FAQs - 2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

What are the conference dates?

The Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development takes place Tuesday, September 29, 2026, and Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

What are the conference hours?

The conference hours are 7:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, September 29, 2026 with a Networking Reception from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Please visit our Agenda page above for a breakdown of our conference events.

Where is the conference?

The Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development will be held at the Waterfront Conference Center, Harrah’s Resort, in Atlantic City, N.J on the first floor, Wildwood Ballroom. Harrah's is located at: 777 Harrah's Blvd., Atlantic City, New Jersey, 08401.

How much is parking at Harrah's Resort in Atlantic City?

FREE Parking is available for all attendees - self-parking and valet. Parking passes are available at the registration counter when you pick up your badge.

For more information, visit the Harrah's Atlantic City Waterfront Conference Center website at https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-ac/map.

How can I pay for registration?

Within registration, you can pay online with either credit card or check/purchase order depending on what your are registering for. A confirmation number for your registration will be issued upon receipt of your online registration. Include the confirmation number on your P.O. or check payable to the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency and return to:

2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Attn: Cynthia Gonzalez

P.O. Box 18550 637 South Clinton Avenue Trenton, NJ 08650-2085

How do I request an Invoice or W9 form? After registering, please email njhousingconference@njhmfa.govto request an invoice. Click here for our W-9 form.

Are there any additional fees charged within registration?

Yes. All payments made using credit card will be assessed a 4.25% Credit Card Processing Fee. This fee will be due at the time of credit card payment and is non-refundable.

Can I register only for an Ad?

No, we do not have any printed advertisements.

Is my registration/ticket transferable?

If a registrant is unable to attend, please notify us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov immediately in order to transfer the attendee’s registration information.

When and how can I reserve hotel rooms?

Go to the Hotel page shown at the top of this page for all information about hotel reservations.

Is complimentary WIFI provided at the conference?

Yes, there will be signs provided for the log in to the complimentary WIFI. If additional internet is needed for Exhibitors, please visit our FAQ page above, in the Exhibitor section, on how to order these services.

How can I be added to the Conference email blasts?

You can sign up to receive emails on the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development HERE.

If you have any questions, please contact us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov

What is the cost for an attendee within pre-online registration?

Standard registration is at a cost of $350 until online registration closes for attendees September 15, 2026, at 5 p.m.

Are there any additional fees charged within registration?

Yes. All payments made using credit card will be assessed a 4.25% Credit Card Processing Fee. This fee will be due at the time of credit card payment and is non-refundable.

Is registration available for attendees on-site at the conference?

Yes. On-site registration will be available at the conference at a cost of $400. We will accept credit card, check or purchase order payments ONLY. No cash or invoicing will be accepted.

Is my registration/ticket transferable?

If a registrant is unable to attend, please notify us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov immediately in order to transfer the attendee’s registration information.

Can I also register for an Ad?

No, we do not have any printed advertisements.

How do I pay?

You can pay via credit card when registering. Please note your purchase may appear on your credit card statement with any or all of the following notations: NEW JERSEY HOUSING AND MORTGAGE FINANCE AGENCY.

You may also pay via check or purchase order by checking "Offline payment" on the registration payment screen. Then mail a check or purchase order, which must be received and dated by September 22, 2026. A confirmation number for your attendee registration will be issued upon receipt of your registration. Include the confirmation number on your P.O. or check payable to the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency and return to:

2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Attn: Cynthia Gonzalez

P.O. Box 18550

637 South Clinton Avenue

Trenton, NJ 08650-2085

How do I request an Invoice or W9 form? After registering, please email njhousingconference@njhmfa.govto request an invoice. Click here for our W-9 form.

What is the refund/cancellation policy for attendees?

The registration fee for Attendees is fully refundable (less a $25 administrative fee) if the NJHMFA receives written cancelation notice postmarked or emailed no later than September 22, 2026.

All refund requests should be emailed to njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov. No refunds will be issued for Attendee cancelations emailed or postmarked after September 22, 2026. No refunds will be issued to registrants who fail to attend. All registrants with an active and unpaid registration after the cancelation deadline of September 22, 2026, including but not limited to those that do not attend the conference, are still liable for fees and will be invoiced for the full amount due. If a registrant is unable to attend, please email njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov immediately to transfer the registration information.

