$20M Expansion to Pilot Program Helps Jersey Shore Businesses &
Organizations Purchase Zero-Emission Medium-Duty Vehicles

TRENTON, N.J. (December 1, 2021) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority today opened applications for its popular New Jersey Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJ ZIP) pilot to businesses and organizations in the Greater Shore Area to help them offset the cost of purchasing new, zero-emission medium-duty vehicles (MDVs). Last month, the NJEDA Board approved a $20 million expansion of the program funding pool, which builds on momentum generated since the launch of the clean energy initiative. NJ ZIP is also available to entities in the greater Newark, Camden, and New Brunswick areas.

With this expansion, nearly $45 million has been allocated to the voucher pool. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and can found at http://www.njeda.gov/njzip. The website also includes links to useful resources for potential program applicants, including: webinars for vendors and purchasers, eligibility requirements, frequently asked questions, accounting of remaining funds, and a link to email the NJ ZIP program manager directly.

Businesses and organizations in the four designated greater community areas can apply for vouchers to purchase new, Class 2b to Class 6 zero-emission MDVs. The size of vouchers awarded through the program varies depending on the class of vehicle being purchased, from a minimum of $25,000 for Class 2b vehicles to $100,000 for Class 6 vehicles. Bonuses are available for small businesses (fewer than 25 staff or less than $5 million in annual revenues); women-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses; vehicles that are manufactured in New Jersey; and small businesses that scrap their eligible MHDVs. More information on eligibility and processes is available at https://www.njeda.gov/njzip.

“Our shore communities have repeatedly experienced the long-term impacts of climate change over the last decade and it is incumbent upon us to continue to create and leverage innovative solutions to blunt these effects,” NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan said. “NJ ZIP sits at the intersection of clean energy and environmental justice and is a vital part of Governor Phil Murphy’s whole-of-government approach to combating climate change and spurring economic opportunities in historically overburdened communities.”

For the purposes of this pilot expansion, the Greater Shore Area is defined as the overburdened communities within or intersected by a line set at a 10-mile distance from New Jersey’s eastern Atlantic shore, spanning approximately from Sandy Hook Bay to Delaware Bay. This includes the following municipalities:

Absecon, Asbury Park, Atlantic City, Barnegat Township, Berkeley Township, Bradley Beach Borough, Brick Township, Brigantine, Cape May, Colts Neck Township, Eatontown Borough, Egg Harbor City, Egg Harbor Township, Farmingdale Borough, Galloway Township, Highlands Borough, Holmdel Township, Howell Township, Keansburg Borough, Keyport Borough, Lacey Township, Lakewood Township, Little Egg Harbor Township, Long Branch, Lower Township, Manchester Township, Middle Township, Middletown Township, Neptune City Borough, Neptune Township, North Wildwood, Northfield, Ocean City, Ocean Gate Borough, Ocean Township, Pleasantville, Point Pleasant Beach Borough, Red Bank Borough, Seaside Heights Borough, Shrewsbury Township, Somers Point, South Toms River Borough, Stafford Township, Tinton Falls Borough, Toms River Township, Tuckerton Borough, Union Beach Borough, Ventnor City, Wildwood, Woodbine Borough

Vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with set-asides for the Greater Shore Areas, small- and micro-businesses, and passenger transportation. Based on the continued positive results of this expansion of the pilot program, additional expansions or a longer-term program with expanded eligibility may be proposed.

This latest NJ ZIP expansion is being funded using proceeds from New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a multi-state “cap-and-trade” program regulating carbon dioxide emissions, that New Jersey was rejoined by Executive Order of Governor Murphy in 2019. More information about New Jersey’s plans for using RGGI funding is available https://www.nj.gov/rggi/index.html.


About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority

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 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Expansion will Bring Popular NJ ZIP Program to
Greater New Brunswick Area & Build on Successful Pilot Program

TRENTON, N.J. (September 29, 2021) – Building on the momentum generated since the launch of the New Jersey Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJ ZIP) pilot program earlier this year, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced a $9.25 million expansion of the popular clean energy initiative. The initial $15 million voucher pilot program launched earlier this year to help businesses and institutions in the greater Camden and greater Newark areas offset the cost of purchasing new, zero-emission medium-duty vehicles (MDVs). Through the expansion announced today, the NJEDA will broaden access to the pilot program to include qualified businesses and institutions in the greater New Brunswick area. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and can found at http://www.njeda.gov/njzip.

“Historically overburdened communities have borne the brunt of the impact of global warming for far too long,” Governor Phil Murphy said. “NJ ZIP is an important part of our Administration-wide environmental justice effort to level the playing field, improve community health outcomes, and connect local New Jersey businesses with resources to take control of their vehicle emissions.”


