
## Eligibility Criteria

A DBE must meet all of the following:

1. Small business according to the [Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards](https://www.sba.gov/size-standards/index.html)
2. 51% owned, and controlled by one or more `socially and economically disadvantaged individuals|socially-economically-disadvantaged`
3. Authorized to do business in New Jersey and have all relevant business registrations and/or licenses
4. Meet the DBE statutory cap (Business size standard/Gross receipts cap) currently at $28.48 million

## Application Needs

- Preferences are given to those whose principal place of business is in New Jersey but will accept applications from out-of-state firms who are DBE certified in their home state
- Requires submission of documents to support personal net worth (PNW) and DBE statutory cap
- Applicant must participate in the on-site interview proceedings

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> - A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise certificate


Obtain a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Certification

A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification may provide an advantage for New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) contracts. 

A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification may **provide an advantage for the New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) contracts**.

_Learn more about [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/government-contracting)._


## Eligibility Criteria

A DVOB must either:

- Have its principal place of business in the State, be independently owned and operated, and at least 51% of the business be owned and controlled by persons who are disabled veterans; or
- Is a business that has its principal place of business in this State and has been officially verified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as a service-disabled veteran-owned business for the purposes of department contracts pursuant to Federal law

## Application Needs

- Federal Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Determination Letter, Disability Award Letter, or Federal Service-Disabled Veteran Letter for Majority owner(s)
- Proof of New Jersey residency for Majority owner(s)

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> - A Disabled Veteran-Owned Business certificate


Get Certified as a Disabled Veteran-Owned Business

A Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (DVOB) certification may provide an advantage for New Jersey State contracts.

A Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (DVOB) certification may provide an advantage for New Jersey State contracts. *Learn more about [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/government-contracting).*

## Eligibility Criteria

1. Must be a small business, according to [SBA size standards](https://www.sba.gov/size-standards/index.html)
2. Be 51% owned and controlled by one or more individuals whose personal net worth does not exceed $1.32M
3. Authorized to do business in New Jersey and have all relevant business registrations and/or licenses
4. Demonstrate `economic disadvantaged status|socially-economically-disadvantaged` and compliance with NJDOT’s ESBE policy and eligibility standards

## Application Needs

* Preferences are given to businesses whose principal place of business is in New Jersey but will accept applications from out-of-state businesses
* Requires submission of documents to support personal net worth (PNW) and economic disadvantaged status.
* Applicant(s) must participate in the on-site interview proceedings.

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> * An Emerging Small Business Enterprise certificate

Get an Emerging Small Business Enterprise (ESBE) Certification

Emerging Small Business Enterprise (ESBE) certification facilitates competition by small businesses for New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) contracts.

Emerging Small Business Enterprise (ESBE) certification may **provide an advantage for the New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) contracts**.

*Learn more about [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/government-contracting).*


## Eligibility Criteria

- Independently owned, operated, and controlled business that is generating revenue in New Jersey
- At least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by persons who identify as LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning)
- Owner must be competent in the affairs in the business to show operational and managerial control

## Application Needs

- The names and addresses of the owner, partners, or shareholders, as applicable, and their representative shares of ownership
- The names and addresses of the officers of the business
- The articles of incorporation, bylaws, partnership agreements, or joint venture agreements, as applicable
- `Certificate of Formation|certificate-formation`
- Organizational charts
- An applicant's birth certificate, motor vehicle driver's license, passport, or other acceptable form of identification
- An affidavit, signed by the individual seeking certification, certifying that the applicant is an LGBTQ+ business
- The names and addresses of members of the board of directors (c-corps only)
- The number of shares of stock issued and outstanding (c-corps only)

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> - A LGBTQ+ certificate


Obtain a LGBTQ+-Owned Business Certification

While New Jersey state government does not give special consideration to vendors that hold Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer-Owned Business (LGBTQ+) certificates, some State licenses, municipal or federal contracts do give special consideration.

_While New Jersey state government does not give special consideration to vendors that hold_ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer-Owned Business (LGBTQ+) certificates, some State licenses, municipal or federal contracts do give special consideration. Learn more about [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/government-contracting).


## Eligibility Criteria

- Principal place of business in the State of New Jersey
- 51% of the business is owned and controlled by a minority and/or a woman

## Application Needs

- The names and addresses of the owner, partners, or shareholders, as applicable, and their representative shares of ownership
- The names and addresses of the officers of the business
- The names and addresses of members of the board of directors (c-corps only)
- The number of shares of stock issued and outstanding (c-corps only)
- The articles of incorporation, bylaws, partnership agreements, or joint venture agreements (as applicable)
- Organizational charts
- An applicant's certificate of birth, motor vehicle driver's license, passport, or another acceptable form of identification
- An affidavit, signed by the individual seeking certification, certifying that the applicant is a minority business or women's business

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> - A Minority/Women-owned Business Enterprise certificate


Obtain a Minority/Women-Owned Business Certification

While New Jersey state government does not give special consideration to vendors that hold Minority- or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) certificates, some State licenses, municipal or federal contracts do give special consideration.

_While New Jersey state government does not give special consideration to vendors that hold_ `Minority|minority` _or_ `Women|women` \*-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) certificates, some State licenses, municipal or federal contracts do give special consideration. Learn more about [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/government-contracting).\*

## Eligibility Criteria

* Primary location is in New Jersey
* 100 or fewer full-time employees
* 51% or more of their business operations/sales in New Jersey, OR has 51% or more of the company’s full-time employees in New Jersey
* Meets [additional revenue limits](https://business.nj.gov/pages/sbe) based on your business activity

## Application Needs

* An `EIN|ein` 
* Social Security Number
* An identified `NAICS|naics` code: ${naicsCode}
* Information on your business's gross revenue for the last 3 completed tax years
* Business formation date (for LLC, C corps, LPs and LLPs) You can find this date on your `Certificate of Formation|certificate-formation` 

:::infoAlert 
 This application needs to be notarized.
:::

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> * A Small Business Enterprise certificate

Get A Small Business Enterprise Certification

Having a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) certificate may give you an advantage with government contracts.

*Having a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) certificate may give you an advantage with [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/government-contracting)*.


## Eligibility Criteria

- Has its principal place of business in the State of New Jersey
- 51% of the business is owned and controlled by a veteran

## Application Needs

- Proof of Honorable Discharge from the US Military form DD-214 for the majority of owner(s)
- Proof of New Jersey residency for majority owner(s)

> **After you complete this, you will have:**
>
> - Veteran-Owned Business certificate


Get Certified as a Veteran-Owned Business

A Veteran-Owned Business (VOB) certification may not provide an advantage for New Jersey State contracts.