What are the Sponsorship opportunities and how do I register?

Go to the Sponsorship Packet by clicking on the "Sponsorship Registration HERE" button at the top of this page, for more information and to REGISTER! This will show all the Sponsorship levels. Once you have all the items needed to register, choose a Sponsor level, and click that level button to bring you into registration.

Does my Sponsorship include a Booth?

Yes, All Sponsorships include a booth. If you choose to not take your booth you can exchange it for two additional attendee tickets. Please email us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov to process this exchange.

How do I register for a booth?

You will be asked within your Sponsorship registration if you will be using your booth space. If so, we will be in contact with you in order to set that up. More information on the booth size etc. can be found on the Exhibitor section of the FAQ page at the top of this page.

When does Sponsor registration close?

Registration closes on September 15, 2026, however, sponsors must register and submit their logos by September 1, 2026 to be included on the conference signage.

Please email us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov if you are trying to submit a Sponsorship registration after the registration deadline. If a Sponsorship is accepted after September 1, 2026, your company will not be included on the conference signage.

When are Sponsor payments due?

Sponsor payments are due by check to the NJHMFA by September 22, 2026.

Can you pay for Sponsorships with a credit card?

No, Sponsor payments can only be paid via Check and/or Purchase Order.

How do I submit a Purchase Order or Check payment?

Within registration the payment screen will show “Offline payments” and then you can mail in your check or purchase order.

A confirmation number for your registration will be issued upon receipt of your registration. Include the confirmation number on your P.O. or check payable to the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency and return to:

2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Attn: Cynthia Gonzalez

P.O. Box 18550

637 South Clinton Avenue

Trenton, NJ 08650-2085

How do I request an Invoice or W9 form? After registering, please email njhousingconference@njhmfa.govto request an invoice. Click here for our W-9 form.

Are there any additional fees charged within Sponsor registration?

No. Sponsors can only pay with a Check and/or Purchase Order. Therefore, there are no Credit Card Processing Fees applied to Sponsor registrations.

What is the refund policy for Sponsors?

There are no refunds for Sponsors.

Is my registration/ticket transferable?

If a sponsor registrant is unable to attend, please notify us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov immediately in order to transfer the registrants registration information.

Does my Sponsorship include an Ad?

No, we do not have any printed advertisements.

Does my Sponsorship include a logo submission and how do I send this?

After registration, you will receive an email inviting you to the Exhibitor/Sponsor Management System (please allow 24 hours after registration to receive this email). Once logged into the System, you will have the opportunity to upload your logo TWICE and update your company profile, including social media links and more! Recognition of your company name and/or logo will be shown on our website, in email blasts, on our conference app, on signage at the conference, and possibly more! There are TWO logo files to be uploaded within this management system.

All logos should be made available in an Adobe Illustrator EPS file format (.eps or .ai). Please convert fonts to outlines. More information on Logo's can be found on the Logo section of the FAQ page at the top of this page.

Why exhibit at the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development?

The Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development is a once-a-year opportunity to showcase your brand and build new relationships among key leaders from across the state in business and economic development, housing, government, financial institutions, nonprofits and many more! Be part of the state’s premier housing and economic development forum.

What does my booth package include?

Your booth package includes:

One draped 8'x10' booth space with booth ID sign
One draped 6-foot table, two chairs, and a wastebasket
Two exhibitor passes to include both day breakfasts and second day brunch
Ability to request booth space zone within registration on a first-come, first-served basis
Networking Reception on the Trade Show Floor
Listing on the conference website, linked to your website page
Logo listed on Conference App, along with contact information, address, website link, social links, and a brief description of your services (50 words or less)
Listing in conference email blasts
Listing with booth number on Exhibitor Map sign at conference

How do I reserve a booth and what is the cost?

You may register online to reserve a booth by clicking the "Register Now" button at the top of this page.

The Standard exhibit fee is at a cost of $800, for each 8'x10' space. However, Exhibitors must register by September 1, 2026 to be included on conference signage.

How much is the Keynote Luncheon?

