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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, February 12, 2025, 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: 1-888-790-3708
PARTICIPANT ACCESS CODE: 7825427
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.
Please be advised that a Board Meeting for the New Jersey Green Bank will be held in person and via teleconference on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
Members of the public who wish to speak during the public comment segment of the meeting, pertaining to agenda items, may attend in person or call into the meeting by using the conference number, and are encouraged to call in prior to the meeting start time to avoid any delays.
IN PERSON:
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
NJEDA Board Room
36 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625
The agenda and teleconference number can be found 48 hours prior to the meeting here.
TRENTON, N.J. (February 3, 2025) – New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan released the following statement today regarding the New Jersey Wind Port:
“In light of the significant uncertainties in the offshore wind market, we have decided to accelerate our strategic review of options and alternatives for the New Jersey Wind Port. While recent developments at the federal level and announcements from offshore wind developers are deeply disappointing, they were not unexpected. We have taken a cautious approach to further development of the port since 2023, and we have worked to identify alternative uses that would maximize the economic development, job creation, and financial potential of the site for the State.
“We remain believers in the long-term potential of offshore wind for New Jersey, but our role as stewards of taxpayer resources requires us to evaluate all of our options. We will continue to provide further updates as this evolves.”
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.
Nearly $170 million has been distributed through Main Street’s suite of programs since 2021, bringing total small business support to nearly $1 billion
TRENTON, N.J. (February 3, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced that in 2024 it issued more than $32 million in grants and loans to more than 1,200 small businesses through the Main Street Recovery Program. Created under Governor Phil Murphy’s Economic Recovery Act (ERA), the Main Street Recovery Program provides a comprehensive suite of products designed to support New Jersey small businesses.
Since the program launched in 2021, the NJEDA has awarded approximately $167 million to more than 5,000 small businesses across the state. Including the $700 million in pandemic relief that the NJEDA provided to small businesses before the Main Street Recovery Program launched, the Authority has distributed a total of nearly $1 billion to bolster small businesses throughout New Jersey.
“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey remains committed to supporting small businesses with a range of resources designed to equip them for success,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “When the pandemic struck, the NJEDA, through the Economic Recovery Act, worked tirelessly to develop programs that infused millions of dollars into New Jersey’s local economies. Today, the Main Street Recovery Program continues to assist thousands of small businesses by helping them grow, expand, and thrive.”
The Main Street Recovery Program was originally designed to help small businesses stay open during the pandemic and support their growth and success in its aftermath. Years after the height of the pandemic, the program is continuing to support mom and pop shops along New Jersey’s main streets.
The following programs are part of the Main Street Recovery suite:
Small Business Lease Grant: supports the growth and success of small businesses and non-profits by providing grant funding to cover a portion of lease payments for businesses and non-profits leasing new or additional space.
Small Business Improvement Grant: offers reimbursement for costs associated with making building improvements or purchasing new furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
Main Street Lenders Grant: provides grants to eligible micro business lenders, which the lenders can use to create new loan micro business loan products or supplement existing micro business loan products. Lenders can also qualify for additional grant funding to provide technical assistance to micro businesses, to better prepare these businesses to qualify for loan products.
Main Street Acquisition Support Grant: will offer a grant of up to $50,000 to reimburse an eligible small New Jersey business for closing costs related to a New Jersey commercial property that the business purchased to operate from.
Small Business E-Commerce Support Program: provides free e-commerce and digital marketing consulting services to New Jersey small businesses in the restaurant, retail and personal care industries that operate from a commercial location. The NJEDA has partnered with consultants to assist eligible small businesses with e-commerce services.
Main Street Micro Business Loan: will provide financing of up to $50,000 to eligible micro businesses in New Jersey with 10 or fewer full-time employees and no greater than $1.5 million in annual revenues.
Reach for the Stars, LLC in Cranford, Union County, took advantage of the NJEDA’s Small Business E-Commerce Program. Serving as a leader in pediatric speech throughout New York and New Jersey, its new website allows for visitors to read related articles and patient testimonials and explore resources that are available to them.
“As a small business owner, we are often forced to choose one essential project over another because of financial limitations. I was truly honored that my business was selected to receive a grant for a new website, and I couldn’t be happier with the end results,” said Reach for the Stars owner Lisa Jiannetto-Surrusco. “The grant enabled me to get this project done, while allocating the saved money for vital necessities like therapy and testing materials, professional development for the staff, and potential expansion of our menu of services.”
