Annie D'Agostino, Author at NJEDA

TRENTON, N.J. (October 14, 2020) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today approved entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) to develop and implement two programs designed to further research and development (R&D) within the state’s clean technology startup community. CSIT approved entrance into this MOU at its Board meeting this past Friday.

The NJEDA previously entered into an MOU with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) for the NJBPU to provide $1.25 million in funding for the creation of a Cleantech Seed Grant Program and a Clean Technology R&D Asset Voucher Program. Under the MOU approved today, NJEDA and CSIT will collaborate to develop these programs, both of which are important steps toward achieving Governor Phil Murphy’s goal of attaining 100 percent clean energy for New Jersey by 2050.

The Cleantech Seed Grant Program will provide grants for R&D activities to very early-stage, New Jersey-based clean technology companies. These grants will help businesses to continue their work into the proof of concept and prototyping stages, at which point they can more readily attract outside investors and, in some cases, begin to generate revenue.

The Clean Technology R&D Asset Voucher Program will help facilitate greater access to testing equipment and specialized fabrication equipment by subsidizing the cost of a startup’s access to these assets. The program will help stimulate the asset-sharing marketplace and encourage more standardized approaches to pricing, certifications/training and usage agreements. The goal of this program is to increase awareness, access, and utilization of the State’s physical clean technology innovation-related assets.

NJEDA and CSIT anticipate launching the applications for each of these programs in early 2021.

"By tapping into the NJEDA’s experience in developing and implementing programs and CSIT’s close relationships with New Jersey’s clean technology community, the Cleantech Seed Grant Program and the Clean Technology R&D Asset Voucher Program could be game-changers for the future of New Jersey’s clean technology landscape," said CSIT Chairman Gunjan Doshi.

Earlier this year, Governor Murphy unveiled the state’s Energy Master Plan, which outlines key strategies to reach the Administration’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2050. In May 2018, Governor Murphy’s Executive Order No. 28 directed the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, in partnership with other state agencies, to develop this statewide clean energy plan and shift away from energy production that contributes to climate change.

"Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has already made tremendous strides in leveraging the knowledge and talent of our robust innovation economy to increase the availability of renewable energy," said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. "The programs announced today will serve to strengthen the startup community’s ability to contribute to this vital process."

The Energy Master Plan laid out ways to fuel the clean technology economy through workforce training, investments in developing clean energy knowledge, and the growth of world-class R&D.

"Governor Murphy’s Energy Master Plan identifies steps necessary to simultaneously strengthen our economy and invest in the sustainability of our environment," NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan said. "Growing New Jersey’s world-class R&D is a critical piece of that strategy. The close collaboration between the NJEDA and CSIT on these programs will help position the State’s cleantech sector for growth and industry leadership."

About CSIT

In August 2018, Governor Murphy signed legislation re-establishing the former New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology as the CSIT. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, the Commission is tasked with leading the way in promoting the state as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization.

About NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about state resources available to New Jersey entrepreneurs and early-stage companies, visit https://www.njeda.gov/tls or follow @NewJerseyEDA on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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TRENTON, N.J. (14 de octubre de 2020) – La Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey (New Jersey Economic Development Authority o NJEDA por sus siglas en inglés) recomienda a los propietarios de pequeñas empresas que respondan la encuesta sobre créditos para pequeñas empresas de los Bancos de la Reserva Federal. La encuesta anual recopila información esencial sobre la situación financiera de las pequeñas empresas, que puede ayudar a obtener recursos o apoyo adicional para New Jersey. Los propietarios de empresas pueden responder la encuesta en https://frb.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aXW9acz1pbB4x7L?orgid=NJ_EDA&parentid=8.14.2020&reserve_bank=NY.

"Nadie sabe lo que necesitan las pequeñas empresas para tener éxito mejor que los propietarios de esas pequeñas empresas", afirmó el director general de NJEDA, Tim Sullivan. "Proporcionar el apoyo correcto para cubrir las necesidades de las empresas no solo beneficia a los propietarios, sino también a sus empleados, a las comunidades donde se encuentran y a todo el estado de New Jersey. La participación en la Encuesta sobre créditos para pequeñas empresas nos ayudará a desarrollar programas que aborden las necesidades más apremiantes de los propietarios y también podría ayudar a obtener nuevos recursos y oportunidades para New Jersey".

La Encuesta sobre créditos para pequeñas empresas es una encuesta anual de pequeñas empresas de los Estados Unidos que tiene como objetivo proporcionar información a representantes y responsables de la creación de políticas que pueden usar para abordar las necesidades de las pequeñas empresas. NJEDA está trabajando con los Bancos de la Reserva para obtener la respuesta de empresas subrepresentadas con un enfoque particular en aprender más sobre firmas que pertenecen a minorías y mujeres.

