NJ productions recently showcased at Golden Globes, Emmy’s & Sundance Film Festival

TRENTON, N.J. (January 25, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today hailed the Oscar nominations showered on Oppenheimer and several other films with ties to New Jersey, as a testament to the momentum of the state’s film industry. Oppenheimer, the smash hit that broke box office records and received over a dozen Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, filmed portions of the movie in New Jersey. Receiving the most nominations of any film in the 2024 award cycle, Oppenheimer joins a long line of notable motion pictures filmed in New Jersey. A number of other productions filmed in New Jersey won major accolades earlier this month.

The Oscar awards are the latest major venue to feature productions filmed in the Garden State. Several movies and television shows also won Golden Globe and Emmy awards, and others were featured at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.

“New Jersey’s film industry continues to grow momentum as more and more major productions choose our state to film,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “From the Oscars, Emmy’s, and Golden Globes to the Sundance Film Festival, productions filmed in New Jersey are making headlines. Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, the Garden State is poised to build upon this momentum, and we are ready to welcome new productions, which will create jobs and support small businesses.”

Oppenheimer, which is an NJEDA Film and Digital Tax Credit project, led the pack with 13 Oscar nominations, including for Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director. The hit-movie also received five Golden Globe awards, including for Best Motion Picture. Several of the movie’s scenes were filmed at Princeton University and the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton.

Killers of the Flower Moon was nominated for 10 Oscar nominations. Actor Peter Yorn, a member of the film’s cast grew up in Montville. Yorn’s brother, Rick Yorn, was the film’s executive producer. Thelma Schoonmaker, a Ridgewood native, was also nominated for film editing.

Ramy Youssef, originally from Rutherford, starred in Poor Things, which received 11 nominations. The Holdovers, received five nominations, and stars Dominic Sessa, an Atlantic County native who grew up in Ocean City and Egg Harbor Township.

HBO hit-television drama Succession received an Emmy and two Golden Globe awards. Extensive filming for the fourth and final season of the show took place at CNBC Studios and the NBCUniversal Technology Center in Englewood Cliffs and Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

The 2024 Sundance Film Festival is featuring seven productions that were filmed in New Jersey. Filming for the productions took place in locations across the state including in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Monmouth, Morris, Passaic, and Union Counties. This year’s event marks Sundance’s 40th anniversary.

Oppenheimer and nearly 150 productions to-date have recently been attracted to New Jersey by the state’s Film Tax Credit Program, which offers eligible production companies up to 35% transferrable tax credit on qualified film production expenses, plus an additional 2% or 4% diversity bonus for qualified productions. Since the revival of the tax credit program, production has been booming in the Garden State, unlocking opportunities for thousands of businesses, residents, and filming locations across New Jersey.

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

A meeting of the Commission of Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) Board has been scheduled for Friday, January 26, 2024, at 10:00 am.

A copy of the proposed agenda can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/csit.

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TRENTON, N.J. (January 18, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced the inaugural cohort of the New Jersey Innovation Fellows (NJIF) program. The cohort consists of 10 new businesses, made up of 30 entrepreneurs, that will receive a total of $3.6 million in income replacement grants, as well as mentorship and training. The inaugural cohort marks an important milestone in the NJEDA’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting business ventures in their critical early stages.

“Governor Phil Murphy has been committed to growing our state’s innovation economy and ensuring entrepreneurs of all backgrounds have the tools to get their businesses off the ground,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The NJIF, a first-in-the-nation program, levels the playing field for first-time entrepreneurs by providing the funding and training needed to succeed. By supporting these 10 new, cutting-edge companies, New Jersey is firmly cementing itself as a national leader in innovation.”

The competitive program’s innovative approach of providing income replacement grants to diverse teams ensures entrepreneurs of all backgrounds can fully dedicate themselves to growing their ventures without the financial strain typically associated with the early stages of businesses development. This is particularly true for many first-time entrepreneurs, diverse entrepreneurs, and recent grad students, who may not be able to forego steady income, leaving a gap in the state’s innovation economy.

