On Tuesday, August 8, 2017, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) held its monthly board meeting in Trenton. Among the actions taken, the Board considered applications under the Grow New Jersey Assistance Program (Grow NJ). The Board also considered the issuance of bonds, loans, and guarantees for multiple applicants.

Grow New Jersey Assistance Program

The Board approved seven applications under the Grow NJ program, totaling over $79,000,000 in tax credits. Once certified, the seven projects will create or retain full-time jobs in Pennsauken, Cranbury, Lawrenceville, Lakewood, Paterson, Vineland, and Bridgewater.

Created under the Economic Opportunity Act of 2013, Grow NJ is the State’s main job creation and business retention incentive program. The purpose of the program is to “encourage economic development and job creation and to preserve jobs that currently exist in New Jersey but which are in danger of being relocated outside of the State.” N.J.S.A. 34:1B-244(a).

Determination of the size of an award is based on the project’s location, the corresponding capital investment, and the jobs created or retained at a qualified business facility. Applicants must demonstrate that the project will yield a net positive benefit to the State and must indicate that the award of tax credits under the program is a material factor in the business decision to make a capital investment and locate in the State. N.J.S.A. 34:1B-244(b)(3).

The Grow NJ Program has been wildly popular and incredibly successful. Since its implementation, 229 projects have received awards, totaling over $4.4 billion in tax credits. Once certified, the 229 projects will drive over $3.9 billion in private capital investment, create over 28,000 new jobs, and retain over 30,000 jobs at risk of leaving the State.