11 early-stage startups will receive grant funding

TRENTON, N.J. (January 3, 2025) – The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) awarded over $2.7 million in grant funding to 11 New Jersey startups under Round Two of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Grant Program. The funding will support pilot demonstration projects from startup companies creating technologies that mitigate the emission of greenhouse gases and other pollutants.

“The innovative ideas of New Jersey entrepreneurs are essential to helping the state achieve its clean energy goals,” said CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft. “Awardees under Round Two of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Program are developing technologies that will address the carbon footprint of concrete, divert packaging waste from landfills, and the infrastructure needed to support the transition to electric vehicles, exemplifying New Jersey’s standing as a hub of innovation.”

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has set some of the most ambitious clean energy goals in the country, supporting the creation of high-quality jobs and protecting the environment for future generations,” said New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “New Jersey’s startup companies are at the forefront of creative and transformative technologies that will move New Jersey closer to its goal of 100 percent clean electricity by 2035.”

Round Two of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Program awarded 11 early-stage startups with more than $2.7 million in grant funding, supporting pilot demonstration projects to transform new clean tech discoveries from research stage into commercially viable products and services. Awardees plan to demonstrate new technologies in technology areas including energy storage and distribution and waste processing.

In 2023, the NJEDA awarded more than $3.6 million to 14 startup companies under Round One of the pilot program. Combined, both rounds have awarded over $5 million to support demonstration projects conducted by innovative New Jersey companies, accelerating the commercialization and deployment of clean energy technologies.

“Congratulations to the 11 grant awardees of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Grant Program,” said CSIT Chair and BioNJ President and CEO Debbie Hart. “CSIT is proud to support innovative startups that are advancing clean tech breakthroughs that have the potential and promise to become environment-altering, commercially viable solutions — a testament to the extraordinary innovation emerging from New Jersey.”

Funding for Round 2 of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Program is provided through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the NJEDA and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) to support early-stage, New Jersey-based clean tech companies.

“The NJBPU is excited to partner with our sister state agencies to support New Jersey-based clean energy start-ups through the Clean Tech Pilot Demonstration Grant Program,” said NJBPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy.  “The Clean Tech Pilot Programs build on New Jersey’s long history of innovation by helping develop and deploy new technologies that can play an important role in mitigating the effects of climate change, benefiting us all in the future.” 

A full list of awardees can be found below:

  1. AIVacua LLC (Somerset County): Demonstrating an innovative spray flash distillation technology to be an integrated part of a cost-effective and scalable solution for use in water treatment.
  2. Amatec Inc. (Essex County): Created an alternative material to cementitious concrete: high-density gypsum (HDG) concrete, which enables the company to eliminate the culprit behind concrete’s enormous carbon footprint.
  3. Bezwada Biomedical (Somerset County): Demonstrating and testing the innovation of proprietary biodegradable polyurethanes developed by the company for use in packaging and consumer product applications to avoid greenhouse gas emissions by diverting the waste from landfills.
  4. Cecilia Energy, Inc. (Essex County): Demonstrating a modular, microwave-based system that upcycles plastic waste into hydrogen and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), addressing plastic waste management.
  5. Coulomb Technology, Inc. (Somerset County): Demonstrating a 5Ah zinc-ion battery for use in energy storage applications, which are safer, faster charging, and half the cost of incumbent Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries.
  6. EV Edison (Hudson County): Achieved full proof of concept for a mobile electric vehicle (EV) charging platform to deliver mobile EV charging to small, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles, establishing EV charging sites “on-demand.”
  7. InnoSepra LLC (Warren County): Demonstrating its biogas-upgrading technology at a wastewater treatment plant or landfill in New Jersey, which upgrades raw biogas to 92-98 percent purity methane.
  8. NanoSepex Inc. (Middlesex County): Demonstrating innovative membrane technology and process for use in solvent recovery and recycling, biofuel refining, and treatment of aqueous waste streams containing low-concentration solvents and volatile organic compounds.
  9. Pollux Technologies (Middlesex County): Developing a novel filter monitoring technology for use in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, which sends sensor data or post-processed soil parameters to a cloud server via a Wi-Fi or 5G cellular network with Internet of Things capability.
  10. PureLi Inc. (Somerset County): Demonstrating an interfacial crystallization process with superior performance in extracting lithium from saline water sources compared to current commercial operations, improving the throughput by 60 to 80 times and doubling lithium selectivity.
  11. PureNanoTech Inc. (Morris County): Demonstrating a next generation nanobubble technology designed to enhance wastewater treatment processes, improving efficiency and effectiveness.