In Medford, Burlington County, YMCA of the Pines Lake Stockwell Day Camp received funding from the Small Business Improvement Grant to offset the costs of a concrete apron and fencing at the campsite. These improvements allow for Lake Stockwell Day Camp to offer activities to children of all ages, such as archery, a high/low ropes course, and horseback riding.
“This NJEDA funding was an absolute game changer for YMCA of the Pines Lake Stockwell Day Camp,” said Mark R. Dibble, Chief Executive Officer of YMCA of the Pines. “This money allowed us to make necessary upgrades to the camp entrance, creating a beautiful and safe environment for all the campers and families we serve.”
In Asbury Park, Monmouth County, Asbury Park Brewery used the Small Business Lease Grant to open a new taproom. Now, Asbury Park Brewery can continue to brew their eclectic lineup of beers, including the Scarlet Ale, named after the Rutgers University Scarlet Knights.
“The Small Business Lease Grant provided us with support to open our new taproom on Cookman Avenue while continuing to produce high quality ales, beers, and stouts,” said Bob McLynn, owner of Asbury Park Brewery. “We are very grateful for this assistance, so that it’s possible to continue entertaining and serving our community, hopefully for years to come.”
Through the Small Business E-Commerce Support Program, The Potential in US, located in Woodbury, Gloucester County, was able to revamp their website to include a list of services and a full calendar of events, so that they can continue to offer community-based support services to adults living with disabilities.
“We had access to the website developer, who worked with us and comprehended our specific needs as small business owners,” said The Potential in US owner Anita Barringer. “It was a pleasure to work with such a great company and an even better developer.”
Since the Main Street Recovery Finance Program is a suite of programs, eligibility differs depending on the product. To learn more about the programs under the Main Street Recovery Program and to apply, please visit here.
About the NJEDA
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.
TRENTON, N.J. (January 24, 2025) – During its January meeting, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved Aspire tax credit awards for a mixed-use development project in Hudson County. Located on Jersey City’s West Side, Bayfront Promenade is set to create 210 residential rental units, 74 of which will be affordable.
“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, the Aspire program has supported meaningful development projects throughout the state, helping to expand housing options for New Jersey families,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Bayfront Promenade will help revitalize the West Side of Jersey City and provide residents with affordable housing options and access to critical services.”
The Bayfront Promenade development entails the new construction of a mixed-income, mixed-use development located on a vacant site on Route 440 in Jersey City. The project will include 210 residential units with over an additional 10,600 square feet of commercial and retail space.
The project will also include various amenities such as an outdoor terrace with grilling stations, a community lounge with a kitchen area, a coworking lounge, a fitness and yoga room, a dog washing station, and a children’s play area. The project will also include a 21,000 square foot covered parking garage with 52 parking spaces and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
“The Bayfront Redevelopment Project represents a transformative step forward for Jersey City’s West Side, bringing much-needed affordable housing, vibrant mixed-use spaces, and new opportunities for our residents,” said Mayor Steven M. Fulop, City of Jersey City. “With the support of the NJEDA’s Aspire tax credit awards, we are turning vision into reality, building a stronger, more inclusive community that reflects our commitment to progress and equity.”
Bayfront Partners 32 Urban Renewal was approved for up to 60 percent of the total project cost, not to exceed $64 million. This project is also supported by New Jersey Housing Mortgage and Finance Agency (NJHMFA) Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. The project will comply with the Energy Star Homes Program included in the NJHMFA’s Green Standard Requirements, which satisfies NJEDA’s Green Building Standards.
The project’s co-applicant is the Greater Bergen Community Action, Inc. (GBCA), which will provide several services for residents. The GBCA will operate a daycare center on site that will offer services to meet the educational and childcare needs for residents and the surrounding community. A credit union will also be operated by the GBCA and provide a variety of banking services including savings and checking accounts and loan products and services.
Aspire is a place-based economic development program created under the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020 (ERA) to support mixed-use, transit-oriented development with tax credits to commercial and residential real estate development projects that have financing gaps. All residential Aspire projects must include at least 20 percent affordable housing. As a performance-based program, projects must certify that all commitments established at time of approval have been met before receiving their first disbursement of tax credits.
About the NJEDA
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.
