BeOne Medicines will expand its U.S. manufacturing presence in NJ

TRENTON, N.J. (July 23, 2026) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved a Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program award for Hopewell-based BeOne Medicines US Manufacturing Co., Inc. The entity is the manufacturing arm of its parent company, BeOne Medicines AG, a global oncology company recognized for developing innovative therapies for hematologic and solid tumor cancers. BeOne’s $300 million capital investment will result in 120 new full-time jobs.

The new facility is part of BeOne’s initiative to expand its U.S. manufacturing capabilities while strengthening its international supply chains. Following a comprehensive nationwide site selection analysis, BeOne chose New Jersey to build its small-molecule pharmaceutical manufacturing facility at its existing Hopewell Campus in Pennington.

“From Day One, I have been focused on cutting red tape and making New Jersey a better place to do business — and we’re thrilled to have companies like BeOne Medicines growing their footprint and creating additional jobs in the Garden State,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “BeOne’s expansion in Hopewell is a testament to New Jersey’s position as a global leader for innovation and as the medicine chest of the world. This investment will create more than 100 good-paying, high-tech jobs in the Garden State while strengthening America’s ability to produce life-saving cancer treatments.”

“It’s exciting that BeOne Medicines has decided to expand its manufacturing footprint in the United States and even more exciting that it chose New Jersey to build this major facility,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The pharmaceutical industry has a long legacy in New Jersey, and Governor Sherrill is committed to ensuring we remain the medicine chest of the world. The Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program is helping bolster the state’s manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries, drive job creation, and strengthen our economy.”

The new facility will be designed as a purpose-built, state-of-the-art manufacturing hub dedicated to small-molecule pharmaceutical product production, complementing the campus’s existing biologics manufacturing capabilities. The three-story, 145,000-square-foot facility will be designed to meet modern U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements, leveraging the campus’ established utilities, logistics systems, and operational framework. The facility’s core production areas will support one small molecule manufacturing line, with additional area pre-built for future expansion, and will be able to support all major unit operations required for tablet manufacturing.

“Every patient with cancer deserves innovative, high-quality medicines, and this expansion strengthens our ability to deliver them faster, reliably, and at scale as we work together to stop cancer,” said Aaron Rosenberg, Chief Financial Officer, BeOne Medicines. “Governor Sherrill’s support for this project and the State of New Jersey’s focus on advancing manufacturing were instrumental in making it possible. We are proud to be do our part by investing here, growing our team and manufacturing footprint, and continuing to deliver on our commitment to patients in the U.S. and around the world.”

BeOne opened its $800 million flagship U.S. manufacturing and clinical research and development facility in 2024 at the Princeton West Innovation Campus in Pennington. As a global oncology leader, the company focuses on treatments for a variety of cancers including blood, lung, gastrointestinal, breast and gynecological, as well as rare cancers.

“BeOne Medicines’ decision to make another major investment at its Hopewell campus is a strong vote of confidence in Mercer County and New Jersey’s highly skilled workforce,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Shirley K. Turner.  “This $300 million expansion will create 120 full-time jobs, strengthen domestic manufacturing of critical cancer treatments, and help ensure that innovative medicines reach the patients who need them.  I am pleased that the NJEDA is supporting this expansion, and  I look forward to seeing it deliver lasting benefits for cancer patients, employees, taxpayers, and our regional economy.”

“BeOne’s decision to expand in New Jersey reflects the strength of our life sciences industry and the talented workforce that drives it,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “This investment will create good-paying jobs, bolster our economy, and help ensure New Jersey remains a global leader in developing and manufacturing lifesaving medicines.”

“I’m proud to see the NJEDA supporting the manufacturing of life saving medicines right here in the 15^th Legislative District,” said Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “This is precisely what these tax credits are designed to do. They help support businesses, create jobs, and push the entire field of medicine further into the 21^st century. We can all be proud of that!”

“We’re excited that BeOne is continuing to expand its presence here in Mercer County, bringing high-quality jobs to our community and helping to solidify our role as a hub for innovation,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “Working alongside our municipal and state partners, we’re sending a clear message that Mercer County’s location, workforce, and infrastructure make us a great place for businesses to invest. Congratulations to Hopewell Twp, and I want to thank Governor Sherrill and the team at NJEDA for helping to secure this investment and look forward to building an even stronger partnership with the team at BeOne.”

