Best Resources for Small Businesses from New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)

If you're a startup founder or small business owner in New Jersey, you don’t have to go it alone. The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) offers a powerful lineup of programs designed to fuel innovation, attract investment, and support entrepreneurs across industries—from tech and clean energy to AI and biosciences.

To help you navigate the landscape, here’s a handy guide to the best NJEDA resources for startups and small businesses in 2024–2025.

NJ Innovation Fellows Program

Turn your idea into a business with financial and mentorship support. This program helps early-stage entrepreneurs—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship.

• What you get: Grants and mentorship.

• Deadline: Applications for the AI-focused cohort are due July 30, 2025.

CSIT Grants (Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology)

Perfect for startups in R&D-heavy fields like clean technology or life sciences.

• What you get: Grants to support R&D, access to lab equipment, and data resources.

• Deadline: Applications for the Clean Tech Seed Grant close July 11, 2025.

Entrepreneur Support Program

If you’re trying to raise capital, this program helps de-risk your startup for private investors.

• What you get: Loan guarantees to incentivize private investment.

Angel Investor Tax Credit

Make your startup more attractive to angel investors by offering them a refundable tax credit.

• What you get: Up to 20% credit for investors (25% if investing in women- or minority-owned businesses or in Opportunity Zones).

NJ Founders & Funders

A must-attend for founders looking to meet investors face-to-face.

• What you get: 1-on-1 meetings with venture capitalists and angel investors.

• Next event: October 2025 – Registration is now open!

NJ Accelerate

Recently graduated from a top accelerator? NJ Accelerate has your back.

• What you get: Investment matching (up to $250K) and rent grants to help you establish your NJ HQ.

Net Operating Loss (NOL) Program

A favorite among early-stage startups! Convert unused net operating losses into non-dilutive capital.

• What you get: Sell your NOLs and R&D credits for cash.

Angel Match Program

Get your investors to bring more to the table—literally.

• What you get: NJEDA matches angel investments 1:1 via a convertible note.

• New for 2025: Matching up to $1 million, requires at least one investor, and minimum revenue (including grant funding).

NJ Evergreen Innovation Fund

For later-stage startups looking to scale big. NJEDA partners with venture capital firms to co-invest in NJ-based companies.

• What you get: Matching investments up to $4.2 million.

INC-NJ

A new platform to help you connect with investors, mentors, and resources within New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem.

• What you get: Digital networking, funding leads, and visibility.

Innovation Office Hours

Ask questions, get advice, and network with NJEDA program leaders and fellow founders.

AI Innovation Challenge Administration Grant

If you're an organization that wants to lead a statewide AI innovation competition, this grant supports the development and execution of that effort.

From idea to IPO, the NJEDA offers one of the most comprehensive state-level startup support systems in the country. Whether you're looking for funding, mentorship, or networking opportunities, these programs are designed to help you succeed—right here in New Jersey.

Stay on top of application deadlines, program updates, and events at the NJEDA website.

ABOUT NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Diversity & Inclusion Unit supports the Authority’s commitment to growing New Jersey’s economy and increasing equitable access to opportunity. 

The NJEDA believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are inherent to creating a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy and building a diverse workforce increases business performance. The Authority is guided by the concept of “diversity on purpose,” the idea that diversity at the NJEDA and in the businesses and communities the Authority serves should not only be recognized but intentionally fostered. This principle drives the NJEDA to produce innovative programs and services that best serve New Jersey’s diverse residents, communities, and businesses.