La encuesta está abierta a todas las empresas con 500 empleados o menos, incluidas aquellas que recientemente hayan cerrado o estén a punto de abrir. Incluye preguntas sobre condiciones comerciales, necesidades financieras, acceso a crédito y los efectos de la pandemia por COVID-19. Completar la encuesta lleva alrededor de 10 minutos y se puede hacer por teléfono o computadora. La fecha límite para presentar las respuestas es el 31 de octubre de 2020. Todas las respuestas son confidenciales.

Los propietarios de empresas pueden completar la encuesta aquí: https://frb.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aXW9acz1pbB4x7L?orgid=NJ_EDA&parentid=8.14.2020&reserve_bank=NY

Acerca de la Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey
La Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey (NJEDA) es la agencia principal del Estado para impulsar el desarrollo económico. La NJEDA tiene el compromiso de hacer del Estado de New Jersey un modelo nacional para el desarrollo económico inclusivo y sostenible al centrarse en estrategias claves para ayudar a construir comunidades fuertes y dinámicas, crear buenos trabajos para los residentes de New Jersey y ofrecer oportunidades para una economía más sólida y justa. Mediante asociaciones con diversas partes interesadas, la NJEDA crea e implementa iniciativas para mejorar la vitalidad económica y la calidad de vida en el Estado y para fortalecer la competitividad económica a largo plazo de New Jersey.

Para obtener más información acerca de los recursos de la NJEDA para empresas, llame a la línea de atención al cliente de NJEDA al 609-858-6767 o visite https://www.njeda.gov y siga a @NewJerseyEDA en Facebook, Twitter, Instagram y LinkedIn.

Acerca de la encuesta sobre créditos para pequeñas empresas (SBCS)
La SBCS recopila información sobre el desempeño comercial, las necesidades financieras y las opciones y experiencias de préstamos de firmas con menos de 500 empleados. Las respuestas a la SBCS proporcionan información sobre la dinámica detrás de las tendencias generales de préstamo y sobre segmentos notables de pequeñas empresas. Los resultados se ponderan para reflejar la población total de pequeñas empresas en los Estados Unidos. La SBCS no es una muestra aleatoria, por lo tanto, los resultados se deben analizar con conocimiento de posibles tendencias metodológicas.

La SBCS incluye experiencias de firmas de los 50 estados y el Distrito de Columbia mediante esfuerzos conjuntos de los Bancos de la Reserva Federal de New York, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Kansas City, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Richmond, San Francisco y St. Louis.

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TRENTON, N.J. (13 de octubre de 2020) – La Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey (New Jersey Economic Development Authority o NJEDA por sus siglas en inglés) anunció hoy que más de 20,000 empresas fueron aprobadas desde marzo de 2020 para recibir asistencia durante la COVID-19. En total, la Autoridad aprobó a 20,073 empresas para recibir más de $74.2 millones en asistencia a través de subsidios, préstamos a bajo costo, sociedades con inversionistas e instituciones financieras de desarrollo comunitario (CDFI, por sus siglas en inglés) y programas de asistencia técnica.

"El gobernador Murphy ha hecho del apoyo a las pequeñas empresas una prioridad en la respuesta de nuestro estado a la crisis por la COVID-19, y el equipo de NJEDA ha trabajado incansablemente para respaldar a esas 20,000 empresas en un momento en el que la ayuda es tan necesaria", expresó el Director Ejecutivo de NJEDA, Tim Sullivan. "El impacto económico de esta pandemia es extraordinario y continuo, y nuestros esfuerzos por hacer todo lo posible para ayudar a las pequeñas empresas también debe continuar".

El conjunto de programas de ayuda para la COVID-19 de NJEDA proporciona una variedad de recursos para empresas de todos los tamaños, incluidos subsidios para pequeñas empresas, préstamos sin intereses, apoyo para prestamistas del sector privado y CDFI, y financiamiento para emprendedores. El programa de asistencia para la COVID-19 más grande de NJEDA es el Programa de subsidios de asistencia de emergencia para pequeñas empresas, que proporciona subsidios para pequeñas empresas afectadas por la pandemia. A fin de garantizar la distribución equitativa de fondos, NJEDA dispuso un tercio de los fondos de este programa para apoyar a las empresas calificadas ubicadas en una de las 715 áreas censales elegibles para ser seleccionadas como una Zona de oportunidad de New Jersey. Esta estrategia ha ayudado a garantizar que las empresas propiedad de minorías y de mujeres que fueron las más afectadas por el impacto económico causado por la pandemia hayan podido recibir la ayuda que necesitan.