 “We are thrilled to welcome BeOne’s new small-molecule pharmaceutical manufacturing facility to Hopewell Township. BeOne has been an outstanding partner to our community, and after a nationwide search their decision to expand right here proves what we already know, that Hopewell Township and New Jersey are a great place to grow a business,” said Hopewell Mayor David Chait. “This project brings new jobs, new investment, and lifesaving medicines manufactured in our community, and we thank Governor Sherrill and the NJEDA for their support in making it possible.”

Far exceeding the program’s minimum investment and job creation requirements, BeOne qualifies for an award of $33.9 million over the course of five years.

About the NJEDA

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

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

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Please be advised that the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission Annual Board Meeting will be held in person and via teleconference on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:30 am. 

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

One Gateway Center

11-43 Raymond Plaza West, 14^th Floor, Newark, NJ 07102

The agenda and teleconference number can be found 48 hours prior to the meeting here.

TRENTON, N.J. (July 22, 2026) – New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss released the following statement today on the Aspire Program:

“Since its launch, the Aspire Program has supported more than 40 projects across the state, resulting in more than 7,500 new housing units for families, seniors, and commuters. The program has also supported the development of film studios and major health care centers, helping drive economic activity and create new good-paying jobs.

“Still, Aspire can be better. Through listening sessions, dozens of conversations, and our own data analysis it is clear that Aspire can be a difficult tool to use. It can also be an expensive one, with as much as half of Aspire credit awards paying for transaction costs. In large part because of this inefficiency, demand for the program far exceeds available resources. Governor Sherrill has made fiscal discipline a key part of her budget and economic development strategy. Ensuring Aspire tax credits do as much for the projects they are meant to support as possible is our goal.

“The NJEDA has decided to temporarily pause applications for the Aspire Program so that it can process current applications, protect funding for viable projects, and establish a new transparent and competitive framework. During this time, the NJEDA will review all options on how to strengthen the program.

“We expect to reopen applications for the Aspire Program in the fall. We are committed to updating the program with clearer standards, a stronger emphasis on fiscal discipline and project readiness, and, most importantly, alignment with Governor Sherrill’s economic development and budget priorities. We look forward to working with key stakeholders, industry leaders, and government partners to ensure changes are done responsibly and will result in the greatest economic impact for communities across the state.”

About the NJEDA

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

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

NJIT economic impact assessment found CSIT-funded companies leveraged awards to bolster private sector investment

TRENTON, N.J. (July 20, 2026) – The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT), working hand-in-hand with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), today released findings from an economic impact assessment of its programs, which are designed to advance startup growth and promote academic and technological research, development, and commercialization in the State. Since 2020, CSIT-supported companies have utilized 548 grants to create nearly 1,800 jobs and raise $524.5 million in additional capital, over 20 times the amount awarded through CSIT programs.  

“Since day one, Governor Sherrill has advanced a thoughtful plan to bolster business growth in the State by easing costs, expanding resources, and making government a more productive partner,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “CSIT’s efforts are a shining example of how effective programs can increase economic opportunities for business owners, creating jobs, attracting further investment, and strengthening the State’s innovation economy.”

“Since CSIT was reestablished in 2018, the Commission has focused its efforts on making New Jersey a leader in startup creation and entrepreneurial growth, supporting the advancement of novel technologies and sectors and strengthening the State’s innovation ecosystem,” said CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft. “The findings in CSIT’s economic impact assessment exemplify the State’s progress in its efforts to expand access to capital and strategic resources for New Jersey entrepreneurs, and startup growth has resulted in meaningful discoveries and life-changing work being conducted throughout the State. We look forward to working with Governor Mikie Sherrill to continue to make the Garden State the best place to start and grow innovation-based startup enterprises.”

The assessment, conducted by the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), also found that the 226 reporting companies awarded funding through CSIT programs have generated $99.4 million in total revenue and paid taxes exceeding the total amount of funding awarded. CSIT programs have supported entrepreneurs creating innovative startup companies in some of the State’s fastest-growing industries, including clean energy, life sciences, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and biotechnology.

