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New Jersey Small Business Lease Grant
General · New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) · NJ
The New Jersey Small Business Lease Grant, run by the NJEDA, gives small businesses and nonprofits a grant covering 20% of their annual lease payments for signing a five-year, street-level commercial lease in New Jersey.
The New Jersey Small Business Lease Grant is a state-run grant program administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) designed to help small businesses and nonprofits cover the cost of leasing street-level commercial space. The goal is to encourage occupancy of vacant storefronts and support the revitalization of downtowns and main streets across New Jersey.
Under this program, eligible businesses that sign a new or amended market-rate lease for at least 250 square feet of street-level space, and commit to remaining in that space for five years, can receive a grant equal to 20% of their annual lease payments. This amount is paid out in two installments rather than a lump sum, which helps offset ongoing occupancy costs during the early years of a lease commitment.
This program matters to small-business owners because leasing street-level retail or commercial space can be one of the largest recurring expenses for a new or growing business. A grant that reduces effective rent costs can make it more financially feasible to open or expand a physical location in a New Jersey downtown or commercial corridor.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis rather than through a single fixed deadline, though applicants should check current rounds for availability. Because funding programs like this can change over time, businesses should confirm the current award amount, open application rounds, and detailed eligibility requirements directly on the NJEDA website before applying or making leasing decisions based on this program.
Who qualifies
How to apply
Questions people ask
Is this a grant or a loan?
It is a grant, not a loan.
Do I have to repay the funds?
No, grants under this program do not need to be repaid.
Who is eligible?
New Jersey small businesses and nonprofits signing a new or amended market-rate lease of at least 250 sq. ft. of street-level space, committing to stay five years.
How much money can I get?
The grant equals 20% of your annual lease payments, paid in two installments.
Is there a minimum or maximum award amount?
Confirm at the official source; no specific dollar floor or ceiling is provided here.
What is the deadline to apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; check current rounds for specific timing.
Where do I apply?
Apply through the NJEDA website at https://www.njeda.gov/small-business-lease-grant-program/.
Who runs this program?
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) administers it.
Is this available outside New Jersey?
No, it is limited to businesses and nonprofits in New Jersey.
What kind of lease qualifies?
A new or amended market-rate lease for at least 250 square feet of street-level space.
Do I need to stay in the space for a certain period?
Yes, you must commit to staying in the leased space for five years.
Is the grant taxable?
Confirm at the source, as this is not specified in the available information.
How is the grant paid out?
It is paid in two installments covering 20% of annual lease payments.
Can nonprofits apply?
Yes, both small businesses and nonprofits are eligible.
Opportunity number: not published. Source: curated + verified (official state source, 2026). GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA); always confirm current deadlines, amounts and eligibility on the sponsor's own page before applying.