Hasta la fecha, 19,166 pequeñas empresas fueron aprobadas para recibir subsidios por un total de más de $56,800,000 a través del Programa de subsidios de asistencia de emergencia para pequeñas empresas. La cantidad de beneficiarios de subsidios aumentará a medida que NJEDA siga procesando solicitudes y distribuyendo subsidios. El subsidio promedio ha sido de aproximadamente $3000, lo que indica que la empresa aprobada promedio tiene tres empleados equivalentes a tiempo completo. El 20% de los fondos para subsidios entregados en la Fase 2 del programa se ha destinado a empresas que fueron identificadas como propiedad de minorías, el 23% como propiedad de mujeres, y el 2% como propiedad de veteranos.

El Programa de préstamos de emergencia para pequeñas empresas proporciona préstamos de capital de trabajo de hasta $100,000 a empresas con ganancias de menos de $5 millones. Los préstamos a través del programa tienen plazos de diez años sin interés durante los primeros cinco años. Hasta la fecha, NJEDA aprobó 133 préstamos a través del programa por un total combinado de $9,123,187. De las empresas aprobadas para préstamos, el 27% se autoidentificó como propiedad de mujeres, el 18% se autoidentificó como propiedad de minorías y el 4% se autoidentificó como propiedad de veteranos.

Además de proporcionar recursos directamente a las empresas, NJEDA se asoció con seis CDFI de New Jersey a través de la Iniciativa CDFI para ofrecer financiación a bajo costo para pequeñas empresas y microempresas. Para ser designada como CDFI, una institución debe certificar que al menos el 60% de sus actividades de financiación están orientadas a poblaciones de ingresos bajos a moderados o comunidades marginadas. Con el apoyo de NJEDA, las seis CDFI asociadas han proporcionado 258 préstamos por un total de $6,073,258. De las empresas aprobadas para préstamos a través de las CDFI, el 39% se autoidentificó como propiedad de mujeres, el 21% se autoidentificó como propiedad de minorías y el 2% se autoidentificó como propiedad de veteranos.

NJEDA también ha apoyado a empresas de innovación económica, que están enfrentando sus propios desafíos relacionados con la COVID-19. El Programa de apoyo a emprendedores de NJ fomenta flujos de capital continuos para nuevas empresas proporcionando garantías por el 80% de los préstamos para préstamos de capital de trabajo a emprendedores. Hasta la fecha, este programa ha apoyado inversiones en 12 empresas con garantías por $1,836,000.

Además del apoyo económico, NJEDA también ha proporcionado una variedad de programas de asistencia técnica para empresas que enfrentan el desafío de adaptarse a las nuevas pautas de salud y seguridad. La Autoridad se asoció con la Cámara de comercio afroamericana de New Jersey (AACCNJ, por sus siglas en inglés), la Cámara de comercio hispana a nivel estatal de New Jersey (SHCCNJ, por sus siglas en inglés), la Cámara de comercio estatal de veteranos de New Jersey y Rising Tide Capital para proporcionar asistencia técnica a 447 empresas que solicitaron apoyo federal a la Administración de pequeñas empresas. Desde entonces, la Autoridad ha implementado otras iniciativas para ayudar a las empresas a adaptarse a hacer negocios de forma segura durante la pandemia, incluida consultoría comercial gratuita para microempresas en zonas de oportunidad, y capacitación en soluciones de comercio electrónico para empresas minoristas y restaurantes. 57 empresas participan actualmente en estos programas. Además, NJEDA lanzó el Programa de acceso a PPE, que proporciona PPE a costos reducidos para pequeñas empresas e información sobre los equipos que necesitan para mantener a sus empleados y clientes seguros.

La Autoridad continúa explorando nuevas maneras de abordar los desafíos que enfrentan propietarios y empleados de empresas, y anunciará más programas y oportunidades de financiamiento a medida que estén disponibles. Puede encontrar información completa sobre la respuesta de NJEDA a la COVID-19 en https://covid19.business.nj.gov.

Acerca de la Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey
La Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey (NJEDA) es la agencia principal del Estado para impulsar el desarrollo económico. La NJEDA tiene el compromiso de hacer del Estado de New Jersey un modelo nacional para el desarrollo económico inclusivo y sostenible al centrarse en estrategias claves para ayudar a construir comunidades fuertes y dinámicas, crear buenos trabajos para los residentes de New Jersey y ofrecer oportunidades para una economía más sólida y justa. Mediante asociaciones con diversas partes interesadas, la NJEDA crea e implementa iniciativas para mejorar la vitalidad económica y la calidad de vida en el Estado y para fortalecer la competitividad económica a largo plazo de New Jersey.