A `Veteran|veteran` \-Owned Business (VOB) certification may not provide an advantage for New Jersey State contracts. Learn more about [government contracts](https://business.nj.gov/pages/contract-with-new-jersey)*.


If you [formed your business](/tasks/form-business-entity), you can see:

- Your annual reporting deadline
- Funding opportunities
- Certifications



If you're done setting up your business, we can hide your task list and show you possible funding opportunities.



to customize your certifications, funding opportunities, and annual report deadline.



Now that you've filled out your business information, you can save your progress and [link your Business.NJ.gov account with myNewJersey](/account-setup).



To save your progress on your Business.NJ.gov account, [link your existing myNewJersey account](/account-setup).



## Eligibility

- Investors in eligible emerging technology businesses or venture funds in New Jersey
- Both the investor and the technology company must complete the application no later than 6 months from the date of investment
- Fewer than 225 full-time employees, 75% of whom must work in NJ
- Commercializes one or more of the following eligible technologies in the State: Advanced Computing, Advanced Materials, Biotechnology, Electronic Devices, Information Technology, Life Sciences, Medical Devices, Mobile Communications, Renewable Energy Technology, and Carbon Footprint Reduction Technology

> ### Benefits
>
> Tax credits equal to 20% of a qualified investment with a potential 5% bonus.


Angel Investor Tax Credit Program

The New Jersey Angel Investor Tax Credit Program establishes refundable tax credits for qualified investments in New Jersey emerging technology businesses to stimulate investment in the innovation economy.


## Eligibility

- Must have minimum revenues of $100,000 within the `trailing 12 months|trailing-12-months`. Trailing 12 Months (TTM) figures report metrics based on the last 12 months (or four quarters) to date on a rolling basis.
- Business must be able to demonstrate a minimum of $100,000 in investment interest from at least two investors independent from the company
- Primary business is commercializing and marketing a product
- Early stage within an [NJEDA targeted industry](https://www.njeda.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Appendix-C-Targeted-Industries-Definitions-12.6.22_v2.pdf)
- Structured as a C-Corporation or LLC
- Located in physical commercial, co-working, or incubator space in New Jersey
- A minimum of two full-time founders/C-level executives and 50% of full-time employees working in New Jersey
- No more than 100 total employees working for the company
- Company must be registered in New Jersey and in good standing as certified by a valid NJ Tax Clearance Certificate

> ### Benefits
>
> `Convertible note|convertible-note` from $100,000 to $500,000 with 10-year maturity, 3% interest rate, and no payments for the first seven years.


Angel Match Program

The Angel Match Program provides funding from the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) by matching angel investors’ direct investment in early-stage, product-based technology companies within targeted industries.


## Eligibility

- Manufacturing and processing facilities, certain government-owned facilities, facilities that furnish utilities, and some 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that meet Internal Revenue Code requirements for tax-exempt bond financing
- Bonds can be used for projects that are owned and operated for the benefit of local, county, and state government bodies and for capital improvements and expansions

> ### Benefits
>
> - Tax-exempt bonds of up to $10M for manufacturers
> - Unlimited for non-profits and public infrastructure projects


Bond Financing

The Bond Financing program provides bond financing to qualified manufacturing companies, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and exempt facilities in New Jersey.


## Eligibility

- Available for eligible brownfield sites in the state for the purpose of assessing known or suspected site contamination

> ### Benefits
>
> Free environmental site assessment to evaluate contamination at brownfield sites


Brownfield Assessment Grant

The Brownfield Assessment Grant Program provides grant money to support site assessment at any eligible brownfield site in NJ.


## Eligibility

- Funds must be allocated to environmental cleanup (not assessment or investigation)

> ### Benefits
>
> Addresses funding gaps to make the remediation phase of a project financially viable for remedial actions and other eligible activities.


Brownfield Impact Fund (USEPA RLF)

This is a pilot program by the federal Environmental Protection Agency's Revolving Loan Fund to support cleanups at brownfield sites.

This is a pilot program funded by the federal Environmental Protection Agency's Revolving Loan Fund (USEPA RLF) that provides low-interest (1-2%) loans of up to $350,000 to for-profit and non-profit developers, as well as public sector entities to carry out cleanups at brownfield sites.


## Eligibility

- Child care center licensed by New Jersey Department of Children and Families (NJDCF) as of June 4th, 2021
- Currently enroll, or have enrolled in the 12 months prior to the date of application, at least one child receiving support through New Jersey Department of Human Services (NJDHS) Child Care Assistance Program
- For-profit businesses or non-profit organizations that can own or lease space
- Be in good standing with the New Jersey Departments of Labor and Workforce Development, Environmental Protection, NJDCF, and NJDHS
- Must not be debarred from receiving federal funds, as indicated through [System for Award Management (SAM)](https://sam.gov/content/home)
- Contractors conducting facility improvements must be New Jersey Department of Labor (NJDOL) Public Works Registered Contractors and abide by state prevailing wage and affirmative action requirements

**Project elements that can be covered by this grant:**

- Labor and materials cost for interior and exterior facility improvements to create high quality early childhood learning environments. See the full list of [eligible facility improvement projects](https://www.njeda.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Child-Care-Facilities-Improvement-Eligible-Projects.pdf)
- Soft costs are capped at up to 20% of total grant and are limited to: architect fees, permit fees, construction management, freight and shipping delivery, environmental assessment

> ### Benefits
>
> - Grant between $50,000 to $200,000


Child Care Facilities Improvement Program

The Child Care Facilities Improvement Program provides grants to New Jersey child care providers for facilities improvements that will contribute to high quality early childhood learning environments.

The Child Care Facilities Improvement Program provides grants for facilities improvement to New Jersey child care providers that provide high quality early childhood learning environments.


The Child Care Facilities Improvement Program provides grants for facilities improvement to New Jersey child care providers that provide high quality early childhood learning environments.

Applicants are limited to one application per DCF-licensed child care center location, and two applications per `Entity ID Number (EIN)|ein`.