CAFE Program will bolster NJ’s arts community and spur economic activity in local communities
TRENTON, N.J. (January 24, 2025) – Yesterday, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the Cultural and Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program, which will help bolster New Jersey’s arts sector by supporting the development and rehabilitation of cultural arts facilities, such as performing arts centers and museums. The program aims to increase cultural arts activities across the state, attract visitors, boost engagement with the arts in underserved communities, and revitalize downtowns.
“Arts and culture serve as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s economy, contributing billions of dollars in economic activity each year while showcasing the incredible diversity, creativity, and talent of our residents,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey continues to provide innovative tools and resources to further position arts and culture as a key driver of economic growth. The CAFE Program will help address the economic challenges the industry has faced since the pandemic by fostering new cultural hubs and bringing dynamic arts experiences to communities across the state.”
The CAFE Program will provide tax credits through a competitive process to cultural arts institutions to build or renovate facilities, including aquariums, historical societies, libraries, galleries, museums, performing arts centers, or other eligible cultural or arts facilities. Eligible awardees receive tax credits covering 100 percent of eligible project costs, up to $75 million.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to building strong communities and laying the foundation for residents and families to truly thrive,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “By fostering these environments, we are reviving spaces where arts and culture can inspire and unite all who call this state home. The arts and culture sector is a vital part of New Jersey’s identity, and our support ensures these community anchors can continue to flourish, generating local jobs and drawing new visitors to our state in the process.”
Eligible applicants include government entities and not-for-profits whose primary mission is arts and culture, or a for-profit business receiving a federal or state historic preservation rehabilitation tax credit. Applicants are required to contribute 10 percent or 20 percent equity to the project, depending on the project location.
A qualifying project must have a minimum of $5 million in eligible project costs. The requirements for a cultural arts facility vary based on its type. It must either be open to the public for an average of at least 20 hours per week or host an average of at least four events or educational offerings per month. Facilities primarily used for athletics, recreation, and non-arts based community centers are not eligible for the program.
Applications for the first round of the CAFE Program are expected to open in Spring 2025. For more information and a complete list of eligibility requirements, click here.
About the NJEDA
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.
TRENTON, N.J. (January 21, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has launched a marketing campaign to promote incentives designed to encourage New York-based companies with New Jersey employees to open New Jersey offices or allow those employees to work from home. New Jersey Re-assigning In-State Employees Program (NJ RISE), administered by the NJEDA, will provide grants to businesses who re-assign New Jersey residents working in another state (such as New York) to a New Jersey location. The program will allow employees to work closer to home, shortening their commute, and returning New Jerseyans’ tax dollars to the state.
“From the beginning, I vowed to fight congestion pricing, because New York should not balance its budget on the backs of New Jersey families,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Back in 2023, I signed legislation establishing a grant program that would incentivize businesses in states like New York to reassign their New Jersey resident employees to work in our state. This would not only cut down on costs and travel time for commuters, but would keep their tax dollars in New Jersey. Our fight against congestion pricing isn’t over and we won’t allow another state to line its coffers with our hard-earned money.”
The first billboards promoting NJ RISE to commuters appeared Monday, at the 39th St. entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel, on the West Side Highway at West 155th St., and on the Cross Bronx Expressway, targeting vehicles heading towards I-87/ Major Deegan Expressway or crossing over the George Washington Bridge into New Jersey. Additional billboards will follow in New York and Northern New Jersey, complemented by taxi top banners, digital and social media ads, and transit posters.
“Governor Murphy has been committed to bringing more businesses to the Garden State, and the NJ RISE program will help incentivize companies to reassign their New Jersey employees back to their home state and increase their business activity in the state,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “In addition to saving time and money for commuters, NJ RISE will bolster the state’s tax revenue, increase economic activity, and grow a stronger and fairer economy for New Jersey’s commuters and families.”
NJ RISE’s goal is to increase New Jersey’s Gross Income Tax Withholdings by encouraging eligible businesses to re-assign their out of state New Jersey resident employees to New Jersey by issuing an incentive based upon on the employees’ withholdings. NJ RISE is a $20 million pilot program that will provide grants to businesses principally located out of state that re-assign New Jersey residents currently assigned to work in a state that employs the “convenience of employer” income taxation rule to work in a New Jersey location. The grant is equal to the amount of New Jersey Gross Income Tax withholdings of the re-assigned resident employees during one tax year of the business, not to exceed $500,000 in the aggregate per business.
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.