Para obtener más información acerca de los recursos de la NJEDA para empresas, llame a la línea de atención al cliente de NJEDA al 609-858-6767 o visite https://www.njeda.gov y siga a @NewJerseyEDA en Facebook, Twitter, Instagram y LinkedIn.

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TRENTON, N.J. (October 9, 2020) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced that more than 20,000 businesses have been approved for COVID-19 relief since March 2020. In total, the Authority has approved 20,073 businesses for more than $74.2 million in support through grants, low-cost loans, partnerships with investors and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and technical assistance programs.

“Governor Murphy has made supporting small businesses a central focus of our state’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, and the NJEDA team has worked tirelessly to support these 20,000 businesses at a time when that help is so badly needed,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The economic impact of this pandemic is extraordinary and ongoing – and our efforts to do all we can to support small businesses must continue as well.”

The NJEDA’s suite of COVID-19 relief programs provides a variety of resources for businesses of all sizes, including grants for small businesses, zero-interest loans, support for private-sector lenders and CDFIs, and funding for entrepreneurs. The NJEDA’s largest COVID-19 relief program is the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program, which provides grants to small businesses impacted by the pandemic. To ensure equitable distribution of funds, the NJEDA set aside one-third of the funding for this program to support qualified businesses located in one of the 715 census tracts that were eligible to be selected as a New Jersey Opportunity Zone. This targeting has helped to ensure minority- and women-owned businesses that were hardest hit by the pandemic’s economic impact were able to get the support they need.

To date, 19,166 small businesses have been approved for grants worth a total of more than $56,800,000 through the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program. The number of grant recipients will increase as the NJEDA continues to process applications and distribute grants. The average grant award has been roughly $3,000, which indicates the average approved business has three full-time equivalent employees. 20 percent of grant funding awarded through Phase 2 of the program has gone to businesses that identified as minority-owned, 23 percent as women-owned, and 2 percent as veteran-owned.

The Small Business Emergency Assistance Loan Program provides working capital loans of up to $100,000 to businesses with less than $5 million in revenues. Loans made through the program have ten-year terms with zero percent interest for the first five years. To date, the NJEDA has approved 133 loans through the program worth a combined total of $9,123,187. Of the businesses approved for loans, 27 percent self-identified as woman-owned, 18 percent self-identified as minority-owned, and 4 percent self-identified as veteran-owned.

In addition to providing resources directly to businesses, the NJEDA has partnered with six New Jersey-based CDFIs through the CDFI Initiative to provide low-cost financing to small and microbusinesses. To be designated as a CDFI, an institution must certify that at least 60 percent of its financing activities are targeted to low- and moderate-income populations or underserved communities. With NJEDA support, the six partner CDFIs have provided 258 loans worth a total of $6,073,258. Of the businesses approved for loans through the CDFIs, 39 percent self-identified as woman-owned, 21 percent as minority-owned, and 2 percent as veteran-owned.

The NJEDA has also supported early-stage innovation economy businesses, which are facing their own unique set of COVID-19-related challenges. The NJ Entrepreneur Support Program encourages continued capital flows to new companies by providing 80 percent loan guarantees for working capital loans to entrepreneurs. To date, this program has supported investments in 12 companies with $1,836,000 in guarantees.

In addition to financial support, the NJEDA has also provided a variety of technical assistance programs for businesses struggling to adjust to new health and safety guidelines. The Authority partnered with the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ), the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ), the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce, and Rising Tide Capital to provide technical assistance for 447 businesses applying for federal Small Business Administration support. Since then, the Authority has rolled out a number of other initiatives to help businesses adjust to doing business safely during the pandemic, including free business consulting for micro-businesses in Opportunity Zones, and training on ecommerce solutions for retail businesses and restaurants. 57 businesses are currently participating in these programs. In addition, the NJEDA has launched the PPE Access Program, which provides reduced-cost PPE for small businesses and information on the equipment they need to keep their employees and customers safe.

The Authority continues to explore new ways to address the challenges business owners and employees face and will announce additional programs and funding opportunities as they become available. Comprehensive information about the NJEDA’s COVID-19 response is available at https://covid19.business.nj.gov.

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses call NJEDA Customer Care at 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Please be advised that a telephonic meeting of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority is scheduled for 10:00 AM, Wednesday, October 14, 2020.

The Members will convene to via conference call only. Members of the public may participate in the meeting by calling in on the conference line. Members of the public will have an opportunity to speak during the public comment segment of the meeting. The following conference number is being provided:

CONFERENCE NAME: NJEDA BOARD MEETING (October 14, 2020)
PARTICIPANT DIAL-IN NUMBER: 877-692-8955
PARTICIPANT ACCESS CODE: 4204420

Members of the public are encouraged to call in prior to the time the meeting is scheduled to begin to avoid any delays.

