TRENTON, N.J. (December 10, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) recently closed on investments for three cutting-edge businesses through the New Jersey Innovation Evergreen Fund (NJIEF). The companies, which span across three municipalities in New Jersey, received investments through the approvals of applications submitted by Qualified Venture Funds for a combined $6.2 million.

“The New Jersey Innovation Evergreen Fund is a pioneering initiative that strengthens New Jersey’s economy by combining public and private funding to support high-potential startups and entrepreneurs and creating a sustainable investment cycle for innovators who require access to capital,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is strengthening its reputation as a global innovation hub by making significant investments in the next wave of groundbreaking companies based in the Garden State.”

The NJIEF, launched in 2022, is a unique tool to increase access to strategic resources and venture capital in New Jersey. Under the NJIEF, the State is an equity investor in early-stage companies, deploying up to $600 million into companies alongside professional venture capital firms. The Evergreen Fund currently has over $5 million of unallocated capital available and is expected to use this to fund initial investments into additional high-growth businesses in New Jersey. The NJEDA recently auctioned $85 million in tax credits to raise additional capital, which will be available for investment in early 2026.

“These investments build on the momentum of the NJIEF and highlights the state’s dedication to backing emerging minority and women-led businesses and entrepreneurs,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “By generating a steady flow of venture capital into high-growth startups, the NJIEF will keep fueling job creation and economic development throughout New Jersey.”

All companies approved for investment under the NJIEF will benefit from the strategic commitments made by NJIEF tax credit purchasers. These purchases, which fund investments made by the Qualified Venture Firms (QVFs), are made in tandem with commitments to provide strategic support to strengthen the State’s innovation ecosystem. Commitments include networking, mentoring, and educational opportunities, and are a scored component of the tax credit purchasers’ bids.

The following companies received investment funding through the NJIEF:

PolyGone Systems – Princeton

PolyGone Systems was founded by Princeton University graduates Yidian Lu and Nathaniel Banks. Through the use of their patented filtration media, PolyGone is revolutionizing the water treatment industry, and has launched the world’s first industrial microplastic treatment pilot, which is set to capture over 580 million microplastics annually. Through an application submitted by FYRFLY Venture Partners, PolyGone received an NJIEF investment of $1.25 million.

“The New Jersey Evergreen Fund has been transformational for our company, PolyGone Systems. As a cleantech startup developing hardware, raising early-stage capital is uniquely difficult. The Evergreen Fund served as a powerful catalyst, motivating investor commitments and enabling us to close our full seed round within just six months,” said Yidian Lui, Co-Founder of PolyGone Systems. “Throughout the process, the Evergreen team was collaborative and deeply supportive, working closely with our team and prospective investors to help accelerate the round. Their involvement is a testament to New Jersey’s commitment to advancing cleantech innovation and supporting startups addressing urgent environmental challenges. Looking ahead, we’re proud to be expanding our operations by establishing our new headquarters in Kearny. It’s our way of paying forward the Evergreen Fund’s support by building global-scale innovation within the Garden State.”

Founded in 2012, FYRFLY Venture Partners is a woman-led seed-stage venture capital firm with an office in San Francisco, California and a presence in Zurich, Switzerland. With a focus on the enterprise information technology and deep technology sector, PolyGone is its first New Jersey investment.

“PolyGone Systems is tackling one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time—removing microplastics from water at scale” said Julie Maples, Founding Partner at FYRFLY Venture Partners. “FYRFLY invests in teams building transformational technologies with enduring value, and we’re proud to partner with NJEDA to help PolyGone grow in New Jersey, a state that’s fast becoming a national hub for climate innovation and advanced manufacturing.”

