The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board has approved an $8.6 million investment to develop the Aerospace Innovation Center (AIC) in Atlantic County. The center will be located within the National Aerospace Research & Technology Park (NARTP) in Egg Harbor Township and aims to support aerospace research and innovation.
Governor Phil Murphy highlighted the significance of this development, stating, “This investment from the NJEDA builds upon New Jersey’s reputation as a leader in cultivating an innovation economy by expanding opportunities for aerospace research in our state.” He emphasized that it will drive economic growth, create jobs, and attract entrepreneurs to New Jersey.
The AIC is set to become the fifth Strategic Innovation Center (SIC) in New Jersey and the first dedicated to aviation innovation. It will offer advanced research spaces, high-speed connectivity to FAA data systems, and co-working areas designed for collaboration.
Tim Sullivan, CEO of NJEDA, remarked on Atlantic County's suitability for the project: “Atlantic County’s deep roots in the aerospace industry make it a prime location for the Aerospace Innovation Center." He also noted that SICs help unlock opportunities for innovators pursuing cutting-edge technology development.
The facility will span 40,000 square feet over two stories and is expected to generate hundreds of local jobs, including 130 permanent positions and 114 construction roles. Senator Vince Polistina expressed enthusiasm about local educational and employment prospects resulting from this initiative.
In addition to NJEDA’s funding, other contributors include the Atlantic County Improvement Authority (ACIA), NARTP, and the Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), collectively providing $10.5 million towards construction. The project is underway with completion anticipated by October 2025 and operations starting January 2026.
Timothy Edmunds from ACIA praised collaborative efforts: “At ACIA, we are excited to collaborate with NARTP, ACEA, and NJEDA in creating the Aerospace Innovation Center.” His comments reflected appreciation for Governor Murphy's leadership alongside Senator Polistina’s commitment.
Major General Mark Loeben commended various stakeholders for supporting New Jersey's position as a national leader in integrating advanced technologies into airspace systems. Michael Viscount of ACEA acknowledged contributions from multiple partners who helped realize this innovative vision.
Partnerships with academic institutions like Rowan University and Rutgers University School of Engineering aim to provide hands-on training opportunities for students at AIC.
Strategic Innovation Centers such as AIC play crucial roles by fostering entrepreneurship through mentorship programs while bringing together government entities along with industry partners around focused innovation themes.
