Small Business Spotlight
December 2025

Presented by the Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA) in partnership with the Hudson County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC), and administered by SRL Enterprises, Hudson County’s Internship Program bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world career experience. The initiative connects businesses with bright local talent and gives students meaningful, career-boosting opportunities across sectors that drive the county’s growth. With more than 28 business partners and 30+ interns participating year to date in 2025, the program exemplifies how public-private collaboration can strengthen the local workforce and build pathways to long-term economic vitality.

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy emphasized how this public-private partnership strengthens the community: “Programs like this ensure that our local students gain meaningful work experience while helping our county businesses grow and thrive,” he said. “It’s essential for building a workforce that will support Hudson County’s economy for decades to come.”

The program’s success is also made possible by funding from the Citizens Philanthropic Foundation, which provides stipends for participating students. By supporting paid opportunities, the foundation ensures that students can fully engage in professional learning without financial barriers.

A Partnership with Purpose

Among the program’s standout participants is Dobco Construction, a full-service contracting and development firm known for shaping communities across New Jersey through innovative, high-quality projects. Dobco joined the initiative in 2024 through ongoing collaboration with county leadership and workforce development partners. The company’s decision to participate was driven by alignment with the program’s mission — connecting students to meaningful, career-oriented experiences that can set the stage for lifelong success.

“When we learned about the program’s mission, we knew we wanted to become part of that,” Dobco shared. “Our collaboration with county leadership and workforce development partners made the decision an easy one.” said Daniel Mladenovic, President and Hossam Ibrahim, Vice-President.

Kean University Green Lane Building

Dobco’s leadership team has long believed in the power of mentorship. Many of its employees began their own careers through internships or apprenticeships, so offering the same kind of guidance to the next generation felt natural.

“Hosting interns allows us to share our expertise with those who are enthusiastic about learning what Dobco builds,” the executives said.

Investing in the Future

Accepting a grant funded intern, Dobco made the deliberate choice to self-fund its internship placements — a decision that reflects its deep commitment to both workforce development and community investment. And by self-funding, Dobco intentionally provided the opportunity for a grant funded intern to a smaller business with more limited resources.

“We view workforce development as an investment, not an expense,” Dobco explained. “Supporting local students aligns with our values and long-term vision for sustainable growth. By self-funding, we ensure high-quality, paid opportunities that truly reflect the professional standards of our industry.”

Dobco is one of several companies demonstrating leadership through this self-funded model, joining Mast Construction, New York Waterway, eMazzanti Technologies, SRL Enterprises, Express Employment Professionals (which hosted two interns), Jersey City Apartment Owners Association, and Kismet of Kings. Together, these employers are expanding the program’s reach by directly investing in Hudson County’s young talent — a collaborative approach that magnifies the program’s overall impact.

Real-World Experience on the Job

Dobco’s interns come from diverse academic backgrounds — engineering, architecture, project management, and business administration. Each student was paired with professionals across the company’s project teams, gaining firsthand exposure to the fast-paced, collaborative world of construction management.

“Our interns worked alongside project managers and site superintendents, supporting tasks like bid preparation, scheduling, and site logistics,” Dobco said. “Because we currently have an ongoing project on the Hudson County Community College (HCCC) campus, assigning interns to that job site proved to be an exciting and relevant experience.”

Interns participated in on-site meetings, shadowed various teams, and engaged directly with vendors and clients, gaining a holistic view of the construction lifecycle. “They weren’t just observing — they were contributing to live project workflows. Their enthusiasm and attention to detail helped our teams stay organized and efficient,” Dobco added.

Ramapo College Learning Commons

The Citizens Philanthropic Foundation’s stipend support has also been instrumental in ensuring equity of opportunity. “Providing paid opportunities allows all students to participate,” said the foundation. “We want talented young people to gain experience and mentorship regardless of their financial circumstances.”

Building Skills — and a Stronger Hudson County Workforce

For Dobco, participating in the program reinforces the idea that construction and development are central to community growth. “Students see how their skills in design, technology, or management translate into tangible results that shape neighborhoods,” Dobco noted. “It’s also an opportunity to challenge outdated perceptions — modern construction is increasingly tech-driven, sustainable, and collaborative.”

The company sees strong demand for skills in project management, digital modeling (BIM), sustainable design, and construction technology — areas where young professionals can thrive. “Combining technical proficiency with communication and leadership abilities will open doors to a wide range of rewarding careers,” they said.

As Hudson County continues to grow, with new development and infrastructure shaping its skyline, the demand for skilled professionals is rising. “This growth creates opportunities for employers to build their future workforce locally, while giving students access to stable, high-paying careers without leaving their community,” Dobco emphasized. “Programs like this internship initiative bridge that gap perfectly.”