JOGO Health – Bridgewater

JOGO Health is a MedTech and digital health company that focuses on developing treatments for chronic pain and neuromuscular disorders. Their innovative approach leverages neuroplasticity through an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered platform to provide non-invasive and drug-free relief for conditions such as chronic back pain, stroke paralysis, migraines, and incontinence. JOGO Health has treated over 25,000 patients across more than 50 hospital partnerships, such as Mayo Clinic, Mount Sinai, and Brigham & Women’s. JOGO Health also received support from the Authority through the Technology Business Tax Certificate Transfer (NOL) program.

“The NJEDA, and in particular the Evergreen Fund, continues the long tradition of keeping New Jersey at the forefront of the innovation economy,” said Sanjali Murali, Co-Founder & CEO of JOGO Health. “This funding has been key to further commercialization of digital therapies that are a game changer for millions of patients who suffer from migraines, incontinence, and stroke related movement disorders.”

JOGO Health received two investments through the NJIEF, one for $2 million through an application submitted by Atma Capital, and one for $1.18 million through an application submitted by Creative Ventures Management, LLC.

Atma Capital was founded in 2021 as a women-led Seed-stage venture capital firm, with offices located in California, Dubai, and China, with an investment focus on deep technology startups with positive societal and environmental impacts. The investment into JOGO Health will be the firm’s first investment in a New Jersey-based business.

“At Atma Capital, we invest in technologies that elevate human potential through the intelligent integration of mind and body,” said Ying Lee, Managing Partner at Atma Capital. “JOGO’s non-invasive neuro-muscular platform exemplifies this vision—bridging modern neuroscience with holistic wellness to promote healthy, happy aging and empower individuals to take charge of their own vitality.”

Creative Ventures is a minority-owned, California-based, early-stage deep-tech venture capital firm. The firm was founded in 2015 and invests in early-stage companies that address labor shortages, rising healthcare costs, and climate change. JOGO Health will be the firm’s first investment in a New Jersey-based business.

“We always look for transformative technologies and are excited to partner with JOGO Health. We think their team and technology have incredible potential to positively impact the lives of patients, and bring a new model to management of chronic conditions in the healthcare system,” said James Wang, General Partner at Creative Ventures.

Hill Research – Bridgewater

Hill Research is an AI startup that initiated its relocation from Boston to Bridgewater, New Jersey. Hill Research leverages Generative AI to accelerate the last mile of clinical trials for pharmaceutical companies. The company’s modular AI agents address key challenges in the clinical trial life cycle, including patient screening, Case Report Form annotation, clinical evidence synthesis, compliance, and reporting. Hill Research received an NJIEF investment of $1.75 million through an application submitted by Covenant Venture Capital.

“Clinical trial data analysis is often repetitive and slow, with processes like double programming taking valuable time away from biostatistics experts. Hill Research changes that process with AI tools that automate routine work while keeping human expertise at the center for accuracy and control,” said Louise Liu, Co-Founder & CEO of Hill Research. Our platform helps biostatistics teams to interpret data faster and make smarter decisions that accelerate drug development, bringing new treatments to patients sooner. Support from NJEDA allows us to expand our R&D team, strengthen partnerships, and scale our technology across the biopharma sector. As a women-led company, we’re proud to drive innovation and create opportunities for diverse talent across New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem.”

Founded in 2020, Covenant Venture Partners is a minority-owned venture capital firm based in New York City, with a focus on investing in companies developing AI technologies that will disrupt existing processes, as well as unique, early-stage technology and life science companies.

“The Evergreen Innovation Fund program demonstrates the effectiveness of a public-private partnership when it’s designed to achieve specific outcomes, including more founders funded, faster growth, and stronger talent pipelines,” said René Bastón, Venture Partner at Covenant Venture Partners. “With the NJEDA’s support, Covenant led Hill Research’s seed round to scale Agentic AI in clinical development to shorten trial timelines and improve submission readiness. This is New Jersey at its best: aligning capital, capability, and community to create real economic value.”

Applications for venture firms seeking to qualify as a QVF can be found here and are being accepted on a rolling basis. The firms approved to date represent diversity in terms of investment strategy, industry, and stage. Additionally, there continues to be strong momentum from interested managers. The roster of the current approved managers can be found here.

