Steven Fulop discusses his position on supporting New Jersey’s tech and innovation ecosystem. This sector is a vital part of the state’s economy, both historically and as we compete with other states and countries for top talent.
This conversation is the second in a series and will be followed by discussions with Bill Spadea and Josh Gottheimer, gubernatorial candidates.
Summary: Jersey City Mayor and gubernatorial candidate Steven Fulop sees technology and innovation as central to New Jersey’s economic future. In a recent conversation with a tech industry leader, Fulop emphasized his commitment to supporting startups and creating an environment where emerging businesses can thrive. He highlighted Jersey City’s partnership with Google and the SciTech Scity project—an innovation hub near Liberty Science Center that will house 200 startups and involve Fortune 50 companies—as a model for state-wide growth. Fulop argued that building a strong startup ecosystem creates more meaningful job growth than offering incentives to lure major corporations. As governor, he said he would seek to reorient the state’s Economic Development Authority to prioritize grants and relief for small tech businesses. Fintech, he noted, is a particularly strong opportunity area due to the state’s proximity to New York’s financial sector. Fulop also warned that potential federal cuts to research and education could stall progress, reinforcing the need for local leadership to double down on innovation investment.