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 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 state resources available to New Jersey entrepreneurs and early-stage companies, visit https://www.njeda.com and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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TRENTON, N.J. (December 20, 2024) – The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), under the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), is extending the open public comment period for amendments to the Commission’s Film Ready New Jersey Program requirements until Friday, January 3, 2025.

WHAT:            The Film Ready New Jersey Program is a multi-step training and certification program that prepares communities to accommodate and support movie and television productions and effectively market municipalities as film destinations. The proposed changes aim to introduce greater program consistency, enhancing New Jersey’s competitiveness with other states in attracting film productions. The new requirements will focus on filming guidelines and associated fees.

The document can be found here.

WHEN:           Feedback must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2025. Written feedback can be submitted to filmreadynj@njeda.gov.

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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State-of-the-art production studio campus at Fort Monmouth expected to create thousands of local jobs

TRENTON, N.J. (December 19, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board today approved Aspire tax credits for the Netflix Studio at Fort Monmouth. The studio will serve as Netflix’s flagship production location on the East Coast, which will redevelop the vacant Fort Monmouth campus and bring new, good-paying jobs to the area.

“With Netflix leading the way, the creation of new, world-class studios has solidified New Jersey’s standing as a national leader in film and television production,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The approval made by the NJEDA Board today will help create thousands of good-paying jobs, support small businesses and vendors, and stimulate the regional economy.”

Netflix Studio is considered a transformative project under the Aspire Program and was approved for an award not to exceed $387 million. The studio campus will be over one million square feet and sit on a 292-acre parcel at Fort Monmouth. The state-of-the-art production studio campus will include 12 soundstages, backlot areas, an office building, and other production support facilities. Netflix plans to open the full facility in 2028.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, the film industry is growing in New Jersey, exemplified by Netflix’s commitment to build a major, world-class studio at Fort Monmouth,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Aspire Program will ensure the continued development of this transformative project, which will bring good-paying union construction and permanent jobs. The Netflix Studio will prove to be an economic gamechanger for the residents and small businesses of Monmouth County.”

Earlier this year, the NJEDA Board designated Netflix as a Studio Partner, allowing the media company to access expanded benefits under the state’s Film and Digital Media Tax Credit program. Under the designation agreement, Netflix commits to occupy a New Jersey film production facility for at least 10 years and is potentially eligible for a 40 percent base tax credit for qualified production expenses on future New Jersey film projects.

“We are grateful to receive support from Governor Murphy, the local officials in Oceanport and Eatontown, and the NJEDA to help build Netflix Studios at Fort Monmouth,” said Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix. “This new studio will catalyze job creation and economic growth, contributing to a vibrant production ecosystem in New Jersey.”

Founded in 1997, Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services, offering subscription video-on-demand and over-the-top streaming services for movies, television shows, and games. In 2013, Netflix established its original content division and has since filmed several productions in New Jersey, such as The Irishman, The Perfect Find, and The Watcher.

“The film industry is thriving across New Jersey, and Netflix’s commitment to building a first-rate studio in Monmouth County highlights our state’s growing prominence in this field,” said Senator Vin Gopal. “This project will prove to have a significant impact on our local economy by helping to create jobs, support small businesses, and revitalize communities. I am grateful for the leadership of Governor Murphy and the NJEDA in fostering this growth and look forward to working with Netflix, as well as our local and state partners to help continue the development of this major studio.”

“I’m excited to see the amazing progress of the Netflix Fort Monmouth project over the last few weeks,” said Senator Declan O’Scanlon. “The Oceanport & Eatontown Planning Board approvals, followed by today’s award of Aspire tax credits, clears the path for this regionally transformative project to move forward. Local land use and State tax policy, impact business decisions and I’m thrilled to see all pulling in the same direction.”