The agenda can be found 48 hours prior to the meeting on our website: www.njeda.gov.

TRENTON, N.J. (October 5, 2020) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced the Business Consulting for COVID-19 Recovery Program, a free consulting program to help small businesses address the challenges they are facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and prepare for a strong long-term recovery. The program is open to all businesses with five or fewer employees that maintain a physical storefront or office in one of New Jersey’s Opportunity Zones. Currently in the pilot phase, the NJEDA anticipates expanding the program soon to accommodate more businesses.

Business owners interested in participating in the program should complete the intake form at http://forms.business.nj.gov/covid-recovery-consulting/. After submitting the form, an NJEDA representative will be in touch to provide more information on the next steps in the sign-up process. Business owners that need language assistance should send their name, spoken language, and telephone number to languagehelp@njeda.com.

“While the COVID-19 pandemic has created new challenges for all of us, the data shows minority-owned businesses and businesses in historically disadvantaged communities have not only been hit the hardest by the public health impacts of the pandemic, but have also had the hardest time changing their business models and accessing the government relief they need to adapt and prepare for recovery,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Business Consulting for COVID-19 Recovery program provides free strategic advice and hands-on assistance to help business owners learn to use new tools that will help them operate more profitably and be better prepared to take advantage of new relief programs as they become available. This is crucial to ensuring a strong and equitable recovery from the pandemic.”

“Small businesses in Opportunity Zones face more challenges than most during the best of times, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more difficult to keep the lights on. Providing comprehensive support that not only helps these businesses overcome their current difficulties but also provides them with the skills and tools they need to build a more stable business over the long term is crucial,” said New Jersey Redevelopment Authority President and CEO Leslie A. Anderson. “The Business Consulting for COVID-19 Recovery program is a unique and forward-thinking recovery initiative that provides immediate relief as well as the support businesses in historically disadvantaged communities need to build more sustainable business models. This is an important step that will pave the way for a stronger, fairer recovery in New Jersey.”

The Business Consulting for COVID-19 Recovery program will provide businesses with free access to expert advisory services and staff support to assist them in overcoming their current challenges and preparing for long-term success. Through partnerships with the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) and the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ), the NJEDA will provide up to 25 hours of free, one-on-one coaching and support implementing solutions to help make businesses more profitable while complying with public health protections the State has instituted to slow the spread of COVID-19. Participating businesses will receive advice and assistance in securing grants and loans, adapting their business models to current needs, crafting long-term business strategies, evaluating their financial health, and improving accounting and bookkeeping systems, as well as many other topics that can help them build a stronger, more sustainable business.

Depending on a business’s specific needs, the AACCNJ and SHCCNJ will connect them with one of five specialized subcontractors: Main Street Advisory LLC, Dina Gonzalez, Ospino Consulting, GG CPA Services, or Greenberg and Associates.

“In addition to the challenges all businesses have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, many minority business owners have also struggled to access relief programs that have supported other businesses. Fortunately, The NJEDA saw this disparity, and acted quickly to address it,” Said AACCNJ President and CEO Jon Harmon. “We are proud to work with the NJEDA to help business owners in the hardest-hit communities not only adjust to the challenges they face today, but also come up with new strategies and implement new tools to ensure their long-term success and sustainability.”

“The Business Consulting for COVID-19 Recovery program is a crucial resource that will not only help minority-owned businesses withstand the current challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic but also prepare for a more successful, stable future,” said SHCCNJ President and CEO Carlos Medina. “Many Hispanic business owners and other businesses in historically disadvantaged communities have trouble accessing resources and relief programs that are readily available for other small businesses. Through this consulting program, the NJEDA is paving the way for a stronger, fairer New Jersey where all businesses have the tools and skills they need to operate efficiently and access new relief programs when they become available.”

During the pilot phase, eligibility for the program is limited to businesses with five or fewer employees that maintain a physical storefront or office space in one of New Jersey’s 169 Opportunity Zones. Businesses interested in this opportunity should complete the NJEDA’s intake form. Applicants will be connected with consultants on a first-come, first-served basis, so any interested business should complete the form as soon as possible. The NJEDA anticipates expanding eligibility for the program soon.

The NJEDA administers a variety of programs providing support for larger businesses impacted by COVID-19. More information about these programs and other State support is available at https://covid19.nj.gov.

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses call NJEDA Customer Care at 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of NJ (SHCCNJ) has been a proponent of New Jersey’s Hispanic-owned businesses for more than three decades. From left: SHCCNJ Chairman Luis De La Hoz, SHCCNJ Operations Manager Aixa Lopez, P.E., and SHCCNJ President and CEO Carlos Medina.

