth
Phone: 908-937-1580
Email: teachfree8@gmail.com
Website: www.busybeeslearningcenter.net
Gratitude Statement: “The NJCRC program has been an exceptional experience, providing me with invaluable tools and knowledge. Thanks to this program, Busy Bees is even more committed to delivering quality STEM education to underserved communities. I encourage anyone looking to make a meaningful impact to explore this program and connect with Busy Bees as we continue to shape the innovators of tomorrow!”
Pamela Orrego
President
Natural BeYOUty Ink
Industry: Beauty, Cosmetic Products & Training
Phone: 917-476-0452
Email: pamela@naturalbeyoutyink.com
Website: www.natural-beyouty-ink.square.site
Gratitude Statement: “I appreciate having taken the time to participate in the NJCRC program. It has helped me think about my business differently. I learned more about my business, my mission and a lot from my peers in the program. I am deeply grateful for your support and believe in the future of eco-conscience permanent make-up. I believe we can create a more sustainable and beautiful world. Thank you, Willie Mae, for being an amazing instructor and mentor. And thanks to all the instructors and guest speakers who came in and shared their expertise.”
Natalia Parra-Khachper
President
Oasis of Nobles Agency
Industry: Web & Brand Designs
Phone: 347-933-7017
Email: natalia@oasisofnobles.com
Website: www.oasisofnobles.com
Gratitude Statement: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to SBA, BCT Partners and Kean University for the invaluable opportunity to participate in the NJCRC Business Accelerator program. This experience has been pivotal for Oasis of Nobles Agency, enhancing my knowledge and skills in web and brand design. I am especially thankful for the exceptional support from the faculty and fellow entrepreneurs, which has empowered us to refine our business strategies and expand our network. Your commitment to fostering innovation and growth among small business owners is truly commendable, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to better serve my clients. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey!”
Jennifer Piscoya
Controller
DCI SIGNS & AWNINGS INC
Industry: Outdoor Signage & Marketing
Phone: 973-350-0400
Email: controller@dcisigns.com
Website: www.dcisigns.com
Gratitude Statement: “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to participate in the NJCRC Business Accelerator program. Participating in the NJCRC has been a transformative journey for DCI Signs & Awnings Inc. and I am truly appreciative of the exceptional learning opportunities provided. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Ntouch, BCTPartners, KEAN, Covenant Business Concepts, Rutgers SBDC, and all the other strategic partners responsible for spearheading such an impactful initiative and for being a catalyst in empowering small business owners like us.”
Alima Redding
President
ARCC Consulting
Industry: Business Services & Consulting
Phone: 201-206-9456
Email: Alima@alimaredding.com
Website: Under Development
Gratitude Statement: “Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the NJCRC Business Accelerator Program. The program has provided a launching pad for entrepreneurship, helping make meaningful connections with facilitators, mentors, and the cohort. A special thanks to BCT Partners, KEAN University, and Covenant Business Concepts for creating a program that can serve as a resource to the small business community. Finally, thank you to the entrepreneurs in the program for sharing your experience and insight and creating an excellent learning environment.”