Each team receives an income replacement grant of $200,000. A bonus grant is available to teams located in designated opportunity zones. Additionally, bonus grants are available to teams with members who self-certify as a woman or minority or graduated from a New Jersey college or university. A team can receive a total of up to $400,000 in grants. This year’s cohort welcomes 20 first time entrepreneurs accumulating $1.7million in bonus grant funding.

Selected from a competitive pool of entrepreneurs, the inaugural round of NJIF companies will support ventures in the fields of life sciences, film, information technology, and professional services over a two-year period. In future NJIF cohorts, the NJEDA will look forward to that might additionally include infant and maternal health care and clean energy. Understanding the potential impact new businesses will have on innovation and the statewide economy, the NJEDA, through the NJIF program, will continue providing economic and social capital to underserved and under-resourced first-time entrepreneurs

“New Jersey has a long history of innovators and change-makers, and the NJIF program would make it so people from diverse backgrounds including first-time entrepreneurs, minorities, and women have a chance to demonstrate their potential,” said Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz (D-Newark). “By granting the fellows the financial freedom to focus entirely on their businesses, NJIF is providing an opportunity to accelerate their success.”

A cornerstone of the program is its robust mentorship initiative, designed to complement the financial support. Each startup will participate in a comprehensive mentorship program facilitated by the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII) or The Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (RCIE). Mentorship and network support can help mitigate the risk business failure, which many first-time entrepreneurs experience, and can propel businesses to the next level.

The curriculum will provide training in subjects such as managerial finance, accounting, and financial statement preparations; human resources development and management; business model design; marketing and customer development; and more. The program will pair each startup with experienced mentors who guide them through the multifaceted challenges of building a business.  Through their mentors, startups gain access to an expansive network of industry contacts, potential partners, and investors.

“New Jersey Innovation Institute is proud to partner with the NJEDA in this inaugural NJIF program and is well positioned to support this cohort of fellows through its Entrepreneurship program.,” said NJII President, Michael Johnson, Ph.D. “This initiative reflects NJII’s commitment to fostering innovation, supporting local entrepreneurs, and contributing to the economic development of New Jersey through collaborative efforts with organizations like the NJEDA.”

“Since its establishment in 2017, the Rowan Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship has mentored dozens of startup companies who have created new products, services, and jobs as economic catalysts in our State,” said Dr. Michael Dominik, Professor at the Rowan University School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “Rowan is thrilled to work with the NJEDA as part of the Innovation Fellows program to mentor these startups to become shining stars in the New Jersey entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Through the NJIF program, the NJEDA is demonstrating the power of diversity as a catalyst for business innovation and success. Diverse teams bring together varied viewpoints, leading comprehensive and creative problem solving.  The inaugural cohort of startups showcase a rich tapestry of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, with many startups at the forefront of the current AI/technology revolution.

The inaugural cohort includes the following startups:

AbilityHUB, West Windsor – $350,000
The company will facilitate collaboration among service providers, caregivers, disabled community members and their families by connecting, collaborating, predicting, and ensuring the delivery of services that impact whole person health for the disabled community. The company’s proposed technology infrastructure will be built upon a combination of powerful and scalable technologies that ensure a robust and reliable platform from front to back-end development and management.

AntaMed, East Orange – $350,000

The medical device company is developing a one-of-a-kind durable back brace which also enables rehabilitative movements to innovatively treat patients with core and back pain. With remote patient monitoring in the device, the company’s goal is to aid healthcare professionals in preventing and alleviating back pain while increasing compliance and convenience for patients.

Fire Start Productions, Gloucester Township – $250,000
This start-up film and digital media company specializes in virtual production technologies. The company will focus on delivering comprehensive digital production and creative services that will streamline the production process of traditional film and other video production models. The company aims to forge new pathways in storytelling, animation and content delivery leveraging technology.

Helloboss, Jersey City – $350,000
The company aims to provide small businesses with high-quality professional services that are offered through their digital mobile marketing application. The range of services will include design, marketing, research, analytics, consulting, and engineering.

Klick Studios, Burlington City – $400,000
The digital content creation studio will provide high quality visual media production content for marketing and advertising purposes for its clients. The company aims to fuse innovative digital media technologies with traditional video and content marketing tools to create interactive, immersive experiences.