## Eligibility

- Be located in New Jersey with fewer than 750 employees
- Be seeking to finance a clean energy project and use a clean energy technology that has already been demonstrated in the US or internationally
- Be in good standing with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and NJ Department of Environmental Protection
- Have a valid tax clearance certificate no older than 180 days at time of approval
- Be economically feasible
- Be requesting a loan of $500,000 to $20M for the project in total (NJEDA and private financing)
- Be requesting 50% or less of the total loan amount from the NJEDA ($250,000-$10M)
- Have a term sheet, letter of intent, draft agreement, commitment letter, or similar document from an eligible financial institution.
- Not be enrolled in any other state State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program

> ### Benefits
>
> - Loans at 3% below the financial institution's interest rate
> - Minority-, Woman-, and Veteran-owned businesses receive an additional 1% interest rate reduction
> - Businesses/projects located in [Overburdened Communities](https://dep.nj.gov/ej/communities/) also receive a 1% interest rate reduction


New Jersey Clean Energy Loans

New Jersey Clean Energy Loans (NJ CELs) will unlock capital for small businesses, catalyze the deployment of clean energy in New Jersey, and support Minority-, Woman-, and Veteran-owned businesses to participate in the State’s energy transition.


## Eligibility

- CHP or Waste Heat to Power projects must achieve an annual system efficiency of at least 60% (Higher Heating Value - HHV), based on total energy input and total utilized energy output
- FC systems must achieve an annual electric system efficiency of at least 40% (HHV) based on Net Useful Electric Power plus Net Useful Thermal Production (if any) divided by the Total Fuel Input at HHV

> ### Benefits
>
> - No more than $4.5M in new incentive commitments can be made towards ≥40% Fuel Cells during Fiscal Year 2023
> - Of the $4.5M, no single prime mover manufacturer can qualify for a total of $1.5M in incentives for qualifying ≥40% Fuel Cells equipment
> - Natural gas, hydrogen, biogas, and mixed fuel (such as, natural gas and biogas) CHP-FC equipment installed on the customer side of the utility meter is eligible for incentives
> - 100% renewable fueled projects, including biogas and landfill gas-fueled projects which meet CHP program criteria, are also eligible to receive incentives


New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program – Combined Heat & Power - Fuel Cells

The Combined Heat and Power - Fuel Cells (CHP-FC) program aims to enhance energy efficiency through on-site power generation with recovery and productive use of waste heat, and to reduce existing and new demands to the electric power grid. The program plans to do this by providing generous financial incentives for Combined Heat & Power (CHP) and Fuel Cell (FC) installations.


## Eligibility

- Participants must be electric and/or gas customers of New Jersey investor-owned utilities and pay the monthly [Societal Benefits Charge (SBC)](https://www.njcleanenergy.com/files/file/FAQs_pdf_4.pdf)
- Incentives are offered for new construction and `substantial renovations|substantial-renovation`

> ### Benefits
>
> There is an entity cap of $4M per fiscal year.


New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program – Commercial & Industrial New Construction 

New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program (NJCEP) encourages energy efficient new construction of commercial and industrial facilities in New Jersey by offering various financial incentives to adopt cost-effective, energy efficient design choices in qualifying new construction and substantial renovation projects.


## Eligibility

- To qualify, eligible entities must have incurred at least $5M in total annual energy costs (on a pre-sales tax basis, aggregate of all buildings/sites) between July 1st, 2021 and June 30th, 2022 as billed by NJ investor-owned utilities and any applicable third-party suppliers associated with those accounts
- Applicant accounts must be commercially-billed and pay the [Societal Benefits Charge (SBC)](https://www.njcleanenergy.com/files/file/FAQs_pdf_4.pdf)

> ### Benefits
>
> - There is an entity cap of $4M per fiscal year, and available funding vary by technology
> - Eligible annual costs include standard costs associated with electric and/or gas delivery and supply (for example, generation, transmission, distribution, SBC, etc.) and not those that are unique to the customer (e.g., energy management charges)


New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program - Large Energy Users

The Large Energy Users Program (LEUP) encourages large commercial and industrial utility customers that have facilities in New Jersey to to upgrade or install energy conserving measures in existing buildings and to help offset these capital costs. These efficiency upgrades are customized to meet the requirements of the customers’ existing facilities, while advancing the State’s energy efficiency, conservation, and greenhouse gas reduction goals.


## Eligibility

The program is open to all local governments, New Jersey state colleges or state universities, county colleges, public schools, and non-profit agencies exempt from federal taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code that are located within the service territory of at least one of the state's regulated investor-owned utilities.

> ### Benefit
>
> The LGEA Program provides audits up to a value of $150,000 per program year, per applicant. For larger applicants, if the audit cost exceeds or is expected to exceed $150,000, there is a potential larger cost cap for applicants pursuing the Energy Savings Improvement Program and eligible healthcare entities, not to exceed $300,000.


New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program - Local Government Energy Audit

The Local Government Energy Audit (LGEA) program provides an energy audit at no cost for eligible facilities owned by municipalities, school districts, 501(c)(3) non-profits, and other local and state government entities (applicants). The goal of the energy audit is to provide applicants with information on how their facilities use energy, identify energy conservation measures that can reduce energy, put applicants in a position to implement these measures, and guide applicants towards financial incentives offered by utilities and state.


## Eligibility

- Must use natural gas and/or electricity as the primary heating fuel supplied by a New Jersey investor‐owned utility
- Must be newly constructed single family, multi‐single low‐rise, and high‐rise multifamily buildings
- Existing homes undergoing `substantial renovation|substantial-renovation` or remodeling that meets the criteria above

> ### Benefits
>
> The program offers builders and raters varying incentives from $500 to $6,000+ per home.


New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program - Residential New Construction

The Residential New Construction (RNC) Program is designed to increase the energy efficiency and environmental performance of residential new construction buildings (single and multifamily) in New Jersey by offering technical support and incentives to builders that comply with these standards.


## Eligibility

- Must be a New Jersey-based clean energy and clean technology company
- Company must have 50 or fewer full-time employees

> ### Benefits
>
> Companies received vouchers totaling up to $15,000 per year.


Clean Tech Research & Development (R&D) Voucher Program

The Clean Tech Research & Development (R&D) Voucher Program helps New Jersey early-stage clean tech and clean energy companies offset certain costs.

The Clean Tech Research & Development (R&D) Voucher Program helps New Jersey early-stage clean tech and clean energy companies offset the cost of accessing core facilities, equipment, and makerspaces at participating New Jersey universities or federal labs for R&D.