As of today, 38 applications have been submitted to the program, representing 148 zero-emission vehicles, and nearly reaching full subscription of the initial $15 million voucher pool. In alignment with Governor Murphy’s vision to create equitable economic opportunities, targeted program outreach has resulted in more than 75 percent of the purchaser applicants being small or micro-businesses and over 50 percent certified as minority- and/or woman-owned businesses. All applicants approved to date will operate and/or register their vehicles within the greater Camden or greater Newark areas, positively contributing to emission reductions in overburdened communities. By expanding program eligibility and funding, the NJEDA anticipates building on this foundation to reach more local communities and businesses.

“Getting more zero-emission vehicles on the roads is a key step in New Jersey’s response to climate change and improving health outcomes in our overburdened communities – and just makes good economic sense for our small businesses,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “We are excited to see such a robust and diverse response to our pilot program, and are thrilled that the funding announced today will allow us to bring NJ ZIP to more communities within our state, making strides toward Governor Murphy’s vision for a stronger and fairer – and greener – New Jersey.”

As in the initial phase of the NJ ZIP pilot program, businesses and organizations in the three designated communities can apply for vouchers to purchase new, Class 2b to Class 6 zero-emission MDVs. The size of vouchers awarded through the program varies depending on the class of vehicle being purchased, from a minimum of $25,000 for Class 2b vehicles to $100,000 for Class 6 vehicles. Bonuses are available for small businesses (fewer than 25 staff or less than $5M in annual revenues); women-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses; vehicles that are manufactured in New Jersey; and small businesses that scrap their eligible MHDVs. More information on eligibility and processes is available at https://www.njeda.gov/njzip.

In addition to municipalities in the greater Newark and greater Camden areas, the following communities in the greater New Brunswick area, defined as the overburdened communities within or intersected by a circle with a 10-mile radius centered on New Brunswick, are now eligible to participated in the NJ ZIP Program following the expansion: 

Bound Brook, Bridgewater, Clark, Dunellen, East Brunswick, Edison, Franklin, Green Brook, Highland Park, Hillsborough, Jamesburg, Manville, Metuchen, Middlesex, Monroe, Montgomery, New Brunswick, North Brunswick, North Plainfield, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Piscataway, Plainfield, Raritan, Sayreville, Scotch Plains, Somerville, South Amboy, South Bound Brook, South Brunswick, South Plainfield, South River, Spotswood, Woodbridge

In early 2020, Governor Murphy unveiled the state’s Energy Master Plan, which outlines key strategies to reach the Administration’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2050. In May 2018, the Governor’s Executive Order No. 28 directed the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), in partnership with other state agencies, to develop this statewide clean energy plan and shift away from energy production that contributes to climate change.

“As part of its sweeping clean energy initiatives the Murphy Administration has implemented a robust electric vehicle program to address the fact that the transportation sector accounts for 46 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in New Jersey,” said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “These programs include NJ ZIP, the Charge-Up New Jersey electric vehicle incentive program for consumers and the Clean Fleet Electric Vehicle Incentive program for government entities. NJ ZIP is an innovative and effective way to drive down the Garden State’s carbon footprint. We applaud the NJEDA’s expansion of this program into the greater New Brunswick area.”

Similar to the initial round of NJ ZIP funding, this expansion will continue to be funded using proceeds from New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a multi-state “cap-and-trade” program regulating carbon dioxide emissions, that New Jersey was rejoined by Executive Order of Governor Murphy in 2019. The State is deploying those funds within four initiative categories identified in the RGGI Strategic Funding Plan: catalyzing clean, equitable transportation; promoting blue carbon in coastal habitats; enhancing forests and urban forests; and creating a New Jersey Green Fund. More information about New Jersey’s plans for using RGGI funding is available https://www.nj.gov/rggi/index.html.

“With Governor Murphy’s leadership, we rejoined our neighbors throughout the northeast in fighting climate change by reducing greenhouse emissions and investing in the electrification of medium and heavy duty vehicles and port equipment, which improves air quality in some of our most overburdened environmental justice communities,” said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette. “Continued investments in creative programs like NJ ZIP demonstrate that we can support New Jersey businesses as we improve our environment and protect public health.”

Vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a continued focus on outreach and engagement to the micro and small business community. Based on the continued positive results of this expansion of the pilot program, additional expansions or a longer-term program with expanded eligibility may be proposed.


About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority

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 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Port offers offshore wind developers and manufacturers unrivalled access to East Coast offshore wind sites, with room to grow

TRENTON, N.J. (September 23, 2021) The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced that it will shortly be launching the next phase of its tenant selection process for the New Jersey Wind Port. The Wind Port, located on the Delaware River in Lower Alloways Creek in Salem County, will be a transformative, hub-style port serving offshore wind (OSW) projects in New Jersey and up and down the U.S. East Coast. The Port, which is due to commence construction this year, represents a new approach to economic development that will spur both job creation and opportunities for businesses throughout the offshore wind supply chain.