Liv Again Wellness, Vineland – $350,000
The company offers mobile IV hydration services through IV Hydration therapy, and will focus on immediate, personalized, nutritional support, beyond traditional medical settings. Moreover, the company will utilize integrative therapies to make clients feel restored, exhilarated, and energetic and will focus on helping clients achieve optimal health with preventative care. 

My FitPlate, Jersey City – $400,000
The company is developing a digital mobile fitness and nutritional wellness application that will integrate virtual reality technology into client wellness plans as well as the gamification of home workout programs, meditation, and stress management strategies. The innovative application will embrace cutting edge technology to connect users across its platform. 

Planthopper Corp, Keansburg – $350,000
The bio-controls company is designed to defend and protect food security, which is under threat by the spotted lanternfly infestation in at least 14 states in the Eastern United States. The business is developing, modifying, and scaling production and dispersion methods for entomopathogenic fungus that are maximally pathogenic to and selective for the spotted lantern flies.

Quarks Advantage, Jersey City – $400,000
The high-tech digital consulting firm will focus on helping small businesses achieve their goals through the use of artificial intelligence tools. The company will focus on building their digital proprietary platform and easy to use digital application.

Thrivio Health, North Bergen – $400,000

Thrivio Health offers an AI-driven health care platform and digital therapeutics for primary care, urgent care, mental health, and pediatric care. The company aims to provide accessible and affordable health care solutions by leveraging AI and data analytics.

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

NEWARK, N.J. (January 18, 2024) –The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), which is part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), today announced that seven productions filmed in New Jersey will appear at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. The festival’s 40th anniversary event will feature I Saw the TV Glow, Your Monster, Rob Peace, Ponyboi, Presence, Exhibiting Forgiveness, and A Different Man. Filming took place in locations across the state including in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Monmouth, Morris, Passaic, and Union Counties.

“New Jersey is honored to be the staging location for several films being screened at this year’s Sundance Film Festival,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The Garden State offers an array of diverse landscapes and backdrops, and under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey’s commitment to protecting and bolstering civil liberties has enhanced an already compelling case for filming in New Jersey. We look forward to welcoming even more productions in the months and years to come as we become an East Coast hub for the film industry.”

The 2024 Sundance Film Festival will take place January 18-28.

Several other productions recently filmed in New Jersey have also received awards and accolades. Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, filmed partly at Princeton University, won five Golden Globes including the award for Best Motion Picture. HBO’s Succession received an Emmy as Best Drama Series and two Golden Globe Awards. Extensive filming for Season 4 of the hit television show took place at CNBC in Englewood Cliffs and in Jersey City.

The following films will appear at the Sundance Film Festival:

I Saw the TV Glow

A24’s newest horror film I Saw the TV Glow follows two teenagers (Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine) who bond over their love for a scary television show that gets mysteriously canceled. The movie is directed by Jane Schoenbrun and produced by Emma Stone and Dave McCary under the Fruit Tree banner.

Filming took place at Verona and Cedar Grove High Schools, The Saint in Asbury Park, Keansburg Amusement Park, Funplex in East Hanover, Pump It Up in Roselle Park, Camp Lewis in Rockaway Township, Corrado’s Supermarket in Wayne, and at other locations in Cedar Grove, East Rutherford, Kinnelon, Succasunna, Verona, Wayne, and West Caldwell. A24 and Fruit Tree reported spending over $7 million in New Jersey for labor, goods, and services.

Your Monster

Your Monster, based on Caroline Lindy’s 2019 short film of the same name, depicts a depressed woman (Melissa Barrera) who returns home to find the monster that lived inside her closet as a kid is still alive and well. The movie was filmed at East Orange General Hospital and at various locations in Elizabeth, Hoboken, and Newark. Bombo Sports and Entertainment reported expenditures of $3 million during the course of production.

Rob Peace

Rob Peace, based on a true story, focuses on an inner-city kid (Jay Will) from Newark who attends Yale, only to succumb to harsh economic realities and the demons of his past. Written and directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, the movie stars Ejiofor, Jay Will, and Mary J. Blige.