Leading by Example

For other local businesses considering participation — especially those contemplating self-funding positions — Dobco’s message is clear: the return on investment is invaluable.
“We’d encourage them to view it as an investment in both their company’s future and the county’s economic vitality,” the company said. “Self-funding allows businesses to tailor the experience to their needs and demonstrate a genuine commitment to community development.”

The benefits to Dobco have been significant. The partnership has strengthened community connections, helped identify emerging talent early, and reinforced Dobco’s reputation as a company that invests in people as much as projects.

Jean & Ric Edelman Fossil Park Museum at Rowan University

Continuing the Momentum

With the success of its first year in the program, Dobco plans to continue hosting interns in future cohorts. “The experience has been a success on every level,” they shared. “We’re proud to help shape the next generation of professionals who will continue building a stronger Hudson County.”

“Investing in Hudson County’s youth is central to our mission,” said Michelle Richardson, Executive Director of HCEDC. “This program gives students paid, career-focused experiences while helping local employers build a pipeline of skilled professionals — it’s a win for everyone in the community.”

For HCEDC, HCIA, and their partners, the program demonstrates the power of collaboration to create sustainable workforce development. By pairing student stipends with self-funded employer mentorship, Hudson County ensures that its students gain skills, confidence, and real-world experience — while businesses gain local talent ready to contribute from day one.

In Hudson County, we’re not just preparing the next generation for success — we’re building it with them.

For more information about how the HCEDC can help grow your business, explore the HCEDC website!

Explore: Dobco 

Download the December 2025 Business Spotlight at: Dobco Group

Small Business Spotlight
July 2025
Feeding Hope: Stephanie Glover-Wilson and
Hunger Free Hudson County

When Stephanie Glover-Wilson first launched Hunger Free Bayonne in 2016, she was simply trying to meet the urgent needs of single mothers and seniors in her community. What began as a grassroots effort to provide healthy food to her neighbors quickly grew into a movement—one that now serves over 87,000 residents annually across Hudson County.

Stephanie’s story is one of resilience, vision, and bold leadership. Drawing on her personal journey, she built an organization that does more than hand out food. Hunger Free Hudson County (HFHC) offers dignity, choice, and connection in the fight against food insecurity.

From One City to an Entire County
Hunger Free was at the forefront of recognizing and working to address food insecurity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hunger Free Bayonne expanded to serve other municipalities, fueled by a $5,000 grant from the mayor of Harrison and an army of dedicated volunteers. What began as masked, contactless food drops—completed with car horns to signal arrival—became a countywide network of block coordinators and pop-up events. Stephanie credits the support of donors, faith, and community mentors for helping her scale the work. “We were delivering food from 30 to 60 pallets every Saturday,” she said. “It was all about showing up—safely, consistently, and with compassion.”

A Safe Space and a System of Support
HFHC isn’t just about food—it’s about infrastructure and impact. Stephanie now runs a brick-and-mortar office in Bayonne to address emergency needs. The team offers guidance on food stamps, Medicaid, housing applications, and supports veterans and pregnant women navigating systems. “We need to rethink how we define hunger,” Stephanie said. “It’s not just about empty stomachs—it’s about systems that leave working people behind.”

More Than Meals
In addition to weekly food distributions, HFHC hosts initiatives like prom dress and suit giveaways for teens, financial literacy classes, and will-writing workshops. The group also participates in the Jersey City Marathon, offering water and snacks to runners and connecting with new community members in the process.

Stephanie’s annual “T-Shirt and Jeans Gala” raises money to support local families and honors the unsung heroes behind the scenes. “We recognize real community champions—not politicians, but everyday people who step up when it matters,” she said.

A Platform for Change
As food costs continue to rise, Stephanie is pushing for policy updates—especially for seniors, veterans, and working families who earn just above the threshold for food stamps. She’s also advocating to bring WIC services to Bayonne and improve access for those without transportation. “We’re the fastest-growing county in the state,” she said. “We need solutions that grow with us.”

Hunger Free Supporter Thank You Cards 

Powered by Passion—and People

Hunger Free Hudson County thrives because of the people behind it—and that includes the next generation of changemakers. Interns from Hudson County Community College have played a vital role in expanding the organization’s digital presence through platforms like Google Ads and TikTok.

One intern, Raphaela, helped set up HFHC’s free Google advertising program, dramatically increasing their reach and awareness. Another intern joined the team a little unsure of what to expect. But after spending time with Stephanie and seeing the heart behind the mission, she not only grew in confidence—she now proudly brings her family to volunteer and pick up food.

“These interns didn’t just help us grow—they became part of our family,” Stephanie said. “Watching them find their voices while helping others is what this work is all about.”

This kind of growth wouldn’t be possible without partnership and support. The Career Accelerator Internship Grant Program—a collaboration between the Hudson County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC), Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA), and the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education—is helping create real, paid opportunities for students while deepening local impact.

