■ Business Forecast sources will continue to challenge Sellers ’ desires for quick deal closings .
■ Business Forecast sources will continue to challenge Sellers ’ desires for quick deal closings .
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
AI technology will help nonprofits analyze data more effectively , personalize communications with donors , and automate routine tasks , says John J Corcoran of Merritt Walsh Associates , Inc .
Photo : Getty Images / iStockphoto / Techa Tungateja
LAW
CSG Law Patricia K . Costello Managing Member
Two of the biggest issues facing the New Jersey business community in 2025 are the growth of AI and DEI . AI is coming faster than most predictions and will be more expensive , at least at the start , than expected . The anticipated savings will come later . With respect to DEI , leaders should expect this movement to continue to make inroads and gain traction . There was some controversy and confusion and some small “ p ” politics at the outset , but DEI policies have gained greater acceptance and enthusiasm among lawyers and bar associations as well as domestic and international clients who have put these policies to the forefront .
Connell Foley LLP Timothy Corriston Managing Partner
Merritt Walsh Associates , Inc . John J Corcoran Managing Director
It shouldn ’ t be a surprise that I would pick Artificial Intelligence , known as the buzzword AI . It will have a significant impact on nonprofit organizations next year by streamlining operations , improving efficiency , and enhancing donor engagement . This technology can help nonprofits analyze data more effectively , personalize communications with donors , and automate routine tasks . Organizations will focus more on their mission and increase their impact . Additionally , AI can help nonprofits identify trends and patterns in their data , enabling them to make more informed decisions and better allocate resources . Overall , AI has the potential to revolutionize the way nonprofits operate and be one of the ways to achieve their goals in the coming year .
PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING ing together with our partners , we can create even greater value and achieve more impactful results . We are excited to be at the forefront of this transformation , leveraging our expertise and experience to help our clients navigate the evolving IT equipment landscape – whether it ’ s laptops , desktops , data centers , IoT , mobile devices or networks . Our channel partner solutions are designed to drive innovation , boost efficiency and enhance data security practices across industries that are focused on safeguarding company and client data privacy .
INVESTMENT BANKING
The DAK Group Alan Scharfstein President & CEO
In 2025 , we expect middle market M & A to build on the robust momentum from late 2024 . We see strategic buyers continuing to prioritize acquisitions for growth , particularly in technology , healthcare , and industrials . We expect private equity will accelerate add-on acquisitions to strengthen existing platforms but anticipate slower growth in the private equity ’ s appetite for new platforms . Increased levels of diligence from acquirers and their financing
Economic incentives provided by government agencies like the New Jersey Economic Development Authority are making the Garden State — long considered a tech hub thanks to its skilled labor force and proximity to Manhattan ’ s financial markets — more attractive than ever to start-up companies such as fintech and energy firms . As those companies build-out , I foresee an increase in demand for legal services from this emerging market . Our firm is poised to serve these companies through all stages of their growth , serving as business advisors and drawing on our core strengths as litigators .
Sills Cummis & Gross P . C . Max Crane Managing Partner
Having a client-centric approach to the delivery of legal services and working alongside clients to achieve their business goals is always Sills Cummis ’ top priority , no matter the year . I expect that law firms like Sills Cummis will continue to see increased demand for legal services , so talent acquisition and retention will be key . Because Sills Cummis has always been a welcoming landing spot for successful laterals , I would expect that those considering making a change will find great opportunities with us in 2025 . I also expect that embracing the adoption of technologies , including AI , will continue to be a focus .
Amy Delman PR Amy Delman Owner
According to everything I am seeing for 2025 , the use of AI is going to heavily impact public relations . Equally important , will be the need for public relations practitioners to be super vigilant regarding the accuracy and ethical complications that are sure to spring up . Tik Tok and other micro influencers are also going to be more commonly used in our industry .
Barnett Design , Inc . Debbie Barnett Sagurton Founder and Creative Director
With the acceleration of digital media touch points and constant bombardment of information , AI-generated content , and automated messaging , it ’ s becoming increasingly challenging for businesses to “ stand out from the noise .” Our audiences are overstimulated and tired . “ Louder and bolder ” isn ’ t necessarily better and can lead to vague messaging and overall weakening of your brand . Now more than ever , we must focus on the importance of personalization and authenticity in branding and marketing . What have you got to say ? How can you communicate in a fresh , compelling way ? How does that resonate with your audi‐
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