“CSIT funding fills a critical gap for the earliest-stage companies that often struggle to secure traditional investment, providing the catalytic support needed to transform breakthrough discoveries into real-world solutions,” said CSIT Chair and BioNJ President and CEO, Debbie Hart. “By accelerating the transfer of innovation from New Jersey’s world-class research institutions into the private sector, these investments help drive commercialization, strengthen the State’s innovation ecosystem, attract future investment and fuel long-term economic growth and competitiveness.”

The economic impact assessment analyzed startups that have utilized capital from 21 CSIT funding rounds to develop new technologies, advance commercialization, and grow in innovative industries. It also found that CSIT-supported companies are making meaningful advances in intellectual property, a key indicator of the technological progress being made by early-stage startups. A full copy of the report can be found here.

Inaedis, a biopharmaceutical technology company based in Princeton that received support through the CSIT Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Direct Funding Grant and Catalyst Seed Research & Development (R&D) Grant Program, is developing a scalable platform that removes the fundamental formulation, manufacturing, and delivery constraints limiting biologics. Through CSIT funding, Inaedis is attracting follow-on investment and continuing to grow in the Garden State.

“At Inaedis, CSIT funding has been transformative for our growth. The SBIR/STTR Direct Funding Grant has helped us bridge the gap between federal Phase I and Phase II funding by supporting critical operational and technical work that strengthens our Phase II proposal and our commercialization plan,” said Inaedis CEO Maksim Mezhericher. “CSIT grants have reduced our financial risk at a very early stage, enabled us to retain and attract technical talent in New Jersey, allowed us to hire new team members, and positioned Inaedis to be more competitive for future federal funding and private investment. They are a key reason we can grow as a New Jersey-based deep-tech startup rather than relocating our operations elsewhere.”

About the NJEDA

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

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

About CSIT

In 2018, the Commission of Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) was established. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, CSIT is tasked with leading the way in promoting the State as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization. For more information on CSIT, visit www.njcsit.gov. 

Joint Efforts to Develop Mixed-Use Residential Communities in Linden and Bayonne under Governor Sherrill’s Executive Order 17

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill today announced the release of two requests for proposals (RFPs), seeking development partners to build new, transit-oriented housing on state-owned land. These RFPs, released by NJ TRANSIT and New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), are clear examples of the Governor’s housing affordability agenda in action.  

Reports required by Executive Order 17 are not due until late September. However, Governor Sherrill and her Housing Governing Council are announcing early action to address this important issue.  

“From Day One, I have been relentlessly focused on making New Jersey more affordable for working people,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “New Jersey has not built enough housing to keep pace with the needs of our growing state, and families are paying the price. If we are serious about making New Jersey more affordable, we have to be serious about building more housing. Today’s announcements show that my administration is not waiting around for a report to take action. Before the ink is even dry on responses to my housing executive order, I am pleased to see agencies taking clear and decisive steps toward building more housing.” 

These actions highlight the Governor’s whole-of-government approach to tackling the housing affordability crisis, one of New Jersey’s defining challenges. No single agency, program, or level of government can solve a problem of this scale alone. By working together to reduce barriers to housing production, New Jersey can help catalyze housing development and work towards a future where residents of every income level have access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.  

NJ TRANSIT Initiates Process for New Transit-Oriented Development in Bayonne 

Continuing efforts to transform its real estate holdings into new revenue streams, increase access to opportunity, and boost ridership, NJ TRANSIT is seeking a qualified partner to transform a 4.3-acre parcel of land adjacent to the Bayonne-34th Street Station along the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) into a vibrant, Transit-Oriented Development community featuring apartments, retail, public space and a more modern, accessible public transit experience. 

“Transit-oriented development is critical to creating economically robust, vibrant communities in New Jersey while at the same time providing an important source of non-farebox revenue to NJ TRANSIT. Under Governor’s Sherrill’s leadership, we are providing much-needed housing in accessible, transit-friendly ways,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri. 

In collaboration with the city, NJ TRANSIT has issued a Request for Qualifications/Proposal to any interested, qualified entities to develop the parcels, which currently contain two surface parking lots directly south of the Bayonne-34th Street Station. Once chosen, the developer will lead the planning and construction of apartment homes for a mix of incomes, including a minimum of 20% affordable to low-and-moderate-income housing. In addition to housing, NJ TRANSIT’s goals for the site include creation of a vibrant, transit-oriented station area with pedestrian-friendly, ground floor commercial or retail space, inclusive public spaces, commuter parking, bus connections, micromobility enhancements, bicycle infrastructure and streetscape improvements. 