The Keynote Luncheon is an additional $50 for Exhibitors which can be purchased within your Exhibitor registration.

What is the exhibitor registration deadline?

Exhibitor registration closed on September 9 do to capasity. However, Exhibitors must have register by September 1, 2026 to be included on conference signage.

When is payment due by?

Exhibitor payments are due by check to the NJHMFA by September 22, 2026.

Can I pay for my Exhibitor registration with a credit card?

No, Exhibitor payments can only be paid via Check and/or Purchase Order.

How do I submit a Purchase Order or Check payment?

Within registration the payment screen will show “Offline payments” and then you can mail in your check or purchase order.

2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Attn: Cynthia Gonzalez

P.O. Box 18550

637 South Clinton Avenue

Trenton, NJ 08650-2085

How do I request an Invoice or W9 form?

After registering, please email njhousingconference@njhmfa.govto request an invoice. Click here for our W-9 form.

What is the refund policy for exhibitors?

The registration fee for Exhibitor Booths is fully refundable (less a $150 administrative fee) if the NJHMFA receives written cancelation notice postmarked or emailed no later than September 15, 2026.

All refund requests should be emailed to njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov. No refunds will be issued for cancelations emailed or postmarked after September 15, 2026. No refunds will be issued to registrants who fail to attend. All registrants with an active and unpaid registration after the cancelation deadline of September 15, 2026, including but not limited to those that do not attend the conference, are still liable for fees and will be invoiced for the full amount due. If a registrant is unable to attend, please email njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov immediately to transfer the registration information.

What are the trade show hours?

The show hours are 7:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

What are the exhibit setup/breakdown times?

The exhibit must be set up between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026. Dismantling of exhibits may not begin before 12 p.m., Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

How are booths assigned?

Within registration, the exhibitor will be given the opportunity to request their top two zones for their booth space, which are shown on our Trade Show Floor map HERE. The booth zones are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis once the exhibitor has registered and paid in full. These zones are not guaranteed and are subject to change. Booth numbers will be supplied about three weeks prior to the conference.

The center row is reserved for Sponsors which we call "Sponsors Row".

Can I order additional booths?

Yes, when registering as an exhibitor you automatically receive one 8'x10' booth space. You will be given the opportunity to register for an additional booth if you choose. Cost of the additional booth is the same as the first booth.

Can I add additional personnel, besides the two booth staff included with my booth.

The Exhibitor registrations include two booth staff registrations. If you want to register additional people, you can click "Register Now" at the top of this page and start a new registration as "Attendee".

How can I order electric and internet for my booth?

All additional services, including but not limited to electric and internet, must be ordered at an additional cost or supplied by the exhibitor. Electrical and power needs must be contracted directly with the Waterfront Conference Center at Harrah’s Resort via Encore Global. Click here for the order form.

Where can I order other booth "extras"?

All additional services and furnishings must be ordered at an additional cost or supplied by the exhibitor. Once your company has registered online, you can place your order using the Exhibitor Kit. The DISCOUNT DEADLINE is September 14th! If you have not yet received your Booth number, please type "TBD" in the booth space when asked on your order form. Exhibitor Kit Click Here

Can I ship my booth?

Yes. Once your company has registered online, shipping details are found in the Exhibitor Kit.

Is my registration/ticket transferable? If a registrant is unable to attend, please notify us at njhousingconference@njhmfa.gov immediately in order to transfer the attendee’s registration information.

Does my Exhibit space include a logo submission and how do I send this?

After registration, you will receive an email inviting you to the Exhibitor/Sponsor Management System (please allow 24 hours after registration to receive this email.) Once logged into the System, you will have the opportunity to upload your logo and update your company profile, including social media links. More information on Logo's can be found on the Logo section of the FAQ page at the top of this page. As an Exhibitor, your logo will be shown on our conference app.

Where can I find the Agenda for the Conference?

Click on “Agenda” at the top of this page.

Is a headshot required to send?

No, however, you will then not show a headshot on our website and conference app.

What are the specs for my headshot?

Your headshot should be 300px x 300px with a max file size of 5MB or smaller. Acceptable file types are PNG or JPEG. If the file type is PDF they can be up to 10MB.

Is a bio required to send?

