Press Releases Archives - Page 6 of 149

TRENTON, N.J. (October 22, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is seeking public input on a revised summary of proposed amendments to the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program rules. The summary of proposed amendments includes changes made by P.L. 2025, c. 81, signed into law on June 30, 2025.

WHAT: The current draft amendments can be found here. These are subject to change prior to review and consideration for approval by the NJEDA Board. If approved, the amendments will be published in the New Jersey Register for formal public comment as required by the Administrative Procedure Act.

WHEN: Feedback must be submitted through the NJEDA’s website by Friday, October 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

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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All location work for the Springsteen biopic was filmed in New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. (October 22, 2025) – With the Bruce Springsteen biopic set to hit theaters this week, the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), which is part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), announced that ‘Deliver Me from Nowhere’ spent a total of $41.8 million during its 31 days of filming in the Garden State. The movie, which filmed in 16 towns across the state, utilized the NJEDA’s Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program.

“There was only one place that made sense to film a movie about Bruce Springsteen – the place where it all began, right here in New Jersey,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “From the Stone Pony to the Meadowlands, Springsteen’s career crisscrossed the state, eventually becoming an international sensation. Major productions like Deliver Me from Nowhere continue to create jobs, support small businesses, and fuel our economy. New Jersey’s growing film industry is delivering real economic impact and driving creative energy across the state.”

Since the state’s film tax credit program was reinstated by Governor Murphy in 2018, film production in New Jersey has surged. In 2024, in-state production spending from filmmaking hit $833 million, surpassing the previous record of $701 million in 2022. 556 productions filmed in New Jersey last year, hiring a total of more than 30,000 crew members, nearly doubling the number of crew hires from 2023.

During filming in New Jersey, the production hired 500 crew members and had an average daily spend of $1.3 million. The production spent $552,000 on lodging, $429,000 on catering, $1.7 million on extras, $79,000 on tolls, and $2.2 million on wardrobe.

Filming of ‘Deliver Me from Nowhere’ at the Meadowlands Arena in East Rutherford

“Deliver Me from Nowhere shines a spotlight on New Jersey’s rich culture and talent, and honors Bruce Springsteen’s unmatched legacy,” said NJMPTVC Executive Director Jon Crowley. “This film showcases our varied locations and deep talent pool and is a testament to why productions keep choosing the Garden State. New Jersey, the birthplace of film, is the industry’s future.”

‘Deliver Me from Nowhere’ filmed in Asbury Park, Bayonne, Chatham, Denville, East Rutherford, Freehold, Harding Township, Jersey City, Montague, Montclair, Mountain Lakes, Newark, Orange, Rahway, Rockaway, and Roseland.

A testament to the state’s versatility, New Jersey doubled as other locations across the country. Meadowlands Arena doubled as Riverfront Arena in Cincinnati and the LA Sports Arena. Central Restaurant and Konoz Restaurant, both located in Newark, doubled as restaurants in New York City, and Washington Street in Newark doubled as 8th Avenue in New York City. Nutria Alley in Newark doubled as Los Angeles’ Chinatown and Hunan Taste in Denville doubled as a Los Angeles Chinatown restaurant. Route 23 running through High Point State Park doubled as the Blue Ridge Mountains, which run from Georgia to Pennsylvania. An office building in Roseland, located at 105 Eisenhower Parkway, doubled as Memphis near Graceland. Lastly, a farm in Harding doubled as the Archer County Fair in Texas.

The reinstatement of the tax credit program has attracted hundreds of feature films, television shows, and digital media projects to New Jersey. In addition to individual productions, major studios like Netflix, 1888, and Lions Gate, have chosen New Jersey to build brick-and-mortar facilities, which will lead to permanent job creation and long-term economic growth.

About the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission

The NJMPTVC, 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.

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TRENTON, N.J. (October 22, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will open applications for the Small Business Liquor License Grant Program on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. In support of Governor Phil Murphy’s mission to reform antiquated liquor license laws, the grant program will reactivate existing licenses that ae not being used.

WHAT: The Small Business Liquor License Grant Program, funded at $10 million, will provide up to $100,000 in grant funding to reimburse eligible small businesses that have purchased an inactive plenary retail consumption liquor license within the past 12 months, supporting the reactivation of over 1,300 inactive licenses. Forty percent of grant funding will be reserved for applicant businesses located in eligible Opportunity Zone census tracts.

