MAHWAH, NJ – Vincent J. Vicari, regional director of the New Jersey Small Business Development (NJSNDC) center here at Ramapo College of New Jersey and a mainstay of the small business community in northern Garden State has been selected to receive the prestigious ICON award by NJBIZ.
Ed Petkus, dean of Ramapo College’s Anisfield School of Business, said, “This recognition is extremely well-deserved. Vince has been working tirelessly during the pandemic, assisting small businesses in their efforts to weather the crisis.”
The NJBIZ ICON Awards recognize New Jersey business leaders over the age of 60 for their notable success and demonstration of strong leadership both within and outside of their chosen field. Honorees will be recognized during an official virtual presentation on Tuesday, August 18.
“Receiving statewide recognition for the value provided to the community is much appreciated. But the real honor is to be able to represent Ramapo College and the New Jersey Small Business Development Center Network on such a prestigious platform,” Vicari said. “Prior to and now during this pandemic, the SBDC provides small business assistance to our community and is second to no other resource in the public sector. We are proud to be hosted at RCNJ, ecstatic that our SBDC intern program is riding high, and humbled to be included for this award alongside such a prestigious lineup of awardees.”
Deborah K. Smarth, chief operating officer and associate state director of the NJSBDC, observed that “Vincent’s skills and hands-on guidance are a godsend during these difficult times when we’ve seen an onslaught of people coming to the NJSBDC in deepest need.”
Smarth added that “while no one has total control over the economic outcome that will unfold in the future, the NJSBDC and Regional Directors like Vincent can help mitigate the risk for business operations through customized one-on-one counseling and helping businesses navigate various loan applications, such as the Economic Injury Disaster Assistance Loan or the Paycheck Protection Program.”
Vince Vicari is known for his business acumen, and exemplary, strong and dedicated efforts in assisting small business owners and entrepreneurs. Regardless if they are experiencing start-up difficulties, temporary financial troubles or the aftermath of natural calamities, he provides quality, hands-on support for business clients, delivers specialized assistance to them, and ultimately leads small business owners to the path of profitability. His door is never closed to any businessman and woman who needs his help, guidance and advice.
In line with that, Vince shines as a supporter of diversity, inclusion and new Americans. He often holds seminars that help immigrant, Hispanic and Afro-American entrepreneurs launch their dreams of opening a business in Bergen County. Vince has organized seminars to teach millennials the hands-on aspects of running a profitable company. He is also on the forefront of bringing the sustainability message to new and established businesses. His recent daylong seminar on how veterans can get involved in government procurement was a resounding success.
At the Small Business Growth Success Awards Luncheon in December 2017, Vincent was recognized with the NJSBDC’s highest award, the State Star Award, for his outstanding services to the network and small businesses, as well as his remarkable character and exceptional determination. Indeed, he’s always available to talk with New Jersey small businesses owners and ready to listen and solve their problems.
The New Jersey Senate and General Assembly also cited the Center at Ramapo College under Vincent Vicari’s leadership for the stellar services provided to small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Click here to read the original announcement about the 2020 NJBIZ ICON Awards
Click here to read the Ramapo College press release about the 2020 NJBIZ ICON Awards
Click here to listen to a clip about NJBIZ ICON Honors Awards Program 2020