“For several generations, Oceanport’s identity was tied to Fort Monmouth and Monmouth Park Racetrack. Monmouth Park came close to closing in 2012 and Fort Monmouth actually closed in 2010. Thanks to the hard work, meticulous planning and visionary land use projections of the NJEDA and FMERA, Oceanport’s identity for generations to come will be tied to Monmouth Park Racetrack and Netflix,” said Oceanport Mayor Thomas Tvrdik. “That Oceanport, Eatontown, and Monmouth County will serve as the East Coast hub of the world’s pre-eminent and most recognized creator of entertainment when this billion dollar build out is completed is nothing short of remarkable. Oceanport is very excited to welcome Netflix into our community and we stand ready, willing, and able to ensure that the final part of Fort Monmouth’s transformation from a closed off military facility to a mixed use site that is part and parcel of the Oceanport community is a quick and successful one.”

“The Borough of Eatontown is excited to enter the next phase of the Netflix project. We are grateful for the opportunity to work collaboratively with Mayor Tvrdik in Oceanport and the FMERA team led by Kara Kopach,” said Eatontown Mayor Anthony Talerico, Jr. “While nothing can replace the emotional and sentimental loss from the closure of Fort Monmouth, we are happy that vibrant new life will be brought to the area in such a large and innovative project.”

This is the second production studio approved for Aspire tax credits this year. In June, the NJEDA Board approved 1888 Studios for tax credits under the Aspire Program. The studio, developed by Togus Urban Renewal, will be the largest and first campus-style film and television studio facility in the Northeast, and will occupy 58 acres of land just minutes from New York City.

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. 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. Netflix Studios is the third transformative project approved under the new Aspire rules, which the NJEDA adopted in November 2023.

In line with Governor Murphy’s and the NJEDA’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency, the Aspire program rules include provisions, such as a gap financing review and excess revenue sharing requirements, to ensure tax credits are awarded responsibly. The Aspire program application, as well as complete rules, eligibility requirements, award sizes, and other information, can be found 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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Expanded website showcases massive volume of research being conducted statewide

TRENTON, N.J. (December 18, 2024) – The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) today announced the expansion of the website for ResearchwithNJ from five to eight leading research institutions, resulting in more than 365,000 pieces of research output and close to 7,000 researcher profiles. The robust platform, used globally, connects companies, faculty, and entrepreneurs with the goal of growing more academic research and business collaborations.

The recent site expansion adds participation by all New Jersey urban research university and medical schools spending greater than $5 million in research and development funding annually. Stevens Institute of Technology was added to the site in late 2023. With the recent expansion, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine has been added to the platform, and Kean University will be added to the site in December 2024.

The expanded ResearchwithNJ site offers details about research taking place at Kean University, Hackensack Meridian, Montclair State, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Princeton University/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Rowan University, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and Stevens Institute of Technology.

The expansion of ResearchwithNJ’s website will add hundreds of research outputs, faculty profiles, research facilities, grants, and award publications to the site. The site provides local, national, and international innovation communities with insight into groundbreaking research being conducted at New Jersey universities.

The free, online portal offers more than 365,000 pieces of research output and profiles close to 7,000 investigators that commercial enterprises, from startups to global corporations, can use to fuel their growth. Topics range across a broad spectrum of disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, and others.

“Our close ties to both the startup community and the state’s many academic institutions made the management of ResearchwithNJ by CSIT a natural fit,” said CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft. “We anticipate this expansion of ResearchwithNJ, combined with our ongoing efforts to expand outreach to emerging companies and academic professionals, will help strengthen connections between New Jersey’s research universities and the industry.”

ResearchwithNJ highlights the Garden State’s leading research experts and facilities, enhancing the visibility of research output. It also increases opportunities for users to create partnerships and build innovative new businesses and products based on the latest scientific and technological breakthroughs. Businesses can gain access to relevant areas of expertise, facilitating the transfer of technology to the marketplace. This includes information on subject matter experts, facilities, publications, intellectual property, news, and events. Investors considering investing in a startup can also leverage ResearchwithNJ to learn about research done by members of the company prior to investment.

