Bidding Opportunities
Thank you for your interest in bidding opportunities with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.
Please see the links below to visit the page for the type of bidding opportunity you are interested in.
Business Support Administrative Goods and Services Bidding Opportunities
Below please find a list of IPM Administrative Goods and Services bidding opportunities currently being offered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. Please see the listing below for the opportunity that is of interest to you:
Questions due by: Friday, September 20, 2024 at 1:00pm (EST)
Qualification Submittals due by: Friday, October 18, 2024 at 1:00 pm (EST)
- 196 – Addendum #1
- 196 – 2023-RFQ-196 REVISED 10.3.24
- 196 – Legal Notice
- 196 – Exhibit A – Professional Services Qualification Statement (PSQS)
- 196 – Exhibit B1 – TOR Request
- 196 – Exhibit B2 – TOR Conflict of Interest
- 196 – Exhibit B3 – TOR Response
- 196 – Exhibit C – Proposer’s Checklist
- 196 – Exhibit D – Signatory Page
- 196 – Exhibit E – Notice of Required State Compliance
- 196 – Exhibit F – Insurance Requirements
- 196 – Exhibit G – Contract for Services
- 196 – Exhibit H – Rider for Purchases Funded by Federal Funds
- 196 – Exhibit I – Notice of EO166
- 196 – Exhibit J – RFQ Firm Matrix
Questions due by: Friday, September 13, 2024 at 2:00pm (EST)
Responses due by:Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 2:00pm (ET).
- 220 – Addendum #2
- 220 – 2024-RFP-220 REVISED
- 220 – Addendum #1
- 220 – Legal Notice
- 220 – Fee Schedule
- 220 – RFP Signatory Page
- 220 – Bidders Checklist
- 220 – Exhibit A – Contract for Services
- 220 – Exhibit B1 – TOR Request
- 220 – Exhibit B2 – TOR COI
- 220 – Exhibit B3 – TOR Response
- 220 – Exhibit C – ESOP Eligibility Tool Intake Form
Questions due by: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 1:00pm (EST)
Qualification Submittals due by: Friday, June 14, 2024 at 1:00pm (EST)
Mandatory Site Visit Dates: Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 10:00am (EST) or Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 10:00am (EST)
- 198 – Addendum #7
- 198 – Addendum #6
- 198 – Addendum #5
- 198 – Addendum #4
- 198 – Addendum #3
- 198 – Addendum #2
- 198 – Addendum #1
- 198 – 2023-RFQ-198 REVISED
- 198 – Legal Notice
- 198 – 2023-RFQ-198
- 198 – Exhibit A – Professional Services Qualification Statement (PSQS)
- 198 – Exhibit B – Visitors Registration Form
- 198 – Exhibit C1 – TOR Request
- 198 – Exhibit C2 – TOR COI
- 198 – Exhibit C3 – TOR Response
- 198 – Exhibit D – Proposer’s Checklist
- 198 – Exhibit E – Signatory Page
- 198 – Exhibit F – Site Access Directions
- 198 – Exhibit G – Visitor’s Assumption of Risk
- 198 – Exhibit H – Tour Application
- 198 – Exhibit I – Project Overview
- 198 – Exhibit J – Notice of Required Compliance
- 198 – Exhibit K – Insurance Requirements
- 198 – Exhibit L – Contract for Services
- 198 – Exhibit M – Rider for Purchases Funded by Federal Funds
Questions due by: Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 2:00pm (EST)
Responses due by: Friday, September 13, 2024 at 2:00pm (EST)
- 203 – 2024-RFP-203 REVISED
- 203 – Addendum #1
- 203 – Legal Notice
- 203 – Fee Schedule and Contract Budget Form
- 203 – Attachment A Exhibit #2 – NJEDA Signatory Page
- 203 – Attachment A Exhibit #3 – NJEDA Proposer’s Checklist
- 203 – Attachment A Exhibit #4 – NJEDA Rider for Purchases Funded by Federal Funds
- 203 – Attachment A Exhibit #5 – NJEDA Contract for Services
- 203 – B1 Proposal Checklist
- 203 – B2 Vendor Responsibility
- 203 – B3 Disclosure of Prior Findings of Non-Responsibility
- 203 – B4 Executive Order 16
- 203 – B5 Sample Agreement
REal Estate Procurement opportunities
Below please find a list of Real Estate procurement opportunities currently being offered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. Please see the listing below for the opportunity that is of interest to you:
Currently there are no open bidding opportunities. Please check back often. New opportunities are posted as they become available. Thank you.
Questions are due: September 26th at 1:00pm
Qualification Submittals are due: October 10th at 1:00pm
- 0000060 – Addendum #1
- 0000060 – Legal Notice
- 0000060 – 2023-RERFQ-0000060
- 0000060 – Exhibit A-1 – Contractor’s Qualification Statement – AIA Document A305
- 0000060 – Exhibit A-2 – RCM 1
- 0000060 – Exhibit B – Acknowledgement of Receipt of Addenda / Q&A form
- 0000060 – Exhibit C – Submittal Checklist
- 0000060 – Exhibit D – Notice of Executive Order 166 Requirement for Posting Winning Proposal and Contract Documents
- 0000060 – Exhibit E – Notice of Required State of New Jersey Compliance (Informational Purposes)
- 0000060 – Exhibit F – Notice of Required Terms Relating To All Contracts Funded, In Whole or In Part, By Federal Funds (Informational Purposes)
- 0000060 – Exhibit G – Insurance Requirements (Informational Purposes)
- 0000060 – Exhibit H – Terms and Conditions Relating to Contracting With Minority, Women and Veteran Owned Businesses
Questions are due: September 11th at 2:00pm
Qualification Submittals are due: September 29, 2023 at 2:00pm
- 0000059 – Addendum #2
- 0000059 – 2023-RERFQ 0000059-REVISED
- 0000059 – Addendum #1: September 15, 2023
- 0000059 – Legal Notice
- 0000059 – 2023-RERFQ-0000059
- 0000059 – Exhibit A – Professional Services Qualification Statement (PSQS)
- 0000059 – Exhibit B – RFQ Firm Project Matrix
- 0000059 – Exhibit D – Acknowledgement of Receipt of Addenda / Q&A form
- 0000059 – Exhibit E – Submittal Checklist
- 0000059 – Exhibit F – Notice of Required State Compliance
Electronic Proposals:
Written Communication:
Jones Lang LaSalle
8 Campus Drive
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Attention: Broker of Record
with a copy to:
Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc.
200 East Randolph Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Attention: General Counsel – Americas
Fax No. (312) 228-2277
QUESTIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED VIA E-MAIL BY: FEBRUARY 12,2024, 11:59 PM U.S.(ET)
OFFER DEADLINE POSTPONED UNTIL: 3:00 PM U.S (ET), MAY 3, 2024
- Addendum #5
- Addendum #4
- Addendum #3
- Addendum #2
- Addendum #1
- NJWP Notice to Lease
- Exhibit A – Lease Notice Offer Instruction and Letter Template
- Exhibit B – Key Lease Terms
- Exhibit C – Compliance Checklist
- Exhibit D – Ownership Disclosure Form
- Exhibit E – Ground Lease Between PSEG Nuclear LLC, as Landlord, and NJEDA, as Tenant
- Exhibit F – Compliance Requirements Pertaining to the New Jersey Wind Port
- Exhibit G – Confidentiality Agreement
- Exhibit H – Iran Disclosure Form
- Exhibit I – NJWP Tour Slide Deck
Industry Engagement – Requests for Information (RFI)
Below please find a list of RFIs currently being offered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. Please see the listing below for the RFI that is of interest to you:
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
2023-RFI-180 for Commercial Building Decarbonization
NJEDA is extending the deadline to submit responses to the Commercial Building Decarbonization RFI to 5:00 pm EDT on July 24, 2023.
INTENT/SUMMARY OF SCOPE
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority,” “NJEDA,” or “EDA”), an independent authority of the State of New Jersey, is seeking information and ideas from qualified entities (“Respondents”) regarding potential programs and funding allocations from the EDA to support commercial building decarbonization projects in the State. Specifically, the EDA would be focusing on potential programs for commercial buildings, but these may also include institutional, industrial, and larger multifamily buildings.
Building decarbonization refers to efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector. This includes, but is not limited to, reducing operational emissions via fuel switching; beneficial electrification; energy efficiency improvements; on-site renewable energy generation and storage; replacement, repairs, or installation of leak detection systems for highly warming refrigerants; and implementation of demand responsive building systems. In addition, embodied carbon can be considered, which includes also evaluating the lifecycle emission impacts of the materials that make up the physical construction of the building. Reducing embodied carbon for a building includes evaluating and reducing emissions resulting from a building material’s extraction, manufacturing, transport, construction, maintenance, and disposal.
The Authority is interested in receiving information (including but not limited to comments, questions, recommendations, white papers, tools, case studies, information, ideas, references, and general responses, e.g., willingness to participate in a focus group) that will help it to shape new programs and initiatives to accelerate building decarbonization within the commercial building sector within New Jersey. More specifically, this RFI aims to help the Authority better understand:
- The key opportunities and barriers (financial, policy, regulatory, technological, logistical) around decarbonization of commercial buildings in New Jersey.
- Specific partnerships, funding, programs, and/or other resources needed to enable building decarbonization projects to occur.
BACKGROUND
The Authority serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The Authority is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on strategies that 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 Authority 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.
Under the leadership of Governor Murphy, New Jersey has taken bold action to reduce climate pollutants and accelerate the transition to clean energy, while fostering growth of our clean energy economy. The State has set several key energy and climate targets, including transitioning to 100% clean electricity by 2035 (Murphy E.O. 315). The “Global Warming Response Act”, P.L. 2007, c.112, (“GWRA”) commits New Jersey to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 80% below 2006 levels by 2050, and as updated within Murphy E.O. 274, to 50% below 2006 levels by 2030.