Applications for approved QVFs to apply for Qualified Investments into high-growth, innovative businesses based in New Jersey are also open. The total capital available for new investments stands at over $5 million and the NJEDA recently auctioned $85 million in tax credits to raise additional capital for further investment.

About the 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 NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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TRENTON, N.J. (November 17, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board recently approved a tax credit award under the Aspire Program for Phase 3 of the New Jersey Health + Life Science Exchange (HELIX) building in New Brunswick. Known as H-3, the proposed development consists of a 42-story, nearly 560,00-square-foot mixed-use tower that will include affordable residential units, commercial office space, specialized laboratories, and housing for Rutgers School of Medicine students.

“The NJEDA Board’s approval of Aspire awards for this next phase of the HELIX represents a key milestone in our ongoing effort to make New Jersey a leader in technological innovation,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “With strong partnerships from institutions such as Rutgers University, the HELIX will accelerate groundbreaking research, help startups expand, and generate sustained economic opportunity across the state.”

The HELIX will bring together New Jersey’s public, private, and academic sectors to create a world-class hub of innovation and a strong base of support and talent pipeline for innovative companies. The HELIX campus, consisting of three separate buildings, will provide 1.5 million square feet of multifaceted, state-of-the-art environments supporting the gamut of health and life science organizations and professions. H-3 will be located directly across from the New Brunswick Train Station, adjacent to a NJ TRANSIT bus stop, in close proximity to Rutgers University, and approximately 15 miles from Newark Liberty International Airport.

“The HELIX exemplifies Governor Murphy’s vision to drive inclusive economic growth and strengthen New Jersey’s position as a national leader in discovery and innovation,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Through the Aspire Program, the NJEDA continues to support transformative development projects that bring together housing, business, and transit to create vibrant, walkable communities. This award will help expand New Brunswick’s innovation ecosystem while delivering high-quality housing options, new jobs, and long-term economic opportunity for residents.”

The proposed development has four main components, including:

1. Residential: The 298,390-square-foot residential portion will include 265 units, 53 of which will be affordable. The 212 market-rate units will comprise 38 studios, 148 one-bedrooms, and 26 two-bedrooms. The 53 affordable units will include 4 studios, 6 one-bedrooms, 32 two-bedrooms, and 11 three-bedrooms. Amenities include a gym, co-working and lounge spaces, communal kitchen, billiards room, and outdoor terrace.
2. Rutgers WINLAB & ESRG Research Facilities: Rutgers University will consolidate its Wireless Information Network Laboratory (WINLAB) and Energy Storage Research Group (ESRG) into 33,620 square feet of dedicated research space within H-3. These programs will benefit from proximity to campus and adjacency to Nokia Bell Labs’ new Research & Development facility at H-2, enabling enhanced collaboration and accessibility for students.
3. Rutgers School of Medicine Student Housing: H-3 will include 52,304 square feet of purpose-built housing for medical students, creating a living-learning environment that integrates researchers, entrepreneurs, and faculty within the HELIX ecosystem.
4. Commercial Office Space: Additionally, H-3 will include 178,522 square feet of commercial office space that will be leased to Middlesex County to accommodate various County departments and administrative functions.

The Applicant, Downtown HUB Associates III, LLC, which is owned by DEVCO and Pennrose Holdings, LLC, was awarded a tax credit award of up to 80 percent of the total project cost, not to exceed $359.3 million.

“When we created the Aspire program through legislation, we did so with a vision of supporting transformative projects that create jobs, expand housing, and spur long-term economic growth both in New Brunswick and across the state,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “The Board’s approval of these awards marks another major step forward for the HELIX project and for New Jersey’s leadership in life sciences and innovation. Together, we are showing the world that New Jersey is open for business and ready to compete, without losing sight of our commitment to our local communities.”