No, however, you will then not show a bio on our website and conference app.

What is the character limit for my bio?

Your bio can be 2,500 characters or less.

Where is the template Power Point file to use for my presentation?

You can either find this in your "Upload Your PowerPoint Presentation" task in the Speaker Resource Center or visit our "Media Room" above to download the template PPT file.

What is the deadline to upload my Power Point presentation?

September 22nd.

Can I print my presentation at the conference?

No. If you would like to hand out any materials, you will need to bring them with you as there are no printing services on site.

Where can I find a social media kit so I can share with others?

Visit our "Media Room" page above, to located the 2026 Social Media Kit or you can download a "Proud Speaker" graphic from your tasks in the Resource Center to be shared on your social media outlets.

How do I book my hotel room?

Visit the "Hotel Rooms" section at the top of this page for information on reserving your hotel accommodations.

Who needs to submit logos?

Logos are requested from both Exhibitors and Sponsors.

How do I submit my logo?

Exhibitors and Sponsors will have the opportunity to upload their logos after registration. You will receive an invite to our Exhibitor/Sponsor Management system where you can upload your logo.

When are logo submissions due?

All logo submissions must be received by September 1, 2026 to be included on conference signage.

What file type should my logo be uploaded in?

All logos should be submitted in an Adobe Illustrator EPS file format (.eps or .ai). Please convert fonts to outlines.

What are the Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards?

The Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in the fields of housing and economic development in the State of New Jersey. The 2026 awardees will be honored at the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development in September.

Is there a deadline for submitting nominations?

Yes. The deadline for submitting nominations is Monday, July 13th.

Who can be nominated for these awards?

Individuals, organizations, and projects that have made significant contributions to housing and economic development in New Jersey are eligible for nomination.

Who is organizing the awards?

The awards are organized by the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development coordinating agencies - the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency, and New Jersey Redevelopment Authority.

What is the objective of these awards?

The primary objective of the awards is to honor those who contribute to the advancement of affordable and accessible housing opportunities for all residents of New Jersey, as well as those who make significant contributions to job creation and retention and invest in the state's economy.

What are the award categories?

The award categories include - Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award, Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award, Innovative Economic Development Award, Excellence in Housing Development Award, Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award, and Small Business of Distinction Award.

How can I submit a nomination?

To submit a nomination, visit the Awards tab at the top of this page.

Can I submit a paper nomination?

No. All nominations MUST be submitted electronically.

Does it cost anything to submit a nomination?

No.

Do you need to be registered in order to submit a nomination?

No.

Who can nominate individuals or organizations for the Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award?

Nominations for the Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award will come from elected officials or persons in leadership positions at the State, County, or Municipal levels.

Where and when will the awards be presented?

The awards will be presented at the Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development, which will be held on September 29-30 at Harrah's Casino and Resort in Atlantic City, NJ.

How can I get more information or contact the organizers?

For more information or to contact the organizers, please reach out to:

Ashley S. Davis

New Jersey Redevelopment Authority

(609) 278-5770

adavis@njra.us

Please note that additional details and updates can be found on the Awards tab at the top of this page.

What is the Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award?

The award will recognize pioneers in the housing and economic development fields ranging from those who work to create, finance and develop affordable housing and economic growth opportunities to individuals who advocate, lead and educate the public on the issues.

How do I submit a nomination for the Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award?

While registering for the conference, you will be given an option to nominate a person, group or company for the Hall of Fame. You will need to provide:

Name of the person, group or company
Title, if applicable
Company Name, if applicable
Brief description as to why you'd like to nominate this person, group or company. (200 words max.)

Is there a deadline for nominations to be submitted?

Nominations close within registration by August 25, 2026.

Can I just email or call to submit my nomination?

No. You need to register for the conference and include your nomination within the registration process.

If I already registered but did not include my nomination, can I go back in to do this?

Yes, when your registration is complete you will receive an email confirmation with a link that will bring you back into your registration for modifications. You will have the opportunity to do this until August 25, 2026.

Can I nominate more than one person/group or company?

Nominations are limited to one per each conference registration.

Can I nominate without attending the conference?

No.

Note that additional details and updates can be found on the Awards section located at the top of this page.

2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Harrah's Resort Atlantic City

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