## Eligibility

- Businesses or non-profits must own the non-road construction equipment
- Equipment must be used a minimum of 50% of the time in New Jersey for a current or future construction project in New Jersey
- Equipment cannot be planned to go out of use in the next 5 years
- Priority is given to urban areas, high frequency of use, and older models

> ### Benefits
>
> Award of up to $100,000 per piece of equipment purchased or replaced.


NJ Clean Construction Program

New Jersey Clean Construction Program installs pollution control devices or replaces qualifying non-road construction equipment that reduces pollution. Businesses can apply to two grants: Off-Road Diesel Retrofit Grant and Off-Road Diesel Replacement Grant.


## Eligibility

Must be a nonprofit, non-community water systems in New Jersey and use the funds for the following construction projects:

- Water treatment facilities correcting a system's non-compliance with Surface Water Treatment requirements, acute violations, maximum contaminant levels, lead, and copper rule exceedance, or secondary drinking water regulation exceedance
- Consolidation of water systems to comply with the SDWA
- Rehabilitation of existing water treatment facilities, water mains, pump stations, water storage facilities, or new water storage facilities to maintain compliance with the SDWA and wells
- Allowances for planning and design are also available

> ### Benefits
>
> Provides short-term loans at 0.337% Interest to replace and update drinking water infrastructure.


Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program

This program provides low-interest loans to finance the costs of infrastructure needed to achieve or maintain compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) requirements and to protect public health.


## Eligibility

- Businesses must own less than 10 petroleum underground storage tanks in New Jersey
- **For an interest-free loan:** Businesses must have a net worth of less than $2M and demonstrate they're unable to obtain a commercial loan for all or part of the eligible costs
- **For a grant:** Businesses must have taxable income not exceeding $250,000 and a net worth not exceeding $500,000, excluding their primary residence and pension
- Eligibility for independent institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, volunteer fire, ambulance, first aid, emergency or rescue company or squad, is defined in the UST Finance Act

> ### Benefits
>
> - Grant recipients can receive up to $500,000 per site in a Metropolitan area and up to $1M per site if the project is located in a Suburban area
> - Loan recipients will not exceed $2M in an urban area, or not exceed $3M if the project site is located in a suburban area


Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Remediation, Upgrade and Closure Fund

The Underground Storage Tank Fund (UST) provides financial assistance in the form of loans and grants to eligible owners and operators for the closure and remediation of discharges from unregulated petroleum underground storage tanks, and for the closure and remediation of State-regulated petroleum underground storage tanks.


## Eligibility

- Public, workplaces, and multi-unit residential dwellings are eligible
- Charging stations can't be placed in private residential dwellings

> ### Benefits
>
> Businesses and others can be reimbursed for 100% of the costs if on government property and 80% of costs if on private property, up to a maximum of:
>
> - $750 per Level 1 charging port (provides 120 VAC up to 12 A)
> - $4,000 per Level 2 charging port (provides 240 VAC from 12 A to 80 A)


It Pays to Plug In: Electric Vehicle Workplace Charging Grant Program

This program provides grants to offset the cost of purchasing electric vehicle charging stations. The program expands New Jersey’s growing network of electric vehicle infrastructure, allowing residents, businesses, and government agencies to purchase and drive electric vehicles.


## Eligibility

- Private entities, such as developers, can be eligible as **clean water applicants** through public conduit borrowers
- **Drinking water applicants** can be public community water systems privately and publicly owned, and nonprofit non-community water systems (as defined by the [National Primary Drinking Water Regulations](https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/national-primary-drinking-water-regulations))
- **All applicants** must also satisfy the [Water Bank's creditworthiness standards](https://cdn.njib.gov/njib/policies/njib_credit_policy_2018.pdf)

> ### Benefits
>
> Funding from $100M to $200M available per year. Funding comes from New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) at 0% interest and New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust (NJEIT) at ~Market Rate Interest for a loan that is effectively half the market rate.


New Jersey Water Bank Program

This program provides low-cost financing for the design, construction, and implementation of projects that help protect and improve water quality, and help ensure safe and adequate drinking water.

## Eligibility

* Companies must produce content in New Jersey
* Incurred for services performed and tangible personal property purchased through vendors whose primary place of business is located in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer or Salem County

> ### Benefits
>
> * A tax credit equal to 20% of qualified digital media production expenses, or
> * 25% of qualified digital media production expenses for services performed and tangible personal property purchased through vendors located in specific New Jersey counties

Digital Media Tax Credit

The Digital Media Tax Credit Program provides a transferable tax credit to incentivize companies to produce content in New Jersey.

The Digital Media Tax Credit Program provides a transferable credit against the corporate business tax and the gross income tax to incentivize companies to produce content in New Jersey.


## Eligibility

- Businesses must commit to creating or maintaining 1 job for every $65,000 of assistance. There is an application fee of $1,000

> ### Benefits
>
> Loans up to $2M for fixed assets or up to $750,000 to be used for fixed assets or working capital.


Direct Loans

New Jersey businesses committed to job creation or retention may be eligible for direct loans through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) when conventional financing is not available.


## Eligibility

- Preference is given to New Jersey-based small and disadvantaged businesses certified under the [Federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program](https://www.transportation.gov/civil-rights/disadvantaged-business-enterprise)
- [Emerging Small Business Enterprises (ESBEs) and Small Business Enterprises (SBEs)](https://www.nj.gov/transportation/business/civilrights/dbe.shtm) based in New Jersey and are actively seeking certification as a DBE also qualify

> ### Benefits
>
> - Intensive, instructor-led instruction in a number of business and technical topics
> - Participating businesses complete a needs assessment and receive customized, one-on-one coaching and technical assistance tailored to their business needs
> - Provided opportunities to expand professional networks and establish relationships with NJDOT's prime contractors through various programs and events


Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Program (DBE/SSP)

The DBE/SS Program provides training and technical assistance to minority, disadvantaged, and women-owned businesses. This program aims to increase opportunities with the New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) contracting program and assist them in competing for and performing work on highway and highway-related projects.


## Eligibility

- Technology companies must be supported by an Angel investment with a minimum trailing 12-month commercial revenues of $250,000
- The company must employ 75% of its W-2 employees in NJ or commit to growing 10 high-paying jobs over two years

> ### Benefits
>
> Businesses can receive up to $250,000 in growth capital matched with outside investors on a 1 to 2 basis.


