With job growth numbers that in some cases are 6 percent higher than state averages, the Cumberland County Improvement Authority explains that more than 85 percent of all employee growth in the County this past year originated from 47 small- to large-size existing companies. Local start-up companies receive added support through available and designated areas to advance their operations at the new Center for Workforce Development pictured here, now on the campus of Cumberland County College.

Cumberland County says, “YES” to $110M of Private Investment

On Jan 12, 2017

According to Cumberland County Improvement Authority officials, Cumberland County has realized over $110 million in private investment this year. “This investment also led to the creation of nearly 900 jobs in our area,” Gerard Velazquez, Executive Director of the Improvement Authority told a group of local business and organizational leaders recently.

In addition, Velazquez said, job growth in this area is higher than the state’s average in most private sector categories including food processing and manufacturing where Cumberland County now ranks with a 6 percent lead over all New Jersey.

Members of the County’s Economic Development Board also shared information related to the enterprise advancements and opportunities the CCIA is continually promoting to both existing and prospective businesses. The Economic Development Board guides and supports the County’s Strategic Plan which includes both short-term and long-term economic development initiatives.

The workforce data shared with the County’s Economic Development Board which was also addressed at the Cumberland County Improvement Authority’s October State of the County event also included the fact that more than 85 percent of employee growth in the County has originated from 47 small to large size existing companies.

Velazquez explained, “For 2017 we’ll be updating Cumberland County’s Economic Development Strategic Plan which includes working with domestic and international companies through our partnerships with local, regional and state agencies.” He added, “We’ll also focus on assisting local municipalities in efforts to create additional development-ready sites to attract new business.”

With workforce training and development being a primary interest for growing companies, Velazquez said the new Cumberland County Technical Education Center and the Center for Workforce Development – both joined on the campus of Cumberland County College better positions Cumberland County to support its existing companies and to be a more aggressive contender for those considering relocation in the Northeast.

Cumberland County says, “YES” to $110M of Private Investment

Key Economic Development Agencies Expand Partnership

New Jersey Ranks 45th in National Economic Competitiveness Ranking

Food Commercialization Center to Advance Industry in Cumberland County