TRENTON, N.J. (September 24, 2020) – The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ) sees Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the history, culture and contributions of Hispanic-Americans, as the perfect time to spotlight resources for the more than 100,000 Hispanic-owned small businesses that call New Jersey home. Collectively, these businesses contribute more than $20 billion to the state’s economy annually. Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15.

SHCCNJ has been a proponent of New Jersey’s Hispanic-owned businesses for more than three decades. The Chamber is dedicated to promoting the continued growth and development of New Jersey business by working with the public and private sectors to identify and expand opportunities for its members, advocating for them in the political process, and promoting trade for the New Jersey business community.

When COVID-19 hit, SHCCNJ quickly mobilized its vast network to support Hispanic-owned small businesses throughout the state. Shortly after Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency in March, SHCCNJ members helped hundreds of business owners apply for financing through the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans programs, as well as funding from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA’s) Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant and Loans programs. SHCCNJ was also one of four organizations selected by the NJEDA to offer support services to businesses seeking federal financial assistance through Small Business Administration (SBA) programs.

“At SHCCNJ, we see ourselves as one big ‘familia’, or family, and that strong sense of community has never been more important than it is now as our members continue to face challenges brought on by the pandemic,” said SHCCNJ President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Carlos Medina. “We are very appreciative of our longstanding partnership with the NJEDA, the resources it provides, and the open line of communication we have with its leadership. This support has been extremely critical to so many of our members.”

Earlier this year, SHCCNJ held its inaugural Latina Entrepreneurship Training Series (LETS), a free, virtual workshop for female entrepreneurs who wanted to learn about topics such as leadership & empowerment, business scale-up, financial management, and strategic marketing pillars. The training is a complement to SHCCNJ’s existing Hispanic Entrepreneurship Training Program (HETP), which provides culturally and linguistically appropriate business education and mentorship services for free to Hispanic small business owners. Taught by bilingual subject-matter experts with real world experience and successful track records in their respective fields, HETP equips participants with the resources and know-how to start and/or expand their businesses.

“With its highly talented workforce and its centralized location along the Northeast Corridor, New Jersey is the perfect place for our members to establish their businesses,” said SHCCNJ Chairman Luis O. De La Hoz. “We created LETS and HETP to help our members compete not just here in the Garden State but in the global marketplace as well.”

As the heads of the SHCCNJ, Medina and De La Hoz have a strong pulse on the Hispanic business community and know the value of connecting the Chamber’s members with networking, mentorship, and educational opportunities necessary to flourish in the state. SHCCNJ also offers its members access to legislators and industry leaders through a series of Chamber Talks, community events, and semi-monthly newsletters.
Medina, who sits on the Board of Directors for Horizon Blue Cross/Blue Shield of New Jersey, noted the importance of working with companies of all sizes to add diversity to their Board of Directors or C-suite executives. This is a sentiment that NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan echoed.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate one of New Jersey’s greatest assets – its diversity,” Sullivan said. “A stronger, fairer economy starts with including diverse voices in conversations where decisions are being made. Carlos and Luis have been passionate advocates for our efforts to drive opportunities for historically underrepresented communities. Our partnership with the Hispanic Chamber is essential to advancing initiatives focused on inclusion and equity as we confront the challenges created by COVID-19.”

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses call NJEDA Customer Care at 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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La Cámara de Comercio Hispana Estatal del Estado de Nueva Jersey (SHCCNJ) ha sido una defensora y protectora de las empresas de propiedad hispana de Nueva Jersey durante más de tres décadas. De izquierda a derecha: Luis De La Hoz, Presidente de SHCCNJ, Aixa Lopez, P.E., Gerente de Operaciones de SHCCNJ, y Carlos Medina, Presidente y Director Ejecutivo de SHCCNJ

TRENTON, N.J. (24 de septiembre de 2020) – La Cámara de Comercio Hispana a Nivel Estatal de New Jersey (Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, o SHCCNJ por sus siglas en inglés) considera el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, una época para celebrar la historia, la cultura y las contribuciones de los hispanoamericanos, el momento perfecto para destacar los recursos a disposición de las más de 100,000 pequeñas empresas hispanas que llaman a New Jersey su hogar. En conjunto, estas empresas aportan anualmente más de $20 mil millones a la economía del Estado. El Mes de la Herencia Hispana transcurre desde el 15 de septiembre hasta el 15 de octubre.

La SHCCNJ ha sido una defensora de las empresas hispanas de New Jersey durante más de tres décadas. La Cámara se dedica a promover el crecimiento y desarrollo continuo de las empresas de New Jersey al trabajar con el sector público y el privado a fin de identificar y expandir las oportunidades para sus miembros, defendiéndolos en el proceso político y promoviendo el comercio para la comunidad empresarial de New Jersey.