Edison Innovation Angel Growth Fund

Edison Innovation Angel Growth Fund provides funding to early-stage, emerging technology businesses matched with an outside equity investor within the last 90 days.


## Eligibility

- Technology companies supported by venture capital with a minimum trailing 12-month commercial revenues of at least $2M
- The company must employ 75% of its W-2 employees in NJ or commit to growing 10 high-paying jobs over two years
- The company must have received an Edison Innovation VC Growth Fund investment and be in good standing

> ### Benefits
>
> Businesses can receive funding of up to $500,000.


Edison Innovation Growth Stars Fund

Edison Innovation VC Growth Fund provides funding to early-stage, emerging technology businesses matched with an outside equity investor within the last 90 days.


## Eligibility

- Venture capital supported New Jersey-based technology companies with a minimum trailing 12-month commercial revenues of $500,000
- This revenue amount must exceed the amount of the potential Edison Innovation Fund investment amount
- The company must employ 75% of its W-2 employees in New Jersey or commit to growing 10 high-paying jobs over two years

> ### Benefits
>
> Up to $1M in growth capital matched with outside investors on a 1 to 1 basis.


Edison Innovation VC Growth


## Eligibility

- Eligible applicant include, but are not limited to those situated in locations which offer amusement, arts, culture, attractions, dining, entertainment, history, outdoor recreation, overnight lodging, and shopping
- The scoring rubric used by the program can be found on the [New Jersey Clean Energy Program website](https://njcleanenergy.com/ev)

> ### Benefits
>
> Awardees will receive up to $5,000 for an eligible L2 charger, up to the cost of the charger; and up to $50,000 for a Direct Current Fast Charger, up to the cost of the charger.


Electric Vehicle Tourism Program

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Tourism Program is offering incentives to promote electric vehicle adoption and tourism through investment in EV chargers at key New Jersey tourism sites, landmarks, and other Tourism Areas.

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Tourism Program is offering incentives to promote electric vehicle adoption and tourism through investment in EV chargers at key New Jersey tourism sites, landmarks, and other `Tourism Areas|tourism-areas`.


## Eligibility

- Corporate headquarters with at least one executive member and 50% of employees located in New Jersey
- Fewer than 225 total employees at the time of application
- Aligned with at least one of the [NJEDA’s established targeted industries](https://www.njeda.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Appendix-C-Targeted-Industries-Definitions.pdf)
- A valid New Jersey tax clearance certificate from the Division of Taxation
- Good standing with NJ Workforce Development at time of application

> ### Benefits
>
> 80% guarantee of an investment amount, not to exceed $400,000, for one year from the date of issue.


Entrepreneur Support Program

The New Jersey Entrepreneur Support Program provides a $5 million fund to guarantee investor loans for working capital, up to a total of $400,000 per business. The loans are meant for entrepreneurial companies to support their working capital.


## Eligibility

- Feature films, television series, or television shows of 22 minutes or more in length, intended for a national or regional audience filmed and produced at a cultural venue receiving State funding
- 60% of the total film production expenses must be incurred for services and goods purchased through vendors authorized to do business in New Jersey, or
- Qualified film production expenses (expenses incurred in New Jersey for the production of a film) must exceed $1 million per production
- Qualified film production expenses incurred for services for use at a sound stage or other location that's located within a 30-mile radius of the intersection of Eighth Ave./Central Park West, Broadway, and West 59th Street/Central Park South, New York, NY eligible for 30%

## Not Eligible

- Productions featuring news, current events, weather, and market reports or public programming, talk show, sports event, or reality show
- Productions that solicit funds
- Productions primarily for private, industrial, corporate, or institutional purposes

> ### Benefits
>
> Tax credits up to 35% of qualified film production expenses.


Film Tax Credit Program

The Film Tax Credit Program provides a transferable tax credit to incentivize production companies to film content in New Jersey.

The Film Tax Credit Program provides a transferable credit against the corporation business tax and the gross income tax to incentivize production companies to film content in New Jersey.


## Eligibility

- Have a New Jersey tax clearance certificate listing New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology
- Have between 1-50 full-time workers at time of application
- Have less than or equal to $5,000,000 in prior year sales revenue (excluding grant revenue)

> ### Benefits
>
> The award grants up to $75,000 per business to support research and development of their innovation.


Food and Agriculture Research & Development Grant Program

The program's goal is to support innovation from researchers and entrepreneurs focused on developing technology and other solutions to address food insecurity in New Jersey. The program aims to fund 10 companies for awards of up to $75,000 each.

## Eligibility

- Newly constructed or rehabilitated supermarkets or grocery stores in a designated Food Desert Community (limited to two per FDC) 
- Stores with at least 16,000 square feet where at least 80% of square footage is occupied by food and related products and at least 10% of retail space is devoted to fresh and/or frozen fruits and vegetables
- Proof that the store would not be economically feasible without the tax credit award, but with the tax credit award, it would operate on a full-time basis for seven years after opening and be economically and commercially viable by the end of that period
- Be open for business to the public within six months of the receipt of a temporary Certificate of Occupancy or within three years of executing the incentive award agreement corresponding to the project [subject to possible extensions approved by the NJ Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)]
- Acceptance benefits from federal nutrition assistance programs, including SNAP and WIC, and to holding a public listening session in the FDC at least one a year

> ### Benefits
>
> - Developers will be eligible to receive tax credits up to 40% of the total project cost for the first approved supermarket/grocery store in an FDC and up to 20% for the second approved supermarket/grocery store in an FDC, capped at the project financing gap
> - Owners/operators of supermarkets/grocery stores will be eligible to receive three years of tax credits up to 100% of initial operating costs for the first approved supermarket/grocery store in an FDC and up to 50% of initial operating costs for the second approved supermarket/grocery store in an FDC, capped at the initial operating shortfall


The Food Desert Relief Supermarket Tax Credit Program provides tax credits for new grocery stores in designated NJ Food Desert Communities.

Food Desert Relief Supermarket Tax Credit Program

The Food Desert Relief Supermarket Tax Credit Program addresses food security in New Jersey by providing up to $40 million per year in tax credits to develop and sustain new supermarkets and grocery stores in food deserts. Tax credits are available up to two eligible supermarkets or grocery stores in each of [NJ's 50 designated Food Desert Communities](https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://njdca.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=cd59d206f39c40a691d6ba38598134fb__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!PP_gVIEwwhs4LPbmfAKdAkW6BZrMbp_fkucgIHsnoXctu3j1cN5ZMDk134qY_mNWXEfoRRgrJNyfd0ifPpoZw4ueNLOpbQ$).


