Press Releases Archives

TRENTON, N.J. (May 3, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is opening applications for the next cohort of the New Jersey Innovation Fellows (NJIF) Program on May 6^th, and is currently accepting questions from potential applicants. The NJIF Program supports entrepreneurs with income replacement grants, mentorship, and training to provide security in the early stages of start-up business creation.

WHAT: Through the NJIF Program, the NJEDA supports teams of at least three entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, and income replacement capital of up to $400,000 over a two-year period, attracting innovative ideas and entrepreneurs who would otherwise be unable to pursue the launch of a new venture due to income needs or socio-economic constraints. In addition to financial benefits, the first-in-the-nation program also offers a comprehensive mentorship program facilitated by the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII) or The Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (RCIE), which can help mitigate the risk of business failure and propel start-ups to the next level.

Announced in January 2024, the inaugural cohort of NJIF entrepreneurs included 10 new businesses and 30 entrepreneurs, supporting ventures in the fields of life sciences, film, information technology, and professional services. The inaugural cohort of startups showcase a rich tapestry of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, with many startups at the forefront of the current artificial intelligence/technology revolution.

Last month, Governor Phil Murphy announced a new fellowship program for entrepreneurs who will focus exclusively on AI-powered discovery. The AI-focused fellowship, which is an extension of the NJIF program, will open for applications at a later date.

WHEN: The NJEDA will begin accepting applications for the second cohort of NJIF entrepreneurs at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 6^th, 2024. The application will be open for 60 days, closing on Friday, July 5^th, 2024. Potential applicants can ask questions on the application process or program specifics by emailing NJInnovationFellows@njeda.gov. For more information on the program, click here.

The NJEDA will hold two informational webinars for potential NJIF applicants. The first webinar, on Friday, May 10^th, at 9:00 a.m., will cover funding opportunities and the application process under the NJIF program, as well as the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology’s (CSIT) clean tech programs. To register, click here.

The second webinar, on Tuesday, May 21^st at 10:00 a.m., will go over funding and programming opportunities available to create and improve resources for maternal and infant health, including an informational overview for potential NJIF applicants in the sector. To register, click here.

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

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52% of loans were approved for women- and minority-owned small businesses and nonprofits

TRENTON, N.J. (May 3, 2024) – In recognition of National Small Business Week (April 28 – May 4), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that more than $3.6 million in working capital loans have been approved under the NJ Capital Access Fund, since the program launched in November 2023. Administered by designated fund manager Calvert Impact, the $100 million fund, supported by the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program and a private capital match, leverages Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Deposit Institutions (MDIs) to offer technical assistance and an affordable and flexible working capital loan product to assist small businesses and nonprofits with payroll, rent, utilities, and other operational business expenses.

In line with the NJEDA’s commitment to supporting diverse business owners and creating an equitable economy, 52 percent of the program’s loans were approved for women- and minority-owned small businesses and nonprofits and 72 percent of the overall funding supported business owners identified as socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI).

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey remains committed to supporting small business growth by providing increased access to capital and resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Through our suite of small business support programs, the NJEDA is helping expand economic opportunities, foster business growth, and ensure the longevity and increased vitality of New Jersey’s main streets,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The milestone announced today demonstrates how the NJ Capital Access Fund is providing a streamlined path to loans for small businesses, allowing them to continue to grow and thrive in the Garden State.”

Utilizing a technology platform provided by the Community Reinvestment Fund, USA, the NJ Capital Access Fund currently works alongside the NJ Small Business Development Center and four CDFIs to offer technical assistance and working capital loans up to $250,000 to small businesses and nonprofits that have been operating for at least 12 months, with revenue of $10 million or less and fewer than 50 employees. Participating CDFIs include Renaissance Economic Development Corporation, Ascendus, Grow America, and Pursuit. Working capital loans administered by each participating CDFI offer flexible features, including terms from 36 to 60 months, low fees to borrowers, fixed competitive interest rates, and no specific collateral requirements. The NJ Capital Access Fund further expands access to capital by purchasing 80 percent of all eligible working capital loans, allowing the CDFIs to increase lending capacity and provide more loans to underserved communities. To date the fund has been utilized to purchase $2.9 million in eligible loans. For more information on eligibility requirements, and to pre-apply, visit https://njcapitalaccessfund.com.