On September 9th, Governor Phil Murphy led the celebration for a groundbreaking at the site of the New Jersey Wind Port. The event kicked off a new chapter for the Wind Port, a first-in-the-nation infrastructure investment that will provide a location for essential staging, assembly, and manufacturing activities related to offshore wind projects on the East Coast. The event also included the signing of a project labor agreement (PLA) for the project and was followed by the signing of a 78-year lease between the NJEDA and PSEG for the site. The State is committed to using union labor to construct the Wind Port and intends to set a new standard for inclusion of minority and women workers and business owners. Construction is targeted to begin in 2021. 

The New Jersey Wind Port has the potential to create up to 1,500 manufacturing, assembly, and operations jobs, as well as hundreds of union construction jobs in New Jersey, and projects supported by the Wind Port will drive billions of dollars in economic growth.

The NJEDA will shortly be seeking non-binding offers from OSW developers and component manufacturers on four parcels of property at the Port. Available properties include:

  • Two parcels of property with the potential to be purpose-built for offshore wind marshalling, staging and final assembly of turbines; and
  • Two parcels of property with the potential to be purpose-built for offshore wind turbine component manufacturing and assembly.

NJEDA anticipates that certain parcels will be available for sublease from 2023. A notice for the sublease of property will be issued in coming weeks and will be available at Bidding Opportunities – NJEDA.

“The New Jersey Wind Port is a strategic economic driver that not only furthers Governor Phil Murphy’s goal of 100 percent clean energy for New Jersey by 2050, but also presents extraordinary economic potential for businesses up and down the OSW manufacturing supply chain,” said NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan. “Wind turbines are comprised of numerous elements, and each element in the manufacturing process represents an entry point for businesses and a need for skilled workers. These available properties offer incomparable access to opportunity in the heart of this rapidly emerging manufacturing hub.”

The Port is situated at the geographical center of the United States’ burgeoning OSW sector – with in excess of 38 gigawatts (“GW”) of committed and planned OSW projects along the East Coast, including 7.5 GW of committed projects off the coast of New Jersey.

Based on the current design, the Port will offer OSW industry tenants the following key features:

  • Access to the Atlantic Ocean free of vertical restrictions;
  • Upland acreage purpose-built for marshalling and component manufacturing;
  • A wide approach channel from the main Delaware River Channel;
  • A purpose-built heavy-lift wharf, comprising both delivery and installation berths; and
  • Heavy-haul road connections between inland port parcels and the Wharf.

With proximity to 50 percent of current East Coast OSW development areas, and unmatched transportation connectivity to major United States and overseas cities, there is no better place to anchor and grow the nation’s OSW industry. Further information on the Port is available at: https://www.nj.gov/windport/.

Home to a high concentration of skilled labor, a well-established maritime industry and workforce, and a network of highly-regarded colleges and universities, New Jersey is ideally-placed to drive the development of the offshore wind industry in the United States.

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority

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 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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TRENTON, N.J. (August 5, 2021) – The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) today announced that it has awarded a total of $748,000 in seed grant funding to 10 New Jersey clean technology-focused startups through its Clean Tech Seed Grant Program. The program, which is funded by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), is designed to help accelerate development and innovation of clean technologies by furthering research and development (R&D) within New Jersey’s startup economy. The Clean Tech Seed Grant Program was created in partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).

The awardees are each working on projects that involve developing or testing clean technologies intended to recapture or avoid emissions of greenhouse gases and/or criteria pollutants, or to enable such avoidance or recapture. Funding through the program will help the startups continue their work toward the proof of concept and prototyping stages, at which point they can more readily attract outside investors and, in some cases, begin to generate revenue. The funding is being provided through NJBPU’s Clean Energy Program.

“New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem stands at the forefront of the global transformation toward a clean energy future,” said CSIT Executive Director Gunjan Doshi. “Critical funding provided through the Clean Tech Seed Grant Program will help propel the projects created by these 10 startups toward commercialization and into the hands of consumers within the worldwide clean technology marketplace.”

The following startups were each awarded approximately $75,000. The exact grant sizes are noted in parentheses.

  • Andluca Technologies Inc., located in Princeton, is a spin-out of Princeton University that is developing solar-powered smart glass technology. ($74,969)
  • Arbela Laboratories, located in Randolph, is creating a methanol-fed Pichia platform designed to increase the scale and reduce the costs of biomanufacturing. ($73,000)
  • Eion NJ Corporation, located in Princeton, is developing a specialty fine-grained mineral material that rapidly captures and stores carbon dioxide when applied to agricultural soils. ($75,000)
  • Farm to Flame Energy, located in Kearny, provides scalable, end-to-end electricity generation systems using biomass for communities in underdeveloped countries. ($74,995)
  • Green Blu, located in Hamilton, is developing a solar thermal energy-powered brine separation technology for use in desalination, agriculture, and water industries. ($75,000)
  • NextGen Battery Technologies, LLC., located in Somerset, is developing a high-voltage, non-flammable solid-state electrolyte for lithium batteries. ($74,939)
  • Princeton NuEnergy, located in Bordentown, is developing a battery recycling technology to recycle and reuse used lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles, portable electronics, and other energy storage devices. ($75,000)
  • RenewCO2, LLC., located in Cranford, is developing an electrochemical process that converts carbon dioxide to plastic precursors and other value-added chemicals conventionally sourced from fossil fuels. ($75,000)
  • SunRay Scientific, LLC., located in Eatontown, is commercializing an advanced material adhesive for use in electronics and semiconductor packaging. ($75,000)
  • WeSolar CSP Inc., located in Princeton, designs and builds scalable and modular Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plants for energy and heating solutions for government, utilities, corporations, industry and community/micro-grids. ($75,000)