“One of New Jersey’s greatest assets is our vast network of globally recognized universities, including all of the academic institutions that are a part of the ResearchwithNJ portal,” said CSIT Vice Chair Debbie Hart. “Through ResearchwithNJ, we are harnessing the brainpower of our state’s highly talented researchers and providing their intellectual data, free of charge, to individuals worldwide in order to help propel our innovation ecosystem forward.”

To date, the ResearchwithNJ platform has sourced nearly 365,000 outputs from all participating universities, incorporating more than 6,800 individual profiles, over 160 core facilities, and grants/projects topping 12,700.

“ResearchwithNJ is bridging academia and industry to amplify the impact of institutional research being done across New Jersey,” said Dr. Brian Bridges, Secretary of Higher Education. “By showcasing our researchers and intellectual capital, it positions the state as a hub for innovation and collaboration, fosters opportunities for students and faculty to engage impactful industry-relevant projects, and showcases how higher education is actively working to solve real-world challenges.”

“We are excited to launch Research with Hackensack with the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology and the State of New Jersey. The platform will be piloted with data from the Center for Discovery Innovation and the School of Medicine. The global platform will showcase our renown researchers, research outputs, grants/projects, and research units with the aim of building research/business collaborative and partnerships,” said Dr. Sandra Elliot, Vice President, Chief Innovation and Commercialization Officer, Hackensack Meridian Health. 

“Kean University is proud to join ResearchwithNJ, a global site that will highlight the rich and robust STEM-based research outputs, faculty, facilities, grants/outputs at the university. As the university strives toward R2 status, implements on recent prestigious Federal Grants to Increase Diversity in Biomedical Sciences and computational science fields, and builds greater commercialization pathways for research entrepreneurs, our inclusion onto Research with NJ further validates the academic rigor of our university,” said Dr. Keith Bostian, Associate Provost, Science and Technology, Kean University, CEO, Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship.

“Stevens Institute of Technology’s integration into ResearchwithNJ reflects our commitment to making transformative research accessible to industry partners and entrepreneurs,” said Ed Synakowski, Vice Provost for Research and Innovation at Stevens Institute of Technology. “With our research spanning artificial intelligence, climate resilience, sustainable energy and healthcare innovation, Stevens is experiencing unprecedented growth in research funding under our Strategic Plan. This partnership with ResearchwithNJ creates new pathways for companies to tap into our expertise and accelerates the translation of academic discoveries into real-world solutions that benefit New Jersey and beyond.”

ResearchwithNJ was developed under the leadership of an Advisory Board consisting of the participating research universities and industry representatives from the NJEDA, OSHE, New Jersey Business & Industry Association, Choose New Jersey, BioNJ, the HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, the R&D Council of New Jersey, and TechUnited. The Advisory Board provides oversight and recommendations to ensure the portal’s sustainability and success.

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.

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

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TRENTON, N.J. (December 12, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has published municipality opt-in documents to participate in the Garden State Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program. The program will allow commercial property owners in Participating Municipalities to access a new form of financing to undertake energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy, and resiliency improvements.

WHAT:          The Garden State C-PACE Program allows property owners to repay investments from Qualified Capital Providers into eligible projects through a special assessment to a Participating Municipality, similar to the owner’s real property tax, sewer, or water bill. The Participating Municipality then remits the payment to the initial capital provider. This unique form of financing can result in lower-cost, longer-term financing, making it easier for projects to be cashflow-positive from the outset. Municipalities are required to opt-in prior to any project application.

WHO:             Municipalities interested in participating in the Garden State C-PACE program.

WHEN:          Municipalities are required to first adopt the Opt-In Ordinance prior to submitting an application for participation in the Program to the Authority. Applications will open shortly and will be accepted on a rolling basis. For more information and to view the documents, click here. Interested parties may send questions to gardenstatecpace@njeda.gov.

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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Open public comment period closing today

TRENTON, N.J. (December 9, 2024) – The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), under the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), is seeking public input on amendments to the Commission’s Film Ready New Jersey Program requirements.

