The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) introduced a digital platform designed to connect entrepreneurs and investors. The platform, known as the Innovation Network Capital New Jersey (INC-NJ), intends to bring together the state’s innovation ecosystem, allowing emerging companies and funders to engage with one another and share various business and investment opportunities.
“INC-NJ will make it even easier for emerging company owners to link with potential investors, highlight their developments, and scale their business in New Jersey,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Having a digital platform where those within the innovation ecosystem can network and form new relationships is a key tool that will lead to new jobs and greater economic activity across the state.”
Emerging New Jersey-based companies will be able to showcase their businesses and build relationships with investors through the INC-NJ platform. Investors can use the platform to find companies that fit their investment criteria. Users will be able to view funding and incentive resources and get the latest industry news.
The NJEDA hosts the semiannual NJ Founders and Funders events, which help facilitate introductions between emerging companies and angel and institutional investors. The new digital platform is also aligned with the Strategic Innovation Centers launching across the state. Through these centers, more and more companies are joining the innovation ecosystem. INC-NJ will serve as a tool for these firms to further connect with the ecosystem and for investors looking for new deals.
New Jersey-based companies, with fewer than 225 employees and in “targeted industries,”, as well as U.S.-based investors and those already involved in NJEDA programs, are welcome to join INC-NJ. Companies not currently registered to do business in New Jersey can join the platform to engage with the innovation ecosystem, but will have limited access accounts.