## Eligibility

- Entities who are developing new, or building upon existing Registered Apprenticeship programs
- Any employer, trade association, labor organization, and others providing apprenticeship programs for their industry
- While all industries are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to targeted sectors including: Advanced Manufacturing Bio Pharma/Life Sciences Energy, Utilities and Infrastructure Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Financial Services/Insurance Transportation, Logistics and Distribution Information Technology/Cyber Security, Renewable Energy, Healthcare, Other Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related sectors/occupations Construction & Building Trades Public Service.

> ### Benefits
>
> Eligible applicants can request funding up to $9,500 per registered apprentice to:
>
> 1. Offset administrative costs incurred creating the Registered Apprenticeship Program
> 2. Offset costs incurred for training the new apprentice
> 3. Provide a 50% wage reimbursement for the first twelve months of newly hired apprentices’ employment for occupations paying a starting wage of at least $16.00 per hour


Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors

The Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) program aims to promote the expansion and development of USDOL-approved Registered Apprenticeship programs.

The Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) program aims to promote the expansion and development of [USDOL-approved Registered Apprenticeship](https://www.apprenticeship.gov/employers/registered-apprenticeship-program) programs.

The GAINS program provides New Jersey businesses or current registered apprenticeship sponsors looking to create or expand Registered Apprenticeship programs in new [USDOL-approved occupations](https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-occupations).


## Eligibility

- Businesses, individuals, or municipalities in New Jersey performing remediation or cleanup of contaminated and underutilized sites

> ### Benefits
>
> - Grants of up to $5M per year for municipal and county redevelopment authorities
> - Loans up to $500,000 per year for private entities and $2M per year for public entities
> - $10M is also available each year to support recreation/conservation, renewable energy, and affordable housing projects
> - Funds are for environmental assessment, investigation, and remediation activities. Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF) funds can also be leveraged to obtain funds from other sources such as U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)


Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund

The Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF) provides funding for the investigation, remediation, and cleanup of contaminated and underutilized sites.


## Eligibility

- The product is in the beta (not alpha) stage of development and has been created with input from clients or potential clients
- The business has some “proof of concept” revenue
- Typical pre-money valuation is below $5M
- Typically seeking to raise $250,000-$2M
- Company must have annual run-rate revenue of over $1M and over 40% of gross margin

> ### Benefits
>
> Ability to meet one-on-one with seasoned investors for feedback and possible funding opportunities.


Investments in Women-Led Start-ups

Golden Seeds is a nationwide angel investor network dedicated to investing in women-led startups. The New Jersey chapter of Golden Seeds launched in 2021 to increase available capital for female-led businesses.


## Eligibility

Nonprofit, for profit, and home-based micro businesses interested in applying for the Main Street Micro Business Loan must meet the following eligibility requirements:

- Must have less than $1.5M in annual gross revenue for the most current fiscal year (to the extent the business has annual revenues)
- Must have a credit score of at least a 600 from at least one owner to be eligible
- Must have no more than 10 full-time employees (All employees must work in New Jersey as evidenced by WR-30 filings. There is no minimum employee number and sole proprietors are eligible.)
- Must be formed at least six months prior to the date of application, as evidenced by the date of formation/incorporation

> ### Benefits
>
> - Future operating expenses, including working capital to fund future operating expenses (for example, payroll, rent, mortgage, utilities, taxes, and inventory)
> - Future purchases of equipment as long as installation and construction costs do not exceed $1,999.99
>
> _Home-based businesses cannot use loan proceeds for any residential costs (i.e. home mortgage/lease payments)._


Main Street Micro Business Loan

Main Street Micro Business Loan will provide financing of up to $50,000 to eligible micro businesses in New Jersey with ten or fewer full-time employees and no greater than $1M in annual revenues.

**_Based on the significant number of applications already received, funding for the Main Street Micro Business Loan is fully subscribed. Based on the fact that the New Jersey Economic Development Authority's (NJEDA) application fee is non-refundable, NJEDA is no longer accepting new applications. If you have any questions, please contact the NJEDA Call Center at 844-965-1125. Applicants who already have an application in progress will have until 5 PM on Wednesday, October 12th , 2022 to complete and submit their application. Applicants who do not complete and submit their in progress application by Wednesday, October 12th, 2022 at 5 PM will no longer have the ability to do so after that date and time._**

Main Street Micro Business Loan will provide financing of up to $50,000 to eligible micro businesses in New Jersey with ten or fewer full-time employees and no greater than $1M in annual revenues.

The program is the successor to the Micro Business Loan Program established by the NJEDA in 2019.


## Eligibility

- Company must be registered to do business in New Jersey and located in New Jersey
- Company is able to demonstrate some signs of financial or operational traction

> ### Benefits
>
> Ability to meet one-on-one with seasoned investors for feedback and possible funding opportunities.


New Jersey Founders & Funders

Founders & Funders enables early-stage New Jersey technology and life sciences companies to meet potential investors in 10-minute, one-on-one “speed dating” sessions to discuss strategy, business models, and funding opportunities.

Founders & Funders enables early-stage New Jersey technology and life sciences companies to meet potential investors in 10-minute, one-on-one “speed dating” sessions to discuss strategy, business models, and funding opportunities.

To register for this opportunity, contact: [NJFoundersFunders@njeda.com](mailto:NJFoundersFunders@njeda.com).


## Eligibility

- Small business as defined by the [Small Business Administration](https://www.sba.gov/size-standards/index.html)
- In business for at least one year as of the date of the application
- Manufacturing goods or producing services that contain at least 51% U.S. content
- Registered with NJ START and have a [DUNS number](https://www.dnb.com/duns.html)

> ### Benefits
>
> - $15,000-$25,000 per company per grant cycle
> - Website and e-commerce fees to attract international buyers, along with designs for international marketing media
> - Participation in international trade missions, international and U.S. trade events, and Department of Commerce organized trade missions
> - Fees for services provided by the U.S. Commercial Service (USCS)


New Jersey State Trade Expansion Program (NJSTEP)

The New Jersey Business Action Center's (NJBAC) State Trade Expansion Program (NJSTEP) provides financial awards to domestic small businesses that are new to exporting and those who currently sell their goods and services to other countries.