“The Career Accelerator Internship Grant Program reflects our firm commitment to creating meaningful pathways from college to career for every New Jersey student,” said Dr. Brian Bridges, Secretary of Higher Education for the State of New Jersey. “By partnering with employers and organizations statewide, including the HCIA, we’re ensuring that students have opportunities to gain valuable real-world experience while supporting local workforce development.”

“At HCIA, we’re proud to support the HCEDC in continuing this internship program that invests directly in our future workforce,” said Norman Guerra, CEO of HCIA and HCEDC Board Member. “By funding and helping administer this initiative, we’re not only creating meaningful opportunities for local college students—we’re also strengthening the pipeline of talent that will power Hudson County’s economy for years to come.”

“At HCEDC, we believe that strong partnerships are the foundation of a thriving economy,” added Michelle Richardson, Executive Director of HCEDC. “It’s through collaboration—with educational institutions, State and County agencies, and private sector leaders—that we’re able to create real opportunities for our workforce and accelerate meaningful career pathways.”

Stephanie sees the results firsthand. “These students bring energy, ideas, and a real passion for helping people,” she said. “They’ve helped us grow—and we’ve helped them grow too.”

For more information about how the HCEDC can help grow your business, explore the HCEDC website!

Explore: Hunger Free Hudson County

Download the July 2025 Business Spotlight at: Hunger Free Hudson County

Small Business Spotlight
May 2025
Building Futures, Powering Hudson County:
Inside the 2025 Internship Program

In 2025, Hudson County is doubling down on its commitment to growing the local workforce—and it’s doing so in a big way. The Hudson County Internship Program, a new initiative led by the Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA) in partnership with the Hudson County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC), is opening doors for local students to explore their futures, right in their own backyard.

Funded through a generous grant from Citizens Philanthropic Foundation and the Career Accelerator Internship Grant Program (CAIGP) through the Office of Higher Education , this paid internship program is more than just a career development opportunity. This innovative program is a community investment—connecting students with nonprofits and businesses across Hudson County, and laying the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive local economy.

Students from Hudson County Community College (HCCC) and New Jersey City University (NJCU), representing a wide range of majors and academic backgrounds, are stepping into real-world roles that reflect their passions and ambitions.

“At Citizens, we believe in the power of local businesses to strengthen communities and fuel healthy economies,” said Yajaira Hafley, Tri-State Metro Retail Executive at Citizens. “Internships are a valuable workforce development opportunity that give students the hands-on training and experiences they need to be prepared for today’s industry needs.  We’re looking forward to engaging local students and investing in the next generation of talent that will help propel our New Jersey businesses forward.”

From Campus to Career: A County-Led Commitment

What makes this program unique is how intentionally it bridges the gap between student aspirations and employer needs. Developed and implemented by Jersey City-based SRL Enterprises, the internship experience is rooted in the ACE framework: Apply, Connect, Elevate. Over the course of the month, SRL hosted several info sessions and readiness workshops, connected with 38 registered businesses, and proudly matched 28 interns with 27 unique companies.  Through this model, students are empowered to:

• Apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world challenges,
• Connect with professionals in industries aligned with their goals,
• Elevate their career trajectory through meaningful, skill-building experiences.

It’s not just about preparing students for jobs—it’s about shaping the future of Hudson County through inclusive, community-centered workforce development.

A Hudson County Legacy Steps Up: GP’s Restaurant

Rooted in Tradition, Built for Today.

One shining example of how the program comes to life is GP’s Restaurant in Guttenberg. Perched along Boulevard East with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, GP’s is a third-generation, family-run restaurant with roots dating back to 1934 in Hoboken.

Known for its Italian-American comfort food and warm hospitality, GP’s has long been a beloved neighborhood staple. But for Owner George and Operator/Manager Adriana Politis, the restaurant is about more than meals—it’s about legacy, mentorship, and giving back.

“This region has always been a first stop for immigrant families like ours,” said George Politis. “And our goal has always been to give back to the place that gave us our start.”

That community spirit is what led GP’s to join the internship program, welcoming Angel Bermudez, a business and hospitality student from HCCC. Angel quickly became part of the team, diving into front-of-house operations, helping with staff training manuals, and offering insights from his own experience.

“He brought fresh perspective and curiosity,” said Adriana. “It reminded us how much potential there is in the next generation—and how important it is to open doors for them.”

County Collaboration for a Stronger Tomorrow

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy sees the internship program as a perfect example of the power of possibility.

“When opportunity meets collaboration, great things happen—and that’s exactly what we’re seeing with the relaunch of this paid internship program now in its second year,” said Guy. “Thanks to strong partnerships between HCIA, HCEDC, and our local business community, students are gaining valuable real-world experience right here in Hudson County. It’s more than an internship—it’s a launchpad.”