Governor Murphy has furthered the push for building decarbonization in the State with the goal that, by December 31, 2030, 400,000 additional dwelling units and 20,000 additional commercial spaces and/or public facilities statewide will utilize electric systems for space heating/cooling and water heating (Murphy E.O. 316).
Buildings currently are the second highest source of overall greenhouse gas emissions (26% of total emissions) in the State. Commercial buildings alone account for 10% of the total greenhouse gas emissions in the State (NJDEP Greenhouse Gas Inventory, Dec. 2022). Most building-generated direct greenhouse gas emissions result from space heating via energy derived from fossil fuel combustion. A smaller portion is derived from similar energy used for water heating and cooking. Greenhouse gas emissions from electric consumption within buildings are already accounted for via overall electric generation sources (21% of the State’s total emissions).
Therefore, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector is a critical strategy for reducing overall statewide emissions. This work includes retrofitting and upgrading existing buildings in the State while also constructing new buildings to highly efficient and net zero carbon/energy standards. As outlined in the State’s 2019 Energy Master Plan, successfully acting to combat the threat of climate change includes expanding the clean energy innovation economy to “support the growth of in-state clean energy industries through workforce training, clean energy finance solutions, and investing in innovative research and development programs.”
In accordance with a statewide effort to address environmental justice (Murphy E.O. 23), the Authority is committed to prioritizing building decarbonization and clean energy investments in the State’s overburdened communities—those that have been subject to a disproportionally high number of environmental and public health stressors due to a legacy of historically siting sources of pollution in low-income communities and communities of color.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The RFI is seeking responses from all interested stakeholders. Specifically, this RFI welcomes input from entities, organizations, and individuals including:
- Commercial building owners and property developers of all development models and sizes, including those with single buildings or larger portfolios
- Financial institutions involved in real estate transactions and construction financing
- Building management, maintenance, and operations personnel
- Building construction businesses and workers, including but not limited to industry associations, chambers of commerce, and unions
- Other businesses and associated trade groups (restaurants, manufacturers, retailers, grocers, etc.)
- Building design professionals (engineers, architects, planners, modelers, etc.), especially those with experience in green buildings, energy management, and building decarbonization approaches
- Subject matter experts and entities with expertise on green building technologies and best practices, including research institutions
- Manufacturers and installers for electric heating and cooling systems (including heat pumps, VRF systems) and other electric appliances
- Energy efficiency, building envelope, and related contractors
- Utility providers and operators
- Environmental and other public policy-focused organizations
- Organizations representing Environmental Justice communities (together with individual representatives of these communities)
- Jurisdictional and regulatory representatives (from NJ, all other states and territories, and international sources)
Qualified entities do not need to be located within the State of New Jersey to provide a response.
RFI RESPONSE QUESTIONS
In submitting responses to this RFI, respondents are encouraged to answer any questions they consider relevant and to the best of their ability. Respondents do not need to answer all questions for their response to be considered. Answers are understood to be preliminary and non-binding. Respondents are free to go beyond the scope of the questions and/or structure responses as necessary to increase clarity and efficiency of responses. Respondents should also feel free to submit additional or alternate information as deemed necessary and appropriate.
The NJEDA is considering establishing programs to support building decarbonization projects in New Jersey for the commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. Potential programs are intended to provide financial support for building decarbonization projects for retrofits and/or new construction. Projects may include, but are not limited to, electrifying building systems/appliances, conducting energy efficiency improvements, and related work that reduces greenhouse gas emissions from the State’s buildings sector. Financial support may be in the form of low interest/forgivable loans, grants, and/or other financing mechanisms. In particular, the NJEDA is looking to understand what kind of additional financial support it can provide to complement other existing building incentive and financing programs offered from its public and private partners.
The questions within this RFI are intended to garner feedback on potential programs and priorities, as well as solicit general information from relevant stakeholders.
Background
- Please provide information on you/your entity’s background (name, location, organization/business type and size), and your involvement or interest in building decarbonization. How do you define building decarbonization?
Building Decarbonization Projects
2. Given New Jersey’s clean energy goals and commitment to building decarbonization, what specific actions would you recommend the NJEDA take to accelerate building decarbonization in the State?
3. What are the major financial barriers (e.g., construction/installation costs, operational costs, access to capital, enabling work required, investment payback period, etc.) and non-financial barriers (e.g., regulatory barriers, lack of familiarity with new building system technologies, operational and reliability issues, procurement timelines, space constraints, etc.) to the pursuance of building decarbonization projects in New Jersey?
a. How can these barriers be addressed and overcome?
4. Where are there gaps in existing incentive programs (considering all incentives at the local, utility, state, and federal level) that are meant to encourage adoption of energy efficiency improvements, implementation of on-site renewable energy generation, and similar projects related to building decarbonization goals?
a. Are there project costs not adequately covered by incentives that prohibit participation in building decarbonization?
b. Is the timeline for awarding incentives within the overall project schedule sufficient to encourage participation?
5. For what kind of projects [size (capital cost or square footage), building type (style or material), occupant use] is additional financial support for building decarbonization most needed?
a. During what phase (design, procurement, construction, commissioning, etc.) of a typical construction project (renovation or new construction) would this support be most valuable?
6. Does the recognition from securing industry-recognized building certifications (i.e., LEED, ILFI, Passive House, etc.) provide any/sufficient incentive for pursuing building decarbonization projects?
a. Are these certifications appropriate metrics to use for properly evaluating a building’s emissions/energy performance, or should other approaches be used?
b. Are there barriers (i.e., administrative time, application fees) to securing these building certifications that impact decisions on whether to pursue net-zero energy/carbon building design on a given project?
7. Are there any specific or notable barriers to building decarbonization projects that are unique to overburdened communities?
a. How can these barriers be overcome or eliminated?
b. In what ways can residents of overburdened and environmental justice communities be supported to engage in building decarbonization projects both in their own communities and beyond?
c. How could a program best support the inclusion of small and diverse businesses in the building decarbonization economy?
Building Decarbonization Strategies and Technologies
8. Which technologies that support building decarbonization are most viable for adoption in New Jersey in the immediate term? Which technologies are not (or not yet) viable for adoption? Please explain your reasoning and provide any supporting references.
9. Please describe the factors that are considered when deciding when to replace or upgrade building systems and determining what technologies should be utilized if replacement occurs. This includes MEP systems, appliances, and building envelope components.
10. Do building owners and/or business owners have sufficient sources of information to make informed decisions on which technologies or equipment to adopt in their buildings?
a. Are building operations and maintenance personnel adequately trained and comfortable working with new technologies?
b. If not, what possible steps could be taken to help support education and information sharing to support building decarbonization adoption?
11. To what extent does consideration of embodied carbon (i.e., lifecycle emissions impact of building materials and construction/deconstruction methods) factor into project decisions about building design and construction?
a. In what ways could financial support accelerate the consideration of embodied carbon on a project level or larger industry scale?
12. What type or level of additional incentives or financial support would be necessary to encourage adoption of building technologies and construction methods that surpass existing minimum building code requirements for energy performance
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (from Respondents to NJEDA)
All questions concerning this RFI must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 PM ET, on Monday, June 19, 2023, via e-mail to: buildingdecarbRFI@njeda.gov.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: Questions-2023-RFI-180.
Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the Authority’s website on or about Monday, June 26, 2023, at: https://www.njeda.gov/bidding/#OET as Addenda.
IT IS THE RESPONDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK THIS URL REGULARLY FOR UPDATES.
RESPONSE DETAILS (Info Provided to Respondents Regarding Document Submission)
All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 PM ET on Monday, July 24, 2023, via e-mail to: buildingdecarbRFI@njeda.gov.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: RFI Response-2023-RFI-180.
FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS (from NJEDA) / ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Respondents may be invited to provide additional information to allow the Authority to better understand information provided.
PROPRIETARY AND/OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The Authority reserves the right to copy any information provided by the Respondents. The Authority reserves the right to use ideas that are provided by Respondents, applicants, stakeholders, or vendors. By submitting a Response, the submitter represents that such copying or use of information will not violate any copyrights, licenses, or other agreements with respect to information submitted or product solutions demonstrated, if applicable. Responses must clearly be marked for any information the Respondent deems Proprietary and/or Confidential.
The Authority further reserves the right to share information with the NJDEP, NJBPU, and the Governor’s Office on Climate Action and the Green Economy
DISCLAIMER / NO OBLIGATION
The Authority is under no obligation to contact Respondents to this RFI. If necessary, it may contact respondents through telephone calls, written or electronic communications, presentation requests and/or interviews to seek clarification on submissions. Please note that, Respondents shall not be under any obligation to respond to any such request.
This RFI is completely voluntary and will not affect scoring or consideration of any applications that may in the future be submitted to the Authority under programs or projects intended to strengthen New Jersey’s clean energy economy.
This RFI is issued solely as a means of gathering information. Interested parties responding to this RFI do so at their own expense. There will be no monetary compensation from the Authority for the time and effort spent in preparing the response to this RFI. All expenses incurred are the sole responsibility of the Respondent.
This RFI is not a request for qualification/proposal. It may or may not result in further action.Should the Authority to move forward and issue an RFQ/P or announce a program/product related to this RFI, Respondents need not have submitted a response to this RFI in order to be eligible for the program or to respond to the RFP. Should an RFQ/P be issued, responding to this RFI will not affect scoring or consideration for that process.
NEW JERSEY OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS ACT
Respondents should be aware that responses to this RFI are subject to the “New Jersey Open Public Records Act” (N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.), as amended and including all applicable regulations and policies and applicable case law, including the New Jersey Right-to-Know law. All information submitted in response to the RFI is considered public information, notwithstanding any disclaimers to the contrary, except as may be exempted from public disclosure by OPRA and the common law.
