Governor Murphy Announces Landmark Memorandum of Understanding Agreement with Ukrainian State of Dnipropetrovsk to Boost Economic Ties

New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the State of Dnipropetrovsk Will Collaborate to Bolster Innovation and Next-Generation Technologies

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and the State of Dnipropetrovsk in Ukraine to enhance economic collaboration, promote innovation, and contribute to the rebuilding of the Dnipropetrovsk region. The Governor shared this announcement in a video that aired during the Ukraine Action Summit in Washington, D.C. Today’s MoU, which marks the first economic agreement between New Jersey and Ukraine, will promote opportunities for industry partners to enable private sector collaboration, linking the academic and business ecosystems of the Dnipropetrovsk region and New Jersey.

“We are excited to announce this historic partnership with the State of Dnipropetrovsk,” said Governor Murphy. “As the proud home to the second-largest Ukrainian diaspora in America, New Jersey and Ukraine deeply cherish the principles of democracy and self-determination. Today’s MoU will advance our shared goal of sustainable economic growth and encourage innovation across sectors including technology, life sciences, and education. We look forward to a productive and meaningful partnership that strengthens both of our regions.”

“The Dnipro region continues to strengthen its international ties and opens a new chapter of transatlantic cooperation,” said Vladyslav Haivanenko, Acting Head of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration. “The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Military Administration and the State of New Jersey lays the foundation for developing economic relations, advancing technology and innovation, and exchanging experience between our regions. I sincerely thank Governor Philip Murphy and Tim Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, for their support of our country and for this historic step. My special gratitude goes to the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States for its comprehensive assistance and facilitation in establishing contacts and fostering the development of this important partnership. I am confident that through our joint efforts we will create new opportunities for growth and mutual trust.”

The NJEDA and the Foreign Economic Activity Department of the State of Dnipropetrovsk will develop and implement specific projects that mutually benefit both states while simultaneously contributing to the rebuilding of the Dnipropetrovsk region. Priority areas for collaboration include sectors such as clean energy, artificial intelligence (AI), aerospace, and life sciences. To foster cooperation, both entities will share information on regulatory environments, facilitate the development of direct contacts and partnerships between public and private sector stakeholders, and promote networking between companies and research organizations in both states.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has strengthened its international relationships to bolster the state’s economic competitiveness, create high-quality jobs, and leverage the expertise of entrepreneurs from around the world,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The NJEDA will work closely with the State of Dnipropetrovsk to build up critical industries, enhance research and development, and attract private investment to both States.”

“A new chapter in building strong regional economic ties begins with the signing of a partnership Memorandum between the Dnipropetrovsk oblast and the State of New Jersey,” said Olga Stefanishyna, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States. “This milestone initiative marks a significant step toward expanding mutual economic opportunities and fostering closer connections between our peoples. The Dnipropetrovsk oblast, one of Ukraine’s key industrial and technological centers, continues to endure daily attacks from Russian forces. In this challenging context, the partnership represents an important avenue for resilience and shared prosperity. Ukraine expresses its deep appreciation to Governor Philip Murphy and NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan for their leadership and commitment to strengthening regional and international ties. Expanding cooperation in strategic industries, higher education, and applied research will bring tangible benefits to both sides—supporting Ukraine’s recovery, advancing innovation, and creating a foundation for sustainable growth. This partnership reaffirms the enduring friendship between Ukraine and the United States and underscores our shared vision of progress, security, and prosperity.”

For a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding, click here.

About the NJEDA

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

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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