In May 2023, the NJEDA announced that Calvert Impact would administer the NJ Capital Access Fund, utilizing and matching the Authority’s $50 million investment with State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funding. Calvert Impact is a nonprofit investment firm that has supported community and economic development organizations for nearly 30 years, with a focus on financing sectors overlooked by mainstream capital markets.

“Calvert Impact knows that supporting small business owners is the key to a sustainable and equitable economic growth. We’re thrilled to see how eager entrepreneurs in New Jersey are to put capital to work, growing their companies and enriching their communities,” said Joe Meginnes, Director of Strategy at Calvert Impact. “And we expect that momentum to continue building with the recent launch of the technical assistance portal where entrepreneurs can get help applying for a loan and deploying the funds most effectively once they receive one.”

Women-owned Blue Skies Pottery, with locations in Long Branch and Hoboken, leveraged the New Jersey Capital Access Fund to receive a loan through CDFI partner Ascendus. Blue Skies Pottery offers courses, classes, and memberships for anyone interested in a creative outlet.

“Making a positive impact on our community has been a core value of our pottery studio since we opened in 2022,” said Blue Skies Pottery Owner Valerie Dantone. “Thanks to the help from Ascendus, we’ve been able to prioritize partnership opportunities with local businesses, add more classes and staff members for our growing special needs program, and provide need-based tuition options to our students and members who need support.”

The Pink Room Shapewear, a Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprise located in Union and Elizabeth, received a loan through Pursuit, another New Jersey Capital Access Fund CDFI partner. The company is committed to improving lives by offering high-quality shapewear garments that offer comfort and security.

“Thanks to all the different opportunities we have nowadays, it has never been so easy to look for resources and use them to grow our business, helping our community and team grow with us,” said The Pink Room Shapewear Owner Maria Sparacio. “Opportunities such as these open doors for women and minorities in business, giving them the ability to expand. Thank you to the NJEDA for making a difference and supporting us.”

Financing for the NJ Capital Access Fund is allocated from $255 million in federal SSBCI capital allotted to the State of New Jersey by the United States Department of the Treasury. The NJEDA utilized the SSBCI funding to create six programs that provide financial assistance to small and micro businesses in New Jersey. More information on SSBCI-funded programs can be found here.

For more information on the NJEDA’s small business support programs, visit https://www.njeda.gov/smallbusinessservices/.

About the NJEDA

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

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NJ’s Strategic Innovation Center will support 100 new companies over next five years, generating at least 2,500 new jobs

NEWARK, N.J. (May 1, 2024) – Yesterday, Governor Phil Murphy, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) joined company leaders to cut the ribbon on HAX, LLC’s newly constructed United States flagship headquarters located at 707 Broad Street in Newark. HAX, a startup development program for pre-seed hard tech companies, with offices across the world, supports startups and entrepreneurs through investment capital, mentorship, and collaboration.

“One of the key priorities of my administration has been to expand our innovation economy by providing critical resources to entrepreneurs who want to bring their world-class ideas to New Jersey,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “HAX’s investment in Newark and New Jersey is a testament to the diverse talent pool the Garden State has to offer. From HAX to the Princeton AI Hub, to the Helix and Edge Works, New Jersey’s innovation story is evolving and our investment in the field will lead to long-term, sustainable economic growth.”

HAX, which is operated by Princeton-based venture capital firm SOSV, provides support for emerging companies, including a $250,000 initial investment in each participating company, 180 days of hands-on collaboration, and a global community for early-stage founders building hard tech startups. The 35,000-square-foot space on Broad Street boasts tools and workspaces such as chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering labs, 3D printing, manual metal fabrication, Computer Numerical Control machining, and laser cutting. Since May of 2022, 32 HAX-supported startups have been operating out of the company’s temporary space in Newark.

“I’ve long disputed the idea that cities lack an appropriate workforce. What we lack is appropriate investment,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “HAX’s investment in Newark goes beyond being appropriate because it recognizes that innovation, creativity, collaboration and diligence are inscribed in our history and embedded in our DNA. With the opening of HAX, Newark accelerates its momentum as an emergent global hub for manufacturing and technological breakthroughs. I thank HAX and our advocates at Invest Newark and Newark Alliance for this critical partnership and extend my gratitude to Governor Murphy, our supportive legislators and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.”