Any proprietary and/or confidential information submitted in response to this RFI will be redacted by the Authority. A person or entity submitting a response to this RFI may designate specific information as not subject to disclosure pursuant to the exceptions to OPRA found at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, when such person or entity has a good faith legal and/or factual basis for such assertion (i.e. information that may be included in another ongoing public procurement or solicitation). The Authority reserves the right to make the determination as to what is proprietary or confidential and will advise the person or entity accordingly. The Authority will not honor any attempt to designate the entirety of a submission as proprietary, confidential and/or to claim copyright protection for the entire proposal. In the event of any challenge to the Respondent’s assertion of confidentiality with which the Authority does not concur, the Respondent shall be solely responsible for defending its designation.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
2023-RFI-199 – Development of a Statewide Employee Ownership Program
1. INTENT/SUMMARY OF SCOPE
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”), an independent Authority of the State of New Jersey, is seeking information and ideas from qualified entities (“Respondents”).
This Request for Information (RFI) is issued by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”, “NJEDA”) to seek information from firms and individuals with perspectives on the proven best practices, potential challenges and appropriate considerations relevant to the development of a Statewide Employee Ownership program. The creation of such program would aim to engage interested parties, potential consultants, and eligible businesses in the establishment and success of an employee ownership model with the support of the Authority. The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, recommendations, facts, information, ideas, and responses that will help the NJEDA better understand the scope and characteristics of Employee Ownership – highlighted as a potential Wealth Disparity Initiative by the Governor’s Wealth Disparity Task Force – in anticipation of the development of a Statewide Employee Ownership Program.
2. BACKGROUND
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The Authority 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 Authority 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.
The Wealth Disparity Task Force (WDTF), under Executive Order 262, was charged to examine the causes of and remedies for the long-standing racial and ethnic-based wealth disparities in New Jersey. Each of the five working groups were tasked with offering recommendations in the areas of criminal justice, economy, education, health, and housing. During the course of its work, the Wealth Disparity Task Force recommended broadening employee ownership opportunities in New Jersey to support asset limited income constrained workers. (ALICE – United Way).
3. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA (If applicable)
NJEDA is soliciting input from any of the following groups: New Jersey-based businesses of any size and industry; Employee-Owned entities located within the United States; Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) technical assistance providers; Chambers of Commerce and other business advocacy organizations; business and entrepreneurship support organizations; Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs); policy and academic researchers; foundations and philanthropic initiatives that support Employee Ownership and/or work to address socioeconomic disparities; any other individual or entity who has perspectives or experiences relevant to this Request for Information.
4. RFI RESPONSE QUESTIONS
Description of your role and qualifications related to creating, administering, or contributing to a statewide Employee Ownership Programs:
- Please provide information on your organization, group, government entity, or self and your capacity and qualifications as they relate to Employee Ownership.
- What is your experience with and understanding of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs), and/or Employee Ownership?
- Which key areas are you/your organization most qualified to address (choose and explain how all that apply)?
- Technical assistance relating to the conversion of a company to Employee Ownership
- Business outreach and public education on Employee Ownership
- Financial, technical, legal, and/or other needs of companies interested in converting to an Employee-Owned company
- Statewide Employee Ownership financial product development and administration
Other, please explain
For Business Owners and Business Support Organizations – Experienced and/or potential challenges related to Employee Ownership Programs:
- If your organization or entities with which your organization works have converted to an Employee-Owned entity:
- What are some of the challenges your organization has directly experienced relating to Employee Ownership?
- How successful was this opportunity to your organization?
- What tools led to this success?
- If your organization is not Employee-Owned but has considered converting to Employee Ownership:
- What are some of the challenges your organization has become aware of relating to Employee Ownership?
- Are these challenges preventing you from taking action towards converting to Employee Ownership?
- What types of financial or technical support have been/could be most critical to the conversion of a business to Employee Ownership? Please be as specific as possible.
- Please provide any information relating to Employee Ownership that you feel is relevant for the NJEDA to understand.
- Provide examples or experiences, if you are aware of any, related to industry best practices regarding other states launching and administering a statewide Employee Ownership program
For Employee Ownership Industry Partners, Researchers, Institutions, and Policy Experts – Experienced and/or potential challenges related to Employee Ownership:
- In your experience, what are the ways in which Employee Ownership can support minimizing the wealth divide, especially for historically socioeconomically disadvantaged groups?
- What types of financial or technical support have been/could be most critical to the conversion of a business to Employee Ownership?
- What key considerations should the State be aware and mindful of during the development of an Employee Ownership program?
- What financial mechanisms are most critical to developing a comprehensive public-facing Employee Ownership program?
- What are industry standards and best practices to be considered when building a program to help support Employee Ownership plans?
- What other states or entities have existing programs/models that have been successful in supporting efforts for Employee Ownerships plans? How was success defined specific to that program?
- What industry sectors would be or have been most successful in the creation and implementation of Employee Ownership models?
5. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (From Respondents to the NJEDA)
All questions concerning this RFI must be submitted in writing no later than 12pm EST, on Wednesday, April 10th via e-mail to: EmployeeOwnership@njeda.gov.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: “QUESTIONS-2024 RFI-199 Development of a Statewide Employee Ownership Program”.
Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the Authority’s website on or about Wednesday, April 17th at: Bidding Opportunities – NJEDA as Addendum
IT IS THE RESPONDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK THIS URL REGULARLY FOR UPDATES.
6. RESPONSE DETAILS (Info Provided to Respondents Regarding Document Submission)
All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than 11:59pm EST, on Wednesday, April 24th via e-mail to: EmployeeOwnership@njeda.gov
The subject line of the e-mail should state: “RFI Response-2024-RFI-199 Development of a Statewide Employee Ownership Program”.
7. FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS (from the NJEDA) / ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Respondents may be asked to provide additional information to allow the Authority to better understand the responses or services available.
8. PROPRIETARY AND/OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The Authority reserves the right to copy any information provided by the Respondents. The Authority reserves the right to use ideas that are provided by Respondents, applicants, stakeholders, or vendors. By submitting a Response, the submitter represents that such copying or use of information will not violate any copyrights, licenses, or other agreements with respect to information submitted or product solutions demonstrated, if applicable. Responses must clearly be marked for any information the Respondent deems Proprietary and/or Confidential.
9. DISCLAIMER / NO OBLIGATION
This RFI is not a request for qualification/proposal. It may or may not result in further action.
This RFI is issued solely as a means of gathering information regarding the Authority’s desire to understand the types of products and level of service available in the market to meet the Authority’s needs. Interested parties responding to this RFI do so at their own expense. There will be no monetary compensation from the Authority for the time and effort spent in preparing the response to this RFI. All expenses incurred are the sole responsibility of the Respondent.
Should the Authority decide to move forward and issue an RFQ/P or announce a program/product related to this RFI, Respondents need not have submitted a response to this RFI in order to be eligible to respond to the RFP. Should an RFQ/P be issued, responding to this RFI will not affect scoring or consideration for that process.
The Authority is under no obligation to contact Respondents to this RFI.
10. NEW JERSEY OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS ACT
Respondents should be aware that responses to this RFI are subject to the “New Jersey Open Public Records Act” (N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.), as amended and including all applicable regulations and policies and applicable case law, including the New Jersey Right-to-Know law. All information submitted in response to the RFI is considered public information, notwithstanding any disclaimers to the contrary, except as may be exempted from public disclosure by OPRA and the common law. Any proprietary and/or confidential information submitted in response to this RFI will be redacted by the Authority. A person or entity submitting a response to this RFI may designate specific information as not subject to disclosure pursuant to the exceptions to OPRA found at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, when such person or entity has a good faith legal and/or factual basis for such assertion (i.e. information that may be included in another ongoing public procurement or solicitation). The Authority reserves the right to make the determination as to what is proprietary or confidential and will advise the person or entity accordingly. The Authority will not honor any attempt to designate the entirety of a submission as proprietary, confidential and/or to claim copyright protection for the entire proposal. In the event of any challenge to the Respondent’s assertion of confidentiality with which the Authority does not concur, the Respondent shall be solely responsible for defending its designation.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
2024-RFI-217 for NJWP Manufacturing Technical Inquiry
- INTENT/SUMMARY OF SCOPE
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”), an independent Authority of the State of New Jersey, is seeking information and ideas from qualified entities (“Respondents”).
This Request for Information (RFI) is issued by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”, “NJEDA”) to seek information from firms with perspectives on Development and Technical Requirements. The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, recommendations, facts, information, ideas, and responses that will help the NJEDA better understand the scope and characteristics of the New Jersey Wind Port in anticipation of the upcoming Notice for Lease Property (“Notice”).
This Request for Information (RFI) is issued by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”, “NJEDA”) to seek information from firms with perspectives on the current state and needs of the maritime workforce. The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, recommendations, facts, information, ideas, and responses that will help the NJEDA better understand the scope and characteristics of maritime-related workforce development programs in anticipation of shaping new programs and initiatives to support workforce development for occupations as licensed captains, pilots, mates, and crew, and all workers on a vessel operating at sea to install or maintain offshore wind energy components.
2. BACKGROUND
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The Authority 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 Authority 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.
NJEDA is preparing to issue a Notice for Lease of Property (“Notice”) that will target firms interested in leasing land at the New Jersey Wind Port to establish manufacturing facilities to produce components for offshore wind turbines.
NJEDA anticipates that the permitted uses and site development framework identified in this upcoming Notice will be more firmly defined than in prior NJEDA notices to lease. Therefore, NJEDA is seeking feedback and other information in response to the questions below about NJEDA’s anticipated development of the parcel area(s) that will be the subject of the upcoming Notice.
3. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA (If applicable)
NJEDA is looking for responses from firms that have relevant expertise and experience with topics discussed below in wind turbine manufacturing requirements.
Respondents are not required to respond to all questions below to submit a response to this RFI. NJEDA will consider RFI responses from all industry participants. There is no additional requirement to respond to a future Notice. In addition, not responding to this RFI will not impact eligibility to respond to a future Notice.
Qualified entities do not need to be located within the State of New Jersey to provide a response.