Seventy percent of the awardees were businesses located in an Opportunity Zone-eligible census tract, minority- or woman-owned businesses, and/or businesses with technology coming out of New Jersey universities.

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is recapturing its role as a leader in innovation in a diverse, inclusive, and equitable manner,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “As we begin to see success stories that result from the funding announced today, we look forward to watching the impact these companies will have both on the international stage and here at home as they expand their footprint and create high-paying jobs.”

CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft noted that the Commission received nearly two dozen applications for this inaugural round of funding and expects to launch a second round later this year with funding that has already been approved by the NJBPU.

“The high-level of interest we received during the inaugural round of our Clean Tech Seed Grant Program is indicative of both the vibrancy of our innovation ecosystem and the need for seed funding that all startups face,” Sheft said. “The NJBPU and the NJEDA have been tremendous partners to CSIT in helping to cultivate opportunities for very early-stage New Jersey companies in the clean energy space and we are pleased we will be able to reach even more young companies in the months ahead.”

In January 2020, Governor Murphy unveiled the state’s Energy Master Plan, which outlines key strategies to reach the Administration’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2050. In May 2018, Governor Murphy’s Executive Order No. 28 directed the NJBPU, in partnership with other state agencies, to develop this statewide clean energy plan and shift away from energy production that contributes to climate change. The Energy Master Plan laid out ways to fuel the clean technology economy through workforce training, investments in developing clean energy knowledge, and the growth of world-class R&D.

“Building and strengthening New Jersey’s clean energy economy has been a priority for Governor Murphy throughout his administration as we work to reduce the state’s dependence on fossil fuels,” said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “NJBPU is proud to support the Clean Tech Seed Grant Program and to fund early-stage companies that are developing vital technologies to achieve this goal. Startups within our innovation economy play a key part in creating clean technologies that will enable us to reach the Governor’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2050.”

New Jersey State Senator Robert Singer and Assemblyman Andrew Zwicker are among the CSIT members who helped bring the Clean Tech Seed Grant Program to fruition.

“Through innovative programs like this one, we are reaffirming and upholding our commitment to ensuring that New Jersey entrepreneurs have every available resource to fuel the growth of their companies,” Senator Singer said. “By connecting these 10 startups with access to precious seed capital, we are helping them work toward commercialization and reach a point where they can attract outside investors and begin to compete in the global economy.” 


“As both a scientist and the Chairman of the Assembly’s Science, Innovation & Technology committee, I know the value that seed funding brings to young, innovative startups” Zwicker said. “I applaud each of our awardees for the ground-breaking work they are doing and am pleased to play a role in furthering their success.”


About CSIT

In August 2018, Governor Murphy signed legislation re-establishing the former New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology as the CSIT. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, the Commission is tasked with leading the way in promoting the state as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization.

Cleantech Open Northeast Becomes Second Accelerator Approved Through the Program

TRENTON, N.J. (April 23, 2021) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that it has approved Cleantech Open Northeast to participate in its NJ Accelerate program. NJ Accelerate is designed to grow New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem by promoting greater participation by New Jersey entrepreneurs in qualified accelerator programs. It is also seen as a tool to showcase the talent in New Jersey to accelerators on a national stage and encourages newly forming accelerators to launch in the Garden State. Cleantech Open Northeast is the second accelerator approved for the program, following the approval of Morgan Stanley Multicultural Innovation Lab in December 2020. More information about NJ Accelerate can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/njaccelerate.

An accelerator is a fixed-term, cohort-based “boot camp” for startups that offers educational and mentorship programs and facilitates connections to venture capitalists, angel investors, mentors, and corporate executives who can help early-stage companies grow. Many accelerators also provide investment capital and office space.

NJ Accelerate, which launched in 2020, incentivizes accelerators from around the country to recruit participants in New Jersey. It also incentivizes the startups to locate in the Garden State after graduating from approved accelerators. Through NJ Accelerate, the NJEDA will match investment provided by approved accelerators with up to $250,000 in direct loans for startups that locate in New Jersey within six months after graduating from the approved programs. A five-percent bonus is available for companies that are certified as women-or minority-owned. The NJEDA will also provide rent support for up to six months if a company locates in an approved NJ Ignite collaborative workspace.

