Murphy Commits Another $15 Million for Small Business Grants: This week, Governor Murphy announced that he will be adding another $15 million in CARES Act funding to the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program being administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). The funding will be added to phase 2 of the program, increasing the total to $65 million. Phase 1 of the program allocated $5 million.
NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan said that companies seeking relief do not need to fill out any additional forms as this funding will enable the EDA to fulfill more of the applications it already has for the oversubscribed program.
“More New Jerseyans work for a small business than anywhere else,” said Governor Murphy. “Seeing both businesses and employees emerge from this pandemic strong and ready for the times ahead is critical to the success of our overall restart and recovery.”
Murphy Unveils Rental Assistance Program for Small Businesses: Governor Murphy’s Administration will be using $6 million in federal CARES Act funding to help small businesses, in 64 largely urban municipalities, hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Small Business Lease – Emergency Grant Program (SBL-EAGP) will allow eligible municipalities to apply for grants up to $10,000 for lease costs.
The program is administered by the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority. Applications will only be accepted online, starting on August 10. Click here for more information.
“We are committed to helping small businesses across our state survive this unprecedented crisis,” said Governor Murphy. The Small Business Lease Emergency Assistance Grant Program will infuse much needed funding into local economies by assisting both small businesses and the landlords that they rent from.”
NJ American Water Pitches Infrastructure Program: Last week, NJ American Water President Cheryl Norton testified before the Assembly Special Committee on Infrastructure and Natural Resources and presented a proposal called Solutions Today and Reinvesting Tomorrow (START). The proposal will accelerate capital investment in water and wastewater infrastructure projects that will create thousands of jobs.
The proposal will have a number of features that will boost capital investment for projects ranging from main replacements to facility enhancements and construction. Click here to learn more about NJ American Water’s START Program.
Camden Schools on ‘Upward Trajectory’ and Properly Handled COVID-19: Last week, a poll of 200 registered Camden voters between June 15-18, showed that Camden schools have been getting markedly better since 2015 and were successful in transitioning from the classroom amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Camden Education Fund (CEF), a non-profit located in the city, commissioned the poll as part of their work to assess cityside education needs in the district of roughly 15,000 district, charter and renaissance school students. According to the poll, 70% of parents believe Camden schools have improved over the last five years, whereas 12% said they worsened.
“We remain committed to providing high quality schools for all Camden students. This means that every decision made at Camden City School District is focused on accelerating student achievement in learning environments where they feel valued, challenged and prepared for college and careers,” Said Superintendent Katrina McCombs.