4. RFI RESPONSE QUESTIONS
- Development approach
(a) NJEDA envisions a collaborative approach to development of the lease areas, whereby
i. NJEDA would fund and complete limited pre-construction and construction work, including: all earthworks of the leasable parcel areas up to a specified load-bearing capacity; completion of heavy haul access roads; and other common use port infrastructure including installation of utility connections up to the boundary of the leasable parcel area(s); and (ii) the tenant would fund and complete all other required pre-construction and construction work, including completion of design (beyond NJEDA’s design) and all sitework (e.g., construction of stormwater systems and all utilities infrastructure within the bounds of the leasable parcel area(s)) required for its facilities and business activities. Please provide feedback on potential allocation of funding and construction scope, including any factors that should be considered in respect to site and facility development timing considerations.
(b) Under the development approach described above, are there any risk allocation issues or other commercial or technical issues that NJEDA should take into consideration for site occupancy?
(c) Under the development approach described above, what methodologies could a prospective tenant utilize to fund the upfront construction costs of a project. What type of preliminary financial plan information could prospective tenants provide (e.g., sources and uses of funds and potential financing structures, timing of financial close)? Would prospective tenants require third-party support to facilitate their access to construction funding in any manner? If so, please provide a description and rationale for the type of support that would be required. [1]
[1] Respondents are encouraged to review information pertaining to the New Jersey Offshore Wind Tax Credit, which can be found here: Offshore Wind Tax Credit Program – NJEDA. - Technical Requirements
(a) Gas and Chemical Requirements
i. Based on current trends what are the popular/needed components of wind turbines that are currently being manufactured. At this time, the New Jersey Wind Port does not have a direct supply of natural gas. What chemical and gas products are required for the manufacturing of the component(s) stated in 2(a)(i) above? Are any of these products considered ‘must-have’ for the production process (i.e. support an essential production process with no suitable substitute chemical/gas product)?
ii. Are there any other products (including direct electricity supply) which could be used as substitutes for the products listed in 2(a)(ii) above? Please name the preferred product, and the potential substitute product, and describe any limitations or other production impacts that would arise as a result of using the substitute product.
iii. For each product listed in 2(a)(ii) and 2(a)(iii) above, please provide the following information:
– Quantity of product used each week in a typical production week.
– Quantity typically stored at the production site.
– Method of storage, including placement of storage container(s) relative to production site.
-Typical frequency of product replenishment.
-Typical method of transporting product to the production site (i.e., how is the product conveyed from its origin location).
iv. What safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and mitigation measures (including spill response and emergency response) are typically instituted for the transportation, storage and usage of the products listed in 2(a)(ii) and (iii) above. Please include a description of typical storage and sensor/monitoring specifications.
v. What are the typical emissions and waste associated with usage of the products listed in 2(a)(ii) and 2(a)(iii) above.
vi. What production processes are the products listed in 2(a)(ii) and (iii) above used in (e.g., painting, coating, welding, other)?
vii. How is each product listed in 2(a)(ii) and (iii) above used? What instrument(s) or equipment are used in the production processes that necessitate use of the above-named products.
(b) Inbound Transportation of Raw Materials and Other Inputs
i. Please list the raw materials and other input products that are required in the production process.
ii. Recognizing that the New Jersey Wind Port does not currently have direct rail access, please provide the typical/preferred transportation method for each input product.
iii. Please provide the typical/preferred frequency and shipment quantity for transportation of each input to the production site.
(c) Production Facility Requirements
i. Are there minimum or industry standard of dimensions/square footage for each production facility required for the production process of the components listed in 2(a)(i) above? Is there a minimum facility length that NJEDA should consider?
ii. If more than one production facility is required, what is the typical orientation of the facilities in relation to one another? Is there a minimum setback or other orientation required between the facilities to enable operational efficiency?
iii. Please provide the minimum or industry standard for acreage, and minimum dimensions, of a parcel of land required to fit the facility or facilities (excluding any area required for laydown and storage).
iv. Please provide the minimum or industry standard for acreage for laydown and storage area to support production. Would the laydown and storage area typically accommodate both input products and finished/partially finished components?
v. Please provide minimum load bearing capacity requirements for all industrial facility footprints, and the laydown/storage area.
vi. Please provide maximum feasible distance between production site/laydown and storage area, and quayside, if any.
vii. If manufacturing of all wind turbine components cannot be done at the NJ Wind Port location, is there an industry preference or standard for which any component(s) or portion thereof should be manufactured at the Wind Port, and which can be manufactured elsewhere and transported to the Wind Port. Based on industry standards is there a component(s) or portion thereof that can be manufactured elsewhere in New Jersey and transported to the Wind Port and assembled.
5. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (From Respondents to the EDA)
Not applicable for this RFI
6. RESPONSE DETAILS (Info Provided to Respondents Regarding Document Submission)
All RFI responses must be submitted electronically no later than 11:59:59 PM EST, on Friday, May 31st via e-mail to: njwindport@njeda.gov.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: RFI Response-2024-RFI- -#217 NJWP Manufacturing Technical Inquiry.
7. FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS (from EDA) / ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Respondents may be asked to provide additional information to allow the Authority to better understand the responses or services available.
8. PROPRIETARY AND/OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The Authority reserves the right to copy any information provided by the Respondents. The Authority reserves the right to use ideas that are provided by Respondents, applicants, stakeholders, or vendors. By submitting a Response, the submitter represents that such copying or use of information will not violate any copyrights, licenses, or other agreements with respect to information submitted or product solutions demonstrated, if applicable. Responses must clearly be marked for any information the Respondent deems Proprietary and/or Confidential.
9. DISCLAIMER / NO OBLIGATION
This RFI is not a request for qualification/proposal. It may or may not result in further action.
This RFI is issued solely as a means of gathering information regarding the Authority’s desire to understand the types of products and level of service available in the market to meet the Authority’s needs. Interested parties responding to this RFI do so at their own expense. There will be no monetary compensation from the Authority for the time and effort spent in preparing the response to this RFI. All expenses incurred are the sole responsibility of the Respondent.
Should the Authority decide to move forward and issue an RFQ/P or announce a program/product related to this RFI, Respondents need not have submitted a response to this RFI in order to be eligible to respond to the RFP. Should an RFQ/P be issued, responding to this RFI will not affect scoring or consideration for that process.
The Authority is under no obligation to contact Respondents to this RFI.
10. NEW JERSEY OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS ACT
Respondents should be aware that responses to this RFI are subject to the “New Jersey Open Public Records Act” (N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.), as amended and including all applicable regulations and policies and applicable case law, including the New Jersey Right-to-Know law. All information submitted in response to the RFI is considered public information, notwithstanding any disclaimers to the contrary, except as may be exempted from public disclosure by OPRA and the common law.
Any proprietary and/or confidential information submitted in response to this RFI will be redacted by the Authority. A person or entity submitting a response to this RFI may designate specific information as not subject to disclosure pursuant to the exceptions to OPRA found at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, when such person or entity has a good faith legal and/or factual basis for such assertion (i.e. information that may be included in another ongoing public procurement or solicitation). The Authority reserves the right to make the determination as to what is proprietary or confidential and will advise the person or entity accordingly. The Authority will not honor any attempt to designate the entirety of a submission as proprietary, confidential and/or to claim copyright protection for the entire proposal. In the event of any challenge to the Respondent’s assertion of confidentiality with which the Authority does not concur, the Respondent shall be solely responsible for defending its designation.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
2024-RFI-214 for Film, Television, & Media Workforce Needs
RFI – 214 Addendum #1
- INTENT/SUMMARY OF SCOPE
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”), an independent Authority of the State of New Jersey, is seeking information and ideas from qualified entities (“Respondents”) with perspectives on the current workforce needs of the film, television, and media industry, including but not limited to: professionals in the film and media industry such as employers, training providers, and unions, other education and service providers, and institutions interested in the investment and financing of the arts. The New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission, now part of the Authority, has supported and nurtured the film, television, and media industry for over 45 years. The Commission attracts and supports production work and promotes infrastructure growth through financial incentives, permitting, production services, site selection and clearance. The Commission is a critical partner in advancing the goals of this RFI.
Qualified entities do not need to be located within the State of New Jersey to provide a response and the Authority welcomes perspectives from entities outside of the state.
Through this RFI, the Authority is seeking information from respondents on the scope and characteristics of effective workforce training programs in anticipation of creating or supporting programs and initiatives to support workforce development for film, television, digital and other media production occupations, including but limited to, production assistants, production accountants, studio managers, carpenters, grips, electricians, set-dressers, wardrobe assistants, make-up, hair, script supervisors, voiceover artists, editors, computer generated imagery artists, edit assistants, screenwriters, story editors, assistant directors, writer’s assistants, music supervisors, and post supervisors. Given the projected growth of the film, television, and media industry over the coming years and its capacity to provide high-value employment to communities throughout the state, the NJEDA has earmarked at least $5 million in funding through an appropriation in the state budget from Governor Murphy and the NJ State Legislature to support and accelerate robust workforce development in the film, television, and media industry in New Jersey. The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, recommendations, facts, information, ideas, and responses that will help the Authority better understand best practices for industry workforce program designs, parameters, and details that NJEDA should consider when developing a portfolio of film and media production training programs that enable NJ residents to be part of this growing industry.
This RFI seeks to:
- Collect information on training programs that include instructors and mentors who are currently employed in the production of film and television (production and post-production) who will create teaching plans (syllabi) that are not theoretical in nature but, instead, will impart, “real world/on-set” best technique and practices.
- Better understand the state of the film and media workforce in New Jersey and any existing workforce gaps
- Gain greater insights into the film industry recruitment and training process
- Collect information on specific best practices, programs and approaches to support film workforce training and development needs including short-term bootcamps and longer-term training programs, and the specific populations those programs seek to serve, including residents of Overburdened Communities
- Learn about existing models in the United States and throughout the world that should be explored when developing film and media workforce development programs, particularly those that prepare workers with limited to no experience in the industry
2. BACKGROUND
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The Authority is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on strategies that 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 Authority creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State, and to strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.