In 2021, SOSV issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) regarding its intent to establish HAX’s U.S. headquarters. After submitting a response to the RFP and showing potential locations to SOSV leadership, the NJEDA was awarded the RFP. New Jersey was one of several states across the East Coast and Mid-West to submit a response. The two entities signed a Letter of Intent, with both the NJEDA and SOSV investing $25 million to establish HAX, LLC. As its contribution, SOSV committed to taking 100 companies through the HAX program over the next five years and investing $25 million in these startups. Companies participating in the HAX program are expected to generate at least 2,500 new, high-paying jobs in the area and attract millions in new capital.

HAX also furthers Governor Murphy’s economic initiatives by serving as the flagship Strategic Innovation Center (SIC) in New Jersey. SICs are facilities that support research and development, innovation, and entrepreneurship through mentorship, networking opportunities, hands-on training, business support services, and education opportunities. SICs can be accelerators, like HAX, or incubators and research centers. Having a physical location where entrepreneurs can collaborate will help support new, diverse innovators and drive long-term economic growth.

In late 2022, the NJEDA approved HAX for the NJ Accelerate program. Through NJ Accelerate, the NJEDA matches investments made by approved startup programs into startups that locate in New Jersey within six months after graduating from the participating accelerator program. The NJEDA’s match is in the form of a direct loan up to $250,000. HAX is one of five startup development programs currently approved to participate in NJ Accelerate.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has made significant investments in innovative technology startups, helping create jobs and strengthen our economy” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Newark is an ideal location for entrepreneurs looking to collaborate, create, and hone their skills in the climate tech, industrial automation, and health care fields. Powered by NJEDA-supported initiatives such as the Strategic Innovation Centers program, accelerators such as HAX are helping empower New Jersey startups and revolutionize the global marketplace, leading to diversity in the workplace and increased educational opportunities for the surrounding community. When we invest in New Jersey’s innovation economy, we invest in entire communities, small businesses, and cutting-edge technologies.”

“Today marks a monumental step forward in the expansion of New Jersey’s innovation economy and I commend Governor Murphy’s commitment to nurturing innovation opportunities throughout our great state. It is with great pride for me to witness Newark become the epicenter of this transformative endeavor, signaling the emergence of a new dawn in domestic re-industrialization,” said Senator M. Teresa Ruiz. “With this world-class facility, we cultivate new burgeoning economic opportunities that will reinforce New Jersey’s status as the hub for economic prosperity and transformative growth.”

“The grand opening of HAX, LLC’s United States flagship headquarters in our district signifies not just the growth of a company but the vitality of our community and the opportunities we offer to businesses seeking to thrive in New Jersey,” said Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin (D-Essex). “I am proud of the creativity and thoughtfulness of the legislature in creating tax incentive programs that attract these innovative enterprises. By providing initial capital, mentorship and collaborative opportunities, HAX will serve as a pivotal catalyst for further propelling Newark to the forefront of tech innovation and economic prosperity.”

SOSV has also committed to establishing relationships with universities such as the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Rutgers University, and Stevens Institute of Technology. SOSV has also become invested in the Newark community by hosting groups like the Newark Youth Career Pathways, participating in speaking engagements like The Newark Summit, and organizing events like its first HAX-A-THON during Newark Tech Week for local high school students.

“The State of New Jersey showed tremendous foresight when it decided to support HAX in the establishment of its new headquarters in Newark,” said Sean O’Sullivan, Managing General Partner at SOSV. “It is the perfect location, not the least because SOSV with NJEDA’s backing, has been able to build an incredibly well equipped and staffed facility that is attracting exactly the type of founder we want to back. They hail from all over the country and the world, and from their perch here in Newark they have a great opportunity to take in all the immense possibilities and resources New Jersey has to offer.”

“When we set out to find a new headquarters for HAX in the U.S., we were looking for an ecosystem that could be the birthplace of the re-industrialization of the U.S. We wanted world-class talent close to some of the largest industries in the world where we would have an industrial heritage and infrastructure ready to support our companies’ expansions,” said Duncan Turner, HAX Manager Director and SOSV General Partner. “Newark really has it all. NJ is committed to renewable power generation that will feed the grid for decades. We have some truly exceptional universities in the surrounding areas with academic departments that are developing IP and talent that will shape the world for generations to come. And we are a train ride away from 2 of the best sources of venture capital in the world. This really is a truly unique place.”

About the NJEDA

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The New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s next public Board Meeting will be held in person and via teleconference on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 10:00 am.

