Business attraction organization supported 60 company expansions and relocations, creating or retaining more than 2,500 jobs
NEWARK, NJ (Feb. 27, 2026) — Choose New Jersey marked its 15th anniversary by releasing its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting $1 billion in economic impact generated through business attraction and expansion efforts across the state last year.
The organization supported 60 companies relocating to or expanding within New Jersey, resulting in the creation or retention of more than 2,500 jobs and reinforcing the state’s position as a competitive destination for advanced industries and global investment.
Milestone Year for Business Attraction and Economic Growth
Ralph LaRossa, Chair of Choose New Jersey and Chair, President and CEO of Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG), said the milestone reflects sustained collaboration between industry and government partners.
“Choose New Jersey continues to drive economic growth, support businesses, and create jobs across the state. Fifteen years marks an important milestone, and we look forward to building on this momentum alongside Governor Sherrill’s administration.”
Since its founding in 2010, Choose New Jersey has helped generate:
- $13.8 billion in capital investment
- 41,500 jobs created or retained
- 536 company expansions and relocations statewide
Major Projects Driving 2025 Results
Key investments supported by Choose New Jersey in 2025 included:
- Celltrion expanded its U.S. footprint by acquiring Eli Lilly and Company’s manufacturing facility in Branchburg, strengthening New Jersey’s life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors.
- CoreWeave priced a major initial public offering and acquired property at the Northeast Science and Technology Center (NEST) in Kenilworth, supporting growth in artificial intelligence and cloud computing infrastructure.
- Paramount Global signed a 10-year lease at 1888 Studios in Bayonne, further positioning New Jersey as a leading hub for film and television production.
Jen Lenhardt, Interim President and CEO of Choose New Jersey, emphasized the organization’s expanding global reach:
“Through international partnerships and strategic outreach, we are creating new opportunities for businesses, workers, and communities while positioning New Jersey for continued investment and job growth.”
Expanding Global Outreach and Marketing Impact
A major focus in 2025 was elevating New Jersey’s global business profile through targeted marketing and digital engagement initiatives, including the expansion of the “This Is New Jersey” campaign.
Results included:
- Millions of targeted digital impressions among industry decision-makers
- A 166.7% year-over-year increase in website views
- A 120.7% increase in active users
- A 344.9% increase in average engagement time
Industry-specific outreach campaigns highlighted:
- Artificial intelligence investment opportunities
- Film and television studio development
- Life sciences and healthcare innovation
- Reproductive healthcare and medical workforce initiatives
Choose New Jersey also partnered with the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission to promote studio investments by companies including Netflix and Lionsgate, including promotional activities at the Cannes Film Festival.
International Missions Strengthen Investment Pipeline
In 2025, Choose New Jersey led economic development missions to:
- Gulf Arab States
- India
- Mexico
- California
These missions produced 20 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and strengthened economic, educational, and cultural partnerships designed to attract future investment and job creation.
Positioning for Global Visibility in 2026
Looking ahead, Choose New Jersey plans to leverage international attention surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™ to further promote the state as a premier destination for business expansion and investment.
Working alongside Governor Sherrill’s administration, the organization aims to translate global visibility into new corporate investment opportunities and expanded marketing initiatives.
About Choose New Jersey
Choose New Jersey is the state’s leading nonprofit business attraction organization, working globally to promote investment through marketing, business development services, and partnerships across government, industry, labor, and academia.
Learn more at choosenj.com.