Filming took place on various locations in Newark including the Lower Roseville section, Newark Penn Station and St. Benedict’s Preparatory School. Additional locations included the Essex County Jail, Sandy Hook, New Jersey City University in Jersey City, and a site in East Orange. The production company, Hill District Media, spent over $11 million in New Jersey and hired 290 cast and crew members and 650 extras for the filming of Rob Peace.

Ponyboi

Ponyboi, based on the groundbreaking short of the same name, follows an intersex sex worker (River Gallo) who must fight for survival after a drug deal gone south.  The feature was executive produced by Stephen Fry and Emma Thompson, and shot at the L&P Laundromat in Palisades Park, the Chalet Motel in Ocean Township, the Bridgeview Diner in Kearny, the Kearny-Belleville Elks Lodge and the Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park. Dream Queen Productions reported expenditures of $5 million while working in the state.

Presence

Presence takes place in a suburban house inhabited by an unknown force. Shot on a DSLR camera, this feature from director Steven Soderbergh was written by David Koepp. Starring Lucy Liu and Julia Fox, the movie was filmed entirely in Cranford. Over $2 million was spent in state during its production.

Exhibiting Forgiveness

Exhibiting Forgiveness follows a Black artist (André Holland) on the path to success, only to be derailed by an unexpected visit from his estranged father, a recovering addict desperate to reconcile. This movie was filmed in Allendale, Bayonne, East Orange, Hillside, Kearny, Montclair, Orange, Paterson, and West Orange. The production company, Homegrown Pictures, spent over $7 million in state and hired 125 cast and crew members and 200 extras.

A Different Man

A Different Man tells the story of Edward (Sebastian Stan) who, after undergoing facial reconstructive surgery, becomes fixated on an actor in the stage production based on his former life. Scenes were filmed in Maplewood and Montclair.

About the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission

The NJMPTVC, which is part of the NJEDA, is staffed by industry professionals and serves as a resource for production companies. The Commission promotes film and television production in New Jersey.

www.film.nj.gov

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.com and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Please be advised that the next New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission Board Meeting will be held via teleconference only on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 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 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.

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

Authority seeks input to better understand challenges faced by arts entities seeking access to capital

TRENTON, N.J. (January 16, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking insight to better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by arts and cultural non-profit and for-profit organizations, institutions, and arts entrepreneurs in accessing capital. The RFI is available at Bidding Opportunities – NJEDA.

As part of the Murphy Administration’s ongoing efforts to support arts and culture, this RFI aims to build on the New Jersey State Council on the Arts’ tremendous knowledge base and community engagement process by exploring new and innovative funding solutions to help grow New Jersey Arts and Culture businesses and non-profits by addressing barriers to capital. Additionally, the NJEDA also seeks interest and ideas on solutions to address those obstacles, including but not limited to, existing programs that address gap financing due to lack of philanthropic capital for non-profit entities. The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, recommendations, facts, information, ideas, and responses that will help the NJEDA better understand the scope and characteristics of access to capital and other forms of financing available to arts and culture entities.

New Jersey’s core arts and culture entities directly accounted for $4.6 billion in revenue in 2021 with an additional $18 billion in revenue from indirect impact in other supporting industries like broadcasting, logistics, and publishing. The combined impact of arts and culture industries account for 3-5 percent of New Jersey’s gross domestic product, as well as 3.1 percent of the state’s workforce.  In 2022, arts and culture non-profits alone accounted for $338.5 million in spending, with their audiences spending an additional $193.8 million in event-related expenditures. 

“I am proud of the historic investment the Murphy administration has made through the Arts Council in supporting arts organizations and artists across New Jersey,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the New Jersey State Council on the Arts in her capacity as Secretary of State. “We look forward to seeing the results of the RFI and building on the state’s strategic support of the arts community in new ways through the NJEDA.”

“Arts and culture entities create job-sustaining revenue for New Jersey Main Streets and communities, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in direct and indirect economic impact each year, all while representing the diversity and talent of New Jersey’s artists and creatives,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Understanding the challenges faced by entities in this important sector is an essential component of Governor Murphy’s vision for a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy, and helps bolster economic support for an industry adversely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.”