WHO: Eligible applicants include small businesses and nonprofits. Applicants must own a previously Inactive Class C Plenary Retail Consumption License and have a purchase date within 12 months prior to application. NJ Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) determines if the license was previously inactive.

WHEN: Applications will open on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Click here for full eligibility requirements and to apply.

An informational webinar will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Click here to register.

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More than 550 productions filmed in NJ, spending $833M

TRENTON, N.J. (October 21, 2025) – The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), which is part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), announced today that overall in-state production spending from filmmaking hit $833 million in 2024, surpassing the previous record of $701 million in 2022. 556 productions filmed in New Jersey last year, hiring a total of more than 30,000 crew members, nearly doubling the number of crew hires from 2023.

The film industry has surged since Governor Phil Murphy reinstated the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program in 2018. The program, which has been extended to 2049, offers tax credits to film and digital media productions of up to 40 percent for expenses incurred. New Jersey’s competitive tax incentive program supported an increase of 41 percent in total qualified spend from 2023 to 2024, while film spending in other North American production hubs decreased or remained stagnant.

“New Jersey has solidified its place as a formidable leader in the national and international film industries,” said Governor Murphy. “Our tax incentive program has been impactful in bringing new movies, television shows, and major studios to the state, which has resulted in good-paying jobs and revitalized communities. The film industry is here to stay and the future of entertainment now runs through the Garden State.”

“2024 was another banner year for New Jersey’s film industry, welcoming hundreds of productions and hiring thousands of crew members, generating meaningful economic activity across the state,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Governor Murphy’s vision to bring the film industry back to New Jersey has been achieved and we are on the radar of content creators everywhere. As we continue attracting productions and studios, it will lead to new job opportunities for residents and greater business for mom and pop shops.”

New Jersey was the backdrop for major productions in 2024, including Oscar-nominated ‘A Complete Unknown’ starring Timothée Chalamet and ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ starring Adam Sandler, the latter of which spent a record-breaking $152 million during its 64 days of filming in the state.

Other Made in NJ productions that filmed in 2024 include ‘The Housemaid’ starring Sydney Sweeney and Amada Seyfried, ‘The Beast in Me’ starring Claire Danes, ‘A House of Dynamite’ directed by Kathryn Bigelow, and ‘Deliver Me from Nowhere’, the Bruce Springsteen biopic.

“From beaches and farms to busy city centers and quiet suburban streets, New Jersey offers the perfect location for any production,” said NJMPTVC Executive Director Jon Crowley. “Our diverse locations and talent pool make New Jersey a top-tier destination for producers and directors. 2024 proved that New Jersey, the birthplace of film, is the industry’s future.”

In addition to individual productions filming in the state, studios are choosing New Jersey to expand their presence. After Netflix was designated as a Studio Partner and approved for Aspire awards by the NJEDA in 2024, the leading entertainment services company broke ground on its state-of-the-art production facility in Fort Monmouth earlier this year. 1888 Studios in Bayonne was designated as Film-Lease Partner Facility and approved for Aspire awards in 2024.

Last year, the NJEDA approved $9.5 million in funding for five projects under the Film and Digital Media Studio Infrastructure Program, aimed to support the development of production studios.

The NJMPTVC helps attract production work and supports filmmakers with all of their needs, including financial incentives, permits, regulations, production services, site selection and clearance. The Commission’s Film Ready New Jersey Program prepares communities to accommodate movie and television producers and effectively market themselves as film destinations, bolstering the state’s standing as a national leader in film and television production. There are now 43 designated Film Ready Communities across the state.

About the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission

The NJMPTVC, 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

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TRENTON, N.J. (October 21, 2025) – Today, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced Scott Lechky has been appointed as the first Executive Director of the New Jersey Green Bank (NJGB). The NJGB, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the NJEDA, aims to use climate-related investments and financial assistance to mobilize private capital to accelerate the adoption of clean energy, advance New Jersey’s climate goals, and reduce the cost of energy for all utility ratepayers in New Jersey.

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

Lechky has over two decades of experience in energy and energy infrastructure investing, investment banking, energy project development, and corporate and project finance. He was the Founder and Managing Partner of Andelis Infrastructure Partners, a broker dealer and investment management firm focused on advising clients and investing in early-stage opportunities in the energy transition sector. Prior to launching Andelis, Lechky was the Chief Financial Officer of OYA Solar, a community solar developer that successfully placed 38 Mega Watts (MW) of solar projects into operations in New York. Lechky previously held investment banking roles focused on power, utilities, and infrastructure with Credit Suisse, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and Barclays, and energy infrastructure investment management roles at Antarctica Capital and Alberta Investment Management Corp. (AIMCo).

