Small business grants in New Jersey

If you own a small business in New Jersey, you may be eligible for state-sponsored grants. Grants are money that your business is given for a specific purpose, that does not need to be paid back. Most grants have specific requirements, so be sure you meet them before applying. 

Here are some small business grants in New Jersey you can apply for. 

Small Business Lease Grant

If you need more space for your New Jersey business, look into the New Jersey Small Business Lease Grant, which provides grant funding for a portion of lease payment on new and additional space. Businesses that meet the SBA definition of a small business can apply for two grant awards equal to 20% of the total annual lease payment. A new lease must occupy at least 250 square feet, and an amended or extended lease must occupy at least 250 square feet more than this existing space. The lease must be market rate and must be for at least five years.

Related: Need business capital? Here’s how to apply for a grant

Small Business Improvement Grant

If you are considering making improvements to your New Jersey business, the Small Business Improvement Grant awards grants for 50% of eligible total project costs, up to $50,000. Projects can include capital improvements or purchase or installation of new furniture, fixtures, and equipment. You must rent or own the facility that is being improved, and the project cost must be at least $5,000.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority, which administers the Small Business Improvement Grant program, notes that there have been a significant number of applications for the grant, and the current processing time is about eight months from the time your application is received.

Related: 8 Grants for Black entrepreneurs

CSIT SBIR/STTR Direct Financial Assistance Program (Round 5)

For innovation-driven small businesses, the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) offers direct financial assistance tied to federal SBIR/STTR activity. Round 5 provides $25,000 in direct funding for companies that have received a Phase I, Fast Track, or Direct-to-Phase II federal award, and up to $50,000 in bridge funding for firms awaiting a Phase II decision. The goal is to help New Jersey startups close funding gaps between federal milestones and keep R&D on track. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the round’s budget is fully committed.

CSIT Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program (Round 3)

The Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program reduces the cost of accessing New Jersey university, college, and federal lab facilities for testing, prototyping, and related research in clean technologies. Eligible early-stage companies can receive vouchers—capped at $40,000 within any 12-month period—to cover facility fees and services that advance their clean tech R&D. Vouchers are valid for 12 months from issuance, and unused funds return to the program. The current round is listed as open; awards are typically issued while funding remains available.

NJ STEP (State Trade Expansion Program) Export Grant

Administered by the New Jersey Business Action Center’s Office of Export Promotion and funded in part by the SBA, the NJ STEP grant reimburses eligible export activities such as international trade shows and missions, overseas marketing, website localization/SEO, and export training. To qualify, businesses must meet SBA size standards, be NJ-based and tax compliant, have at least one year of operations, and generally sell products or services with at least 51% U.S. content. Awards are competitive and typically processed on a first-come reimbursement basis. The best way to begin is to submit the client intake form and speak with a Global Business Advocate for application access and guidance.

Other resources and opportunities for New Jersey businesses

The New Jersey Business Action Center is the state of New Jersey’s liaison to the business community. The Center offers resources, services and information to new and existing small businesses in New Jersey.

If you’re starting a new business in New Jersey or are looking to grow your existing New Jersey small business, visit business.NJ.gov for valuable information. You’ll learn how to register your business with the state and how to stay in compliance with state regulations for businesses. 

Frequently asked questions

What is the NJEDA grant?

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority is a state agency that provides services to businesses and individuals in New Jersey, including business grants such as the Small Business Lease Grant and the Small Business Improvement Grant. The NJEDA administers the programs created under the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020, a $14 billion package of grant, incentive, and financing programs designed to stimulate the New Jersey economy.

Who qualifies for NJEDA?

There are several grant and financing programs available from the NJEDA, and each has different requirements. Many programs give precedence to businesses in underserved communities or those run by historically underrepresented populations.

Is NJEDA a state agency?

Yes. The New Jersey Economic Development Agency is the principal agency for driving economic growth in New Jersey. It works with partners to create and implement initiatives to enhance New Jersey’s economic vitality and strengthen its long-term economic competitiveness.