Florham Park, NJ (Feb 3, 2026) — The Morris County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) will host its 33rd Annual Partners in Economic Development Awards on Wednesday, March 12, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park, NJ. This long-standing signature event celebrates excellence in economic development, commercial real estate, and community impact throughout Morris County.
Now in its 33rd year, the Partners in Economic Development Awards bring together business leaders, real estate professionals, public officials, nonprofit organizations, and regional stakeholders for a morning dedicated to recognizing the people and projects shaping Morris County’s economic vitality. The event highlights achievements that support business growth, workforce development, tourism, innovation, and long-term regional resilience.
This year’s program will include keynote remarks from Rob Caridad, Development Director at Advance Realty Group. A seasoned real estate development professional based in the New York City metropolitan area, Caridad brings extensive experience in commercial and mixed-use development, investment strategy, and redevelopment initiatives.
More than 100 attendees are expected to participate in networking, keynote presentations, and awards recognizing standout real estate transactions and organizations making a measurable impact across the county.
Event Highlights
The morning program will feature the unveiling of the MCEDC Industry Video, showcasing Morris County’s diverse industries, assets, and economic strengths. Attendees will also enjoy raffle prizes from local vendors, offering additional opportunities to support and spotlight the county’s business community.
The program will include time for meaningful connections among peers, insights from regional leaders, and recognition of projects that demonstrate collaboration between the public and private sectors. The event schedule is as follows:
- 8:00 – 9:00 AM | Registration & Networking
- 9:00 – 11:00 AM | Breakfast, Keynote Presentations, & Awards
Keynote Speakers & Program Participants
The event will feature remarks and presentations from regional leaders and industry professionals, including:
- Rob Caridad, Keynote Speaker, Development Director, Advance Realty Group
- Meghan Hunscher, President & CEO, Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation
- Stephen Shaw, Commissioner Director
- Amanda Granito, Senior Manager of Corporate Partnerships, New York Red Bulls
- Sarah Neibart, Mayor of Mendham Township and Executive Director of Morris County’s 250th Initiative
- Samantha Rutledge, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Morris County Economic Development Alliance, presenting a USA250 Morris County Update
- Additional speakers to be announced
2025 Impact Awards
The Impact Awards recognize organizations whose work delivers lasting economic, cultural, and community benefits throughout Morris County.
- Economic Impact Award: Picatinny Enhancement Coalition (PEC): The Picatinny Enhancement Coalition is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Picatinny Arsenal and other New Jersey-based military installations. Through advocacy, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, PEC helps sustain and grow military missions that contribute significantly to the regional economy and workforce.
- Tourism Impact Award: Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC): MPAC enriches Morris County’s cultural and tourism landscape by presenting more than 200 performances annually, while supporting arts education and inclusive community engagement programs. MPAC’s work attracts visitors, supports local businesses, and ensures broad access to the arts for residents and visitors alike.
- Community Impact Award: LEAD Morris Program: LEAD Morris is an experiential Leadership Education and Development program that prepares business professionals and emerging leaders with a deeper understanding of Morris County’s institutions, challenges, and opportunities. The program strengthens civic engagement and cultivates informed leadership across sectors.
Registration & Sponsorship
Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering visibility among Morris County’s business and economic development leaders. Online registration is open through midnight on March 10. For event details, sponsorship information, or to register, visit the Morris County Economic Development Corporation website.
About the Morris County Economic Development Corporation
Morris County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) is a division of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)(6) business association, and a public-private partnership dedicated to growing Morris County’s economy. MCEDC supports business attraction, retention, expansion, and relocation through strategic programs, resources, and collaboration across the public and private sectors. The organization serves Morris County’s 39 municipalities and more than 500,000 residents. Learn more at www.morriscountyedc.org.