“From more violent storms to increased flooding, the effects of climate change have become all too familiar here in New Jersey,” said Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “We are excited for Scott Lechky to join the New Jersey Green Bank, which is poised to support the Murphy Administration’s mission to combat climate change, transition to 100 percent clean energy, and strengthen our communities and economy for generations to come.”

“As the energy industry faces unprecedented demand growth in the coming years, I am excited to lead the New Jersey Green Bank in collaboration with key industry stakeholders that seek to diversify and decarbonize our energy sources,” said New Jersey Green Bank Executive Director Scott Lechky. “I am looking forward to establishing partnerships with private capital in support of technological innovation and the clean energy entrepreneurs that are delivering a lasting and positive impact on our environment, the economy and New Jersey communities.”

Lechky holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management with majors in Accounting and Analytical Finance and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Finance from the University of Alberta. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst charter holder.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, Lechky will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for the NJGB’s staff, programs, and mission execution. In addition, Lechky will serve as the public face of the NJGB with key partners and stakeholders. Importantly, Lechky will provide strategic leadership and guide the organization through its critical start‐up and early growth phase – recruiting a high-performing team with deep investment and clean energy expertise, overseeing the completion of its first investments, and securing additional capital to scale impact across New Jersey.

Established in April 2024, the NJGB is a component of the 2019 Energy Master Plan and Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 316, which directed the NJEDA to implement programs supporting building electrification through the NJGB. As a subsidiary of the NJEDA focused exclusively on climate investments, the NJGB is well-positioned to attract private capital, including funds from public-private partnerships, as has been the case with other Green Banks in the United States. The NJGB intends to facilitate the development of climate and clean energy capital markets in the state through new forms of financial support, such as warehousing and securitization products, that address underdeveloped or nonexistent capital markets for these investments.

About the NJEDA

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10-29-2025 – Updated with Extended Deadlines

TRENTON, N.J. (October 20, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights from qualified entities on how to improve the Emerging Developers Grant Program, broaden eligibility, and better support small-scale developers. Originally launched in 2024, the program was created to help developers gain access to capital and build additional capacity to expand their existing portfolio by providing grants of up to $250,000 for pre-development soft costs.

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has expanded resources for small businesses and small-scale developers, eliminating barriers to capital and creating a more equitable economic landscape,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “With an expanded Emerging Developers Grant Program, the NJEDA will be better positioned to open pathways to vital capital for new developers, catalyzing economic opportunity in underserved communities and bolstering small businesses throughout the state.”

“The NJEDA continues to support Governor Murphy’s goal of creating a more inclusive and equitable economy in New Jersey by expanding opportunities for small businesses and residents of underserved communities,” said NJEDA Chief Community Development Officer Tai Cooper. “The next iteration of the Emerging Developers Grant Program will break down barriers to capital and resources for small-scale developers, resulting in projects that will transform communities and contribute to the vibrancy of our main streets.”

To date, the NJEDA has awarded 50 grants totaling more than $5.4 million to small scale-scale developers through the initial phase of the Emerging Developers Grant Program. This funding is helping new developers across the state expand their portfolios and access much-needed capital.

Gotta Go Gaming, based in Jersey City, utilized $250,000 in funding to cover critical soft costs for its Sci Tech and Esports Hub, paying for architectural designers, funding consulting fees, and covering interior decorating and design work. Gotta Go Gaming previously received support through the NJEDA’s Main Street Micro-Business Loan and the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program

“Without this support, many of these foundational elements would have been challenging to complete in a timely manner. Thanks to NJEDA’s assistance, we are well-positioned to bring this project to completion and to deliver on its vision for community impact,” said Gotta Go Gaming Chief Executive Officer John Robinson. “We greatly appreciate NJEDA’s commitment to supporting developers and community growth.”

MPMB Developers, based in Atlantic City, also received an award under the Emerging Developers Grant Program, which it used to complete an expanded storage facility for its bike rental business, create a much-needed trash and storage enclosure, and add a new residential unit. The project also received NJEDA funding through the Small Business Fund and the Small Business Improvement Grant Program.

“The critical funding provided by the NJEDA’s Emerging Developers Grant Program allowed us to expand North Beach Mini Golf and improve our services,” said MPMB Developers Co-Owner Nick Intrieri. “We look forward to continuing to serve the Atlantic City community and are grateful to the NJEDA’s commitment to supporting small-scale developers.”

