Choose New Jersey marks 15th anniversary with $1 billion economic impact

Choose New Jersey generated $1 billion in economic impact during 2025, marking a milestone year for the nonprofit business attraction organization as it celebrated its 15th anniversary, according to the organization.

The group supported 60 company relocations or expansions and helped create or retain more than 2,500 jobs throughout the state in 2025, according to Choose New Jersey data.

Since its founding in 2010, the organization has catalyzed $13.8 billion in capital investment, assisted 536 companies and supported more than 41,500 jobs across New Jersey, according to the nonprofit.

“Choose New Jersey continues to help drive New Jersey’s economic growth, create jobs, scale businesses, and support the state’s business community,” said Ralph LaRossa, chair of Choose New Jersey and chair, president and CEO of PSEG. “Fifteen years marks a significant milestone for our organization, and I am proud of the impact Choose New Jersey continues to make by bringing business to our state and through expansion efforts around the world.”

The organization expanded its international reach in 2025 through governor-led economic missions to India, the Gulf Arab States, Mexico and California, according to Choose New Jersey. These trips resulted in 20 memoranda of understanding and new foreign direct investment commitments, the organization reported.

Choose New Jersey also strengthened its overseas presence by launching offices in Europe, India, Israel and the Asia-Pacific region to position the state as a global hub for technology, innovation and advanced manufacturing, according to the nonprofit.

The organization advanced its “This Is New Jersey” marketing campaign during 2025 and increased targeted outreach in high-growth sectors including artificial intelligence, life sciences and film production, according to Choose New Jersey.

“Over the past year, Choose New Jersey strengthened its global reach and delivered meaningful results for businesses across the state,” said Jen Lenhardt, interim president, CEO and chief administrative officer of Choose New Jersey. “By leveraging international partnerships and expanding our strategic outreach, we are creating new opportunities for companies, workers, and communities to succeed in New Jersey.”

Lenhardt emphasized the organization’s strategic focus on emerging industries. “I am proud of the team’s continued focus on driving growth and positioning the state for the next chapter in investment and job growth in New Jersey’s most promising industries and regions of the state,” she said.

Looking ahead to 2026, Choose New Jersey plans to capitalize on major global events to further elevate the state’s profile and attract new investment, according to the organization. The group aims to leverage the FIFA World Cup and the United States’ 250th anniversary to showcase New Jersey’s business advantages.

The anniversary milestone comes as New Jersey continues to compete with neighboring states for business relocations and expansions. Choose New Jersey’s role involves marketing the state’s advantages including its proximity to major metropolitan areas, transportation infrastructure and skilled workforce.

LaRossa expressed optimism about future collaboration with state leadership. “We look forward to working in partnership with Gov. [Mikie] Sherrill and her administration to advance the state’s economic priorities in the years ahead,” he said.

The $1 billion economic impact figure represents the culmination of Choose New Jersey’s efforts across multiple sectors and international markets during its milestone year. The organization’s expansion into new international markets positions New Jersey to compete for foreign direct investment in key growth industries.

Choose New Jersey operates as a public-private partnership designed to attract businesses to relocate or expand operations within the state. The organization’s 15-year track record includes work across various industries from traditional manufacturing to emerging technology sectors.