Governor Murphy’s Economic Development Strategic Plan, “The State of Innovation: Building a Stronger and Fairer Economy in New Jersey” specifically highlights investing in emerging innovative industries as critical to the State’s economic development strategy. The plan identifies Film & Digital Media as a strategic sector that has the potential for outsized growth over the next five to fifteen years where the State could use targeted initiatives to promote innovation and economic development within the sector. Additionally, the plan includes goals to create the most diverse innovation ecosystem in the country and close the racial and gender wage and employment gaps.
New Jersey has witnessed impressive growth in the film, television, and media industry, attracting multiple film studios and production companies with many high-profile productions being filmed in the state. This boom is due in large part to the State’s tax and other incentives including the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program, the Studio Partners and Film-lease Partners Facilities designation programs, and the pilot Film and Digital Media Studio Infrastructure Program. Utilization of the state’s Film Tax Credit has increased substantially. In State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2019, NJEDA made 4 awards resulting in $19.7 million of film production spend in the state. In SFY 2021, 24 awards resulted in $185.5 million spent in NJ. Those figures climbed to 56 awards totaling over $758 million of film production spend in SFY 2023. More information on these programs can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/film/.
Notable highlights of this industry growth in the state include Lionsgate’s on-going construction in Newark of the first purpose-built studio in New Jersey to be constructed for TV and film production using tax credits (expected to open in 2025), Netflix’s planned construction of a studio complex in Monmouth County (2027-2028), and the proposed construction of 1888 Studios in Bayonne (recently designated a Film-Lease Partner Facility). The number of film projects and productions in New Jersey in 2024-2025 are expected to reach over 1,000, and the projected number of film-related jobs for 2024 is close to 15,000. These projects mark a pivotal moment in New Jersey’s evolution as an emerging force in film and television production. This RFI is a critical input into New Jersey’s efforts to further invest in the film, television, and digital media industry and build an inclusive and dynamic workforce to meet industry needs.
3. RFI RESPONSE QUESTIONS
In submitting responses to this RFI, respondents are encouraged to answer any questions they consider relevant and to the best of their ability. Respondents do not need to answer all questions for their response to be considered. Answers are understood to be preliminary and non-binding. Respondents are free to go beyond the scope of the questions and/or structure responses as necessary to increase clarity and efficiency of responses. Respondents should also feel free to submit additional or alternate information as deemed necessary.
Background
- Please provide information on you/your entity’s background (name, location, organization/business type and size), and your involvement or interest in film and media activities or film and media workforce development.
Film and Media Industry Occupations and Skills
3. What film and television positions are in greatest demand in the NJ region today and/or expected to be in greatest demand in NJ over the next five years?
(a) What existing certifications, training, education, and/or knowledge, skills, and abilities are required to work in these high-demand jobs? Please be as specific as possible and differentiate by specific occupation where possible.
(b) Do employers train/hire certified staff or have them obtain certifications once employed?
(c) What are the biggest challenges individuals face when seeking to obtain these certifications/skills?What are the biggest challenges employers’ face when seeking to hire qualified candidates?
(d) What level of education is required for new hires?
(e) Are there any other prerequisites (e.g., working hours on a set)?
Training Programs
4. NJEDA is aware of various workforce initiatives implemented by states and other organizations throughout the country (e.g., Georgia Film Academy, Washington Filmworks, etc.). What are the most effective initiatives applicable to New Jersey and should be pursued in the state?
5. What are the characteristics of the most effective education or training programs for in-demand film industry occupations?
(a) What type of program (e.g., short-term boot camps, professional mentoring programs, workshops, professional certifications, associate degrees, etc.) and why do you think it is a viable option for job seekers to enter the entertainment industry?
(b) What are the preferred primary eligibility requirements to enroll? Any suggestions for improvement?
(c) What is the most effective duration for these programs—and why? What time of day is most beneficial to hold these trainings?
(d) What are the required qualifications for instructors?
(e) Is there a typical or expected cost to participants?
(f) How are graduates connected to employers for job placement?
6. What are best practices to specifically feature instruction or mentorship by working professionals in training programs?
7. If not currently readily accessible for New Jersey residents, how can these training programs be replicated, or linked to programs in New Jersey to increase this accessibility?
8. Are there other supports, incentives or programs needed to maintain a sufficient and qualified film and media labor force?
9. Would your organization or others seek to participate as an investor or funding partner in film and media-related workforce training programs?
10. Are there any other factors the state should consider that may have an impact on training needs or the industry at large? How do we continue to grow the industry and develop workers alongside innovations in digital content and other technologies?
Recruitment
11. Where and how do you currently recruit training participants or film workers? What partners do you work with to assist with recruitment?
12. Unions are a critical workforce development partner in the industry. How do we best coordinate their activities with other partners to maintain and develop career pathways for New Jersey residents?
13. What are the biggest challenges/obstacles to film workforce recruitment and retention? What is the average turnover in the industry?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
As part of Governor Murphy’s Economic Development Strategic Plan and NJEDA’s mission, the Authority seeks opportunities to support the film and television industry that include a focus on strengthening diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) for underserved populations.
14. How can underserved populations be supported to engage in the film and media industry both in their own communities and beyond?
15. What suggestions do you have for encouraging the inclusion of minorities, women, and veterans in film and media workforce training programs and employment?
16. What innovations can training providers utilize to accelerate or improve training for a diverse and inclusive workforce?
4. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (from Respondents to NJEDA)
All questions concerning this RFI must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 PM E.D.T., on June 3, 2024, via e-mail to: workforceInnovation@njeda.gov.com.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: Questions-2024-RFI-214 – Film, Television, & Media Workforce Needs.
Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the Authority’s website on or about June 7, 2024, at: https://www.njeda.com/bidding/#RFI as Addendum.
IT IS THE RESPONDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK THIS URL REGULARLY FOR UPDATES.
5. RESPONSE DETAILS (Info Provided to Respondents Regarding Document Submission)
All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 PM E.D.T. on June 19, 2024, via e-mail to: workforceInnovation@njeda.gov.com.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: “RFI Response-2024-RFI-214 – Film, Television, & Media Workforce Needs”.
6. FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS (from NJEDA) / ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
All RFI responses must be submitted electronically no later than 11:59:59 PM EST, on Tuesday, May 28th via e-mail to: njwindport@njeda.gov.
The subject line of the e-mail should state: RFI Response-2024-RFI- -#217 NJWP Manufacturing Technical Inquiry.
7. PROPRIETARY AND/OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The Authority reserves the right to copy any information provided by the Respondents. The Authority reserves the right to use ideas that are provided by Respondents, applicants, stakeholders, or vendors. By submitting a Response, the submitter represents that such copying or use of information will not violate any copyrights, licenses, or other agreements with respect to information submitted or product solutions demonstrated, if applicable. Responses must clearly be marked for any information the Respondent deems Proprietary and/or Confidential.
8. DISCLAIMER / NO OBLIGATION
This RFI is not a request for qualification/proposal. It may or may not result in further action.
This RFI is issued solely as a means of gathering information regarding the Authority’s desire to understand the types of products and level of service available in the market to meet the Authority’s needs. Interested parties responding to this RFI do so at their own expense. There will be no monetary compensation from the Authority for the time and effort spent in preparing the response to this RFI. All expenses incurred are the sole responsibility of the Respondent.
Should the Authority decide to move forward and issue an RFQ/P or announce a program/product related to this RFI, Respondents need not have submitted a response to this RFI in order to be eligible to respond to the RFP. Should an RFQ/P be issued, responding to this RFI will not affect scoring or consideration for that process.
The Authority is under no obligation to contact Respondents to this RFI.
9. NEW JERSEY OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS ACT
Respondents should be aware that responses to this RFI are subject to the “New Jersey Open Public Records Act” (N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.), as amended and including all applicable regulations and policies and applicable case law, including the New Jersey Right-to-Know law. All information submitted in response to the RFI is considered public information, notwithstanding any disclaimers to the contrary, except as may be exempted from public disclosure by OPRA and the common law.
Any proprietary and/or confidential information submitted in response to this RFI will be redacted by the Authority. A person or entity submitting a response to this RFI may designate specific information as not subject to disclosure pursuant to the exceptions to OPRA found at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, when such person or entity has a good faith legal and/or factual basis for such assertion (i.e. information that may be included in another ongoing public procurement or solicitation). The Authority reserves the right to make the determination as to what is proprietary or confidential and will advise the person or entity accordingly. The Authority will not honor any attempt to designate the entirety of a submission as proprietary, confidential and/or to claim copyright protection for the entire proposal. In the event of any challenge to the Respondent’s assertion of confidentiality with which the Authority does not concur, the Respondent shall be solely responsible for defending its designation.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
2024-RFI-229 for Apprenticeship Training Centers Planning and Construction Grants
Addendum#1 (09/17/24) – All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00pm ET on October 15th, 2024
- INTENT/SUMMARY OF SCOPE
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“Authority”), an independent Authority of the State of New Jersey, is seeking information and ideas from qualified entities (“Respondents”) that provide or have experience with USDOL Registered Apprenticeship programs (“Apprenticeship/s”) with perspectives on establishing new apprenticeship training locations in Overburdened Communities. As defined by New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Law, Overburdened Communities (OBCs) are census block groups with:
1.At least 35 percent low-income households; or
2.At least 40 percent of the residents identify as minority or as members of a State recognized tribal community; or
3.At least 40 percent of the households have limited English proficiency
A map of New Jersey’s Overburdened Communities may be found here: OBCs Map
The Authority is considering establishing a grant program that would support the planning and implementation of new or expanding training facilities for Registered Apprenticeship programs and fund costs for the planning, construction or renovations of facilities. In November 2023, the New Jersey Department of Labor (NJDOL) announced the investment of $10 million to expand apprenticeship training centers to meet the growing need for skilled workers as New Jersey experiences an unprecedented surge in infrastructure and public works initiatives. In partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), NJDOL’s funding will support the expansion or development of new training facilities. Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the NJDOL and NJEDA executed in February 2024 NJEDA will develop a competitive program that will solicit proposals from entities based in New Jersey that are affiliated with a successful USDOL Registered Apprenticeship. The MOU will enable a
deepened and expanded collaboration between the two agencies across a range of workforce and economic development initiatives, to reduce barriers to training and employment and help New Jersey employers retain qualified workers.
