$8.6M to Launch Aerospace Innovation Center in Atlantic County

On Jan 10, 2025

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board recently approved an $8.6 million investment to support the development and construction of the Aerospace Innovation Center (AIC), a Strategic Innovation Center (SIC) located in Atlantic County, that will focus on the aerospace industry. The AIC, being developed in partnership with the Atlantic County Improvement Authority (ACIA), will be the fifth SIC in New Jersey and the first with a focus on innovation in aviation.

The 40,000-square-foot, two-story facility will contain office and studios dedicated to research and development, innovation, and commercialization of emerging aerospace and aviation technologies. It is expected to create hundreds of local, good-paying jobs in Atlantic County, including 130 permanent jobs and 114 construction jobs.

The AIC will be located in the National Aerospace Research & Technology Park (NARTP) in Egg Harbor Township. It will provide state-of-the-art aerospace research spaces, high-speed connectivity to the FAA William J. Hughes Center for Advanced Aerospace data systems and laboratories, and co-working and studio spaces that are ideal for collaboration and innovation.

“This investment from the NJEDA builds upon New Jersey’s reputation as a leader in cultivating an innovation economy by expanding opportunities for aerospace research in our state,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “As our fifth Strategic Innovation Center, it will drive economic growth, create jobs, and continue to attract entrepreneurs to New Jersey.”

“Atlantic County’s deep roots in the aerospace industry makes it a prime location for the Aerospace Innovation Center, where companies can test and further their products, while students and entrepreneurs make discoveries and create new technologies to help move the industry forward,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Strategic Innovation Centers, like the AIC, are helping unlock opportunities for innovators to pursue research, testing, and development of cutting edge technologies.”

In addition to the NJEDA’s investment, the ACIA, NARTP and the Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), will contribute $10.5 million dollars in funding to construct the innovation center. Construction for the innovation center is underway and is expected to be completed in October 2025. The Center is expected to be fully operational in January 2026. ACIA is managing the construction of the facility and NARTP will manage the AIC’s operations.

Additionally, the AIC will partner with Rowan University, Rutgers University School of Engineering, Stockton University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and the National Institute of Aerospace to provide university students hands-on experience and training.

SICs are facilities that support research and development, innovation, and entrepreneurship through mentorship, networking opportunities, hands-on training, business support services, and education opportunities. SICs can be accelerators, incubators, or research centers. Having a physical location where entrepreneurs can collaborate will help support new, diverse innovators and help drive long-term economic growth. SICs bring together government, Industry Partners, and University Partners around a central innovation focus.

“At ACIA, we are excited to collaborate with NARTP, ACEA, and NJEDA in the creation of the Aerospace Innovation Center,” stated Timothy Edmunds, Executive Director of the Atlantic County Improvement Authority. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in advancing aerospace innovation and research, and it is only be possible with the foresight and steadfast financial support of our Atlantic County partners whose vision laid the foundation for the success of the research park. We’re equally appreciative of Governor Murphy’s leadership and Senator Vince Polistina’s dedication, both of whom have been instrumental in turning the AIC into a reality. Together, these efforts are shaping a brighter, innovation-driven future for Atlantic County and beyond.”

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