The kickoff of the 18-week hybrid program took place on January 15 at Kean University, marking the start of a groundbreaking effort to support businesses in navigating public and private construction markets across the state. Participants will gain vital skills in finance, strategic planning, construction law, and bonding while receiving one-on-one mentorship and technical assistance.
“I was thrilled to join NJEDA and ICIC at Kean University this week for the Building for Growth Kick-Off Luncheon. This important partnership will support women-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses by providing mentoring opportunities and the skills needed to succeed in New Jersey’s construction industry,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “This program will uplift underserved communities and promote economic success for diverse entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and opportunity for all.”
“Under Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is expanding funding opportunities, resources, and training for diverse business owners, creating equitable economic opportunities for women, minority, and veteran entrepreneurs,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “ICIC’s BFG program has a proven track record of driving economic success for diverse construction companies. We are proud to partner with ICIC and Kean University to replicate these successes in the Garden State.”
BFG was developed by ICIC, a national nonprofit organization committed to spurring economic growth in under-resourced communities by supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and building wealth for residents. Since its inception, ICIC’s BFG program has demonstrated extraordinary results. Alumni of the program report an 88 percent increase in revenue and a 112 percent increase in their largest project size. Collectively, graduates have raised $6.5 million in capital and grown their teams by an average of 34 percent.
With 219 businesses already benefiting from this program, 82 percent are BIPOC-owned, 62 percent are women-owned, and 11 percent are veteran-owned. The results showcase the program’s ability to foster significant economic impact and drive inclusion within the construction industry.
“ICIC extends its deepest gratitude to Governor Phil Murphy and Tammy Murphy for their visionary leadership and unwavering support for small businesses,” said Steve Grossman, CEO of ICIC. “With their partnership as well as the support of the NJEDA, today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for New Jersey’s construction industry, as we launch a program that will create lasting impact for businesses and communities statewide.”
During the 18-week curriculum beginning January 29, BFG will offer four in-person sessions with panelists who will speak directly to the needs of growing construction businesses in New Jersey. Kean University is hosting key program events, including the program kickoff and graduation. The university’s commitment to fostering economic growth and empowering diverse communities aligns with BFG goals.
“Building for Growth embodies Kean’s commitment to creating opportunity, advancing accessibility and driving innovation as the state’s urban research university,” said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “When we empower minority-owned construction businesses with the resources to succeed, they strengthen both the physical and economic foundations of our communities, generating jobs and fostering prosperity. Through our collaboration with NJEDA and ICIC, we’re creating pathways of opportunity across New Jersey, empowering contractors who will shape our state’s future.”
Applications for the program are still open. To be eligible, a company must:
Be an independent corporation in the construction industry
Be at least 51 percent minority, woman- or veteran-owned and/or located in an Overburdened Community;
Headquartered in New Jersey, or perform a significant percentage of contracts in New Jersey.
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.
The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) accelerates small business growth in under-resourced communities through innovative research and programs. Founded by Harvard Business School professor Michael Porter, ICIC fosters inclusive economic prosperity and creates pathways for jobs, income, and wealth.
About Kean University
Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation, and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities, and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs, and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas, or certifications across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River, and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu.
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A meeting of the Commission of Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) Board has been scheduled for Friday, January 24, 2025, at 10:00 am.
FEED NJ will provide grants of up to $500,000 to entities at the forefront of food access work
Information and application webinar will be held on January 27th
TRENTON, N.J. (January 16, 2025) – Last month, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the creation of the Food Equity and Economic Development in New Jersey (FEED NJ) Pilot Program, a $30 million competitive grant program that will support food security projects in New Jersey’s Food Desert Communities (FDCs). Building on the success of the NJEDA’s Atlantic City Food Security Grants Pilot Program, FEED NJ will award grants of up to $500,000 to for-profit and nonprofit entities working to improve residents’ ability to access fresh, affordable, and healthy food.
“Expanding access to healthy and affordable food in every New Jersey community is crucially important to the continued economic security and health of our state,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The projects that will receive grant funding through FEED NJ will increase availability of affordable food in the communities that need it most, alleviating the strain on families and creating a stronger and fairer New Jersey.”
“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, the NJEDA is focused on supporting those living in New Jersey’s Food Desert Communities by creating innovative programs that increase access to nutritious, affordable food and support local organizations committed to ending hunger,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “FEED NJ expands the NJEDA’s robust toolkit of programs that bolster food security in the state, improving the well-being of countless families, uplifting communities, and contributing to economic vitality.”