The State is considering support for the construction of physical training facilities in OBCs to eliminate transportation barriers to training and employment for local residents. The State may also consider support for plans that strategically locate facilities near public transportation hubs that allow swift and inexpensive access for residents of OBCs.
The program shall encourage ongoing diversity and inclusion within New Jersey’s Registered Apprenticeship programs, which aligns with the Murphy Administration’s goals to expand access to apprenticeship programs and increase equity and fairness in our economy.
Qualified entities do not need to be located within the State of New Jersey to provide a response and the Authority welcomes perspectives from entities both inside and outside of the state.
Through this RFI, the Authority is seeking information from respondents on the needs, challenges, opportunities, and best practices to build or expand physical locations in OBCs for apprenticeship training facilities as well as associated costs for planning, construction, and potentially operations for USDOL Registered Apprenticeships.
The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, recommendations, facts, information, ideas, and responses that will help the Authority better understand the registered apprenticeship landscape, especially in regard to physical locations of training facilities, and details that NJEDA should consider when developing a program that would support the construction of new and/or expanding facilities.
In addition, this RFI seeks to:
- Understand the scale, similarities, and differences of various training facilities in New Jersey, including those solely dedicated to apprenticeship training and other locations (e.g., community colleges)
- Understand the challenges and solutions to placing apprenticeship training facilities in OBCs that allow for easy access to local residents and eliminate transportation barriers for those residents
- Better understand the factors involved in siting and constructing training facilities
- Gain greater insights into the demand for new training facilities and the related apprenticeship programs throughout New Jersey
- Collect information on specific best practices, programs, and approaches to expanding training facility access for residents of Overburdened Communities
- Learn about existing models that should be explored when developing facilities construction programs for apprenticeship training
- Learn about the most beneficial features of apprenticeship training facilities and programs
2. BACKGROUND
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The Authority is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on strategies that 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 Authority creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State, and to strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.
Governor Murphy’s Economic Development Strategic Plan, “The State of Innovation: Building a Stronger and Fairer Economy in New Jersey” specifically highlights “investing in people” as a strategic priority and critical to the State’s economic development strategy. The plan commits resources to expand New Jersey’s Apprenticeship Network, among other efforts, to prepare workers with the training and skills needed for high-quality career opportunities. The New Jersey Apprenticeship Network provides a path for state residents to enter high-skilled careers through paid, registered apprenticeships, which may include college credit.
Since Governor Murphy took office in January 2018, the state has invested more than $73 million in developing apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and work-based programs, contributing to the creation of 792 new Registered Apprenticeship programs, a 100 percent increase and the onboarding of 19,608 new apprentices. As of November 2023, the state had 8,826 active apprentices in 1,403 programs1. For more information on these programs, visit the New Jersey Office of Apprenticeship website.
The NJDOL Office of Apprenticeship has been instrumental in developing and strengthening apprenticeship programs throughout the state and increasing opportunities for both youth and adults. Working in close collaboration with the United States Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship which registers programs, the state’s Office of Apprenticeship is a contact and technical resource for employers, educational institutions, trade associations, and current/future apprentices for all statewide New Jersey apprenticeship initiatives. Office of Apprenticeship grant programs provide opportunities to develop new and expand existing Registered Apprenticeship programs, including pre-apprenticeship and programs targeting high school and out of school youth, and women, minorities and veterans in construction trades.
This RFI is a critical input into the Authority’s efforts to expand apprenticeship training centers to meet the growing need for skilled workers in New Jersey.
3. RFI RESPONSE QUESTIONS
In submitting responses to this RFI, respondents are encouraged to answer any questions they consider relevant and to the best of their ability. Respondents do not need to answer all questions for their response to be considered. Answers are understood to be preliminary and non-binding. Respondents are free to go beyond the scope of the questions and/or structure responses as necessary to increase clarity and efficiency of responses. Respondents should also feel free to submit additional or alternate information as deemed supportive.
I. Please provide information on you/your entity’s background (name, location, organization), and your involvement or interest in USDOL Registered Apprenticeship programs.
II. If you operate a registered apprenticeship program and/or apprenticeship training center:
a. Which registered apprenticeship programs do you operate and for which occupations is it approved?
b. Please describe the facility where training is provided:
i. Facility location – address including city, state, zip
ii. Do you own or rent the facility?
iii. Facility location type (e.g., union hall, community college, non-profit organization offices, etc.)
iv. Characteristics and size of the facility or spaces dedicated to training (e.g., classrooms, workshops, outdoor space, etc.)
c. What kind of equipment is housed within the training facility? What were the upfront capital costs to purchase and install the equipment? What equipment is most frequently used and what equipment do you wish you could access?
d. How many apprentices do you train annually at the facility? Are there regular cycles or seasonality to the use of the training center that we should be aware of?
e. If applicable, what was the cost to build and outfit your current facility (please choose a range below)? When was it built? What was the estimated cost per square foot?
i. Less than $1 million
ii. Between $1 and $3 million
iii. Between $3.1 and $6 million
iv. Between $6.1 and $9 million
v. Greater than $9 million
f. If applicable, what is the annual cost to maintain the facility or lease the space where training takes place (e.g., lease/rent, taxes, maintenance, heating/cooling)?
i. Less than $1 million
ii. Between $1 and $3 million
iii. Between $3.1 and $6 million
iv. Between $6.1 and $9 million
v. Greater than $9 million
III. Do you have any expansion plans that may involve the construction of a new facility or the renovation of an existing site? If so, please describe:
a. The reason for the potential expansion
b. Which location(s) have been selected or are under consideration? What factors have you considered and are important in selecting a location?
c. Expected construction budget
d. Expected funding sources
IV. If you do not currently have any expansion plans, please describe how your current facility(s) meets the needs of current and future apprentices
V. If NJEDA was to establish a program to aid in the construction of new training facilities what would be most impactful supports to consider:
a. What types of activities/projects should be considered (e.g., planning grants, construction cost reimbursements, operational support programs, etc.)
b. What funding award amounts would be necessary to fund these priority activities?
i. Less than $200,000
ii. Between $200,000 and $500,000
iii. Between $500,100 and $800,000
iv. Between $800,100 and $1.1M
v. Greater than $1.1M
VI. If any, in your opinion what are the major challenges/barriers to building or expanding new apprenticeship facilities in New Jersey?
a. Are they financial (e.g., construction/installation costs, operational costs, access to capital, enabling work required, investment payback period, etc.)?
i. What barriers do training providers face in accessing public and private capital?
b. Are there other barriers (e.g., lack of demand, regulatory, ERISA fund restrictions, operational issues, procurement timelines, property availability, space constraints, etc.)
c. Given the state’s focus on Overburdened Communities, what other suggestions might you offer on how to address the need to increase access for participants in these communities?
VII. Are there specific OBCs or other underserved communities (geographic locations or areas in New Jersey) that would be ideal for siting particular Apprenticeship Training Centers to target training for underserved populations? Are there specific locations near public transportation hubs that allow swift and inexpensive access for underserved populations? (please provide address)
VIII. Are there any other factors the State should consider that may have an impact on the construction of new or expansion of existing training centers?
IX. Are you aware of any best practices or successful models related to expanding and supporting construction for apprenticeship training programs that New Jersey should consider?
X. What other strategies can the state employ to complement the construction of new training facilities in OBCs that would further eliminate barriers to participation and maximize access for local residents?
XI. What are the barriers which we should consider addressing to successfully recruit and enroll minorities, women, and veterans in registered apprenticeship training programs? What suggestions do you have for encouraging the inclusion of minorities, women, and veterans in registered apprenticeship training programs and employment?
XII. What innovations can training providers utilize to accelerate or improve apprenticeship training for a diverse and inclusive workforce?
4. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (from Respondents to NJEDA)
All questions concerning this RFI must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 PM E.D.T., on 09-09-2024 via e-mail to: WorkforceInnovation@njeda.gov.com
The subject line of the e-mail should state: Questions-2024-RFI-229-Apprenticeship Training Centers Planning and Construction Grants
Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the Authority’s website on or about 09/13/2024 at: https://www.njeda.com/bidding/#RFI as Addendum.
IT IS THE RESPONDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK THIS URL REGULARLY FOR UPDATES.
5. RESPONSE DETAILS (Information Provided to Respondents Regarding Document Submission)
All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than 5:00 PM E.D.T. 09/24/2024 via e-mail to: workforceinnovation@njeda.gov
The subject line of the e-mail should state: RFI Response-2024-RFI-229-Apprenticeship Training Centers Planning and Construction Grants
6. FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS (from NJEDA) / ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Respondents may be invited to provide additional information to allow the Authority to better understand information provided.
7. PROPRIETARY AND/OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The Authority reserves the right to copy any information provided by the Respondents. The Authority reserves the right to use ideas that are provided by Respondents, applicants, stakeholders, or vendors. By submitting a Response, the submitter represents that such copying or use of information will not violate any copyrights, licenses, or other agreements with respect to information submitted or product solutions demonstrated, if applicable. Responses must clearly be marked for any information the Respondent deems Proprietary and/or Confidential.
8. DISCLAIMER / NO OBLIGATION
This RFI is not a request for qualification/proposal. It may or may not result in further action.
This RFI is issued solely as a means of gathering information regarding the Authority’s desire to understand the types of products and level of service available in the market to meet the Authority’s needs. Interested parties responding to this RFI do so at their own expense. There will be no monetary compensation from the Authority for the time and effort spent in preparing the response to this RFI. All expenses incurred are the sole responsibility of the Respondent.
Should the Authority decide to move forward and issue an RFQ/P or announce a program/product related to this RFI, Respondents need not have submitted a response to this RFI in order to be eligible to respond to the RFP. Should an RFQ/P be issued, responding to this RFI will not affect scoring or consideration for that process.
The Authority is under no obligation to contact Respondents to this RFI.