The New Jersey Business Action Center's (NJBAC) State Trade Expansion Program (NJSTEP) provides financial awards to domestic small businesses that are new to export and those who currently sell their goods and services to other countries.


## Eligibility

- Businesses in accelerator programs and graduates of approved accelerators

> ### Benefits
>
> - 1:1 matching event sponsorship up to $100,000 for accelerator programs
> - 1:1 matching loan funding up to $250,000 and rent support for up to 6 months for graduate companies


NJ Accelerate

NJ Accelerate supports accelerator programs and their graduate companies. Incentivizes graduate companies to locate and grow in New Jersey.


## Eligibility

- The NJ Brownfield Assistance Center @ NJIT provides the tools and resources necessary to reclaim and redevelop brownfield sites

> ### Benefits
>
> - Free focused assistance to New Jersey county and local governments and nonprofits to develop brownfield redevelopment solutions
> - Assistance to educate and engage communities in an effort to build capacity and a knowledge base on brownfield redevelopment


NJ Brownfields Assistance Center @ NJIT

The NJ Brownfields Assistance Center provides free guidance, tools, and resources to New Jersey county and municipal governments interested in redeveloping and reclaiming brownfield sites.


## Eligibility

- Renters can be early-stage technology and life science companies in New Jersey with 10 or fewer employees
- Less than $1M in trailing 12 months of gross sales from the date of application submission
- Collaborative workplaces can be entities with a minimum of 5 unique paying tenants over the last 2 years.
- Renters and collaborative workplaces must apply together

> ### Benefits
>
> - Benefits for Renters: Rent support grants
> - Benefits for Collaborative Workspaces: A tenant attraction tool


NJ Ignite provides rent support for technology startups that are moving to an approved collaborative workspace.

NJ Ignite

NJ Ignite provides rent support for technology and life sciences startups that are moving to an approved collaborative workspace.


## Eligibility

- Please speak to the regional coordinator listed on your industry's page by using the link in the title

> ### Benefits
>
> - Businesses can get help filling positions with skilled workers, developing career pathways to ensure a pipeline of future workers, creating ongoing training feedback loops with education, workforce, and economic development partners
> - The program also gives businesses a powerful industry voice to impact policy


NJ Industry Partnerships

NJ Industry Partnerships can provide you with access to government resources, professional connections, and potential funding opportunities to help your business achieve its goals. The New Jersey Department of Labor, acting as a hub, will connect you with other local voices in your industry to address the economic and logistical needs of your operation.

## Eligibility

* Must operate 75% of vehicle miles in NJ and register a vehicle in NJ
* Purchase and register a new zero-emission class 2b- class 8 vehicle for commercial, industrial, or institutional use within 12 months of voucher reservation
* Be in good standing with the NJ Department of Labor and NJ Department of Environmental Protection

> ### Benefits
>
> Businesses can receive vouchers up to $100,000 plus bonuses.

NJ Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJZIP)

NJ ZIP offers vouchers for zero-emission vehicles to commercial, industrial, and institutional businesses.

NJ ZIP is a pilot program that provides vouchers to commercial, industrial, and institutional businesses and institutions to support purchases of new, medium and heavy duty zero-emission vehicles.


## Eligibility

- Individuals who are considering applying for a conditional or annual license
- Must be in the `Impact Zone|impactzonebusiness-cannabis`, `social equity business|socialequitybusiness-cannabis`, `diversely owned | diverselyownedbusiness-cannabis`, veteran, veteran-disabled, LGBTQ+ and/or microbusiness categories

> ### Benefits
>
> - Assistance filling out application to the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, whether it is conditional, annual or conversion
> - General training to create and run a sustainable business operation


New Jersey Business Action Center Cannabis Training Academy

New Jersey Business Action Center's (NJBAC) Cannabis Training Academy is a no-cost, virtual technical assistance and training program for cannabis license applicants. The program includes live question and answer sessions every other week to provide non-legal advice and direction. Instructors and mentors are faculty who are in or have supported the cannabis industry.

New Jersey Business Action Center's (NJBAC) Cannabis Training Academy is a no-cost, virtual technical assistance and training program for cannabis applicants. The program includes live question and answer sessions every other week to provide direction. Instructors and mentors are faculty who are in or have supported the cannabis industry.

The academy does not provide legal advice.


## Eligibility

- The project must demonstrate through New Jersey Economic Development Authority analysis that without the incentive award, the redevelopment project is not economically feasible
- Must demonstrate that a project financing gap exists and/or the redevelopment project will generate a below-market rate of return
- Be located in a designated [Incentive Area](https://njeda.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b32ea4347e6a4403a36859e6ee6e5c0a)
- Include a developer with equity participation of at least 20% of the total cost
- The project must in a net positive benefit to the State
- Must meet specific cost thresholds, depending on where the project is located

> ### Benefits
>
> - Total award cap of $42M, but residential projects also receiving Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), or projects located in certain economically disadvantaged locations may receive up to $60M
> - Tax credits equal to 45% of project costs up to $42M
>
> ### Bonuses
>
> - Commercial projects in a Government Restricted Municipalities (GRM) (These municipalities include: Atlantic City, Paterson and Trenton) can receive tax credits up to 50% of costs in project support
> - Newly constructed residential projects that are also utilizing 4% LIHTCs can receive tax credits for up to 60% of project costs
> - Projects using LIHTC or any other project in a `Qualified Incentive Track|qit-njeda` (QIT), GRM, or municipality with a [Municipal Revitalization Index](https://nj.gov/dca/home/MuniRevitIndex.html) (MRI) distress score of at least 50, can receive tax credits up to $60M


Aspire

Aspire is a gap financing tool to support commercial, mixed-use, and residential real estate development projects. This tool replaces the Economic Redevelopment and Growth Grant (ERG).


## Eligibility

- Be located in New Jersey with fewer than 50 employees
- Have an annual revenue of $10 million or less
- Be in business for at least 1 year before the date of application
- Demonstrate the ability to repay the loan

## Benefits

This fund loans up to $250,000 with fixed interest rates and flexible spending guidelines. The working capital loan can be used to support payroll, supplies, rent, utilities, marketing, advertising, and other business operation expenses.

The application process is straightforward and offers access to experienced nonprofit lenders and technical assistance providers.


New Jersey Capital Access Fund

The NJ Capital Access Fund leverages local and regional Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) to offer working capital loans to New Jersey small businesses.  


