The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking input from qualified organizations on how to enhance its Emerging Developers Grant Program. The program, which started in 2024, aims to help small-scale developers by providing grants of up to $250,000 for pre-development soft costs. The NJEDA is looking to broaden eligibility and strengthen support for these developers.
“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has expanded resources for small businesses and small-scale developers, eliminating barriers to capital and creating a more equitable economic landscape,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “With an expanded Emerging Developers Grant Program, the NJEDA will be better positioned to open pathways to vital capital for new developers, catalyzing economic opportunity in underserved communities and bolstering small businesses throughout the state.”
“The NJEDA continues to support Governor Murphy’s goal of creating a more inclusive and equitable economy in New Jersey by expanding opportunities for small businesses and residents of underserved communities,” said NJEDA Chief Community Development Officer Tai Cooper. “The next iteration of the Emerging Developers Grant Program will break down barriers to capital and resources for small-scale developers, resulting in projects that will transform communities and contribute to the vibrancy of our main streets.”
Since its launch, the program has provided over 50 grants totaling more than $5.4 million to small-scale developers across New Jersey. These funds have allowed new developers to expand their portfolios and gain access to needed capital.
Gotta Go Gaming, based in Jersey City, received $250,000 through the program. The funding helped cover soft costs related to its Sci Tech and Esports Hub project—including architectural design fees, consulting expenses, and interior design work. Gotta Go Gaming had also received assistance from other NJEDA programs such as the Main Street Micro-Business Loan and the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program.
“Without this support, many of these foundational elements would have been challenging to complete in a timely manner. Thanks to NJEDA’s assistance, we are well-positioned to bring this project to completion and to deliver on its vision for community impact,” said Gotta Go Gaming Chief Executive Officer John Robinson. “We greatly appreciate NJEDA’s commitment to supporting developers and community growth.”
MPMB Developers in Atlantic City used grant funding from the program for an expanded storage facility tied to its bike rental business, as well as improvements including a trash enclosure and a new residential unit. Additional financial support came from other NJEDA initiatives like the Small Business Fund and Small Business Improvement Grant Program.
“The critical funding provided by the NJEDA’s Emerging Developers Grant Program allowed us to expand North Beach Mini Golf and improve our services,” said MPMB Developers Co-Owner Nick Intrieri. “We look forward to continuing to serve the Atlantic City community and are grateful to the NJEDA’s commitment to supporting small-scale developers.”
Despite these efforts, challenges remain for emerging developers in New Jersey who face issues such as predatory lending practices, high carrying costs, and significant predevelopment expenses that can hinder project advancement.
The RFI seeks feedback from original applicants as well as organizations like Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs), bank community development units, government agencies at various levels, and mission-based lenders. Submissions are intended to help shape future versions of the grant program so it can better address financing needs among underserved real estate developers.
Questions about the RFI must be submitted via email by October 28, 2025; responses are due by November 18, 2025.