WHAT:           The Film Ready New Jersey Program is a multi-step training and certification program that prepares communities to accommodate and support movie and television productions and effectively market municipalities as film destinations. The proposed changes aim to introduce greater program consistency, enhancing New Jersey’s competitiveness with other states in attracting film productions. The new requirements will focus on filming guidelines and associated fees.

The document can be found here.

WHEN:          Feedback must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 p.m. today, Monday, December 9, 2024. Written feedback can be submitted to filmreadynj@njeda.gov. 

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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Small businesses encouraged to take advantage of the Small Business E-Commerce Support Program to develop website, marketing plan & implement online ordering

TRENTON, N.J. (December 4, 2024) – In recognition of Cyber Monday this week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is highlighting its $4 million Small Business E-Commerce Support Program, which has connected over 430 small businesses to consulting firms which will provide direct technical assistance. Of those businesses connected, 290 New Jersey businesses have successfully completed their consulting services, representing over $2.3 million in technical assistance, which have provided them with free e-commerce and digital marketing consulting services, to help them adapt to the growing e-commerce economy. To date, 39 percent of the funding has supported minority-owned small businesses.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is committed to providing small businesses with resources to ensure their success,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Small Business E-Commerce Support Program has delivered on this promise by assisting businesses with their digital marketing needs, and the NJEDA is ready to help even more local businesses statewide modernize their services, grow their customer base, and remain competitive in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape.”

The program offers consulting services to eligible restaurants, retailers, and personal care businesses to assist with web page design and development, online ordering implementation, online appointment booking implementation, e-commerce design and development, and online marketing plan development. Restaurants and personal care businesses can receive up to $11,400 in consulting services, while retail stores can receive up to $10,800.  The consultants work directly with the small business owners to provide a custom plan on what services will benefit their business. 

Reach for the Stars, LLC in Cranford took advantage of the NJEDA’s Small Business E-Commerce Program. Serving as a leader in pediatric speech throughout New York and New Jersey, its new website allows for visitors to read related articles and patient testimonials and explore resources that are available to them.

“As a small business owner, we are often forced to choose one essential project over another because of financial limitations. I was truly honored that my business was selected to receive a grant for a new website, and I couldn’t be happier with the end results,” said Reach for the Stars owner Lisa Jiannetto-Surrusco. “The grant enabled me to get this project done, while allocating the saved money for vital necessities like therapy and testing materials, professional development for the staff, and potential expansion of our menu of services.”

The Barefoot Bride was also able to launch its website through the help of the NJEDA’s Small Business E-Commerce Program. The Red Bank-based bridal shop offers a personalized retail experience for brides-to-be and their families. With its newly revamped website, customers can make their bridal appointments online and browse the latest wedding dress trends.

“For most small business owners having a functional website that is affordable is nonexistent. Being able to reach out to the NJEDA for help was a dream come true,” said The Barefoot Bride owner Mayra Perez Lowey. “We now have a beautiful working website that our customers can easily navigate.”

Cammie’s Spectacular Salon in Wrightstown utilized the NJEDA’s Small Business E-Commerce Program to fully redo its website to offer a full list of services and an online store. Customers now have the ability to book appointments online, as well as view testimonials and Google reviews.

“I have paid a lot of money in the past for services similar to the Small Business E-Commerce Program, and have received much less without the additional training,” said Cammie’s Spectacular Salon owner Trina Stroman. “Everyone was very patient and efficient, and provided me the assistance to move on independently, and still offer support up to 12 months. I really appreciate this.”

Through a competitive selection process, the NJEDA contracted with seven consulting firms to provide e-commerce and digital marketing services to small businesses until the funding is exhausted. Interested businesses should contact the consulting firm of their choice directly to setup an initial call to discuss their needs.

The firms include:

Small businesses interested in the program can click here to learn more.