“New Jersey is home to a dynamic arts industry that contributes to quality of life in indispensable ways. From the smallest neighborhoods to the largest cities, artists and arts organizations keep people connected, offering inroads to address complex problems we all care about – from the economy to education to healthy aging, and everything in between,” said Allison Tratner, Executive Director of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. “The last few years have brought great challenge and change in almost every industry, and the arts are no exception. As the largest funder of the arts in New Jersey, the Council is excited to work with the NJEDA to make sure our collective efforts to lift this essential industry are as effective as possible. Thanks to Governor Murphy’s historic support of the arts, we have the opportunity to strategically, transparently, and equitably invest public resources to help build a better New Jersey for people of all ages and walks of life, through the arts.”

“ArtPride New Jersey applauds the NJEDA’s efforts through the RFI to more fully comprehend the current capital challenges facing the state’s arts and culture sector. New Jersey’s creative industries have long been undercapitalized, and the COVID pandemic exacerbated this risk with earned and contributed income building back more slowly than is needed to function sustainably. At the same time, and without pause, the arts and culture sector continues to benefit communities through its direct impact on local retail, hospitality, tourism, education, and healthcare. The economic vitality of our downtowns depend on healthy and highly functioning arts and culture organizations and creative sector businesses supported by the NJEDA’s suite of products and programs,” said Adam Perle, President & CEO, ArtPride New Jersey.

“Arts and culture nonprofit organizations form the bedrock of the cultural landscape in New Jersey communities.  These organizations not only catalyze economic activity.  They also contribute to social cohesion, community wellbeing, and overall quality of life,” said Lynne Toye, Executive Director of the New Jersey Arts & Culture Renewal Fund.  

“As smaller cultural nonprofits navigate a variety of post-pandemic challenges, access to capital is among the biggest hurdles,” she continued. “I am excited to help advance the NJEDA’s efforts to understand the challenges arts organizations face more thoroughly, especially as funding sources shrink in our post-pandemic world,” said Barbara Bickart, Senior Advisor, Arts and Culture, NJEDA, and practicing artist for over 20 years. “This Arts & Culture-focused RFI presents the opportunity to hear directly from many organizations across the state about their particular challenges, whether it be accessing funding or other obstacles a State agency could potentially help to remove or mitigate. This input will inform our strategy moving forward as we work towards lifting the arts community up in whatever ways we can.”

All questions must be submitted in writing on later than Tuesday, January 23rd at 12 pm EST via e-mail to ArtsCulture@njeda.gov.

The subject line of the e-mail should state: “QUESTIONS-2023 RFI-193 Capital for Arts & Culture”.

Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the Authority’s website on or about on or about Tuesday, February 6th  at: Bidding Opportunities – NJEDA as Addendum.

All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than Tuesday, February 13th at 11:59 pm EST via e-mail to: ArtsCulture@njeda.gov.

The subject line of the e-mail should state: “RFI Response-2023-RFI-193 Capital for Arts & Culture”.

Potential respondents may include, but are not limited to, for-profit and non-profit entities, philanthropic partners, higher education institutions, community development organizations involved in arts-based placemaking, arts industry advocacy organizations, state and local government entities, and other stakeholders with perspectives on structural barriers and disparities encountered by arts and culture entities in terms of access to capital. Respondents do not need to be located within the New Jersey to provide input.

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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Recently-Announced AI Hub at Princeton University, Powered by the NJEDA, Will Enable Growth of AI in New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. (January 8, 2024) – Following last month’s announcement by Governor Phil Murphy and Princeton University President Christopher Eisgruber that the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will collaborate with Princeton University to establish a hub for Artificial Intelligence (AI), the AI industry continues to gain momentum in New Jersey heading into 2024.

“The AI hub announced in December by Governor Murphy and President Eisgruber will build on New Jersey’s legacy in innovation and continue to drive the state’s leadership in the rapidly-growing AI industry,” said Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. “The opportunity presented by AI aligns with Governor Murphy’s vision for cultivating high-growth sectors, with the goal of creating family-sustaining career opportunities. Showcasing New Jersey’s bustling innovation community, talent pool, and robust resources will help AI companies recognize the state’s value proposition for growing innovative companies of the future.”