## Eligibility

- Must be registered to conduct business in New Jersey at the time of application
- Cannot have more than 25 full-time employees (35hrs per week) at the time of application and throughout the voucher duration
- 100% of the project work has to be conducted in NJ
- Minimum of one full-time employee working in NJ at the time of application and throughout the voucher duration
- 50% or more of the work is conducted in NJ
- Applicant must obtain a signed approval letter from a participating university/college, Federal lab, or non-profit organization confirming that the facility is capable and willing to provide the services that will be supported by the voucher (current list of [participating facilities](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1GcLO30HifmkWSqbI8UEBH7vS0lLOHNq1&ll=40.19013658561744%2C-74.98789639237287&z=17))

> ### Benefits

> This program is a $275,000 pilot program. Eligible applicants can apply for vouchers of up to $25,000 to help offset the cost of leveraging R&D resources, facilities, and equipment at the state’s academic universities, colleges, federal, and non-profit laboratories to advance their technology development.


Catalyst R&D Voucher Program

The Catalyst Research and Development (R&D) Voucher Pilot Program supports New Jersey-based early-stage company efforts to accelerate the development and innovation of technologies from the research stage into commercially viable technologies, leading to industry and investor interest.


## Eligibility

- Businesses investing at least $17.5M in a qualified wind energy facility and employing at least 150 new, full-time employees

> ### Benefits
>
> Businesses receive tax credits up to 100% of qualified investments.


Offshore Wind Tax Credit Program

The Offshore Wind Tax Credit Program is a financial tool that spurs private capital investment and employment growth in major, land-based offshore wind industry projects.


## Eligibility

- Any business can be part of the application, though funding is tied to individuals becoming future employees, not businesses

> ### Benefits
>
> Company-tailored training to ensure an appropriate pipeline of employees.


Opportunity Partnership: Find Skilled Employees

Opportunity Partnership helps employers identify an appropriate educational institution or training provider to train employees. The business and the school develop training programs to teach necessary skills. Upon completing the program, trainees must qualify for entry-level positions in your company.


## Eligibility

- Entities who are developing new, or building upon existing Registered Apprenticeship programs
- Any employer, trade associations, labor organization, or others with programs supporting the industries in which they work

> ### Benefit
>
> Eligible applicants can apply for funding up to $8,000 per participant for:
>
> 1. Costs associated with personnel expenses, instructor costs, non-personnel costs, pre-apprentice training, supplies and materials, and other direct costs as outlined in the program details
> 2. Stipends for participants of the program based on participants reaching program milestones


Pace Apprenticeship in Career Education

The Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) program aims to better align secondary, post-secondary, adult education, and occupational training to meet labor demands unique to New Jersey and develop career pathways leading to economically sustainable wages.

The Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) program aims to better align secondary, post-secondary, adult education, and occupational training to meet labor demands unique to New Jersey and develop career pathways leading to economically sustainable wages.

Programs funded through PACE provide education and training leading to one of the following outcomes:

1. Admission into a [USDOL Registered Apprenticeship](https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/apprenticeship/findaprogram.shtml) program
2. Admission into a post-secondary college, or occupation-specific career training 
3. Employment with a starting wage no lower than $15 per hour

## Eligibility

* Companies that meet the program minimums for new job creation or retained jobs
* Must be located in an eligible incentive location
* Can demonstrate the award of tax credits is a “material factor” in their decision to locate in New Jersey versus an out-of-state alternative location
* Create at least 35 new, full-time jobs (requirement may be lower if business is primarily engaged in a targeted industry or meets the definition of a "small business")

> ### Benefits
>
> * Annual base per-new job tax credits from $500,000 - $8,000 per job per year depending on project location and other aspects of the project
> * Bonuses are also available on project location, industry, and alignment with other policy objectives
> * Jobs that are covered by a labor harmony agreement are eligible for an additional $1,000 bonus over the capped amounts

Per-Job Tax Credits with the Emerge Program

The Emerge Program provides per-job tax credits to projects in targeted communities that invest private capital into New Jersey and create new full-time jobs or retain a significant number of jobs in Governor Phil Murphy’s priority sectors versus an out-of-state alternative location.


## Eligibility

- Businesses and nonprofits must commit to create or retain 1 new full-time job for every $65,000. There is an application fee of $1,000

> ### Benefits
>
> Loan participation of up to $2 million or line of credit guarantees up to $750,000.


Premier Lender Program

The Premier Lender Program provides New Jersey-based businesses and not-for-profit organizations loan participation and guarantees that can help them overcome the financial obstacles to grow and expand their business.


## Eligibility

- All industries are welcome to explore this resource, but it may be particularly useful for technology, life sciences, and other high-wage, high-growth innovation-focused sectors

> ### Benefits
>
> - Provides local, national, and international commercial enterprises, ranging from entrepreneurs and start-ups to global businesses, with insight into groundbreaking research taking place within the state’s network of research universities
> - This includes information on subject matter experts, facilities, publications, intellectual property, news, and events that can help Research with NJ users forge partnerships and build innovative new businesses and products based on the latest scientific and technological breakthroughs


Research with NJ

Research with NJ is a free online portal that showcases New Jersey’s experts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It provides local, national, and international commercial enterprises, ranging from entrepreneurs and start-ups to global businesses, with insight into groundbreaking research taking place within the state’s network of research universities.


## Eligibility

- Employers with 100 or fewer employees registered with the State of NJ and who will provide substantive on-the-job training at their location or utilize approved virtual training that results in skill badges or industry-recognized credentials

> ### Benefits
>
> - Employers can receive up to 50% wage subsidy for up to 6 months (with cap of $10,000 per employee and total cap of $40,000 across all employees)
> - Employees will receive $500 incentive for re-entering the workforce and receiving training from businesses with 100 or fewer employees


Return and Earn: Employer Grants for Hiring Unemployed

The Return and Earn program is a grant for employers who hire unemployed workers, train them, and provide those workers with a new skill required for the job.

## Eligibility

* Manufacturing businesses in Salem County with at least 50 employees
* At least 50% of employees must be involved in the manufacturing process
* The energy and utility services must be consumed exclusively at the facility
* Must not be in default with any other state program

> ### Benefits
>
> Sales tax exemption for the purchase of electricity and natural gas for use at the manufacturing facility.

Salem County Energy Sales Tax Exemption

The Salem County Energy Sales Tax Exemption program provides an energy sales tax exemption for the retail sales of electricity and natural gas and their transport to manufacturing businesses in Salem County.