This program is funded by the Main Street Recovery Finance Program, which was established under the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020 (ERA). The ERA created over 15 programs, including the $200 million Main Street Recovery Program. Since the Main Street Recovery Program launched in October 2021, the NJEDA made over 5,300 approvals for grants, loans, and technical assistance for small businesses totaling $168 million. The Small Business E-Commerce Support Program is the fifth pilot program the NJEDA approved under the Main Street Recovery Finance Program.

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 22, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is seeking public input on rules for the new Cultural and Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFÉ) tax credit program, which is aimed at elevating arts and culture across the state, increasing the number of first-rate art and cultural experiences for residents and visitors. The CAFÉ program will award up to $75 million in tax credits to capital projects of at least $5 million.

WHAT:           A virtual listening session will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Click here for more information.

WHEN:           Feedback must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024. Written feedback can be submitted here.

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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ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (November 21, 2024) – This week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved over $17 million in funding for the Local Property Acquisition Grant Program. The funding will support 12 real estate development projects throughout New Jersey.

“Since taking office, Governor Murphy has been dedicated to boosting the economic prospects of New Jersey’s communities, creating jobs for local residents, and generating vital tax revenue for municipalities,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The projects supported through the Local Property Acquisition Grant Program will help advance local economic development initiatives throughout the state by transforming unused real estate into vibrant commercial spaces and community hubs.”

First approved in 2023, the Local Property Acquisition Grant Program is a competitive grant program that will provide funding to municipalities, municipal entities, counties, county entities, and/or not-for-profit local economic and community development entities for the acquisition of a vacant site, building, facility, or collection of properties. Through this funding, awardees may develop or redevelop sites with the intention of supporting local or regional economic development priorities.

Program funding will support either acquisitions for strategic public use projects, including public plazas, parks, and walkways, or acquisitions for future development projects, including commercial or mixed-use developments and research or laboratory spaces.

The following projects were approved to receive funding through the Local Property Acquisition Grant Program:

  1. The Township of Verona will receive up to $1 million to acquire a vacant property located at 46 Lakeside Avenue to create a public parking lot.
  2. The Town of Westfield will receive up to $660,050 to acquire a vacant property located at 200 South Avenue West to create a pedestrian plaza/pocket park.
  3. The Camden Repertory Theater Community Development Group will receive a grant award up to $483,400 to acquire a vacant building at 918 Broadway. The project will be a mixed-use project with performing and exhibition spaces, training and workshop facilities, office space, and five units of affordable housing. 
  4. The Carteret Redevelopment Authority will receive a grant award of up to $1,547,500 to acquire vacant property located at 1179 & 1235-1239 Roosevelt Avenue. The project will be a mixed-use development with commercial space and over 200 residential units, including at least 20 percent affordable units.
  5. Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation Inc. will receive a grant award of up to $1,824,569 to acquire a vacant property located at 14 N. Mississippi Avenue in the Ducktown neighborhood in Atlantic City. The project will be a cultural arts center retaining the 200+ seat theater and converting the upper floors for additional classrooms and teaching areas for music and choir lessons, hosting educational programs and art exhibits, and offering concerts and performances.
  6. The Town of Clinton will receive a grant award of up to $2,409,108 to acquire a vacant property located at 19 West Main Street. The project will be a commercial development.
  7. Greater Bergen Community Action, Inc. will receive a grant award of up to $2,601,155 to acquire a vacant 24,000 square foot, 3-story building located at 106 Somerset Street. The project will be a mixed-use, multi-purpose building with office space, training rooms, community service programs such as Head Start and Adult Education and Training, as well as a credit union branch and a possible coffee shop for commuters.
  8. The Town of Hammonton will receive a grant award of up to $544,663 to acquire the 5,000 square foot vacant former Peoples Bank and Trust Company/First Bank of Hammonton building located at 15 Central Avenue. The project will be either a restaurant, retail, or entertainment space which will be determined following the Town’s Request for Proposals process.
  9. Ideal Education A NJ Nonprofit Corporation will receive a grant award of up to $703,000 to acquire a vacant 20,000 square foot building located at 7 South Carolina Avenue in Atlantic City. The project will be a community co-op food market and aquaponics farming facility. This project will be strategically located in the heart of Atlantic City and will help address local food security gaps and promote community revitalization efforts in the area. Atlantic City is both a Government Restricted Municipality and a Transitional Aid community and is thus eligible for up to 100 percent of appraised property value costs.
  10. The Institute of Music for Children will receive a grant award of up to $257,730 to acquire a vacant property located at 747 Westminster Avenue in Hillside. The project will be part of an expansion of their existing campus in Elizabeth.
  11. Paterson Habitat for Humanity, Inc. will receive a grant award of up to $988,500 to acquire a vacant property (approximately .22 acres) located at 26-32 Spring Street. The project will be a mixed-use new construction project of 16 affordable housing units and child-care space. This project will support city efforts to provide for child-care opportunities, the revitalization of vacant property, quality affordable housing units, and job creation.
  12.  The City of Trenton will receive a grant award of up to $4 million to acquire a vacant property located at 1 West Lafayette Street. The project will be a mixed-use development with hotel, residential, and commercial uses. Trenton is both a Government Restricted Municipality and a Transitional Aid community and is thus eligible for up to 100 percent of appraised property value costs.