While New Jersey has expanded resources for small-scale developers, access to capital continues to be a challenge due to predatory lending, excessive carrying costs, and predevelopment expenses. These deterrents in the development industry have created financial setbacks and limited portfolios for emerging development entities that do not have the capital to cover soft costs.

The NJEDA is interested in receiving comments, questions, and responses that will help the NJEDA better understand the scope and characteristics of access to capital and other forms of financing available to underserved real estate developers. Potential respondents may include, but are not limited to, applicants from the original Emerging Developers Grant Program, Community Development Finance Institutions, community development lending units of medium and large banks, state and local government entities, and other mission-based lenders. The RFI can be found here.

All questions concerning this RFI must be submitted in writing no later than November 5, 2025, via e-mail to: EmergingDevelopersRFI@njeda.gov. The subject line of the e-mail should state: “QUESTIONS-2025-264-RFI- Emerging Developers Program-Program Redesign and Expansion”. Answers to questions submitted will be publicly posted on the Authority’s website under the RFIs section on or around November 12, 2025.

All RFI responses must be submitted in writing no later than November 26, 2025, via e-mail to: EmergingDevelopersRFI@njeda.gov. The subject line of the e-mail should state: “2025-264-RFI-Emerging Developers Program-Program Redesign and Expansion”.

About the NJEDA

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Please be advised that the next Capital City Redevelopment Corporation Board Meeting will be held in person and via teleconference on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 11:00 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.

The agenda can be found 48 hours prior to the meeting on the website: https://www.nj.gov/ccrc/

Authority seeking proposals to redevelop nearly 16 acres of waterfront property

CAMDEN, N.J. (October 14, 2025) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has released a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEOI) to solicit proposals for the redevelopment of nearly 16 acres of property along the Camden Waterfront. The riverfront property, which boasts views of the Philadelphia skyline and is in close proximity to a public park, is a prime location for new mixed-use development.

“This is a major milestone in Camden’s continued renaissance, and we are looking forward to the new opportunities that the redevelopment of this property will bring,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “We are committed to pursuing a project that meaningfully benefits the community and ensures that Camden residents reap the economic benefits.”

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is investing in the future of Camden, and it has prioritized redeveloping underutilized properties into real economic drivers,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “This presents a unique opportunity to transform the waterfront property by creating a landmark development with the goal of unlocking new economic opportunities for the residents, families, and small businesses of Camden.”

The nearly 16 acres is comprised of two properties known formally as the Riverfront Prison and Weeks Marine sites, which are situated north of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Recognizing the interconnected nature of access to recreation and open space amenities, and economic development potential, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the owner of the former Weeks Marine site, has begun the visioning process to develop a waterfront park along the property with the intent of connecting into ongoing recreation development projects in the region.

“This is an exciting time as Camden is no longer a city of potential, but a city of progress and the time to invest is now,” said Camden Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen. “Our strategy remains focused on bolstering public safety, promoting economic growth, and improving educational outcomes for our residents. These are the building blocks for vibrant neighborhoods and a healthy economic climate. We are delighted to be working with Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to promote the development of this location. This is a unique opportunity to redevelop acres of beautiful waterfront property with sweeping views. The redevelopment of this site will play a pivotal role as we build a stronger City of Camden and an attractive gateway into New Jersey.”

“The Department of Environmental Protection is thrilled to partner with NJEDA and Camden on this exciting opportunity that underscores the Murphy Administration’s commitment to expanding and creating urban parks that align with community planning and sustainable development,” said Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “The repurposing of these sites along the Delaware River as parkland advances our efforts to connect the public to urban waterways, strengthen community bonds, and improve quality of life in our cities.”

Connecting the Delaware river to existing walkable neighborhoods and downtown Camden, the property boasts easy access to waterfront recreation and entertainment venues like the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion and Wiggins Riverfront Stage, as well as other amenities. Also nearby are historic sites, including the Walt Whitman House, the Battleship New Jersey, and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Adjacent to the Property is the 17^th century Benjamin Cooper Tavern, which is undergoing restoration.

Additionally, with interstate-highway access, the PATCO High Speedline, the New Jersey Transit River Line light-rail, expanding trail networks, and the innovative Loop last-mile solution, mobility throughout the area is on par with most major cities, and is only minutes from Center City Philadelphia.

The City’s North Camden Waterfront Study Area Redevelopment Plan, adopted in 2014, established a framework to guide future development of the waterfront area North of the Ben Franklin Bridge. 

