On April 22nd, the New Jersey Regional Innovation Cluster (NJRIC) will launch its free, five-month accelerator program for eligible small businesses in New Jersey’s artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, information technology (IT), and other tech-related sectors.
Tailored to accommodate the busy schedules of entrepreneurs, this innovative program will connect participants with industry leaders for coaching and mentoring, training, sales pitch feedback, and exclusive networking opportunities. The application portal will open on March 1st to commemorate NJ STEM Month and close on April 15th.
Funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Regional Innovation Cluster initiative, NJRIC is a collaborative effort between BCT Partners, N-Touch Strategies, Covenant Business Concepts, and Kean University’s Center for Cybersecurity (an NSA-designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education) — all industry experts dedicated to helping New Jersey businesses grow while fostering innovation and protecting confidential business and customer data.
“This accelerator was created to help local technology businesses scale and expand through personalized coaching and exclusive connections,” said Randal D. Pinkett, Managing Partner at BCT Partners. “These small businesses play a vital role in both local and national security, and our program enhances their ability to grow and safeguard these interests.”
In order to be eligible for the accelerator program, businesses must be in the AI, cybersecurity, IT, or other tech-related field, registered and operating in New Jersey, have a minimum of two employees, and generate more than $500,000 in annual revenue. Those looking to apply for the business accelerator program can do so via the application portal here.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the NJRIC Business Accelerator. The knowledge, resources, and support I received during this program have been transformative for both me and my business,” said Yana Bartek, President of Prestware Inc. and a graduate of the inaugural 2024 cohort. “The insights I’ve gained about RFPs—how to approach them and increase visibility with issuing companies—have already had a positive impact, helping me land a new contract. Additionally, creating and presenting investor pitch decks has inspired me to seek investment for our upcoming projects.”
Small businesses and nonprofits that do not meet these requirements can instead apply for the free cybersecurity and business resilience risk assessments and planning program, which will help them protect their financial and confidential data by identifying potential risks and mitigating any security threats. In addition, an introduction and use case examples of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) will be delivered as part of the assessment. Applications for the cybersecurity assessments and planning program are accepted on the website on a first-come, first-served basis.
For additional information on the NJRIC, its programs, and the list of recent graduates, visit the NJRIC website here.
About NJRIC
The New Jersey Regional Innovation Cluster (NJRIC) is a free program, funded by the SBA Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) initiative, offering expert training, mentorship, exclusive networking, and cybersecurity risk assessments to help tech businesses secure contracts, scale operations, and successfully expand. To learn more, visit www.njric.com.
