Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved $3 million in grant awards for five workforce development initiatives through the New Jersey Film Works Grant Program. The funding is aimed at expanding access to training, internships, apprenticeships, and other learning opportunities in New Jersey’s growing film and digital media industry. A key focus of the program is to provide career opportunities for residents of Overburdened Communities.
NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan said, “Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, the film and digital media industry is continuing to grow in New Jersey, bringing large-scale productions, state-of-the-art film studios, and thousands of high-quality jobs to the Garden State. With strong workforce development initiatives, like the NJ Film Works Grant Program, New Jerseyans will be better equipped to make the most of the industry’s immense economic opportunities.”
Applicants for the grant were required to propose workforce development programs in fields such as editing, set construction, special effects, wardrobe, and camera operation. Each applicant could receive up to $750,000. The program aligns with Governor Murphy’s goal of increasing economic opportunities for all residents of the state.
The growth of the industry follows the revival of the Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program under Governor Murphy’s administration. This has attracted numerous feature films, television shows, and digital media projects to New Jersey. The resulting increase in production activity and new studio construction—including facilities like Netflix at Fort Monmouth and 1888 Studios in Bayonne—has led to a greater demand for skilled workers in these sectors.
Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, stated: “This vital grant funding marks a significant step in fortifying New Jersey’s position as a leader in the film and digital media sector. Through this investment, we’re preparing workers for rewarding careers while also ensuring our diverse communities are at the forefront of this burgeoning field. This is a key scene in our state’s story of innovation and growth, with all New Jerseyans having a chance to shine.”
Jon Crowley, Executive Director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission added: “Every production requires a skilled crew to run smoothly, and with more major studios choosing the Garden State due to its varied locations and nation-leading incentives, New Jerseyans need to be prepared for new and exciting employment opportunities. The grant awards announced last week will support innovative workforce training programs across the state, further positioning New Jersey as a national hub for film and television production.”
The approved applicants for these grant awards were not listed in the announcement.