IN PERSON:

NJEDA Board Room

36 West State Street, Trenton NJ

TELECONFERENCE:

CONFERENCE NAME: NJEDA BOARD MEETING

PARTICIPANT DIAL-IN NUMBER: 877-692-8955

PARTICIPANT ACCESS CODE: 4204420

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

The agenda can be found 48 hours prior to the meeting on our website: https://www.njeda.gov. The meeting will also be recorded and posted to the NJEDA website shortly after the conclusion of the meeting.

TRENTON, N.J. (April 25, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is opening applications for the 2024 Technology Business Tax Certificate Transfer Program, commonly known as the Net Operating Loss (NOL) program, on Wednesday, May 1^st. The NOL program allows early-stage technology and life sciences companies in New Jersey to sell a percentage of their net operating losses and unused research and development (R&D) tax credits to unrelated profitable corporations for cash.

WHAT: The NOL program supports innovative start-ups by enabling qualified, unprofitable New Jersey-based technology or biotechnology companies with fewer than 225 U.S. employees to sell a percentage of their net operating losses and R&D tax credits. Up to $75 million in funding is available annually under the NOL program, with $15 million set aside for businesses located in the state’s three Innovation Zones of Newark, Camden, and the Greater New Brunswick area, businesses within Opportunity Zones, or certified minority- or woman-owned businesses.

Participants can use the capital raised through the NOL Program to help cover allowable operating costs such as salaries, R&D, and other working capital expenditures.

Since the program’s inception over 25 years ago, the NOL program has awarded more than $1.95 billion in tax credits to over 580 innovative companies in New Jersey.

WHEN: The NJEDA will begin accepting applications for the 2024 NOL program on Wednesday, May 1^st, at 12 a.m., and close applications on Thursday, June 30^th, at 11:59 p.m. Visit https://www.njeda.gov/nol/ for more information.

For more information on eligibility and the application process, the NJEDA is hosting an informational webinar on Thursday, May 9^th, at noon. To register, click here.

About the NJEDA

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$20M program matches investors’ direct investment in product-based companies

TRENTON, N.J. (April 24, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has closed its first four approvals under the Angel Match Program, awarding a total of $2 million to support early-stage technology companies. With a funding pool of $20 million from the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), the Angel Match Program was launched last year and continues to gain traction in the market.

Under the Angel Match Program, the NJEDA is the first entity to commit capital to a technology company, leading to other investors who provide matching funds. This fuels the growth for the product-based technology company by increasing the pool of available capital. The NJEDA’s investment ranges from $100,000 up to $500,000, as it is matched on one-to-one basis with the company’s corresponding preferred equity round. This early commitment from the NJEDA catalyzes additional financing in these innovative startups. The ultimate goal is to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem that leads to greater economic growth by providing companies with crucial funding for product development, marketing, research and development, and other working capital needs.

“Since taking office, Governor Murphy’s economic development strategy has been centered on connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with the capital they need to succeed in an equitable and inclusive manner, especially after the coronavirus pandemic,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Angel Match Program is unlocking capital for companies and stimulating greater investment into New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem. Through these strategic investments, the Angel Match Program will help companies achieve successful, scalable commercialization of their cutting-edge products and create high-skilled jobs across the state.”

“The Angel Match Program is designed to amplify the growth of New Jersey’s early-stage technology sector,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “With an emphasis on matching angel and seed stage investments, the program reinforces the state’s commitment to nurturing an ecosystem conducive to technological advancement and economic diversity.”

The following companies have received up to $500,000 through the Angel Match Program:

AlphaROC, Inc. was founded in 2021 and is the developer of a data science and analytics platform designed to leverage unique data sets to provide artificial intelligence (AI)-based insights to investors. Headquartered in Newark, the company’s platform focuses on providing analytics on a wide variety of unique datasets and constructing a 360-degree view on economic activity. http://www.alpharoc.ai

Princeton Identity Holding Company, Inc. is headquartered in Hamilton Township and is a biometric identity management business that makes security accurate, reliable, and convenient. Using biometric technologies, Princeton Identity enables businesses and global organizations to simplify identity management, resulting in improved safety and protection. princetonidentity.com

TLA Innovation, Inc. was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Paramus. The company develops solutions for individuals and businesses in the cybersecurity, privacy, and regulatory industries. Its cybersecurity platform protects against identity-driven attacks and uses advanced biometrics and AI to assure identities and facilitate cleaner, more efficient businesses processes. tlainnovation.com

vipHomeLink, Inc. is a Digital Home Management solution providing tailored home maintenance reminders, engaging digital content, and expert home recommendations. The company, founded in 2018, is headquartered in Morristown and partners with insurance carriers to provide a white-label, software platform, and proprietary data, to improve customer retention and reduce home insurance losses. viphomelink.com

For more information on the Angel Match Program, visit https://www.njeda.gov/AngelMatch/.

