Follow closely – because the concept logically follows.
New Jersey is eager to attract companies from overseas. Overseas companies could be concerned about increasingly conservative policies – such as women’s health and guns – in red states.
So, obviously not New Jersey.
Is this a new economic attraction tool – one that make New Jersey valued because of the state’s values?
It certainly is something that Gov. Phil Murphy has been pushing since the Democrats lost the White House and the Congress.
We’re not sure if this value play will pay off. But it makes enough sense to us to make it the story of the year in economic development.
Here is our list.
No. 10: How N.J. can be leader in neurodiversity hiring
Sen. Andrew Zwicker says N.J. has all the elements it needs to make a state a career destination for neurodiverse talent. Who wouldn’t support his proposal?
Read it here.
No. 9: Business 101
In a model that others should emulate, the Hispanic Chamber is working with NJCU to create workforce opportunities at the predominantly Hispanic-serving school.
Read about it here.
No. 8: Cargo Conundrum
The port of NY/NJ is capable of handling huge increase in volume, but would New Jersey’s shipping ecosystem — from terminals to warehouses to truckers — be capable of handle the coming surge in container cargo? We talked with Port Director Beth Rooney during a fireside chat.
Read our story here.
No. 7: The 20-Year Wait
You think you’ve got issues with rules and regulations – and local governing bodies? Think again. Here’s an inside look into a 20-year effort to build houses in the Pinelands.
No. 6: Healing the South Jersey Economy
In addition to an enormous number of employees in a new college (potentially 20,000), officials with the Virtua-Rowan College of Medicine feel it will create communities of wellness while making area more inviting for residents, businesses.
Read our story here.
No. 5: Certified Business Idea
A look at why establishing certification for LGBTQ+ businesses is great for the community — and even better for the economy.
Read our story here.
No. 4: Pitching Jersey – to Mexico (and Korea)
In the shadow of Trump and tariffs, a group from Veracruz met with N.J. business leaders in Passaic to discuss economic opportunities in the state. We were there.
Read our exclusive report here.
And then there’s this: You may not immediately make the connection between the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce and the Korean American Chamber of Commerce – but it’s very strong.
Our exclusive report here explains how the two communities stand together in commerce – and a commitment to fighting hate.
No. 3: The Show-man State?
How Gov. Murphy, a traveling salesman if there ever was one, pitches New Jersey to international crowds is a key to his overseas economic successes.
Read our story from London here.
No. 2: The Development Dance
N.J. wants business from Canada – not necessarily businesses. For N.J. officials, it’s a delicate dance. We were on the scene in Toronto.
Read our story here.
No. 1: The Value is our Values
If federal policies stray too far to the right, heading to a strong blue state such as N.J. could be more important than ever, the governor repeatedly told startup leaders in London.
We were there. Read our story here.