“The HELIX continues to redefine what’s possible for New Brunswick and for our entire state,” said New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill. “H3 represents another major step forward in creating a world-class destination for research, innovation, and opportunity. We are grateful for the NJEDA’s continued support and for the strong partnerships with Rutgers University, Middlesex County, DEVCO, and our private-sector collaborators. Together, we are building a place where students, scientists, entrepreneurs, and residents can thrive, and where ideas become breakthroughs that strengthen our community and New Jersey’s economy for generations to come.”

“This region has the potential to become one of the top research corridors in the country, and HELIX is a critical piece of that,” said Rutgers University president William F. Tate IV. “Grateful to Governor Murphy, the Legislature, the EDA, and our local leaders for making this happen. Rutgers is excited to add leading-edge technology, energy, and biomedical discovery to this space, and to deepen our partnerships with the state’s public and private sectors.”

“By the end of 2028, the HELIX will encompass 1.5 million square feet, representing an investment of over $2 billion. More than 4,000 people will be researching, working, living, and learning as part of this dynamic ecosystem,” said New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO) President Chris Paladino. “It will be a place where creative collisions spark new companies, drive innovation, and fuel growth across New Jersey’s economy, exceeding even our highest expectations.”

The first phase of the HELIX was approved for Aspire tax credits in 2023, and the second phase, with Nokia Bell Labs as its main tenant, was approved for Aspire tax credits in March 2025.

Aspire is a place-based economic development program created under the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020 (ERA) to support mixed-use, transit-oriented development with tax credits to commercial and residential real estate development projects that have financing gaps. All residential Aspire projects must include at least 20 percent affordable housing. As a performance-based program, projects must certify that all commitments established at time of approval have been met before receiving their first disbursement of tax credits.

About the 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 NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Nearly $105M investment will support the expansion and renovation of institutions in Jersey City and Morristown

TRENTON, N.J. (November 14, 2025) – This week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved more than $104.8 million in tax credits under the Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program to support major expansions and renovations of the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City and the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown. The projects, which are receiving the first awards under the CAFE Program, will upgrade existing spaces and add new experiences for guests, increasing attendance, generating revenue for local businesses, and bolstering the state’s arts and cultural sector.

“New Jersey is home to a thriving arts and culture sector that strengthens our state’s economy and highlights our incredible diversity and talent,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The expansion of vibrant cultural institutions like the Liberty Science Center and the Mayo Performing Arts Center will serve as an economic catalyst for communities across the state, increasing quality of life for New Jerseyans and expanding economic opportunities for arts and culture organizations.” 

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has supported the creativity and talent of the state’s residents through meaningful investments in the arts and culture sector,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Today’s approvals under the NJEDA’s CAFE Program are a significant milestone in our continued efforts to strengthen arts and culture institutions in throughout the state, helping create jobs and strengthen our economic future.”

“Arts and cultural institutions in New Jersey are community pillars, creating jobs for residents, revitalizing main streets, and boosting local tax revenues,” said NJEDA Deputy Chief Executive Officer Mary Maples. “The Liberty Science Center and the Mayo Performing Arts Center exemplify the economic impact of arts and cultural facilities, attracting thousands of guests and generating millions of dollars in economic activity. With support from the NJEDA’s CAFE Program, these centers will continue to educate and attract locals and visitors for decades to come.”

Located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, the Liberty Science Center is a 300,000-square-foot interactive museum that serves more than 800,000 visitors annually, serving as a hub for large scale art installations, live and media arts performances, and on-site cultural events. The renovation, known as Project Supernova, will add more than 100,000 square feet of outdoor exhibition space and rehabilitate the center’s current exhibitions, including the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, which is the largest and most technologically advanced planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. New immersive science exhibits and cultural experiences in the outdoor sections will transform the Liberty Science Center into an all-weather destination where learning is hands-on and accessible to all.

The Liberty Science Center was approved for an award of 100 percent of eligible project costs, not to exceed $39.8 million.

