NJEDA Approves $30M Investment to Boost Food Security: How This Initiative Will Transform Communities

New Jersey’s Food Security Initiative

On January 16, 2025, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced the launch of the FEED NJ Pilot Program, a $30 million initiative aimed at enhancing food security in Food Desert Communities (FDCs) across the state. This program will provide grants of up to $500,000 to organizations looking to improve access to fresh and healthy food in areas where it’s most needed.

Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Expanding access to healthy and affordable food in every New Jersey community is crucial for the economic stability and health of our state.” The grants aim to alleviate the challenges many families face in obtaining nutritious food, promoting a more equitable New Jersey.

Tim Sullivan, the NJEDA CEO, added that this program will support local organizations dedicated to tackling hunger and improving food availability. He noted, “FEED NJ enhances our efforts to ensure everyone has access to healthy food options, contributing to the well-being of families and the overall economic health of communities.”

The FEED NJ program focuses primarily on the highest-need FDCs in New Jersey, which include areas from eight counties and serve over 567,000 residents. High-priority locations are Camden, Newark, Trenton, and Paterson. Here are some of the key FDCs that will receive attention:

• North, Central, and South Camden/Woodlynne
• Newark South
• Newark West
• Camden East/Pennsauken
• Trenton West
• Newark North and Central
• Newark East
• Salem City
• Passaic City
• Trenton East
• Bridgeton/Fairfield Twp/Lawrence Twp
• Paterson South
• New Brunswick City
• Paterson North

While applicants are expected to focus on these FDCs, they may also serve other areas, provided they prioritize at least one of the listed communities. However, Atlantic City/Ventnor is excluded as it is already being supported by another NJEDA program.

The NJEDA identified these FDCs using various factors like the food retail environment, demographics, and community needs, working closely with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the Department of Agriculture. For more information about all 50 FDCs, a map and full list can be found on the FEED NJ website.

Speaker Craig J. Coughlin highlighted the program’s goal: “Dismantling food insecurity in New Jersey remains our top priority, as every resident deserves access to nutritious food.” He believes that local solutions can effectively meet the unique challenges of each area.

The program is designed to be competitive. To apply, organizations must have been active for at least two years, and funds can support various food security initiatives, such as improving access to local produce or launching mobile markets.

A webinar will be held on January 27th at 2 PM to discuss the application process and eligibility. Interested parties can register for this informative session.

Funding for FEED NJ comes from the NJEDA’s 2023 and 2024 Food Desert Relief Tax Credit Auctions, as established by the Food Desert Relief Act of 2021. This initiative complements other NJEDA programs aimed at expanding food access across New Jersey.

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