The Redevelopment Plan is built upon several city and neighborhood plans produced over the past 20 years, and the shared vision developed through community engagement. That vision entails a vibrant, pedestrian friendly, mixed-use district, landmark public spaces which emphasize access and views of the river, and improved connectivity to the rest of Camden and the greater Philadelphia region.

“The Camden Waterfront is one of Camden County’s greatest assets, and a key part of the city’s transformation,” said Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. “Expanding redevelopment north of the Ben Franklin Bridge will bring new economic opportunities, and continue Camden’s incredible progress.”

“This large expanse of green space is prime real estate for the next phase of Camden’s renaissance. The future is now in the city and these parcels will be a stepping stone to the continued momentum that has already attracted billions of dollars of private investment,” said Commissioner Jeffrey Nash. “In short, this redevelopment will become a strategic marker for both the city’s growth, and it’s quality of life.”

To ensure staff’s receipt and review of a proposal, Responses should be submitted electronically by Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Click here to view the RFEOI and complete submission instructions.

Questions may be submitted via email by Monday, November 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Questions may be sent to QARED@njeda.gov using the subject line: Questions RFEOI-0000081-Camden Prison. Responses to the questions will be posted the NJEDA’s website on or about Monday, December 1, 2025.

About the NJEDA

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Awards under the NJ Film Works Grant Program will prepare NJ residents for careers in a critical sector

TRENTON, N.J. (October 14, 2025) – Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved $3 million in grant awards to five workforce development initiatives under the New Jersey Film Works Grant Program. The awards will expand access to workforce development training, internship, apprenticeship, and learning opportunities in the state’s booming film and digital media industry, with a focus on providing career opportunities for residents of Overburdened Communities.

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, the film and digital media industry is continuing to grow in New Jersey, bringing large-scale productions, state-of-the-art film studios, and thousands of high-quality jobs to the Garden State,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “With strong workforce development initiatives, like the NJ Film Works Grant Program, New Jerseyans will be better equipped to make the most of the industry’s immense economic opportunities.”

Awardees were required to propose impactful workforce development training, internship, apprenticeship, or learning opportunities in occupations such as editing, set construction, special effects, wardrobe, and camera operation. In line with Governor Murphy’s mission to strengthen economic opportunities for every New Jerseyan, the competitive program included a focus on providing opportunities for residents of Overburdened Communities. Applicants were eligible for a grant award of up to $750,000.

Following the revival of the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program under the Murphy Administration, the state has attracted hundreds of feature films, television shows, and digital media projects. The production surge, along with the construction of world-class film studios, like Netflix at Fort Monmouth and 1888 Studios in Bayonne, has increased the need for skilled industry professionals in the film and digital media sector.

“This vital grant funding marks a significant step in fortifying New Jersey’s position as a leader in the film and digital media sector,” said Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. “Through this investment, we’re preparing workers for rewarding careers while also ensuring our diverse communities are at the forefront of this burgeoning field. This is a key scene in our state’s story of innovation and growth, with all New Jerseyans having a chance to shine.”

“Every production requires a skilled crew to run smoothly, and with more major studios choosing the Garden State due to its varied locations and nation-leading incentives, New Jerseyans need to be prepared for new and exciting employment opportunities,” said New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission Executive Director Jon Crowley. “The grant awards announced last week will support innovative workforce training programs across the state, further positioning New Jersey as a national hub for film and television production.”

The following applicants were approved for grant awards:

Invest Newark ($750,000) – Invest Newark will provide training for Production Assistant and Rigger/Grip/Set Grip positions, with in-person training taking place primarily in Newark. The economic development agency will collaborate with the Newark Office of Film and TV, Express Newark’s Community Media Center, NewarkWORKS One Stop Career Center, Newark Film School, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center to provide technical training and job placement assistance.

Reel Works ($750,000) – Reel Works will train individuals for Assistant Camera, Production Accountant, and Set Carpenter positions. The training will be in a hybrid format, with in-person instruction taking place near the Netflix Studio Campus at Fort Monmouth in Oceanport. Reel Works will collaborate with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Locals 52 and 600, among other local stakeholders, for instruction and employment connections.

AbelCine ($668,838) – AbelCine will provide training for Audio and Video Technician, Camera Operator, and Digital Imaging Technician positions. The training will be in a hybrid format, with in-person instruction taking place primarily in Newark. Abel Cine is a training partner with IATSE Local 600, among other guilds, and will utilize internal business units and its existing network for job placements.