Using sustainable and resilient design practices, the project would also include commuter amenities to enhance the customer experience, and clear wayfinding and signage and accessibility features. 

“The City of Bayonne appreciates NJ TRANSIT’s interest in developing a portion of the 34th Street Light Rail Station property. We look forward to seeing the results from the upcoming request-for-proposals process,” said City of Bayonne Mayor Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski. 

The 34th Street Station is an important hub on the HBLR. Approximately 1,484 customers board there each weekday. The HBLR provides frequent service between major population and employment centers and facilitates connections to mass transit services to New York City and throughout New Jersey. 

The offering is aligned with The LAND Plan: Leveraging Assets for Non-farebox Dollars, NJ TRANSIT’s roadmap to raise as much as $1.9 billion in non-farebox revenue for the agency, up to $14 billion for the State of New Jersey, and up to $1.6 billion in municipal revenues over the next 30 years by leveraging portions of its 8,000-acre real estate portfolio. The plan highlights how NJ TRANSIT, working with the Legislature, state agencies and local host communities, can activate underutilized assets to deliver housing, jobs and recurring non-farebox revenue, while improving customer experience and reliability. The LAND Plan is designed to strengthen communities around NJ TRANSIT’s stations while improving service for customers. 

NJ TRANSIT will host a site visit on July 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., and interested parties must submit a Notice of Intent by August 18, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. ET. Proposals are due on September 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. ET. Respondents will receive information and instructions for submitting proposals upon submitting the Notice of Intent. 

To learn more about NJ TRANSIT’s TOD program, click here. 

NJEDA Issues RFQP to Transform Property at Linden Train Station to Create Transit-Oriented Housing Development 

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today issued a Request for Qualifications and Proposals (RFQP) to solicit proposals for the purchase or lease and redevelopment of a commuter parking lot at the NJ TRANSIT rail station in Linden into a transit-oriented housing community. Proposals should include plans for transit-oriented housing to support Governor Sherrill’s mission to expand access to housing across the state.  

The NJEDA purchased the property at 101 West Elizabeth Avenue from NJ TRANSIT with the goal of transforming it into a vibrant, walkable community. It sits between two active, mixed-use developments on the southbound side of the station. The Linden train station offers service along the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast lines. 

“Within the first few months of her administration, Governor Sherrill has taken bold steps to increase housing production and make living in New Jersey more affordable for families,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The NJEDA’s purchase and Request for Proposals for redevelopment of the Linden site will deliver mixed-income, transit-oriented housing in the city’s downtown. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Governor Sherrill, NJ TRANSIT, and local officials to redevelop underutilized properties, expand housing, strengthen the local property tax base, and attract private investment.”

“We are excited to see the NJEDA move forward with this important redevelopment opportunity,” said Linden Mayor Derek Armstead. “As One West approaches completion, we look forward to another exceptional project that complements our downtown, enhances the area surrounding the train station, and continues to attract residents, businesses, and visitors to Linden. We are confident this site can become another cornerstone of our City’s continued growth and revitalization.”   

“Meeting New Jersey’s housing needs will require collaboration, innovation and a commitment to making the most of our public assets,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “Projects like these demonstrate how state agencies, local communities and the Legislature can work together to expand housing opportunities, encourage economic growth, and make better use of the transportation infrastructure that already connects our communities.” 

“I look forward to working alongside Governor Sherrill, NJ TRANSIT, and local officials to redevelop underutilized properties, expand housing, strengthen the local property tax base, and attract private investment in Linden,” said Assemblyman James Kennedy.  

“The Linden project highlights how coordinated efforts among state agencies, local leaders, and policymakers can leverage public assets to expand housing opportunities, strengthen communities, and maximize investments in New Jersey’s transportation network,” said Assemblywoman Linda Carter.  

In addition to transit-oriented housing, proposals should include resident and commuter parking, energy-efficient design, and pedestrian connectivity for NJ TRANSIT customers. Respondents must submit a detailed development concept and narrative, market data supporting proposed rents or sales, funding sources and a 10-year operating pro forma, and a project schedule showing key milestones. Qualified developers must demonstrate experience delivering and financing projects of similar size and scope and a team with relevant mixed-use or transit-oriented development experience. 