Applicants to FEED NJ must primarily focus their projects on serving residents of the highest-need FDCs, which are spread across eight counties, comprise portions of 11 municipalities, and are home to 567,349 residents. Four cities — Camden, Newark, Trenton, and Paterson — are represented more than once, encompassing 10 of the top FDCs. The Primary Focus FDCs are:
Rank
Food Desert Name
1
North, Central and South Camden/Woodlynne
3
Newark South
4
Newark West
5
Camden East/Pennsauken
6
Trenton West
7
Newark North and Central
8
Newark East
9
Salem city
10
Passaic city
11
Trenton East
12
Bridgeton/Fairfield Twp/Lawrence Twp
13
Paterson South
14
New Brunswick city
15
Paterson North
Applicants may also elect to serve additional FDCs, provided the primary focus remains on at least one of these 14 FDCs. Atlantic City/Ventnor, the second-highest ranked FDC, is excluded from this list as it is the sole focus of NJEDA’s existing Atlantic City Food Security Grants Pilot Program.
A map showing geographic boundaries of the Primary Focus FDCs can be accessed here.
The NJEDA’s list of New Jersey’s 50 FDCs, which was created in consultation with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture and approved by the NJEDA Board in 2022, considers more than 24 variables related to the food retail environment, demographics, and economic, health, and community factors. A full list and map of all 50 FDCs is available on the FEED NJ website.
“Dismantling food insecurity in New Jersey remains our top priority, as every resident deserves access to nutritious and reliable food sources,” said Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (D-Middlesex). “FEED NJ demonstrates the power of investing in local solutions and community-driven initiatives. By targeting the regions of the state most in need, we are able to provide tailored support that directly addresses even the most unique challenges.”
FEED NJ is a competitively scored program. Applicants must be for-profit or nonprofit entities that have been in existence for at least two years. Grant funding, which can be used for direct or indirect costs, can be utilized for both new and existing food security initiatives including, but not limited to, expanding access to locally grown produce, purchasing equipment for food provision, or establishing a food co-op or mobile market. For a complete list of program requirements and scoring criteria, and to sign up for FEED NJ updates, visit https://www.njeda.gov/feednj.
The NJEDA is hosting a FEED NJ information and application webinar on Monday, January 27th at 2 P.M. The webinar will provide further details on program specifics, eligibility requirements, and applications. To register for the webinar, click here.
“True food security becomes a reality when all New Jerseyans, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to safe and nutritious food. Through its tax incentive programs and direct funding initiatives such as FEED NJ, the NJEDA has been a leader in building food security in our state,” said NJ Office of the Food Security Advocate Executive Director Mark Dinglasan. “FEED NJ is the latest example of the NJEDA’s and the Murphy Administration’s ongoing commitment to helping all NJ families live healthier, fuller lives, no matter which community they call home. My team and I are eager to support our NJEDA colleagues and the FEED NJ program in every way possible.”
“The FEED NJ Pilot Program represents a vital step toward addressing hunger and food security as a public health priority,” said New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Kaitlan Baston, MD, MSc, DFASAM. “By expanding access to nutritious and affordable food in food desert communities, this initiative has the potential to significantly improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and enhance the well-being of families across our state. The Department of Health is proud to support this transformative program, and we look forward to its impact under Governor Murphy’s leadership.”
“Communities cannot thrive without access to grocery stores that provide fresh produce and high-quality food for residents and workers,” said New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “The Department of Community Affairs believes in a ‘Housing First’ approach, which encompasses all essential elements that contribute to a stable household, including access to nutritious food. We understand that improving food access will have a profound and positive impact on the health and well-being of those living in these communities.”
“Every New Jersey resident deserves to have easy access to healthy and nutritious food,” New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Ed Wengryn said. “The Governor’s FEED NJ initiative will continue to build upon investments made by the state and federal government supporting local food purchase opportunities. The Department of Agriculture is committed to strengthening the relationships between consumers and the state’s farmers, by working with the EDA on programs like FEED NJ, we ensure that the state’s agriculture community grows as we improve access and distribution of healthy foods to our communities.”
“FEED NJ continues the Murphy Administration’s whole-of-government commitment to improve access to affordable and nutritious food for all residents. Healthy food should not be a luxury and yet there are still communities that lack access to this very basic necessity,” said New Jersey Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “The FEED NJ program will not only help improve food access in communities that need it, but will provide organizations on the frontlines of food access work with the support needed to grow.”
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.