By Joshua Burd
State officials have unveiled a new coworking and support space in Jersey City that will serve as a hub for global companies seeking to establish and scale their operations in the United States.
Known as the New Jersey Business Acceleration and Soft-Landing Ecosystem, or NJ BASE, the facility at 3 Second St. will support businesses as they look to expand, attract investment and create high-quality jobs in industries vital to the state’s economic future. That includes sectors such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, fintech and other types of innovative technologies and services, according to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, with plans calling for an initial cohort of 15 to 20 companies.
The EDA has tapped SOSA, a global innovation execution company, to manage the 7,200-square-foot space and amenities such as conference facilities and event space.
“The NJEDA is excited to welcome international companies to the Garden State and support their long-term growth in New Jersey,” said Evan Weiss, the EDA’s chief executive. “Through strategic investments in innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development, New Jersey continues to strengthen its position as a global destination for business and talent. NJ BASE will provide international entrepreneurs with the resources, partnerships, and support they need to scale their companies, foster collaboration and contribute to a stronger and more dynamic innovation economy across the state.”
The authority joined SOSA last week for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the facility. The latter will now operate NJ BASE’s Business Immersion Program, which will provide free, hands-on support across go-to-market strategy, operations and financing to international companies, connecting participants to the Garden State’s corporations, investors and innovation ecosystem partners, according to a news release. Participating companies will benefit from access to tailored mentorship, strategic introductions and high-impact engagements designed to equip them with the resources and relationships needed to fuel long-term growth.
EDA added that New Jersey has long been a global destination for business, investment, trade, and market expansion, thanks in large part to its transit network and proximity to some of the largest markets in the country, including New York, Philadelphia, Boston and Washington, D.C.
“Choose New Jersey is proud to partner with the NJEDA and SOSA in launching NJ BASE,” said Amy Herbold, CEO and president of Choose New Jersey, the state’s public-private business attraction arm. “As we continue to promote New Jersey globally, NJ BASE expands our capacity to attract high-growth international companies and support their successful entry into the U.S. market. This initiative is a meaningful addition to our innovation ecosystem and further solidifies New Jersey’s standing as a leading destination for global business expansion and investment.”
Uzi Scheffer, CEO of SOSA, added: “What we opened isn’t just an office space. It’s a commitment to the founders coming here, that they will walk into an operation that’s already done the work of understanding where the real opportunities are. And they will be matched, deliberately and personally, with the people who can turn their work into something meaningful. I want to thank the NJEDA for the trust and Choose New Jersey for working with us on this project and for the close collaboration.”
The NJEDA is accepting applications for NJ BASE’s Business Immersion Program through Monday, June 15. For more information on eligibility and other program requirements, click here or contact NJBASE@njeda.gov