Guy also emphasized how programs like this are preparing the region for big moments on the horizon, including FIFA26 and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. “We’re building a stronger, more skilled, and more diverse Hudson County—one opportunity at a time.”

 Looking Ahead: Pride, Purpose, and Possibility

As GP’s approaches its remarkable 100-year milestone, the Politis family is already looking ahead to the next chapter. For George and his daughter Adriana, it’s not just about preserving a legacy—it’s about evolving it. Together, they’re exploring fresh opportunities to deepen the restaurant’s impact and bring even more vibrancy to Guttenberg. Whether it’s expanding their footprint, mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals, or championing local initiatives, the vision is clear: GP’s will continue to grow alongside Hudson County. As the community thrives, so too will this beloved family business—remaining a place where culture, cuisine, and community come together in meaningful ways.

Shaping Futures Through Real-World Experience

“At SRL, we believe meaningful career exploration starts with access, and that’s what this internship program is all about,” said Elise White, Workforce Program Director at SRL Enterprises. “By empowering students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings and connect with businesses that reflect their interests, we’re not just preparing them for jobs; we are helping shape confident, capable professionals who are ready to lead right here in Hudson County.“

For more information about how the HCEDC can help grow your business, explore the HCEDC website!

Explore: GP’s Restaurant

Download the May 2025 Business Spotlight at: GP’s Restaurant

Small Business Spotlight
March 2025
A&R Media- Building a Legacy in West New York

Fifteen years ago, Any P. Oliva-Valera embarked on a bold new chapter, leaving behind the vibrancy of Mexico City to pursue opportunity in the United States. Her destination? West New York—a choice driven by both heart and strategy, as her husband, Juan Gonzalez, had already laid down roots. This community would soon become the launchpad for an entrepreneurial dream: the creation of A&R Media.

More than just a printing and media company, A&R Media, serves as a vital link—connecting businesses, institutions, and the Latino community with dynamic marketing, advertising, and commercial printing solutions. Whether through custom branding materials, corporate magazines, large-format prints, or promotional giveaways, Any and her team transform ideas into powerful marketing tools. Their mission is clear: to uplift and empower organizations of all sizes with professionalism, sustainability, and integrity.

But A&R Media is about more than just print—it’s about building reputations and relationships, amplifying visibility, and fueling business growth. A shining example of this is the company’s bilingual publication, Negocios Hispanos USA Magazine, which fosters collaboration by showcasing success stories, services, and opportunities for Latino entrepreneurs.

Navigating Growth Through Business Development Programs

Understanding the intricacies of the U.S. business landscape was a pivotal step in A&R Media’s evolution. To bridge the gap, in 2018, Any applied and was accepted into the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey’s (SHCCNJ) Hispanic Entrepreneur Training Program (HETP). In March 2022, Any was also accepted into UCEDC’s Virtual Incubator Program (VIP).
As her mentor, Dr. Jairo Borja, DBA, Training & Technical Assistance Officer at UCEDC worked with Any to fine tune her approach to growing her business and to secure certification as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and a Woman, Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE).
UCEDC’s VIP program equips small business owners with the knowledge, tools, and support to overcome common challenges, particularly in underserved communities facing funding and education gaps. Through targeted resources and personalized support, UCEDC breaks barriers and creates pathways to success.

“Each session is designed for maximum impact, even for busy entrepreneurs. Our goal is to build lasting relationships while delivering actionable solutions that drive success,” said Dr. Borja.

Over the various sessions with Dr. Borja, Any was able to sharpen her expertise in business strategy, audience targeting, and operational management. Thanks to these insights, Any and Juan launched a specialized printing service—a venture that now accounts for 50% of A&R Media’s revenue. This milestone underscores the power of education, strategic thinking, and ambition.

Certifications, Expansion & The Road Ahead

As Hudson County continues to thrive, A&R Media is poised to grow alongside it. Programs like UCEDC’s VIP program have broadened Any’s business acumen and unlocked essential mentorship and networking opportunities. She also recognizes the game-changing power of SBE and WMBE certifications.

“Participating in these incredible programs has been instrumental to our success. The insights I’ve gained have helped us navigate multiple certification processes—credentials that bolster our credibility and open doors to new ventures. Looking forward, we are eager to embrace new growth opportunities while staying true to our commitment to community, service, and long-term impact,” said Any.

“The Hudson County Economic Development Corporation’s (HCEDC) work with UCEDC has evolved to include education and mentoring. While our focus has historically been lending, in the last 8 years we see a need for early-stage businesses to access education in a learning environment that provides networking opportunities and one-on-one mentoring. Any’s story serves as an inspirational reminder that with the right resources, determination, and a strong support system, anything is possible,” said Michelle Richardson, Executive Director.

A&R Media Group corporate magazines

For more information about how the HCEDC can help grow your business, explore the HCEDC website!

Explore: A&R Media 

Download the March 2025 Business Spotlight at: A&R Media