The RFQP and complete list of eligibility requirements can be found here. 

All questions must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, on the NJEDA’s Bidding Opportunities page. Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the NJEDA’s website as Addendum. All RFQP responses must be submitted no later than 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, on the NJEDA’s Bidding Opportunities page. 

About NJDEA 

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. 

About NJ TRANSIT 

NJ TRANSIT is the nation’s largest statewide public transportation system providing more than 925,000 weekday trips on 264 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the third largest transit system in the country with 165 rail stations, 62 light rail stations and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia. 

TRENTON, N.J. (July 1, 2026) – New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss released the following statement today on the signing of the FY2027 State Budget: 

“The FY2027 State Budget accomplishes what Governor Sherrill laid out in her proposal – a budget focused on affordability, lowering costs for families, and improving government accountability, all while addressing the state’s projected structural deficit. This budget makes critical investments into housing, education, the state pension, and property tax relief, helping strengthen our economy and make New Jersey a top state to live, work, and raise a family. 

“I’m also pleased that this budget includes funding for the NJEDA to support our small business community, ensuring small business owners have the tools and resources to start and grow a business in the Garden State. Funding for the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation & Technology will help early-stage companies bring cutting-edge technologies to the marketplace. Continued funding for the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission underscores the state’s commitment to growing a robust and competitive film industry, which is poised to create good-paying careers for residents. 

“I appreciate the work of Governor Sherrill and the Legislature to put together a comprehensive and responsible budget that will allow the NJEDA to continue its work of bolstering our economy by supporting businesses, promoting job growth, and revitalizing communities.”

About the NJEDA

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

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

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Somerset County-based technology manufacturer will create 250 new jobs with a capital Investment of $150M

TRENTON, N.J. (June 18, 2026) – Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the first tax credit award under the Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program. The award recipient, Starman New Photonics, LLC (“SNP”), is a newly formed U.S.-based advanced manufacturing company building a domestic supply of high-speed optical transceivers essential for the AI industry. With a $150 million investment, Starman will be renovating a 100,000-square-foot facility in Warren, New Jersey, and is expected to create 250 new jobs.

“New Jersey’s manufacturing industry is critical to our economy, helping drive investment and create good-paying jobs,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “Starman New Photonics is a perfect blend of a long-standing industry – manufacturing – and a new one – AI – both of which are producing impactful economic benefits for the state and its residents. I look forward to working with Governor Sherrill to ensure the industries have the tools needed to grow and succeed and its economic impact is felt in communities across the state.”

SNP will manufacture next-generation optical transceivers through precision manufacturing, assembly, packaging, and R&D. Optical transceivers are essential for AI production, connecting Graphics Processing Units in data centers and overcoming bandwidth and energy limitations.

“This award demonstrates exactly what the Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program was designed to accomplish. It has attracted major private investment and will create hundreds of high-quality jobs,” said Senator Linda Greenstein, co-chair of the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus. “Starman New Photonics’ decision to invest in Somerset County is a tremendous win for our manufacturing sector and our state as a whole. As demand for AI infrastructure continues to grow, it is critical that New Jersey remains at the forefront of developing emerging technologies while expanding our capacity to manufacture them at scale. I was proud to sponsor the legislation creating this program in the Legislature, and I am excited to see the real economic benefits it will have for working families in our communities.”

“Manufacturing built New Jersey’s economy, and investments like this are exactly what we need to keep it strong for future generations,” said Senator Michael Testa (R-Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland). “At a time when too much of our manufacturing base and critical technology production has moved overseas, Starman New Photonics’ decision to invest $150 million and create 250 jobs here in New Jersey is a major win for our workers, our economy, and our national security. By expanding domestic production of technology that is essential to the growing AI industry, this project helps strengthen American supply chains and reduce our dependence on foreign competitors. It’s a reminder that when government creates the right environment for investment and innovation, businesses will choose to grow, hire, and manufacture right here in the Garden State.”

“Today’s announcement shows that the Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program is already working as intended, creating opportunities for New Jersey residents and strengthening our position as a state where businesses choose to invest, innovate, and grow,” said Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald.  “Manufacturing has long been a driver of economic opportunity, supporting stable, family-sustaining careers and strengthening local businesses and communities. By attracting innovative companies and helping them expand here, we are ensuring that New Jersey continues to lead in the industries that will define our future for years to come.”