Cleantech Open Northeast is part of Cleantech Open, the world’s oldest and largest cleantech accelerator, and is managed by the Boston-based Northeast Clean Energy Council (NECEC) as the on-the-ground affiliate. Cleantech Open finds, funds and fosters entrepreneurs with big ideas that address urgent energy, environmental, and economic challenges. Cleantech Open provides the infrastructure, expertise and strategic relationships that turn ideas into successful global cleantech companies.

“Connecting New Jersey entrepreneurs with capital and mentorship they need to succeed not only strengthens the individual startups, but also bolsters our state’s innovation ecosystem as a whole,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Governor Phil Murphy has long emphasized the critical role that New Jersey startups play in creating a green economy as we work toward his goal of 100% clean energy by 2050. Welcoming Cleantech Open Northeast into our NJ Accelerate program will enable the state’s clean energy-focused companies to leverage the knowledge of an established leader in their sector while maintaining their presence in the Garden State and benefitting from New Jersey’s many assets and resources.”

Since 2005, Cleantech Open Northeast has trained more than 450 startups through its annual accelerator program. Combined, these alumni have generated over $280 million in revenue and raised over $650 million in funds and employ more than 3,300 people. Cleantech Open Northeast, which has a network of more than 1,000 volunteers, unites the public and private sectors in its vision for making the nation’s cleantech sector a thriving economic engine. In Cleantech Open Northeast’s 2020 accelerator program, six of the 40 companies that completed the program—and two of the four companies that were awarded grants in the competition that was held following completion of the curriculum—were New Jersey based.

“Cleantech Open Northeast has been at the forefront of creating opportunities for early-stage, innovative companies in the cleantech space for more than 15 years,” said Cleantech Open Northeast Director Beth Zonis. “Our participation in NJ Accelerate will help us attract and welcome more startups from New Jersey’s growing clean energy innovation ecosystem.”

In addition to benefiting New Jersey startups, the NJ Accelerate program also provides exposure and funding for the approved accelerators. The NJEDA will disseminate information about Cleantech Open Northeast and encourage well-qualified companies to participate. In addition, the NJEDA will provide up to $25,000 per event capped at $100,000 in total sponsorship funding for accelerator-led events, such as Accelerator Demo-Days, cohort road shows, in-person classes, pitch competitions, and networking events held in New Jersey.

Accelerators and entrepreneurs interested in participating in the NJ Accelerate program are encouraged to contact the NJEDA at NJAccelerate@njeda.com. Additional information and detailed eligibility criteria for both accelerator programs and entrepreneurs are available at https://www.njeda.gov/njaccelerate.

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority

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 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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Program Connects Emerging Companies with Amenities at NJ Universities & Federal Laboratories


TRENTON, N.J. (April 12, 2021) – The Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) today reminded emerging companies within New Jersey’s clean energy sector that it is currently accepting applications for its Clean Tech Research and Development (R&D) Voucher Program. The application is available at https://application.njeda.com/csit.

The $435,000 program, funded through the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), is designed to help early-stage New Jersey clean technology companies more easily access resources such as specialized equipment within the Garden State. CSIT developed the program in coordination with the NJBPU and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).

Through the Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program, eligible applicants will receive vouchers to subsidize the costs associated with one or more of the following services or activities in a participating New Jersey university or federal laboratory facility: use of facility equipment for testing and development, and training in preparation for independent use of the facility. Each eligible applicant can apply for multiple vouchers up to a cap of $15,000 within any 12-month period. An approved voucher will be valid for a period of three months. Specifically, the program will fund work on projects that are developing or testing clean technologies intended to recapture or avoid emissions of greenhouse gases and/or criteria pollutants, or to enable such avoidance or recapture. The following technology areas are eligible under the program: chemicals/advance materials, energy distribution/storage, energy efficiency, energy generation, green buildings, transportation, waste processing, and water and agriculture. A NJ clean tech asset map listing university and federal laboratory resources in NJ will also be available on the CSIT website.

To be eligible for the Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program, applicants must be registered to conduct business in New Jersey and must have no more than 50 full-time employees at the time of application. Additionally, 100 percent of the project work for which the voucher is being sought must be conducted in New Jersey. Full eligibility requirements can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/csit.

CSIT recently hosted an informational webinar for potential applicants to the Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program. A recording of that webinar can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrG9PJ3XVjc&t.

About CSIT
In August 2018, Governor Murphy signed legislation re-establishing the former New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology as the CSIT. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, the Commission is tasked with leading the way in promoting the state as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization.

To learn more about state resources available to New Jersey entrepreneurs and early-stage companies, visit https://www.njeda.gov/csit or follow @NewJerseyEDA on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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Up to $75,000 Available Per Company to Further Clean Technology R&D

TRENTON, N.J. (March 31, 2021) – The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) today reminded New Jersey clean technology startups that the deadline to apply to its Clean Tech Seed Grant Program is Monday, April 5. The program helps accelerate development and innovation of clean technologies by furthering research and development (R&D) within the Garden State’s clean technology startup community. CSIT developed the program in coordination with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). The application is available at https://application.njeda.com/csit.