9. NEW JERSEY OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS ACT
Respondents should be aware that responses to this RFI are subject to the “New Jersey Open Public Records Act” (N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.), as amended and including all applicable regulations and policies and applicable case law, including the New Jersey Right-to-Know law. All information submitted in response to the RFI is considered public information, notwithstanding any disclaimers to the contrary, except as may be exempted from public disclosure by OPRA and the common law. Any proprietary and/or confidential information submitted in response to this RFI will be redacted by the Authority. A person or entity submitting a response to this RFI may designate specific information as not subject to disclosure pursuant to the exceptions to OPRA found at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, when such person or entity has a good faith legal and/or factual basis for such assertion (i.e. information that may be included in another ongoing public procurement or solicitation). The Authority reserves the right to make the determination as to what is proprietary or confidential and will advise the person or entity accordingly. The Authority will not honor any attempt to designate the entirety of a submission as proprietary, confidential and/or to claim copyright protection for the entire proposal. In the event of any challenge to the Respondent’s assertion of confidentiality with which the Authority does not concur, the Respondent shall be solely responsible for defending its designation.
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (RFEI)
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (“RFEI”)
New Jersey Green Fund
The deadline for the NJ Green Fund RFEI has been extended indefinitely, until a formal application has launched.
1.0 Purpose and Intent
To meet New Jersey’s ambitious clean energy goals, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“NJEDA”) is issuing a Request for Expressions of Interest (“RFEI”) from project developers, owners, financial institutions, and other relevant parties seeking capital from the NJEDA through the New Jersey Green Fund (“NJGF”), a planned initiative that will be housed within the NJEDA to invest in clean energy projects in the State. Currently contemplated NJGF products include warehousing and aggregation credit facilities; credit enhancements; pre-development and construction financing; and term loans and investments, amongst other structures. The purpose of this RFEI is to help inform the NJGF on desired financial structures and investment products best suited to the needs of the marketplace and help accelerate progress toward the State’s clean energy goals. Additionally, through the responses to the RFEI, the NJEDA can best determine the scale of financing needs across various NJGF products and market sectors. Please note, providing a response to this RFEI is not a formal application for funding nor a binding intent to pursue investment opportunities that may be made available through the NJGF in the future.
NJEDA is seeking expressions of interest from Respondents that identify specific sites, projects, or assets (“project”) within New Jersey that are interested in financial support from the planned NJGF. To be eligible for the anticipated NJGF financial support, assets/projects must be seeking at least $5 million in capital and must be new projects rather than ones seeking refinancing. In particular, NJEDA is looking to support projects in New Jersey that have financial needs that cannot be fully met by existing financial tools available on the private market.
2.0 Background
NJEDA works to expand the State’s economy and increase equitable access to opportunity by supporting high-quality job creation, catalyzing investment, and fostering vibrant, inclusive community development. In order to meet the State’s joint objectives of building a stronger and fairer economy while simultaneously accelerating the transition to a clean energy future, the NJEDA formed a designated Clean Energy department. NJEDA’s Clean Energy department is focused on advancing the growth of clean energy technologies and organizations in the State through various products that support NJEDA’s mission. Currently, NJEDA’s Clean Energy department actively manages several existing programs that finance clean energy investments, including the New Jersey Clean Energy Loans program (NJ CELs), the Offshore Wind Tax Credit program, the New Jersey Zero-Emission Vehicle Incentive Program (NJ ZIP), and the soon-to-be-launched Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program.
Building on NJEDA’s experience of supporting the growth of clean energy technologies, Governor Murphy and the State legislature allocated seed capital in the FYE ’24 State budget to the New Jersey Green Fund, which is currently being organized within the NJEDA to invest in clean energy projects in the State. Planned NJGF investments, which may include equity investments, credit enhancements, loans, and other vehicles, will be aimed to facilitate an equitable clean energy transition in New Jersey by attracting private capital to enable the State to reach 100% clean energy by 2035 while also providing measurable benefits to Overburdened Communities, as designated by the New Jersey Environmental Justice Law (N.J.S.A. 13:1D-157).[1] For more information on New Jersey’s Overburdened Communities, including a list of these communities and an associated map, please visit: https://dep.nj.gov/ej/communities/. NJGF will accelerate clean energy deployment in New Jersey by collaborating with public and private investors, foundations, and other non-profit organizations to transform financing markets that will have positive and long-lasting environmental, economic, and social benefits. This work in New Jersey is able to leverage the growing track record and experience of state-level green banks across the United States that have, to date, deployed over $4.2 billion to mobilize more than $10.6 billion in private co-investment, including a strong focus on clean energy in low-income communities.[2] The NJGF represents a transformative opportunity for New Jersey through its introduction of a self-sustaining financial model that would augment the State’s current annual spending and anticipated federal funding to promote and advance energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy storage, and clean transportation.
[2] American Green Bank Consortium Annual Industry Report
The planned NJGF will offer financial products and support to stimulate larger private capital investments for, and deployment at scale of, clean energy technologies within New Jersey. Its market-responsive approach to structuring investments will allow the NJGF to be able to design products that address commercial gaps and barriers to clean energy advancement in the state.
Beyond its State allocation, NJEDA is actively pursuing other funding opportunities made available at the federal level, including the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund’s National Clean Investment Fund competition, to bolster the planned NJGF’s capital base. Additionally, NJEDA is working with the Department of Energy Loan Programs Office and was recently qualified as a State Energy Financing Institution (SEFI) that can unlock low-cost capital available through the federal Title 17 financing program
3.0 NJGF Priority Investment Categories
The planned NJGF through its investments will focus on creating and supporting clean energy opportunities by expanding financing markets, mitigating risk to attract private investment, and increasing availability of capital where it is limited. Minimum project requirements for NJGF investment are outlined in Section 4.0. In particular, NJGF is seeking information on projects that either would likely not occur given the current state of the private markets or might occur in the private markets but would likely (i) involve less favorable tenor, cost, fees, and/or other key transaction terms; (ii) not happen at the market breadth needed to scale the sector; (iii) not have the same level of focus on reaching New Jersey residents in Overburdened Communities; and/or (iv) not happen as expeditiously. Consequently, the NJGF will accelerate an equitable transition to a clean energy economy in the State. That focus will be centered thematically on three key market areas:
3.1 Building Decarbonization and Resiliency
New Jersey has aggressive goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its building sector, which is the second highest source of emissions in the State.[1] These include:
- 100% clean energy by 2035 (Murphy Executive Order 315)[2]
- Zero-emission heating/cooling systems in 400,000 dwelling units by 2030 (Murphy Executive Order 316)[3]
- Zero-emission heating/cooling systems in 20,000 commercial/public spaces by 2030 (Murphy Executive Order 316)[4]
Given New Jersey’s coastal location in the northeast, enhancing resiliency within the built environment is also critical to managing climate change. Since 1980, the State of New Jersey has been affected by 62 extreme weather events that each have had nationwide cumulative losses exceeding $1 billion.[5] Climate change is expected to continue to threaten New Jersey (and the nation) with increased temperatures, rising sea levels, and more intense rainfall events.[6] These challenges pose risk to buildings in the State that, through its own operating emissions, can continue to exacerbate these threats without increased decarbonization and resiliency efforts.
[2] Murphy Executive Order #315
[3] Murphy Executive Order #316
[4] Murphy Executive Order #316
[5] National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (“NOAA”) National Centers for Environmental Information (“NCEI”)
By providing access to affordable capital, the planned New Jersey Green Fund can empower additional greenhouse gas emissions reductions from the existing and proposed buildings in the State. The State continues to make measured progress towards the goal of reducing overall emissions by 80 percent by 2050 (Global Warming Response Act of 2007)[1], as well as an interim goal of a 50 percent reduction by 2030 (Murphy Executive Order 274)[2]. With an extensive statewide existing building stock and as the nation’s most densely populated state, New Jersey’s capital requirements will continue to be a significant barrier to building sector emissions reductions.[3] In particular, building decarbonization projects for existing buildings typically have longer payback periods and can be more capital intensive than conventional energy efficiency improvements. These challenges are even more burdensome for buildings located in Overburdened Communities that historically have seen less access to capital and often face a backlog of regular building maintenance activities.
[1] Global Warming Response Act
[2] Murphy Executive Order #274
3.2 Zero-Emission Transportation
The transportation sector is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the State.[1] In addition to targeting 100% clean energy by 2035 (Murphy Executive Order #315)[2], New Jersey’s aggressive goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions also include having 330,000 light duty zero-emission vehicles on the road by 2025, with 2 million registered by 2035 (EV Act of 2019)[3].
[2] Murphy Executive Order #315
In conjunction with electrification of fleets from polluting combustion vehicles, associated charging stations are required throughout the State to enable convenient and efficient vehicle charging. Zero-emission transportation does not just reduce emissions from the transportation sector. When coupled with managed charging programs or vehicle to grid power connections, zero-emission vehicles can function as battery storage systems and grid assets.
Ongoing zero-emission vehicle grant and incentive programs available through the NJEDA, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (“NJDEP”), the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (“NJBPU”), and private utilities have helped encourage increased adoption of electric vehicles in New Jersey. However, these programs do not cover the full acquisition costs of vehicles or fully address the scale of transition needed within the timeline of the State’s goals, leaving a funding gap that can be met by financing. In particular, for medium and heavy-duty vehicles, the high costs of vehicles pose challenges to commercial entities looking to transition their fleets to cleaner alternatives. Additionally, conventional financing institutions are often hesitant to finance innovative technologies, such as alternative zero-emission vehicles, that are newer to the marketplace
By providing access to affordable capital, the planned NJGF will accelerate the adoption of zero-emission transportation in the New Jersey market and reduce emissions from the highly polluting transportation sector.
[1] NJDEP
[1] Global Warming Response Act
[1] Murphy Executive Order #274
[1] NJDEP
[1] Murphy Executive Order #315 [1] EV Act of 2019
3.3 Clean Energy Generation and Storage
Increased access to clean distributed power generation with renewable energy systems will strengthen the local and national power system, improve energy security, and help ensure that every community benefits from the clean energy transition.