Cuando la COVID-19 golpeó, la SHCCNJ movilizó rápidamente su extensa red para apoyar a las pequeñas empresas hispanas en todo el Estado. Poco después de que el Gobernador Phil Murphy declarara el estado de emergencia en marzo, los miembros de la SHCCNJ ayudaron a cientos de propietarios de empresas a solicitar financiación a través del programa federal de pago de sueldos (PPP, por sus siglas en inglés) y los programas de préstamos por daños económicos por catástrofe, como así también financiación de los programas de subsidios de asistencia y préstamos de emergencia para pequeñas empresas de la Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey (New Jersey Economic Development Authority o NJEDA , por sus siglas en inglés). La SHCCNJ fue también una de las cuatro organizaciones seleccionadas por la NJEDA para ofrecer servicios de apoyo a empresas que solicitan asistencia financiera federal a través de los programas de la Administración de pequeñas empresas (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés).

“En la SHCCNJ, nos consideramos una gran ‘familia’, y ese fuerte sentido de comunidad nunca ha sido más importante que ahora, ya que nuestros miembros siguen enfrentando los desafíos que trae la pandemia”, expresó el Presidente y Director Ejecutivo (CEO, por sus siglas en inglés) de la SHCCNJ, Carlos Medina. “Estamos muy agradecidos por nuestra asociación de tantos años con la NJEDA, los recursos que brinda y la línea abierta de comunicación que tenemos con su dirección. Este apoyo ha sido sumamente crítico para muchos de nuestros miembros”.

A comienzos de este año, la SHCCNJ realizó su serie de capacitación empresarial latina (LETS, por sus siglas en inglés) inaugural, un taller virtual gratuito para mujeres empresarias que querían aprender sobre temas como liderazgo y empoderamiento, crecimiento empresarial, gestión financiera y pilares de comercialización estratégica. La capacitación es un complemento del programa de capacitación empresarial hispana (HETP, por sus siglas en inglés) de la SHCCNJ, que ofrece formación empresarial y servicios de mentoría cultural y lingüísticamente adecuados de forma gratuita para propietarios hispanos de pequeñas empresas. Enseñado por expertos bilingües en el tema con experiencia en el mundo real y un exitoso historial en sus respectivos campos, el HETP proporciona a los participantes los recursos y el conocimiento técnico para iniciar y/o expandir sus empresas.

“Con una fuerza laboral sumamente talentosa y su ubicación central en el Corredor noreste, New Jersey es el lugar perfecto para que nuestros miembros establezcan sus empresas”, expresó el Representante Ejecutivo de la SHCCNJ, Luis O. De La Hoz. “Creamos LETS y HETP para ayudar a nuestros miembros a competir no solo aquí, en el Estado Jardín, sino también en el mercado mundial”.

En sus cargos al frente de la SHCCNJ, Medina y De La Hoz tienen un pulso fuerte sobre la comunidad empresarial hispana y conocen el valor de conectar a los miembros de la Cámara con oportunidades de trabajo en red, mentoría y de formación necesarias para prosperar en el Estado. La SHCCNJ también ofrece a sus miembros acceso a legisladores y líderes de la industria a través de una serie de Charlas de la Cámara, eventos en la comunidad y boletines informativos quincenales.

Medina, que integra el Consejo directivo en representación de Horizon Blue Cross/Blue Shield de New Jersey, remarcó la importancia de trabajar con compañías de todos los tamaños para sumar diversidad a su Consejo directivo o ejecutivos de alto nivel. Esta es la opinión de la que el director ejecutivo de NJEDA, Tim Sullivan, se hizo eco.

“El Mes de la Herencia Hispana es un momento para celebrar uno de los mayores activos de New Jersey: su diversidad”, expresó Sullivan. “Una economía más sólida y justa comienza con la inclusión de voces diversas en las conversaciones en las que se toman decisiones. Carlos y Luis han sido apasionados defensores de nuestros esfuerzos con el fin de generar oportunidades para las comunidades históricamente con poca representación. Nuestra asociación con la Cámara de Comercio es fundamental para promover iniciativas centradas en la inclusión y la equidad mientras enfrentamos los desafíos que presenta la COVID-19”.

Acerca de la Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey
La Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey (NJEDA) cumple la función de ser la agencia principal del Estado para impulsar el desarrollo económico. La NJEDA tiene el compromiso de hacer del Estado de New Jersey un modelo nacional para el desarrollo económico inclusivo y sustentable al centrarse en estrategias claves para ayudar a construir comunidades fuertes y dinámicas, crear buenos trabajos para los residentes de New Jersey y ofrecer caminos para una economía más sólida y justa. Mediante asociaciones con una diversa variedad de partes interesadas, la NJEDA crea e implementa iniciativas para mejorar la vitalidad económica y la calidad de vida en el Estado y fortalecer la competitividad económica a largo plazo de New Jersey.

