State grantNew Jersey
New Jersey Innovation Fellows Program (NJIF)
Offered by New Jersey Economic Development Authority
Found automatically on njeda.gov/new-jersey-innovation-fellows-program. Check details with the funder before applying.
- Who can apply
- Teams of at least three full-time entrepreneurs starting a New Jersey venture in targeted industries.
- How much
- $200,000 – $400,000$200,000 base award per team; up to $200,000 in bonuses ($50,000 opportunity zone bonus; $50,000 per certifying diverse entrepreneur or NJ college/university graduate, up to three bonuses totaling $150,000). Total potential award $400,000. A $250 application fee applies.
- By when
- Due Dec 4Opens September 9, 2026Cohort III applications open September 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM EDT and must be submitted by December 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM EDT. A 14-business-day Q&A period runs from August 19, 2026 to September 9, 2026.
Checked Oct 19, 2026
About this grant
The New Jersey Innovation Fellows Program provides income-replacement grants to teams of at least three entrepreneurs pursuing startup ventures in New Jersey's targeted industries. Approved teams receive a $200,000 base award plus up to $200,000 in bonuses for opportunity zone residency, diverse entrepreneur certification, or NJ college/university graduation, for a total potential award of $400,000. Fellows also receive mentorship and technical training over a two-year incubation period.
Eligibility details
- Notes: Applicant venture must consist of at least three full-time entrepreneurs, at least half of whom are first-time entrepreneurs. The venture must operate within New Jersey's Targeted Industries and have a registered address in an eligible municipality. Entrepreneur leadership must have majority equity interest (>50%), commit to full-time work (35 hrs/week) for two years, and participate in a mentorship program. All grant recipients must have paid gross-income tax to New Jersey at the time of application or within 60 days prior. Cannabis license/certification holders are ineligible.
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