The Clean Tech Seed Grant Program, which is funded by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU),  provides grants for R&D activities to very early-stage, New Jersey-based clean technology companies. Specifically, the program will fund projects that are developing or testing clean technologies intended to recapture or avoid emissions of greenhouse gases and/or criteria pollutants, or to enable such avoidance or recapture. The following technology areas are eligible under the program: Chemicals/Advance Materials, Energy Distribution/Storage, Energy Efficiency, Energy Generation, Green Buildings, Transportation, Waste Processing, and Water and Agriculture. Complete program eligibility requirements can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/clean-tech-grant.

Qualified applicants can receive up to $75,000 in grants through the Clean Tech Seed Grant Program and the total funding for this initial pilot program is $750,000. Funding through the program will help businesses continue their work toward the proof of concept and prototyping stages, at which point they can more readily attract outside investors and, in some cases, begin to generate revenue. The funding is being provided through NJBPU’s Clean Energy Program.

CSIT previously hosted an informational webinar about the Clean Tech Seed Grant Program. During the webinar, CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft offered tips and advice to entrepreneurs that were considering applying to the program. A recording of the webinar can be found here. 

The application will be open until April 5, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. or until the program receives 50 completed applications, whichever comes first.

Applications from businesses located in an Opportunity Zone-eligible census tract, minority- or woman-owned businesses or businesses with technology coming out of New Jersey universities are all eligible for bonus points with respect to the scoring criteria.


About CSIT

In August 2018, Governor Murphy signed legislation re-establishing the former New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology as the CSIT. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, the Commission is tasked with leading the way in promoting the state as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization.

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TRENTON, N.J. (March 16, 2021) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced that applications for the New Jersey Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJ ZIP) will open on Tuesday, April 6th 2021. The $15 million pilot program will fund 100 to 300 vouchers ranging in value from $25,000 to $100,000 for businesses and institutional organizations in the greater Newark and Camden areas for the purchase of new, zero emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles (MHDVs).

The NJEDA will be hosting three informational webinars for potential applicants and vendors on Tuesday, March 23rd 2021. Register for a webinar that fits your schedule here.

NJ ZIP is the first initiative in New Jersey’s holistic, Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)-funded effort to support the deployment of zero emission MHDVs. The pilot program allocates $15 million to provide vouchers to businesses and organizations purchasing new, class 2b to class 6 vehicles. The size of vouchers awarded through the program will vary depending on the class of vehicle being purchased, from a minimum of $25,000 for Class 2b vehicles to $100,000 for Class 6 vehicles. Bonuses will be available for small businesses; women-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses; vehicles that are manufactured in New Jersey; small businesses that scrap their eligible MHDVs; and vendors that invest in driver education and training.

Vouchers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis with $5 million set aside for micro and small businesses. Initially, NJ ZIP will only be available in the greater Newark and greater Camden areas, defined as the overburdened communities within or intersected by a circle with a 10-mile radius centered on Newark and Camden. More information is available at https://www.njeda.gov/njzip.

NJ ZIP will be funded using proceeds from New Jersey’s participation in RGGI, a multi-state “cap-and-trade” program regulating carbon dioxide emissions. The State plans to deploy those funds within four initiative categories identified in the RGGI Strategic Funding Plan: catalyzing clean, equitable transportation; promoting blue carbon in coastal habitats; enhancing forests and urban forests; and creating a New Jersey Green Fund. More information about New Jersey’s plans for using RGGI funding is available https://www.nj.gov/rggi/index.html.

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About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority

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 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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TRENTON, N.J. (March 12, 2021) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that it sent final approval letters last week to the 49 technology and life sciences companies that are participating in the 2020 Net Operating Loss (NOL) Program.

Hailed as a lifeline for New Jersey companies that have yet to reach profitability, the NOL Program enables participants to sell their New Jersey net operating losses and unused research and development (R&D) tax credits to unrelated profitable corporations for cash. The cash can then be used for working capital or to fund research. The NJEDA and the New Jersey Department of Treasury’s Division of Taxation jointly administer the program.

The average award for companies approved to sell their net operating losses through the program in 2020 was $1.1 million. Fourteen of the 49 participating companies set to receive funding are participating in the NOL Program for the first time. Those new to the program are noted with an asterisk in the table at the end of this news release.

To date, more than $1.07 billion in funding has been distributed to over 550 technology and life sciences companies since the program’s inception in the late 1990s.

The NOL Program got a boost in January 2021, when Governor Phil Murphy signed the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020. Part of the Act increased the program’s annual cap from $60 million to $75 million. It also increased the lifetime cap for an individual applicant from $15 million to $20 million.

“The NOL Program has historically been one of our most sought-after programs by entrepreneurs as they grow their companies here in the Garden State,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Thanks to action taken by Governor Murphy and the Legislature, we will be able to connect even more companies with access to capital in the coming years. This, in turn, will lead to additional job creation within New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem and to the advancement of life-saving and life-enhancing technologies.”

