NJEDA to Open Applications for Next Cohort of the New Jersey Innovation Fellows Program

TRENTON, N.J. (September 2, 2026) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will open applications for Cohort III of the New Jersey Innovation Fellows (NJIF) Program on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The program will provide income replacement grants of up to $400,000 to eligible entrepreneur teams looking to launch their businesses within New Jersey.

WHAT:           The NJIF program supports entrepreneurs with unique startup ideas by providing access to “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 and guidance during the two-year ideation and formation period of their business.

In addition to financial support, the NJIF Program will provide comprehensive mentorship training for each entrepreneurial team. The 24-month mentorship program will provide expert guidance in various fields, conduct workshops, and offer networking opportunities with academic and industry partners through the New Jersey Innovation Institute and the Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship.

Grants of $200,000 are available, with bonuses of up to $200,000 if an entrepreneur resides in an Opportunity Zone, self-certifies as a woman or minority, or graduated from a New Jersey college or university. Subject to the availability of funding, up to six applications will be recommended to the Authority’s Board for the Program award and entry into the mentorship program. If funding remains, a seventh award may be considered.

WHO:             Eligible applicants must consist of a team of no less than three individuals and be working to launch a business. For a full list of eligibility requirements, please click here.

WHEN:          Applications will open on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. and must be submitted by Friday, December 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

The NJEDA is currently accepting questions from interested parties through Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Questions concerning this Program’s Notice of Funding Availability should be submitted to njinnovationfellows@njeda.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.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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