Sullivan added that the initial development of the Princeton AI hub will be supported with $250,000 in planning funds from the NJEDA’s Strategic Innovation Center initiative. The hub will bring together AI researchers, industry leaders, start-up companies, and other collaborators to advance research and development, house dedicated accelerator space, advance the use of ethical AI for positive societal impact, and promote workforce development to support new technology development, in collaboration with other New Jersey universities, community colleges, and vocational schools. 

NJEDA’s announcement with Princeton joins a strategic suite of support for attracting and retaining AI companies in the state. 

One AI-focused company that has recently been approved for support under the NJEDA’s Angel Match Program that has found success in New Jersey is Summit-based AlphaRoc, which provides AI-driven, predictive insights into investment opportunities.

“The Angel Match Program is designed to channel critical capital investment dollars to New Jersey startup companies so they can grow here, stay here, and create jobs and significant economic activity,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “Advancing creative solutions like the Angel Match Program that are directly responsive to the needs of entrepreneurs will help to ensure the next generation of companies, including those focused on AI, have the resources they need for the best possible chances of success.”

The Angel Match Program was designed to disburse funding from the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury. Its purpose is to propel the creation of an entrepreneurial ecosystem that stimulates innovation and economic development, providing employment opportunities for New Jersey residents.

Four startup entities recently approved for support through the New Jersey Innovation Fellows Program (NJIF) also intend to integrate AI technology into their products, including a healthcare solutions platform, a data-driven small business consulting practice, a mobile fitness application, and a digital marketplace for disabled individuals to better access service providers  The NJIF program supports would-be entrepreneurs, particularly diverse entrepreneurs, with “income replacement” grants. This resource creates an opportunity for the entrepreneurs to pursue unique startup business ventures with the security of initial income replacement funding in the two-year ideation and formation period of their businesses. NJIF pairs fellows with subject matter experts that can help them navigate the challenges and opportunities that AI presents.

In addition to these and other AI-focused startup companies finding a home in New Jersey, innovative research collaborations and outputs continue to flourish in the state in the broad area of AI. As shown through the state’s Research with NJ free online platform, over 50,000 research outputs can be found on the site in topics that range across a broad spectrum of disciplines, such as AI, advanced computing, digital communication, quantum computing, and machine learning. In addition to research output, the site highlights over 500 researchers conducting research in these fields, 140 research units and facilities, and 400 grants/projects awarded in these areas.  Research with NJ offers details about research taking place at six universities, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT); Princeton University; Rowan University; Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey; and now, Stevens Institute of Technology.

The site, which can be accessed at www.researchwithnj.com, now offers more than 325,000 pieces of research that commercial enterprises, from startups to global corporations, can use to fuel their growth. Research with NJ is managed by the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT).

“The NJEDA and CSIT offer a host of resources designed for innovative companies in all stages of growth,” said CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft. “From grants and loans to technical support, and even mentorship and networking opportunities to connect entrepreneurs with qualified investors, we are eager and poised to support companies that are already here, and to welcome those who choose New Jersey as their home.”

These examples of AI companies thriving in New Jersey are indicative of the NJEDA’s commitment to nurturing the development of new technologies, including AI. New Jersey is home to more than 10,000 technology companies, and the NJEDA offers programs designed to help them grow, including unmatched resources for accessing essential capital.

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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Authority Can Now Offer Benefits of Low-Cost Federal Funding for Clean Energy Projects

TRENTON, N.J. (January 5, 2024) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced that it is an eligible State Energy Financing Institution (“SEFI”), a determination by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office (“LPO”) which will enable the Authority to unlock low-cost capital available through LPO’s Title 17 Clean Energy Financing Program. The LPO provides direct loan financing and loan guarantees for up to 80 percent of eligible project costs for projects aligning with federal energy priorities.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allows for eligible clean energy projects supported by SEFIs, including those using commercially available technologies like wind and solar, to access LPO financing, subject to LPO’s evaluation of the proposed project. This new determination, bolstered with additional loan authority for Title 17 from the Inflation Reduction Act, opens up billions of federal dollars to projects supported by entities like the NJEDA that qualify as SEFIs.

