The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is spotlighting its support programs for small businesses during National Small Business Week. Since the launch of the Main Street Recovery Program in 2021, NJEDA has allocated over $185 million in grants, loans, and technical assistance to nearly 8,000 small businesses across New Jersey. Notably, more than 2,000 approvals have been given to women-, minority-, veteran-, LGBTQ-, and disabled-owned businesses.
Originally designed to aid pandemic-affected businesses, the Main Street Recovery Program has expanded its scope to foster growth and expansion. Including $700 million in prior pandemic relief efforts, NJEDA's total distribution approaches $1 billion.
"From North Jersey to South Jersey, and everywhere in between, small businesses are fueling local economies and revitalizing key commercial corridors," said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. "Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has invested millions of dollars to ensure small business owners have the resources and tools to grow their business and continue serving their communities."
Business owners have expressed gratitude for the support received through these programs. James Park of SuperSudz Laundry in Ewing shared that NJEDA's assistance was crucial: "To get support from the NJEDA to mitigate those risks is an enormous help." Angelo Masino of FastSigns in Secaucus noted that a grant allowed him peace of mind as he built his business. Trina Stroman of Cammie’s Spectacular Salon praised the E-Commerce Support Program for providing valuable training.
Throughout National Small Business Week, NJEDA is hosting resource fairs. An in-person fair will occur on May 6 at The College of New Jersey, followed by a virtual event on May 8.