About the NJEDA

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TRENTON, N.J. (April 15, 2024) – Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the creation of the New Jersey Green Bank(NJGB), which will make investments in the clean energy sector that will help advance the state’s efforts to make an equitable transition to 100 percent clean energy. The NJGB will make investments through debt, credit enhancements, and other financial vehicles to attract private capital to enable the state to reach its climate goals.

The Murphy Administration has taken significant steps to meet the ongoing challenges of climate change and has set several clean energy targets, including 100 percent clean electricity by 2035,11 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2040, and 50 percent economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2030. The NJGB is a component of the 2019 Energy Master Plan and Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 316 directed the NJEDA to implement programs supporting building electrification through the NJGB.

“From more violent storms to increased flooding, the effects of climate change have become all too familiar here in New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “My administration has established aggressive goals to combat climate change and the creation of the New Jersey Green Bank will help us meet those goals by making major investments in the clean energy sector. This approval is a significant step in our fight against climate change, which will help us reach a clean energy future that will protect our environment and bolster our economy for generations to come.”

The NJGB will be dedicated to investing in projects, technologies, and companies that align with the State’s climate goals, including in areas such as zero-emission transportation, building decarbonization and resiliency, and clean energy generation and storage. Examples of projects that the NJGB may invest in include solar power, onshore and offshore wind, all electric heat pumps and geothermal, and battery storage, among others. Investments made by the NJGB must demonstrate benefits for the state; be new rather than seeking refinancing; and lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions or other co-pollutants.

“Establishing the New Jersey Green Bank is a pivotal step in the State’s continued push to meet the ongoing challenges of climate change,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The NJGB will inject capital into New Jersey’s clean energy economy and support green businesses and good-paying jobs in the field. Additionally, the investments made by the NJGB will pave the way for a cleaner and healthier environment for our residents and future generations.”

As a subsidiary of the NJEDA focused exclusively on climate investments, the NJGB will be well-positioned to attract private capital, including funds from public-private partnerships, as has been the case with other Green Banks in the region. The NJGB will also look to facilitate the development of climate and clean energy capital markets in the state through forms of financial support, such as warehousing and securitization, that address underdeveloped or nonexistent capital markets for these investments.

In addition to capital allocated to the NJGB in the state’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget, the NJGB’s initial capitalization will include permanent grant capital it receives as a named sub-awardee in the Coalition for Green Capital’s (CGC) application to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) National Clean Investment Fund competition. Last week, the EPA announced that CGC will be receiving an award of $5 billion through the NCIF competition.

“With the formation of the New Jersey Green Bank, our state will be able to invest in projects that will help transform our communities and bring us closer to our clean energy goals. The Green Bank will address gaps in the market and encourage traditional lenders to make investments in new areas. This is a big win for New Jersey and its environment,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello.

Last year, the NJEDA issued a Request for Expressions of interest (“RFEI”) to identify entities interested in financial support from the NJGB. Additionally, the NJEDA has been engaged with sister agencies to identify investment opportunities.

To ensure all communities benefit from the NJGB, the NJEDA will engage New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Communities (EJCs) to ensure a just transition and to make recommendations and provide feedback on how the NJGB can best advance environmental justice through its investments. The NJGB will also leverage the NJEDA’s existing diversity, equity, and inclusion staff, expertise, and initiatives.

About the NJEDA

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Rutgers University, Capital Health & Trenton Health Team to Take on Leadership Roles at the Trenton-based center, a centerpiece of First Lady Murphy’s Nurture NJ initiative

TRENTON, N.J. (April 12, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board on Wednesday approved three anchor tenants to lead the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center (MIHIC) in Trenton. These entities, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey; Capital Health; and Trenton Health Team, will work collaboratively to provide services focused on addressing a myriad of issues around maternal and infant health in Trenton and across New Jersey, including pre- and post-natal clinical services; education programs to cultivate the perinatal workforce; and social and wrap-around services. The NJEDA is developing the MIHIC in partnership with the Office of First Lady Tammy Murphy and the newly established Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority (MIHIA) which will oversee the MIHIC’s day-to-day operations long term.