“As a designated SEFI, the NJEDA now has an additional tool for advancing clean energy projects that will contribute toward a cleaner and healthier environment for New Jerseyans,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “It will also help to advance Governor Phil Murphy’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2035 – the most ambitious goal of any state in the nation.”

As an eligible SEFI, the NJEDA can support the work of the New Jersey Green Fund (“NJGF”), a planned initiative that will be housed within the NJEDA to invest in clean energy projects in the State. Recently, the NJEDA released a Request for Expressions of Interest (“RFEI”) for parties seeking capital from the NJEDA through the NJGF, which can be accessed here: https://www.njeda.gov/bidding/#RFEI.

“Governor Murphy’s climate action leadership has laid the foundation for a strong and growing green economy,” said Kate Klinger, Executive Director, Governor’s Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy. “NJEDA’s designation as a SEFI will streamline access to federal dollars to invest in green job growth, seed green technology innovation, and expand access to clean energy produced right here in New Jersey.”

“Access to LPO capital is yet another way the NJEDA can help developers, property owners, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders move their clean energy projects forward,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “Paired with the NJEDA’s planned NJGF, we are poised to support small- and large-scale projects that will add to our clean energy momentum.”

A SEFI is an entity established by a state, Indian Tribal entity, or Alaska Native Corporation to provide financing support or credit enhancements for eligible clean energy projects and to take steps to reduce financial barriers to the deployment of eligible clean energy projects.

Examples of qualifying project participation by a SEFI may include, but are not limited to:  

  • Providing equity/subordinate portion of capital stack   
  • Providing loan loss reserve with respect to junior portion of capital stack ​  
  • Co-lending with LPO
  • Providing financial backstop for specific key project elements that may be subject to regulatory or local market risk​.  

Additional SEFI program details and application requirements are described in the Title 17 Clean Energy Financing Program Guide and on the Title 17 Overview web page.

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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FRIDG will fund installation of temperature-controlled grocery lockers to expand delivery options in NJ’s food desert communities

TRENTON, N.J. (December 19, 2023) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) awarded its first approval under the Food Retail Innovation in Delivery Grant (FRIDG) program today, which will help expand access to fresh groceries in Newark’s South Ward. The FRIDG Program, which launched earlier this year, allows food retailers to purchase and install temperature-controlled lockers to expand food delivery options for Food Desert Community (FDC) residents.

Brookdale ShopRite Inc, a family-owned business with ShopRite stores in Newark’s Central Ward and in Bloomfield, is the first food retailer to receive a grant under the FRIDG Program. They will use the $250,000 grant to purchase a temperature-controlled locker and install it at the Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center in the South Ward. The “Newark South” FDC, one of 50 in the state, has a population of nearly 43,000, and is the third most acute food desert in the state.

Once the locker is installed, residents will be able to place online grocery orders from the Brookdale ShopRite, including orders eligible for purchase with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Brookdale ShopRite has also committed to waiving all delivery fees for groceries delivered to the locker.

“The FRIDG Program is another component of Governor Phil Murphy’s mission to support those living in New Jersey’s food desert communities by expanding access to fresh and affordable groceries,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Residents across Newark’s South Ward will now have more options for grocery delivery, reducing structural and logistical barriers that exist for many hardworking families. As we continue to combat food insecurity through creative and innovative initiatives, New Jersey remains a leader in the national fight against hunger.”

“Parents with small children, caregivers to the sick, people with transportation or mobility issues, the elderly, and those with health conditions often find it difficult to get to supermarkets for the widest selection of goods and prices,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “This innovative program brings a supermarket in one area of our city to the residents in another – and through the generosity of ShopRite of Newark, all delivery fees are covered. It is a beautiful example of how Newarkers harness ideas, technology and their concern for each other to level the playing field and make life easier in our city. I’m grateful to the NJEDA and its FRIDG Program, Neil Greenstein and ShopRite of Newark, and the Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center for this perfect collaboration to help transform one of New Jersey’s food deserts into a bountiful oasis.”