“The Liberty Science Center has inspired millions of students, teachers, and parents over the years by making science and technology both accessible and fun. For countless children, a field trip to the Center is a cherished part of growing up — an experience that has made it a true hallmark of a New Jersey education,” said Senator Angela V. McKnight (D-31). “This outdoor expansion and rehabilitation under the CAFE Program will allow the Liberty Science Center to evolve and grow just as our understanding of science does, providing even more opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration. I thank the NJEDA, Governor Murphy, and NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan for investing in and prioritizing a Jersey City cultural institution that fosters curiosity, creativity, and innovation in the next generation.”

“With construction now underway on SciTech Scity, Jersey City has become a model for how investment in innovation can transform an entire community,” said Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop. “We’re thankful for this NJEDA funding to make future upgrades at Liberty Science Center, reinforcing our city’s role as a national leader in driving jobs, growth, and opportunity for generations to come.”

“This major expansion of LSC is a vibrant fusion of science, ecology, and culture, honoring New Jersey’s famous scientific legacy and natural ecosystems,” said President and CEO of Liberty Science Center Paul Hoffman. “True to the DNA of Liberty Science Center, the project is bold, forward-looking, and inclusive, transforming the Center into an all-weather campus and world-class tourist destination where learning is fun, hands-on, and accessible to all. I am grateful to Governor Murphy and the EDA for embracing this visionary project.”

The Mayo Performing Arts Center operates a historic 1,300-seat venue and has served as a cultural institution in Morristown for over 30 years, generating more than $18 million to the local economy and attracting over 240,000 patrons annually. The project will add more than 31,000 square feet of new construction, including a new arts and education center, artist spaces, and studios, renovate more than 16,000 square feet of existing spaces, and restore the 46,000-square-foot historic theater auditorium. New spaces and upgrades to the property will expand the center’s Performing Arts School and update its artistic offerings, enhancing learning opportunities and increasing attendance.

The Mayo Performing Arts Center was also approved for an award of 100 percent of eligible project costs, not to exceed $65 million.

“The Mayo Performing Arts Center is not just a world-class venue, it’s a cultural cornerstone of our community, energizing downtown Morristown and enriching the lives of residents across the Garden State,” said Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25). “Our arts organizations play a vital role in strengthening our economy, inspiring creativity, and expanding opportunities for young people and this investment will go a long way toward supporting critical upgrades, expanding programs, and improving the guest experience. I look forward to continuing to work with our partners in the arts to ensure our cultural institutions continue to grow, innovate, and remain a lasting fixture of New Jersey’s future.”

“Morristown’s arts community has always been a source of pride for our town,” said Morristown Mayor Timothy P. Dougherty. “The expansion of the Mayo Performing Arts Center will build on that legacy, bringing more opportunities for creativity, education, and community. This investment will help keep Morristown a destination where the arts continue to thrive and strengthen our local economy.”

“Since it began as a single screen movie theatre in 1937, to its current standing as one of the top 50 Performing Arts Centers worldwide, MPAC has been at the heart of arts and entertainment in the North Jersey region. The awarding of $65 million in CAFE tax credits is a transformational opportunity for MPAC’s next phase in our evolution and further elevates Morristown as a premier arts destination in our state.  We are deeply grateful to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for this extraordinary award,” said Allison Larena, President and CEO, Mayo Performing Arts Center.

The CAFE Program aims to increase cultural arts activities across the state, attract visitors, boost engagement with the arts in underserved communities, and revitalize downtowns by providing tax credits to build or renovate facilities, including aquariums, historical societies, libraries, galleries, and museums. Eligible awardees can receive tax credits covering 100 percent of eligible project costs, up to $75 million. For more information on the program, click here.