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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Residential developments exclusively for seniors will be located in Gloucester & Middlesex counties

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (November 21, 2024) – This week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved two Aspire tax credit awards for affordable housing developments in New Brunswick and West Deptford, providing 150 units for seniors, veterans, and unhoused communities.

“The Aspire Program serves as a cornerstone of Governor Murphy’s stronger and fairer economic strategy by increasing access to affordable housing and investing in communities across the state,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Hildebrand Commons and the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans and Seniors Village will contribute to the long-term vibrancy and vitality of Gloucester and Middlesex counties, expanding the tax base and offering high-quality, accessible housing for hundreds of New Jersey residents.”

Hildebrand Commons, located at the former Hoffman Pavilion public housing facility in New Brunswick, will be a six-story building consisting of 66 housings units for seniors. 26 units will be reserved for income levels of 60 percent of the area median income (AMI), 26 units will be reserved for income levels of 50 percent of the AMI, and 13 units will be reserved for income levels of 30 percent of the AMI. The development will also include five special-needs units reserved for homeless individuals. Each unit will be equipped with an EnergyStar dishwasher and refrigerator, central air conditioning, and will comply with the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) Energy Star Homes Program.

The developer of Hildebrand Commons, Hoffman Housing Urban Renewal Associates, LLC, was approved for up to 60 percent of the total project cost, not to exceed $20.1 million. The project is also supported by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits through the NJHMFA.

“We are proud to partner with the NJEDA and Hoffman Housing Urban Renewal Associates on this transformative project, which not only addresses the critical need for affordable housing but also enhances our community by providing state-of-the-art, energy-efficient homes for those who need them most,” said New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill. “Hildebrand Commons represents a significant step forward in ensuring that New Brunswick remains a city where our senior residents can live with dignity, security, and opportunity.”

The project located in West Deptford, known as the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans and Seniors Village, will be a newly constructed 84-unit residential development exclusively for seniors and veterans. The four-story building will include a total of 84 one- and two- bedroom units. 63 units will be reserved for seniors at low- and moderate-income levels, 21 of which will be for veterans experiencing physical or mental disabilities. Amenities for the development include space for telehealth appointments, private space to meet with case managers or outside service providers, a community room, lounges on each floor, laundry rooms, and outdoor gathering space.

The development owners, West Deptford Apartments LLC, were approved for up to 60 percent of the total project cost, not to exceed $25.3 million. The project is also supported by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits through the NJHMFA.

The co-applicant of the project, Soldier On Veterans Village IX LLC, will provide a variety of services and programs to help residents live independently. Services include financial literacy, legal services, nutritional education, transportation services, and mental health and substance use education.

“The Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans and Seniors Village is a testament to our commitment to supporting both our seniors and veterans, two of the most deserving groups in our community,” said West Deptford Mayor James Mehaffey. “This development will not only provide affordable, high-quality housing but also offer vital services that empower residents. We are appreciative of all of the hard work in developing the project, and are appreciative of the NJEDA and Aspire program for helping facilitate the positive impact it will have on West Deptford.”

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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