The MIHIC is a central component to First Lady Tammy Murphy’s Nurture NJ initiative and will serve as a hub for New Jersey’s stakeholders dedicated to eliminating racial disparities and advancing maternal health equity in the state. The Board approved Capital Health as the Lead Healthcare Clinical Services Provider, Rutgers University as the Lead Institution of Higher Education, and Trenton Health Team as the Lead Trenton-Based Multi-Service Organization. A total of $75 million in state and federal funds has been allocated to support the construction of the Center.

“The Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center will truly be a one-of-a-kind hub for developing groundbreaking solutions to our maternal health crisis and ensuring we address the inequities in health care once and for all,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “At the same time, this center will provide critical maternal and infant health services to Trenton and New Jersey residents, transforming the maternal health landscape locally, across our state, and ultimately, we hope, for the nation. Most importantly, the Center and the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority will continue our vital work long after the Murphy administration, ensuring all New Jersey moms and babies are able to receive the highest quality care for generations to come, and helping us reach our goal and becoming the safest state in the nation to deliver and raise a baby.”

To ensure the MIHIC meets the needs of the Trenton community, the NJEDA partnered with the John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research at Kean University to lead community engagement efforts to inform the developmentof the Center. The Watson Institute has been leading an interactive, iterative, and open dialogue process with Trenton residents and stakeholders to better understand current programs and service offerings for expectant mothers and infants as well as gaps in service, opportunities to leverage existing community assets, and an ideal location for Trenton residents. This ongoing community engagement process will play a key role in informing the Center’s design and service delivery models, working in partnership with the Lead tenants, MIHIA and NJEDA.

“Under Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Murphy’s leadership, the NJEDA and MIHIA have been committed to working with premiere health, education, and non-profit professionals to best serve the City of Trenton,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “To have leaders like Capital Health, Rutgers University, and Trenton Health Team as partners in this endeavor is an incredible victory for the families of Trenton and it will further the NJEDA and MIHIA’s mission to provide top-of-the-line care. The Center is well-positioned to have a long-lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of the Trenton community for years to come.”

“The ultimate priority of the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center is advocating for communities that have long-faced disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes due to lack of access to health care services,” said Lisa Asare, who was recently appointed President and CEO of the MIHIA by Governor Murphy. “The MIHIA Board and I are excited to work alongside leading organizations that will provide quality health care services and education to residents who need it most. When we care for parents and infants, we give them to tools to live healthy, full lives.”

Rutgers University, which was selected as the Lead Institution of Higher Education, will provide a variety of services, including accredited degree programs, certification programs, non-degree programs, on-the-job training opportunities, student support services and maternal and infant health research. The School of Nursing, within Rutgers Health will lead the Higher Education Consortium at MIHIC, alongside Mercer County Community College, Stockton University, the College of New Jersey and Thomas Edison State University. Princeton University will collaborate in future research and policy endeavors.

As Lead Healthcare Clinical Services Provider, Capital Health will offer clinical care to Trenton residents focused on maternal and infant wellbeing and health equity, as well as provide prenatal and postpartum care, newborn and pediatric care, mental and behavioral health care, doula and lactation services, telehealth services, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Trenton Health Team, a non-profit which uses a data-driven approach to work with community groups to assess their health care needs, will serve as the Lead Trenton-Based Multi-Service Organization and focus on providing services that directly impact social determinants of health such as food security, housing, and transportation. Trenton Health Team, which serves as one of the four regional health hubs, has been recognized as an innovative force in the field of urban health care reform, as they have pinpointed gaps and barriers to service, and identified ways to improve delivery of preventative and remedial services.

“I welcome Capital Health, Rutgers University, and the Trenton Health Team to the Maternal Health Innovation Center and look forward to their partnership as we make Trenton a hub for maternal care best practices,” said Senator Shirley Turner (D-Mercer). “With their expertise, we will provide quality healthcare services, expand the perinatal workforce, and address racial disparities so that mothers and their babies have a fair chance at life in every community across New Jersey. Ending the maternal and infant mortality epidemic in our State must be a collaborative effort, and I believe we are bringing together a team that will make this a reality.”