About the 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 NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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This marks Paterson’s first project approved under the Aspire program

TRENTON, N.J. (November 6, 2025) – Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved tax credit awards under the Aspire Program to a residential project in Paterson and a commercial project in Secaucus. The two awards represent a collective investment of $93.1 million.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, the Aspire Program continues to advance New Jersey’s broader economic development strategy by addressing critical financing gaps and supporting projects that strengthen communities and drive inclusive growth,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Through meaningful investments in Paterson and Secaucus, today’s approvals expand access to housing, create good jobs, and build more resilient communities that will spur economic vitality for generations.”

The Carroll Street Houses Project, the proposed development in Paterson, will include the rehabilitation of 88 fully affordable residential rental units across 10, two-story buildings. The rehabilitation of the units also includes Project-Based Section 8 contracts for rent subsidies. The redevelopment will also consist of exterior building and interior common area upgrades, as well as the replacement of kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring. This project is Paterson’s first approval under the Aspire program.

Rising Dove Carroll Street Houses, LLC (RDCSH), a co-applicant, will also provide a number of services to residents, including housing assistance and referral services, employment assistance, computer classes, case management, and assistance with food programs.

Carroll Street Houses was approved for an award of up to 85 percent of the project cost, not to exceed $36.6 million. This project is also supported by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits through the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.

“Today’s approval of the Carroll Street Houses project under the NJEDA Aspire Program marks a major milestone for Paterson. This investment will revitalize fully affordable homes, create opportunities for our residents, and provide essential services that strengthen our community,” said Andre Sayegh, Mayor of Paterson. “I’m proud that Paterson is taking a leadership role in building resilient, inclusive neighborhoods that benefit families for generations to come.”

Meadowlands Logistics Center, LLC was approved for an award of up to 50 percent of the total project cost, not to exceed $56.5 million for the development of a modern warehouse facility in Secaucus. The warehouse will include a 40-foot clear ceiling height, 232 trailer parking spaces, 96 loading docks with capacity for an additional 89 docks if needed, four drive-in entrances, 570 parking spaces, and integrated office space. Planned uses for the development include warehouse operations, light industrial manufacturing, logistics and distribution, cold storage, import and export port services, e-commerce fulfillment, and a data center. The project will also include community amenities such as a public walking trail, a scenic overlook with dedicated parking, expanded sidewalks, and a bus shelter to enhance accessibility.

The property, located at 100 Paterson Plank Road, is identified on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)’s Known Contaminated Site List. Under the recently amended Aspire Program Rules, the development qualifies as an eligible warehouse project, meaning the project is comprised of industrial space that is predominantly used for warehouse distribution or fulfillment centers for which the developer incurs eligible project cost of at least $10 million in environmental remediation costs.

“Today’s approval of the Meadowlands Logistics Center under the NJEDA Aspire Program represents a new era of growth for Secaucus,” said Michael Gonnelli, Mayor of Secaucus. “This investment will not only create jobs and drive economic growth, but also enhance our community with new walking trails and improved public spaces. I’m proud that Secaucus continues to lead the way in developing modern facilities that support both our economy and our families.”

Aspire is a place-based economic development program created under the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020 (ERA) to support mixed-use, transit-oriented development with tax credits to commercial and residential real estate development projects that have financing gaps. All residential Aspire projects must include at least 20 percent affordable housing. As a performance-based program, projects must certify that all commitments established at time of approval have been met before receiving their first disbursement of tax credits.

About the 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 NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Food banks face capacity strain as SNAP benefits crisis looms and NJ schools close this week

TRENTON, N.J. (November 3, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today it is providing $900,000 in funding to support the State’s six Emergency Feeding Organizations as they face increased demand due to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits crisis caused by the ongoing government shutdown. Approximately 813,000 New Jerseyans, including 340,000 children, rely on SNAP benefits.

The funding comes at a critical time when all 568 school districts close on Thursday and Friday for the annual New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) Conference. 60 school districts are closed the entire week and nearly 150 more are closed Tuesday and/or Wednesday as well. While the shutdown does not affect school meals, such as breakfast and lunch, like it does SNAP benefits, children only receive those meals if schools are open. The school closures, compounded with the SNAP benefits crisis, put hundreds of thousands of children at risk of food insecurity. More than 533,000 children are enrolled in the free or reduced school meals program across the state.