Aspire Youth Development ($444,164) – Aspire Youth Development will offer training for the positions of Assistant Editor, Camera Operator, and Film and TV Editor. In-Person training will take place primarily in Lumberton and be accessible to residents in Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington Counties. Aspire Youth Development will collaborate with Creative Content OnDemand to deliver core technical instruction and leverage its existing network to create employment, apprenticeship, and other work experience opportunities.

Independent Content Studio ($386,998) – Independent Content Studio will provide training for Assistant Editor, Audio and Video Technician, and Set Design positions in a hybrid format, with in-person instruction taking place in Paulsboro and Gibbstown. Independent Content Studio will collaborate with Paulsboro High School, Rowan University, and All That’s Good Productions to deliver the proposed program.

About the NJEDA

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Aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs, RETROFIT NJ will expand upon the efforts of the existing NJ Cool program

TRENTON, N.J. (October 9, 2025) – Building upon the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA) efforts to bolster the state’s clean energy economy, the Board approved a new program today aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs. The Reducing Emissions through Retrofits, Optimization, Fuel-Switching, and Innovative Technologies (RETROFIT NJ) Grant Program will support multi-pronged, large-scale retrofit projects that enable holistic energy improvements for buildings, campuses, and multi-building facilities, expanding upon the efforts of the existing NJ Cool program.

“New Jersey is leading the nation in building a cleaner and more resilient future,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The RETROFIT NJ Grant Program strengthens our commitment to reducing emissions, cuts energy costs, and drives innovation across our state. By investing in retrofit projects, we are not only protecting our environment, but also creating good-paying jobs and lowering costs for families and businesses.”

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has made great strides in saving businesses money, lowering our carbon footprint, and fostering a cleaner and greener state,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Programs such as RETROFIT will establish New Jersey as a national leader in large-scale building decarbonization efforts, while spurring economic activity and creating jobs.”

RETROFIT NJ will offer grant awards between $2.5 million and $12.5 million to commercial, industrial, and institutional building owners undertaking retrofit projects with a minimum total project cost of $5 million. Eligible projects must include at least three clean energy or electrification components, such as solar, energy storage, electrification of heating, refrigerant replacement, and energy efficiency upgrades. RETROFIT NJ will also provide support for projects implementing Thermal Energy Networks (TENs), an emerging technology that can significantly reduce emissions across multiple buildings. This program is the largest government construction grant program available for TENs in the country with up to $12.5 million available per project, demonstrating New Jersey’s strong leadership in advancing cutting-edge technology solutions to climate change.

“New Jersey is committed to combating climate change through impactful programs that aim to reduce our carbon footprint and promote a greener state,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “With today’s approval of the RETROFIT NJ program, we’re expanding access to energy-efficient upgrades, strengthening our communities and economy, while helping businesses reduce energy use and save money.”

Currently, the NJ Cool program provides financial assistance to commercial, industrial, and institutional building owners and tenants undertaking retrofit construction projects that reduce operating greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings in State-designated Overburdened Communities (OBCs) and Adjacent Community census blocks.

Since its launch in 2023, NJ Cool has been a popular program, receiving a high-volume of applications for smaller to medium-sized building decarbonization projects. The NJEDA has expanded the program’s eligibility requirements and infused an additional $15 million to support the program. With support from the NJ Cool program, awardees in Edison and Newark have utilized grant funding to make energy-efficient improvements, such as replacing natural gas heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units with electric units, installing solar panels, and replacing existing natural gas boilers with an electric variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system. Further examples of successful NJ Cool projects can be found on the NJ Cool webpage under the “Completed Projects” tab. The RETROFIT NJ program will complement NJ Cool by supporting larger, complex building decarbonization projects that fall outside the scope of limitations for NJ Cool.

The RETROFIT NJ program will utilize $75 million in Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) funds, with 50 percent of the funding pool designated for applications submitted for projects in OBCs and/or for Institutional applicants for a one-year period. Funding provided by the program will cover both hard and soft project costs, including design, engineering, equipment, construction, and commissioning. Non-profit and institutional applicants will receive up to 60 percent reimbursement, while for-profit commercial entities are eligible for up to 50 percent reimbursement, with an additional 5 percent bonus for all projects located in OBCs. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with phased disbursement.

Applications for RETROFIT NJ are expected to open in the first quarter of 2026. For more information and a complete list of eligibility requirements, click here.

About the NJEDA

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