“With the approval of Capital Health, Rutgers University, and Trenton Health Team as anchor tenants, the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center is poised to catalyze remarkable innovations that will improve the health of New Jersey’s mothers and babies,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Mercer).“As an Assemblywoman, I feel deep satisfaction in witnessing the fruition of our legislation become a tangible beacon of hope. As a lifelong resident of Trenton, I am proud of our city’s contribution toward the elimination of racial disparities and promotion of health equity statewide.”

“With the announcement of these new anchor tenants, The Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center is poised to become a vital institution in our Capital City,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “The MIHIC will bring immense benefits to patients here in Mercer County, while developing the tools we need to combat maternal and infant mortality, and to work towards eliminating racial inequity in maternal health outcomes across New Jersey. When we build collaborative relationships between government and all of our community stakeholders, we can tackle some of our greatest challenges.”

“As Mayor of Trenton, I am thrilled to see the progression of the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center. With Capital Health, Rutgers University, and Trenton Health Team at the forefront, this collaborative effort promises a brighter, healthier future for our community and beyond,” said Mayor Reed Gusciora. “By addressing critical issues surrounding maternal and infant health with a focus on equity, this center aligns perfectly with our city’s commitment to inclusive and accessible healthcare for all. I commend the dedication of the First Lady and her health team, and I look forward to the positive impact this initiative will have on the lives of families in Trenton and across New Jersey.”

“Rutgers Health is proud to partner with the state to provide vital maternal and infant health care to our community through this new center. As the state university of New Jersey, Rutgers brings significant value to this program and we are committed to advancing maternal health equity for our community. We are honored to have been selected as the Lead Institution of Higher Education and are excited to contribute our innovative expertise to this important initiative,” said Brian Strom, chancellor of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, who leads Rutgers Health.

“For over 125 years, Capital Health has cared for the residents of Trenton and we are deeply committed to ensuring access to safe, high-quality care for expectant and new parents and their babies,” said Al Maghazehe, President and CEO of Capital Health. “The Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center is a visionary opportunity to deliver much needed clinical, educational, and social services in Trenton. I want to thank First Lady Tammy Murphy for her commitment and vision. Together, we can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of our community.”

“Trenton Health Team is immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Lead Trenton-based Multi-Service Organization for this innovative Center,” said Trenton Health Team CEO Gregory Paulson. “Along with our many community and faith-based partners that bring tremendous expertise and experience in maternal health, THT has worked on numerous projects meant to improve maternal health outcomes in our city and beyond, particularly for Black and Brown birthing people. This pivotal opportunity will help us directly engage with community members in need of services that impact their daily lives, beyond just healthcare. Together, we remain steadfast in our commitment to driving tangible change and fostering a future where every individual, parent, child, family, friend, or neighbor – has the opportunity to thrive in New Jersey.”

About the NJEDA

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The grant challenge supports the State’s goals to prepare New Jersey residents for jobs in the green economy

TRENTON, N.J. (April 11, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the creation of the Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge. The $7 million grant program will prepare New Jersey residents for green economy careers, with a particular focus on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion and serving overburdened communities.

“Governor Phil Murphy is committed to investing in our clean energy future, and through programs like the Green Workforce Training Grant, the NJEDA is spearheading initiatives that increase access to skills and training, putting New Jerseyans at the forefront of green economy careers,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Through this important workforce development program, New Jersey is investing in our clean energy future by expanding opportunities and ensuring equitable access to good-paying jobs for all residents, especially those in overburdened communities.”

The Grant Challenge is a competitive funding opportunity, where applicants will be asked to submit proposals that outline their plans to develop and implement workforce supports to bolster the green economy, with a focus on New Jersey’s overburdened communities. Grants from $250,000 up to $1.5 million are available. Awardees may use funds to cover design, planning, capital, and implementation costs to offer training programs in green economy industries.

“The Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge is a unique chance for entities across the State of New Jersey, as it provides funds for them to train residents for jobs in the green economy, while ensuring a diverse workforce,” said Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy and Council on the Green Economy Eric Miller. “This Grant Challenge will provide long-lasting solutions that will protect our environment while creating opportunities for our state’s workforce.”

The Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge was created by the NJEDA, in collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy and the Wind Institute for Innovation and Training. The program is funded with $4.35 million through the Council on the Green Economy and $2.65 million from the Wind Institute.

“We are experiencing a clean-energy renaissance, and New Jersey is positioning its residents to succeed in this emerging industry,” said NJEDA Vice President of Offshore Wind Jen Becker. “This Grant Challenge will build our talent pipeline for the growing offshore wind and green economy sectors and will help to ensure equitable access to the industry for diverse workers and overburdened communities.”

The Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge builds upon the Green Jobs Council’s NJ Building our Resilient, Inclusive, and Diverse Green Economy (BRIDGE) Initiative. Last year, a total of $5 million in grants were awarded through the BRIDGE Initiative to support organizations working to create a diverse and inclusive workforce to support the state’s clean energy goals.

Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to, community-based organizations, workforce training organizations, labor unions, technical high schools, county colleges, non-profits, regional workforce development boards, and private-sector companies. Applicants must include at least one Community-Based Organization (CBO) that serves one or more New Jersey overburdened community as part of their application.

Applicants’ proposals must include their plans to implement workforce programs, connect participants with job opportunities in the green economy, develop outreach that targets and supports a diverse and inclusive pool of participants, including those from overburdened communities, and define program evaluation and success metrics.

More information about the Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge, including eligibility requirements and a formal application, will be available on www.njeda.gov by mid-2024.

About the NJEDA

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Film and Digital Media Studio Infrastructure grants will support five infrastructure improvement projects across New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. (April 11, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board on Wednesday approved $9.5 million in funding to support five projects under the Film and Digital Media Studio Infrastructure Program. The pilot program supports strategic economic development investments in the film and digital media industry by providing grant funding to municipalities, counties, and state entities for infrastructure improvements and sitework in support of the development of a film or digital media studio production facility.

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, film production in New Jersey has increased thanks to resources like the Film & Digital Media Tax Credit, which has created good-paying jobs, strengthened our economy, and attracted film studios and production companies to the Garden State,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The funding announced this week will allow municipalities to make important infrastructure improvements to support studio construction, furthering New Jersey’s leadership in film and television.”

By investing in infrastructure projects that support New Jersey’s growing film and digital media sector, the Film and Digital Media Studio Infrastructure Program will foster additional productions in the state, drive job creation, and further New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness. The projects funded through this program will support the creation of a film or digital media studio, as well as provide community and regional economic impact and benefits.

The following projects were approved for grants:

Borough of Carteret – $4,700,000 – The Borough will use the grant to construct public access to a brownfields redevelopment site along with utility infrastructure to support the development of a 1.2 million-square-foot film studio called “Carteret Stages” at 300 Roosevelt Avenue, which is anticipated to consist of numerous 20,000-square-foot sound stages, post-production facilities, and offices.

City of Jersey City – $2,161,400 – The City will improve infrastructure to support a planned renovation of 50 Dey Street for the creation of approximately 280,000 square feet of studio production facilities. Infrastructure work will consist of electrical power utility capacity improvements, upgrading the storm drainage system on Dey St., and road improvement access on St. Pauls Avenue.

Jersey City Redevelopment Agency – $1,433,000 – The Agency will undertake several public infrastructure improvements in the Liberty Harbor Redevelopment Area of Jersey City to support a proposed 124,000-square-foot film studio containing three sound stages for Criterion Group/Cinelease Studios. Infrastructure upgrades include additional crosswalks and traffic control signage to better regulate both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, installation of security and public access lighting to enhance overall safety surrounding the property, public accessible bicycle parking racks, and other streetscape improvements.

Egg Harbor City – $1,029,500 – The City will undertake infrastructure improvements and sitework on an 80-acre brownfields site at 1000 Hamburg Road for development by Atlantic Picture Motion Studios into approximately 185,000 square feet of motion picture and media sound stages, and entertainment production support space. Infrastructure work includes road widening, curb cuts, sidewalk improvement, street lighting, and street drainage improvements.

Township of East Brunswick – $176,100 – The Township will run a sewer line and improve the existing networking infrastructure to and for the approximately 75,000-square-foot Community Arts Center building located at 721 Cranbury Road. The Township is in the process of making building upgrades to include a Black Box Theater/Film Studio and the relocation of East Brunswick Television (EBTV) Production Studio to the Community Arts Center, which can support film creation, film screenings, and film editing and production.

About the NJEDA

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