“Across New Jersey, hundreds of thousands of families are grappling with the fallout of the Trump Administration’s unprecedented failure to fully and consistently fund SNAP during the federal government shutdown. In some cases, school breakfast and lunch may be the only meals of the day for a child facing food insecurity. As SNAP benefits remain suspended and schools across the state close this week, families will be turning to food banks for help,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “This infusion of funding from the NJEDA will help food banks remain open and stocked. No one should go hungry in New Jersey.”

“The SNAP benefits crisis coupled with school closures this week presents an all-hands-on deck situation. As a member of the Governor’s Task Force on the Federal Suspension of SNAP Benefits, the NJEDA is proud to join the Administration’s whole-of-government approach to support our food banks and facilitate the access of families to food,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Government cannot face this challenge alone and I urge the private sector and philanthropic entities to join our efforts to ensure no child goes hungry.”

“This support comes at a critical moment as households face the harmful loss of November SNAP benefits compounded by school closures where many children would normally receive breakfast and lunch. It is inhumane and simply unacceptable that in the United States of America our children are going hungry and seniors and those with disabilities don’t know where their next meal may come from,” said NJ Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “New Jersey’s food banks and their community partners are working diligently to provide extra food to families as demand is surging statewide, but they need additional financial support. Anyone who is able to donate time or resources in this moment of need are encouraged to visit their community food bank website.”

The Emergency Feeding Organizations are receiving the following funding:

• Community Food Bank of New Jersey – $477,000
• Food Bank of South Jersey – $135,000
• Fulfill Monmouth & Ocean – $135,000
• Mercer Street Friends Food Bank – $99,000
• Norwescap – $27,000
• Southern Regional Food Distribution Center – $27,000

“Combatting food insecurity isn’t just a matter of meeting basic needs, it’s about building vibrant communities where all families and children have the opportunity to succeed,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Security Officer Tara Colton. “During this extraordinary time, the NJEDA is committed to supporting food pantries across the state so that families have access to groceries and kids who aren’t in school this week won’t go hungry.”

“The Murphy administration remains steadfast in its commitment to combat food insecurity, and with hundreds of thousands of children currently at risk of missing meals, our fight is in overdrive,” said Executive Director of the New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate Mark Dinglasan. “I appreciate the NJEDA’s quick response to this emerging crisis and stand ready to support New Jersey’s food banks as they navigate this unique situation.”

The funding comes from the Fiscal Year 2022 state budget, which appropriated funding to the NJEDA for Food and Agriculture Innovation. Today’s funding was allocated to the organizations using the same methodology as the FY26 Food and Hunger Grants that Governor Murphy announced last week through the Department of Agriculture.

Throughout the Murphy Administration, the NJEDA has taken an active role in advancing the State’s food security goals through strategic investment, cross-agency collaboration, and innovative partnerships. Through initiatives like the Food Equity and Economic Development in New Jersey (FEED NJ) Program, the NJEDA is working to address system barriers that limit access to healthy and affordable grocery options, particularly in underserved communities.

At this time, November federal SNAP benefits are not yet available to New Jersey families. The U.S. Department of Agriculture must take further action to effectuate the distribution of the contingency funds so that they can become available to recipients. The State anticipates continued gaps in access as a result of these delays caused by the federal government, and will continue to provide updates about when SNAP benefits will be issued. This situation continues to change, so SNAP food assistance recipients should check their accounts at NJFamiliesFirst.com; call 800-997-3333; and visit njsnap.gov or nj.gov/snapshutdown for updates on the status of their SNAP benefits.

Residents are encouraged to locate food pantries and community kitchens via NJ 211 here. A number of pantries offer fresh produce in addition to stable, non-perishable foods, shopping appointments, and information about additional services.

About the 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 NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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