The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has announced that its Small Business E-Commerce Support Program has connected over 430 small businesses with consulting firms for technical assistance. This initiative, which amounts to $4 million, aims to help these businesses adapt to the growing e-commerce market by providing free e-commerce and digital marketing consulting services.
Tim Sullivan, NJEDA Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the state's commitment under Governor Murphy's leadership to support small businesses. "The Small Business E-Commerce Support Program has delivered on this promise by assisting businesses with their digital marketing needs," he said. He also highlighted that the program is designed to help local businesses modernize their services and grow their customer base.
The program targets eligible restaurants, retailers, and personal care businesses, offering them services like web page design and development, online ordering implementation, and e-commerce design. Restaurants and personal care businesses can receive up to $11,400 in consulting services, while retail stores are eligible for up to $10,800.
Reach for the Stars LLC in Cranford is one of the beneficiaries of this program. The business owner Lisa Jiannetto-Surrusco expressed gratitude for receiving a grant for a new website. "I couldn’t be happier with the end results," she stated.
Similarly, The Barefoot Bride in Red Bank utilized the program to launch its website. Owner Mayra Perez Lowey remarked on how beneficial it was to have an affordable functional website thanks to NJEDA's assistance.
Cammie’s Spectacular Salon in Wrightstown also revamped its website through the program. Trina Stroman appreciated the patience and efficiency of those involved in helping her move forward independently while still offering support for up to 12 months.
Seven consulting firms were contracted by NJEDA through a competitive selection process to provide these services until funding runs out. Businesses interested in participating should contact a consulting firm directly.
This initiative is part of the Main Street Recovery Finance Program established under the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020 (ERA). Since its launch in October 2021, over 5,300 approvals have been made for grants and loans totaling $168 million under this umbrella.
