
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
NJEDA’s ESOP Assistance Program is a limited pilot designed to help business owners explore transitioning to an ESOP. Through the program, eligible businesses can receive up to 90% of the cost of ESOP Feasibility Study services—up to $35,000 per business. Funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
> For program details see the ESOP Assistance Program Fact Sheet
In tandem with the NJ ESOP Assistance Program, the Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations has entered into an agreement with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) on an Employee Ownership Education and Outreach Campaign to educate New Jersey business owners and other stakeholders about employee ownership.
Program Requirements for New Jersey Businesses:
- Be New Jersey-based with at least 20 employees, verified by NJ WR30 and/or NJ 927 at time of approval
- Be in good standing with NJ agencies
- Provide a current tax clearance certificate at time of approval
- Submit all required documentation at time of approval
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
NJ ESOP Assistance Program Launch Webinar - May 28, 2025
> View the presentation slides
IN THE NEWS
News Release:
Open for Business: A New Program to Expand Employee Ownership in New Jersey, May 5, 2025.
News Articles:
Applications open for NJ ESOP assistance program, NJBIZ, May 5, 2025.
New Program Helps Business Owners Create Employee Stock Ownership Plans, New Jersey Business & Industry Association, May 5, 2025.
Rutgers Helps Launch New Jersey Employee Ownership Program, Rutgers Today, May 5, 2025.