Sullivan noted that the NJEDA plans to open the application for the 2021 NOL Program in early May.

In addition to being vital to emerging companies, the NOL Program also provides enormous benefits to the profitable companies that are buying the net operating losses and unused R&D tax credits. A profitable company can purchase tax credits at a discount, based on the market price at the time. These tax credits have traditionally traded somewhere between 88 and 94 cents on the dollar. Once purchased, the tax credits can then be applied to potentially reduce the buyer’s state tax obligation. The names of the buyers who chose to be publicly listed are on the NOL Program’s website.

Ailares Inc. in Princeton, Clinical Genomics in Bridgewater, and TrueFort in Weehawken, were among the 14 early-stage companies that were new to the NOL Program in 2020.

Ailares Inc. is a financial technology company that leverages machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in the fields of wealth management, investment management, and risk management. The company seeks to streamline the investment process for its clients by offering a platform that gives its user direct access to investment strategies and products.

“We founded Alaires with the goal of closing the wealth gap between those with access to ML/AI and those without it and to level the playing field for investors,” said Ailares CEO and Chief Investment Officer Kenneth Xu. “By leveraging the non-dilutive capital we receive through the NOL Program, we will be able to further our mission and connect every-day investors with the tools they need to invest strategically and successfully.”

Female-led Clinical Genomics, a biotechnology firm whose global headquarters are located in Bridgewater, develops technology to screen for, and monitor, colorectal cancer. Clinical Genomics’ products span the full spectrum of colorectal cancer testing from screening to post-treatment monitoring.

“New Jersey is home to the most scientists per square mile and top-notch resources like the NOL Program, which are tremendous assets for up-and-coming biotechnology companies like ours,” said Clinical Genomics President and CEO Betsy Hanna. “We have found the Garden State to be the perfect location to base our global operations as we continue to broaden access to our life-saving diagnostic tests for hospitals and testing facilities around the world.”

TrueFort develops cybersecurity software products used by enterprises to protect their critical business applications on premise and in the cloud. The TrueFort Fortress is a real-time enterprise security platform that defends high-value cloud, hybrid, and legacy environments from hidden risks using a unique application-centric approach. The company was founded by former information technology executives from JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs. TrueFort announced last week it received accolades from Futuriom and the Cybersecurity Excellence Awards for its app and cloud workload protection innovations.

“This past year, more than ever, has shown the importance of keeping data safe in an increasing digital world,” said TrueFort President and CEO Sameer Malhotra. “We’re proud to be able to offer our clients peace of mind through our industry-leading technology. We are also grateful that the NJEDA’s NOL Program will enable us to keep building out our business as we expand our customer base.”

About the New Jersey Economic Development Authority

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 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Company

Company Headquarters/Base of Operations (Municipality)

Company Headquarters/Base of Operations (County)

1

Acuitive Technologies

Allendale

Bergen

2*

Ailares Inc.

Princeton

Mercer

3

AIM ImmunoTech, Inc.

New Brunswick

Middlesex

4

Angel Medical Systems

Eatontown

Monmouth

5

Avlino Inc.

Holmdel

Monmouth

6

Bellerophon Therapeutics 

Warren

Somerset

7*

Bloqcube Inc.

Bridgewater

Somerset

8

Brilliant Light Power Inc.

Eatonton

Monmouth

9

Caladrius Biosciences, Inc.

Basking Ridge

Somerset

10

Celsion Corporation

Lawrenceville

Mercer

11

Celularity, Inc.

Warren

Somerset

12

CircleBlack, Inc.

Princeton

Mercer

13*

Clinical Genomics

Bridgewater

Somerset

14

CorMedix Inc.

Berkeley Heights

Union

15

Cytosorbents Medical Inc.

Monmouth Junction

Middlesex

16

electroCore, Inc.

Basking Ridge

Somerset

17

Elite Laboratories

Northvale

Bergen

18

EOS Energy Storage

Edison

Middlesex

19*

Forefront Telecare Inc.

Hamilton Twp.

Mercer

20*

Fusion Recruiting Labs, Inc.

Red Bank

Monmouth

21

Gadget Software, Inc.

Newark

Essex

22

Hope Portal Services, Inc DBA Hope Trust

Holmdel

Monmouth

23*

Interpace Biosciences, Inc.

Parsippany

Morris

24

IoTecha Corp

Piscataway

Middlesex

25

Matinas Biopharma

Bedminster

Somerset

26

Miami International Holdings, Inc

Princeton

Mercer

27

MYOS RENS Technology Inc.

Cedar Knolls

Morris

28

Nanotech Industrial Solutions

Avenel

Middlesex

29

Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.

Monroe Township

Middlesex

30

Oncosec Medical

Pennington

Mercer

31*

Onkos Surgical Incorporated

Parsippany

Morris

32

Orthobond Corporation

Princeton

Mercer

33

PDS Biotechnology Corporation

Florham Park

Morris

34*

Princeton Identity

Hamilton Twp.