Para obtener más información acerca de los recursos de la NJEDA para empresas, llame a la línea de atención al cliente de NJEDA al 609-858-6767 o visite https://www.njeda.gov y siga a @NewJerseyEDA en Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn e Instagram.

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TRENTON, N.J. (September 18, 2020) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) urges business owners to respond to the Federal Reserve Banks’ Small Business Credit Survey. The annual survey provides crucial insights into the financial health of small businesses that can help to bring additional resources or support to New Jersey. Business owners can respond to the survey at http://frb.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aXW9acz1pbB4x7L?orgid=NJ_EDA&parentid=&reserve_bank=NY.

“No one knows what small businesses need to succeed better than small business owners themselves,” said NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan. “Providing the right support to fit businesses’ needs benefits not just business owners, but also their employees, the communities where they are based, and the entire state of New Jersey. Participating in the Small Business Credit Survey will help us develop programs that address business owners’ most pressing needs and may also help bring new resources and opportunities to New Jersey.”

The Small Business Credit Survey is an annual survey of small businesses in the United States that aims to provide advocates and policymakers with insights they can use to address small businesses’ needs. The NJEDA is working with the Reserve Banks to drive responses from underrepresented businesses with a particular focus on learning more about minority- and women-owned firms.

The survey is open to all businesses with 500 or fewer employees, including businesses that have recently closed or are about to launch. It includes questions about business conditions, financing needs, access to credit, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey takes roughly 10 minutes to complete and can be filled out on a computer or phone. Responses are due October 31, 2020. All responses are confidential.
Business owners can complete the survey here: http://frb.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aXW9acz1pbB4x7L?orgid=NJ_EDA&parentid=&reserve_bank=NY.

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses call NJEDA Customer Care at 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About the Small Business Credit Survey (SBCS)
The SBCS collects information about business performance, financing needs and choices and borrowing experiences of firms with fewer than 500 employees. Responses to the SBCS provide insight into the dynamics behind aggregate lending trends and about noteworthy segments of small businesses. The results are weighted to reflect the full population of small businesses in the United States. The SBCS is not a random sample; therefore, results should be analyzed with awareness of potential methodological biases.
The SBCS includes experiences from firms across all 50 states and the District of Columbia through the joint efforts of the Federal Reserve Banks of New York, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Kansas City, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Richmond, San Francisco and St. Louis.

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Enfrentar la pandemia por el nuevo coronavirus ha creado cientos de nuevos desafíos para las pequeñas empresas de nuestro estado. New Jersey Economic Development Authority (La Autoridad para el desarrollo económico de New Jersey, o NJEDA por sus siglas en inglés) ofrece consultoría, apoyo del personal y recursos GRATIS para ayudarlo/a a superar las dificultades que está afrontando y prepararse para un futuro sostenible y exitoso. Esperamos que aproveche esta oportunidad única de crecimiento para su empresa y que cree estrategias rentables durante esta pandemia.

Regístrese hoy para recibir asesoramiento y apoyo del personal gratis

Este programa gratuito proporcionará hasta 25 horas de asesoramiento y apoyo individualizado del personal a cargo de asesores expertos que podrán ayudarlo/a a desarrollar e implementar nuevos procesos para fortalecer y permitir el crecimiento de su empresa a la vez que cumple con las medidas de protección actuales del estado y las mejores prácticas de salud pública. Nuestro equipo de expertos lo/a ayudarán a obtener subsidios y préstamos, reducir costos, mejorar su contabilidad y diseñar estrategias comerciales de largo plazo.

Siga leyendo y regístrese hoy

El programa está disponible para empresas con cinco o menos empleados y una oficina o una tienda en las Zonas de oportunidad de New Jersey. Recibió este correo electrónico porque su empresa está ubicada en una Zona de oportunidad elegible. El espacio es limitado y las empresas se seleccionarán por orden de registro, así que asegúrese de registrarse lo antes posible.

¡Haga clic aquí para iniciar el proceso de registro!

En NJEDA sabemos que ha sido un año difícil para las empresas. Esperamos poder trabajar con usted para abordar sus desafíos actuales y ayudarlo/a a prepararse para un futuro más estable y exitoso. Comuníquese con BusinessConsulting@njeda.com si tiene preguntas sobre este programa u otro recurso de apoyo de NJEDA para las pequeñas empresas afectadas por el coronavirus.