New Jersey’s business recruitment efforts generated more than $1 billion in economic impact last year.
According to Choose New Jersey, the state’s leading nonprofit business attraction group, 2025 brought major wins across sectors including AI, film production, clean energy, sciences, and more.
Choose New Jersey works alongside the state to attract domestic and international companies. Recent projects are expected to create thousands of jobs and inject long-term investment into local communities, proving the value of industry attraction.
Governor Mikie Sherrill has emphasized economic competitiveness as a priority, pointing to workforce development programs and tax incentives designed to keep companies in-state. Other initiatives aim to draw new employers to growing cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Camden.
Industry Growth Areas
Tech and AI lead much of the growth as firms continue expansion within the state.
Film studios are building out production space following expanded state tax credits. Offshore wind and clean energy suppliers are establishing operations along the coast.
Business leaders tout New Jersey’s proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, transportation infrastructure, and skilled labor pool as driving factors.
The Bigger Picture
New Jersey has faced persistent concerns over high cost of living, including the highest property taxes in the nation. State officials hope that job growth and outside investment signals a new momentum.
Economic development remains central as lawmakers debate the upcoming budget and long-term fiscal outlook. Supporters frame the latest numbers as proof the state can compete nationally for high-growth industries.
Critics of the measures question whether business incentives deliver enough return for taxpayers.
For now, one thing is clear: New Jersey is attracting businesses left and right, and there are numbers to prove it.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.