“We’re proud to partner with the State of New Jersey to onshore optical transceiver manufacturing, a critical component of the AI infrastructure economy,” said Charles Tebele, CEO of Starman New Photonics. “With the Department of Defense moving to prohibit the procurement of optical transceivers from certain foreign producers, domestic manufacturing has become increasingly imperative. We are grateful to the team at NJEDA and Governor Sherrill for recognizing this opportunity and for their support in helping make this project possible. With its strong infrastructure, leading universities, and highly skilled workforce, New Jersey provides an exceptional foundation for this investment and for our long-term growth.”

Far exceeding the program’s minimum investment and job creation requirements, SNP qualifies for a tax credit of $7.5 million issued annually over the first five years of a ten-year commitment to New Jersey, for a total of $37.5 million.

About the NJEDA

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

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

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The project will include the renovation of the Main Library Branch and the expansion and renovation of the Bellevue Avenue Branch

TRENTON, N.J. (June 16, 2026) – Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved an award under the Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program to support the Montclair Public Library & Cultural Center in Montclair.  

“Governor Sherrill recognizes the important role New Jersey’s arts and culture sector plays in generating economic opportunity, enhancing quality of life, and supporting good-paying jobs across the state, Governor Sherrill is committed to supporting New Jersey’s thriving arts and culture sector, which continues to generate economic opportunity, enhance quality of life, and support good-paying jobs across the state,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “Through programs like CAFE, the NJEDA is investing in expanding access to major arts and cultural institutions, ensuring that patrons from around the region and of all backgrounds can connect with enriching artistic, educational, and cultural experiences.” 

The Montclair Public Library & Cultural Center Project will include the renovation of the downtown Main Library Branch at 50 South Fullerton Avenue and the expansion and renovation of the Bellevue Avenue Branch. The project was approved for up to $36.6 million in CAFE program tax credits. 

The project at the Main Library includes a full reorganization of the space and will include a first-floor common area with a teaching kitchen, a state-of-the-art auditorium, art exhibition galleries, and outdoor terraces. The second-floor workshop will serve as an architectural history and digital preservation space, a center for workforce development, digital equity, and adult learning with classrooms, a FabLab, and the Montclair Jazz Library. The third floor will serve as a youth-focused floor with a STEAM discovery lab, podcasting and media studios, and a sensory room. The project also includes a full gut renovation and upgrade of the roof, fenestration, and the addition of solar panels. 

The project at the Bellevue Avenue Branch will include Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades, expanded children’s and teens spaces, a multipurpose community room, and a redesigned front plaza for outdoor events.  

The library expansion will serve as an accessible cultural anchor and will provide free and affordable arts activities that will have a meaningful and lasting impact on participants. The library is also uniquely positioned as an accessible, transit-friendly space equipped with robust infrastructure. The library’s public-facing amenities will help strengthen community resilience and broaden participation in the creative economy. 

“This is an extraordinary investment by the State of New Jersey in Montclair and in the future of our community,” said Dr. Renee Baskerville, M.D., Mayor of Montclair. “At a time when Montclair families are facing rising costs, difficult budget decisions across our schools and municipal services, and real uncertainty about what comes next, our libraries matter more than ever. They are the one public space that belongs to every single resident — full stop. The CAFE program allows us to modernize that shared space, improve accessibility, and reimagine what our libraries can offer people of all ages while delivering tremendous value to taxpayers and ensuring these doors stay wide open for generations to come.” 

“Libraries are where a community shows what it values. This project is our chance to create spaces that are accessible, welcoming, and built for how people actually use their library today,” said Radwa Ali, Director of the Montclair Public Library. “We have critical infrastructure needs that can’t wait, and this funding lets us address those while also thinking boldly about what comes next for Montclair’s libraries.” 

New Jersey’s arts and culture sector contributes billions of dollars in economic activity each year, drives tourism, and enhances quality-of-life for state residents. NJEDA initiatives like the CAFE Program and the Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program leverage the economic potential of arts and culture projects to boost foot traffic in downtowns and main streets across New Jersey, supporting local small businesses, creating jobs, bolstering engagement with the arts, and strengthening the vibrancy of communities. 

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

About the NJEDA

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

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

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