Mercer

35

Provention Bio, Inc.

Red Bank

Monmouth

36

Rafael Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Newark

Essex

37

Scynexis, Inc

Jersey City

Hudson

38

Solidia Technologies

Piscataway

Middlesex

39

Soligenix Inc.

Princeton

Mercer

40*

SPES Pharmaceuticals Inc.

North Brunswick

Middlesex

41*

Sunbird Software, Inc.

Somerset

Somerset

42

Svelte Medical Systems

New Providence

Union

43*

Tallyx, Inc.

Princeton

Mercer

44*

Throtle, Inc.

Red Bank

Monmouth

45

TrialScope

Jersey City

Hudson

46*

Truefort Inc

Weehawken

Hudson

47*

Tulex Pharmaceutical Inc

Cranbury

Middlesex

48

United Silicon Carbide Inc. 

Monmouth Junction

Middlesex

49

WellSheet, Inc.

Newark

Essex

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TRENTON, N.J. (March 5, 2021) – The Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) today announced it will begin accepting applications next month for its Clean Tech Research and Development (R&D) Voucher Program. The $435,000 program is designed to help early-stage New Jersey clean technology companies more easily access resources such as specialized equipment within the Garden State. CSIT developed the program in coordination with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). The application opens April 5, 2021 and will be available at https://application.njeda.com/csit.

Through the Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program, eligible applicants will receive vouchers to subsidize the costs associated with one or more of the following services or activities in a participating New Jersey university or federal laboratory facility: use of facility equipment for testing and development, and training in preparation for independent use of the facility. Each eligible applicant can apply for multiple vouchers up to a cap of $15,000 within any 12-month period. An approved voucher will be valid for a period of three months. Specifically, the program will fund work on projects that are developing or testing clean technologies intended to recapture or avoid emissions of greenhouse gases and/or criteria pollutants, or to enable such avoidance or recapture. The following technology areas are eligible under the program: chemicals/advance materials, energy distribution/storage, energy efficiency, energy generation, green buildings, transportation, waste processing, and water and agriculture. A NJ clean tech asset map listing university and federal laboratory resources in NJ will also be available on the CSIT website.

“New Jersey is known the world over for its high-caliber research universities, and it is incumbent upon us to provide Garden State companies at their earliest stages with access to these invaluable resources,” said CSIT Chairman Gunjan Doshi. “CSIT is proud to work with its partners at the NJEDA and the NJBPU to bring this important and impactful program to fruition.”

CSIT announced the program this week to give applicants adequate time to prepare their applications. The Commission will host an informational webinar on the Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program on March 16 at 10:00 a.m. to offer tips and advice to potential applicants. Registration information can be found here. A recorded version of the webinar and copy of materials presented will be made available on the CSIT webpage following the event. Applications will be accepted beginning April 5 on a rolling basis until the funding is expended.

To be eligible for the Clean Tech R&D Voucher program, applicants must be registered to conduct business in New Jersey and must have no more than 50 full-time employees at the time of application. Additionally, 100 percent of the project work for which the voucher is being sought must be conducted in New Jersey. Full eligibility requirements can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/csit.

“We developed the Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program first and foremost to support the many innovative clean technology companies working to impact the global marketplace,” NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan said. “At the same time, it will increase access to, and awareness and utilization of, the State’s physical clean tech innovation-related amenities. This program will be a terrific tool for attracting companies to the Garden State, a top priority as we continue to recapture New Jersey’s role as a leader in innovation.”

In early 2020, Governor Murphy unveiled the state’s Energy Master Plan, which outlines key strategies to reach the Administration’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2050. In May 2018, Governor Murphy’s Executive Order No. 28 directed the NJBPU, in partnership with other state agencies, to develop this statewide clean energy plan and shift away from energy production that contributes to climate change.

“Up and coming New Jersey companies bring fresh ideas to the table and fostering opportunities for them is critical as we continue to shape a clean energy future,” said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “We want to ensure that these businesses have every resource at their disposal as they develop important clean technologies. Programs like the one announced today are an important step toward fulfilling the Governor’s goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2050.”

About CSIT
In August 2018, Governor Murphy signed legislation re-establishing the former New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology as the CSIT. Comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, the Commission is tasked with leading the way in promoting the state as a home for academic and technological research, development, and commercialization.

About 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.

About NJBPU
NJBPU is a state agency and regulatory authority mandated to ensure safe, adequate and proper utility services at reasonable rates for New Jersey customers. Critical services regulated by NJBPU include natural gas, electricity, water, wastewater, telecommunications and cable television. The Board has general oversight and responsibility for monitoring utility service, responding to consumer complaints, and investigating utility accidents. To find out more about NJBPU, visit our website at www.nj.gov/bpu.

To learn more about state resources available to New Jersey entrepreneurs and early-stage companies, visit https://www.njeda.gov/csit or follow @NewJerseyEDA on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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