Food retailers with at least one physical location in New Jersey can apply for up to $250,000 in funding to purchase and install self-contained, temperature-controlled lockers in one of New Jersey’s 50 designated FDCs. Eligible companies must be authorized to accept online orders paid with SNAP benefits. As of September 2022, there were nearly 790,000 New Jersey residents receiving SNAP benefits, including nearly 350,000 children.

In 2020, the NJ Department of Human Services (NJDHS) launched a pilot program to allow SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase groceries online. New Jersey SNAP recipients can now purchase groceries online from 19 retailers, but many FDC residents remain unable to receive groceries as they lack a reliable delivery location due to unpredictable work schedules, family obligations, or housing insecurity. The FRIDG lockers are intended to provide FDC residents with a safe, convenient location where their grocery orders – including fresh produce and dairy – will stay fresh until they are retrieved at a convenient time.

Neil Greenstein, owner of Brookdale ShopRite Inc., is a third-generation grocer whose family’s supermarkets have served Essex County for nearly 75 years. The company’s ShopRite of Newark opened its doors in September 2015 and has played a key role in the city’s revitalization efforts by creating economic and job training opportunities for residents, and through its support of community groups such as the Boys and Girls Club of Newark and the Greater Newark Conservancy.

“We are committed to increasing access to fresh and affordable food and supporting community initiatives that make a difference in people’s lives,” said Greenstein. “We’re excited about the opportunity to expand grocery delivery options to the Newark’s South Ward by participating in the FRIDG program, and look forward to deepening our connections with the residents of the vibrant city of Newark.”

The Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center provides support, care, and protection for women and their families going through crisis or transition. The Center, which is named in honor of Mayor Baraka’s sister, offers a number of programs and services that are facilitated by the City and several community partners.

“The Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center is a refuge for people who are in need of nourishment of every kind, starting with basic, deep human compassion. So offering our space as a place for neighbors to come pick up the food they need seems a natural expansion of what we do daily within our walls,” said Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center Director Dr. Pamela Jones. “Lessening the burden for people who can’t travel across town to shop is an easy lift for us, and one we are very happy and proud to do.”

“With this award, the FRIDG Program officially joins the growing list of resources New Jersey offers to help residents gain greater access to healthy, fresh food,” said Senator Theresa Ruiz and Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor-Marin and Shanique Speight (members of Legislative District 29) in a joint statement. “ShopRite of Newark’s locker will enable Newark residents to pick up the food they want when they can. The fact that the store will also waive all fees for deliveries made to the locker will go a long way to help New Jerseyans living in food deserts.”

“We are elated to see the FRIDG Program taking root in Newark’s South Ward, as we know how well it will be received and utilized by families that too often have to scramble to find fresh produce and other healthy grocery items to feed their growing families,” said Senator Renee Burgess and Assemblywomen Cleopatra Tucker and Jacqueline Yustein (members of Legislative District 28) in a joint statement. “The new ShopRite locker will provide parents affordable meal options that are also more easily accessible, and can become a model for other such efforts across the state.”

“The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) is proud that one of our members, Brookdale ShopRite, is the first to participate in NJEDA’s FRIDG program, which will bring food directly to residents of Newark who do not have easy access to a supermarket,” said Linda Doherty, President of the NJFC.

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

TRENTON, N.J. (December 19, 2023) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will open applications for the Food Desert Relief Supermarket Tax Credit Program tomorrow, Wednesday, December 20, 2023. The Food Desert Relief Supermarket Tax Credit Program was established by the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act (ERA) of 2020.

WHAT:            The Food Desert Relief Supermarket Tax Credit Program addresses the food security needs of New Jersey’s 50 Food Desert Communities (FDCs) by providing up to $40 million per year in tax credits to develop and sustain new supermarkets and grocery stores in food deserts. No more than two grocery stores in each FDC can receive tax credits through the program.

The program is comprised of two tax credits: the Financing Cap Tax Credit, applied for by a store’s developer, and the Initial Operating Costs Tax Credit, applied for by a store’s operator. For a single store to receive both credits, the applications must be reviewed and approved at the same time. Tax credits may be resold for a minimum of 85% of the transferred credit amount.

WHEN:           Applications will open Wednesday, December 20.

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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