New Jersey State goals for clean energy production and storage include:
- 100% clean energy by 2035 (Murphy Executive Order #315)[1]
- 2 GW of energy storage available by 2030 (Renewable Energy Bill, A3723)[2]
- 11 GW of offshore wind capacity completed by 2040 (Murphy Executive Order #307)[3]
New Jersey has made progress towards these targets with 1.5 GW of offshore wind projects actively under development[4] and 4.56 GW of solar capacity installed in the State as of September 30, 2023.[5] However, even with these notable achievements, renewable energy only makes up 8.30% of the overall electric power generation in New Jersey as of 2022.[6]
By providing access to affordable capital, the planned NJGF can empower the development of additional renewable energy capacity and storage and allow the State to meet its clean energy goals. Low-cost financing will be critical for continued renewable energy investment. New Jersey is also particularly focused on developing community solar in the State. Recently, NJBPU raised the annual cap for its community solar program on allowed community solar subscriptions from 150 MW to 225 MW.[7] NJEDA is interested in investing in community solar projects, especially those that benefit Overburdened Communities and are housed on contaminated brownfield sites around the State.
[1] Murphy Executive Order #315
[2] Renewable Energy Bill, A3723
[3] Murphy Executive Order #307
[5] New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program
4.0 Minimum Project Requirements
Focusing on these three priority investment categories, the NJEDA is seeking project information to help design investment products best suited to accelerate progress toward the State’s clean energy goals and better understand the scale of financing need across various NJGF products and market sectors. Notwithstanding, we would seek interests for other types of projects as well. Projects supported by the planned New Jersey Green Fund will be subject to the following limitations:
- Assets/projects must be seeking at least $5 million in capital from the NJGF
- Assets/projects must have an equity contribution of at least 20%, excluding tax equity financing
- Assets/projects supported by NJGF must be primarily located in the State of New Jersey
- Assets/projects must be new rather than seeking refinancing
- Assets/projects must lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and/or criteria pollutants in the State; or similarly support New Jersey’s current clean energy and environmental goals
- The NJGF cannot provide support directly to individual consumers
5.0 RFEI Submission
5.1 Potential Respondents
The planned NJGF is interested in supporting a wide range of entities undertaking clean energy projects. These include conventional organizations such as major renewable energy developers or large real estate developers, but also smaller entities that may be more community focused. NJEDA encourages all interested parties to provide feedback to the RFEI. Potential Respondents to the RFEI may include but are not limited to:
- Property owners
- Real estate developers
- Renewable energy developers and operators
- Financial institutions
- Corporations
- Non-profit organizations
- Venture and private equity groups
- Community-based organizations, including those representing Environmental Justice Communities
- Other private entities
Please note, Respondents can submit multiple proposals to the RFEI, or include reference to multiple projects in one comprehensive proposal.
5.2 Timeline
Date | Event |
November 29, 2023 | Distribution of RFEI |
December 15, 2023 | Deadline for Respondents to submit any questions on the RFEI content or process |
January 12, 2024 | Deadline for Respondents to provide responses to the RFEI |
5.3 Required Information for Submission
Category | Page Limit | Description |
Cover Page | 1-page maximum | a. Lead entity’s name b. Primary point of contact information for lead Respondent (including: name, title, address, phone number, email address) c. Similar information for any Co-Respondents/partners |
Entity Profile | 2-pages maximum | a. Summary of Respondent’s organizational history and background b. Organizational involvement with and/or commitments to clean energy, including a summary of relevant ongoing or recently completed projects c. Organizational size and/or operating capacity |
Project Information | 5-pages maximum | a. Describe the project/asset seeking NJGF support. Include location, project type, specific technologies utilized, overall business model, expected sources of project revenue, and other relevant details to inform the project scope (size, renewable capacity, etc.). b. Explain how the project falls under any of the planned NJGF’s three priority investment categories (building decarbonization and resiliency, zero-emission transportation, or clean energy generation and storage), if applicable. c. Detail any potential benefits to the State, especially in regard to the State’s Overburdened Communities. These benefits should include positive environmental (i.e., projected emissions reductions, local air quality improvements) and economic (i.e., job creation) impacts directly or indirectly resulting from the project. |
Capital Requirements and NJGF Investment Support | 5-pages maximum | a. Detail capital requirements expected for each project or total capital needs if Respondent is submitting regarding a portfolio of projects. Include an anticipated schedule for the project, detailing when capital will be needed during various stages of project development. b. Include an explanation for why the Respondent is seeking NJGF support in lieu of or in addition to existing financial tools available on the private market. This explanation may include barriers such as project credit constraints, high cost of capital, long project payback periods, technological risks, complex underwriting requirements, innovative business models, small transaction sizes, etc. c. Indicate what type of investment support you are seeking (e.g., loan, credit enhancement, equity investment, etc.) and when during project development the support would be needed (predevelopment, construction, acquisition, commercial operation date/term loan, etc.). c. Explain how the project/asset is expected to contribute to financial market transformation in terms of e.g., (i) reaching New Jersey residents in Overburdened Communities and/or with credit profiles that are typically deemed to be high risk (e.g., FICO scores below 650); (ii) creating scale; (iii) improving private sector participation; (iv) increasing level of awareness and confidence in the relevant sub-sector or business model; and/or (v) other aspects of market transformation. d. Outline any current or expected internal/external sources of funding (if known) to address financial needs beyond what financial support is being sought via the planned NJGF. |
5.4 Submission Process
All RFEI responses must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM ET on January 12, 2024, via email to: NJGFrfei@njeda.gov. The subject line of the email should state: NJGF RFEI Response – [Primary Applicant Name].
Any questions by prospective Respondents concerning this RFEI shall be sent by email to: NJGFrfei@njeda.gov, no later than 5:00 PM ET on December 15, 2023.The subject line of the e-mail should state: NJGF RFEI Questions.
6.0 Post-Submission Process
NJEDA may invite Respondents to provide additional information to allow NJEDA to better understand the information provided in the submittal.NJEDA may also request meetings with some or all of the Respondents to discuss details of responses.
Based on the feedback provided via the RFEI, NJEDA anticipates designing products within the planned NJGF. Future opportunities will be made available for Respondents and other members of the public to apply for NJGF funding regardless of whether they respond to the RFEI. The exact nature of these products will depend on product design, relevant project scope, and relevant source of NJGF funding.
7.0 New Jersey Open Public Records
Respondents should be aware that responses to this RFEI are subject to the “New Jersey Open Public Records Act” (N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.), as amended and including all applicable regulations and policies and applicable case law, including the New Jersey Right-to-Know law. All information submitted in response to the RFEI is considered public information, notwithstanding any disclaimers to the contrary, except as may be exempted from public disclosure by OPRA and the common law.
Any proprietary and/or confidential information submitted in response to this RFEI will be redacted by the NJEDA. A person or entity submitting a response to this RFEI may designate specific information as not subject to disclosure pursuant to the exceptions to OPRA found at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, when such person or entity has a good faith legal and/or factual basis for such assertion (i.e., information that may be included in another ongoing public procurement or solicitation). The NJEDA reserves the right to make the determination as to what is proprietary or confidential and will advise the person or entity accordingly. The NJEDA will not honor any attempt to designate the entirety of a submission as proprietary, confidential, and/or to claim copyright protection for the entire proposal. In the event of any challenge to the Respondent’s assertion of confidentiality with which the NJEDA does not concur, the Respondent shall be solely responsible for defending its designation.
Fort Monmouth Economic REvitalization Authority (FMERA)
Bidding Opportunities
NOTICE TO INTERESTED BIDDERS
The Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA) was created to provide investment, continuity and economic growth to the communities impacted by the federal government’s decision to close Fort Monmouth. FMERA has replaced the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Planning Authority implementing the Reuse and Redevelopment Plan for economic development, growth and planning, with a focus on technology-based industries, for the 1,126 acres of real estate at Fort Monmouth following the base closure in September, 2011. The Fort Monmouth Reuse and Redevelopment Plan forwarded by the dissolved planning authority is a highly collaborative blueprint for action to:
- Promote, develop, encourage and maintain employment, commerce, economic development, and the public welfare
- Conserve natural resources
- Advance the general prosperity and economic welfare of the people in the affected communities and throughout the state
FMERA is given a multitude of tools to revitalize and redevelop the Fort Monmouth area and implement the revitalization plan. Among these are the abilities to undertake redevelopment projects, adopt development and design guidelines and land use regulations in connection with the provision of utilities, streets, roads or other infrastructure required for the implementation of the revitalization plan.
For additional bidding opportunities exclusive to FMERA; please access the FMERA website at www.fortmonmouthnj.com
Forms, Registrations & Certifications
Thank you for your interest in bidding opportunities with the NJEDA (Authority).
The Authority currently partners with the State of New Jersey and uses their vendor eProcurement Portal Database (NJSTART) to help identify potential vendors.
When seeking potential bidders for various procurements, the NJEDA will often refer to NJSTART to help identify registered businesses for designated goods and services.
To ensure your company can be considered on designated bids and request for quotes, we are encouraging vendors to register their company with NJSTART at www.njstart.gov.
NJSTART is designed to streamline the procurement process and make it more efficient for companies looking to do business with the State. NJSTART provides vendors with the opportunity to create their own vendor files, identify relevant commodity codes, designate Small, Women, Minority, Veteran-Owned Business Certification and upload designated compliance and other applicable documents. NJSTART will be used by the State of NJ, in addition to other State Agencies and Authorities, to obtain lists of potential bidders.
The NJEDA attempts, but does not guarantee, to provide NJSTART registered firms with an email notice of bidding opportunities, related to the commodity codes currently identified in the database.
The NJEDA will continue to post new bidding opportunities on our website at www.njeda.gov/bidding.
Vendors are encouraged to regularly check our website for new bidding opportunities. (Please note that NJEDA bidding opportunities will not be posted on NJSTART).
Should you need additional information, please contact Theresa Graham at (609) 858-6652 or tgraham@njeda.com
Thank you for your interest in doing business with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.