INNOVATE® New Jersey by Sven Boermeester

Volume 2

NEW JERSEY In n ovation s o f th eW o rld . c om

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

The “INNOVATE® NEW JERSEY” Team would like to give a special thanks to all the participants and the following companies for their support and assistance in making this project a reality.

Meet the people that are building a better NEW JERSEY for tomorrow

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

INNOVATE® NEW JERSEY: A MULTIMEDIA EXPERIENCE AND MORE.”

SVEN BOERMEESTER - FOUNDER/CEO, INTERNATIONAL GROUP PUBLISHER Sven Boermeester - Founder/CEO, International Group Publisher with Callie Van Graan - President, Global Village Publishing Inc.

INNOVATE® New Jersey showcases the best of New Jersey’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Embedded on some pages you will find augmented reality videos, when used with the free GLOBAL VILLAGE APP, the world of the future will open up before you.

This second edition of INNOVATE® New Jersey is part of a global series. We are currently launching volumes in cities throughout the Globalvillagepublishinginc.com publishing partnership network. By experiencing INNOVATE® New Jersey, you are part of our Global Village network, and we are happy to have you join us. I trust you will enjoy the journey of the innovate series.

But “INNOVATE New Jersey” is not just a tech-enhanced publication. It’s a multi-faceted experience that transcends the deluxe hardcover coffee-table book in your hands. Enriched with AR videos, a comprehensive online platform, and expansive social media networking, it is a seamless blend of the tangible and the digital. On the web, the complete e-book will potentially reach millions through the InnovationsoftheWorld.com online library. ®

Sven Boermeester Founder/CEO International Group Publisher

This publication aims to celebrate those involved in the New Jersey ecosystem, but it is also meant for all business leaders and decision-makers who can effect change in their industries throughout New Jersey, America and the world. We publish INNOVATE® New Jersey for the open-minded folk who want to know more about the exciting changes that have recently transpired in the New Jersey ecosystem, and who play or want to play an active role in its growth and development.

Glen Edwards Publishing Partner

Sue Ritz Co-Publisher

Tamlyn Bischofberger Global Village COO

Anita Govender Production Manager

Ravi Handve Art Direction & Design

Evan Rothman Editor & Writer

I wasn’t even sure if the people I talked with were in New Jersey. Often, they were in their home.

Welcome to Innovate New Jersey volume 2. Many of you may remember four years ago when Innovate New Jersey volume 1 was published. The business world was different. I made personal visits with companies that were nominated to appear or had an interest in being included in the book. Most meetings were held in an office or a conference room. Some were in the local restaurant or coffee shop. I met personally with every company that decided to be included in Innovate New Jersey volume 1.

The message that I learned from this was clear and unambiguous. Though business procedures had changed, businesspeople in New Jersey had not. Companies and organizations wanted to tell their story, to showcase their contributions to innovation in New Jersey through editorial and photography. Just as was the case four years prior, Innovate New Jersey volume 2 was seen as a new and unique way to express the pride, the satisfaction, the accomplishments that come with hard work and dedication to their company’s mission. Enjoy Innovate New Jersey volume 2 and thank you for the support that allowed it to happen. Innovation is alive and well in New Jersey. Glen Edwards, Publishing Partner

Now, four years later, I met with no one that went on to participate in Innovate New Jersey volume 2. No meetings were held in a client’s office or conference room. No meetings were in a restaurant or a coffee shop. Instead, they were held by telephone or by Zoom call.

C O N T E N T S

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

12 36 62 104 CHAPTER ONE

THOUGHT LEADERS

CHAPTER TWO

INNOVATION IN ACADEMIA

222 246 CHAPTER NINE

INNOVATION IN FINANCE, INVESTING, LAW & ACCOUNTING

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

INNOVATION IN LIFE SCIENCES, GREEN TECH, SUSTAINABILITY, HEALTHCARE & MEDICAL ENERGY & ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY MATERIALS

CHAPTER TEN

PUBLISHING IN

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

PUBLISHING INC.

GLOBAL VILLAGE

Global Village CEO

Publishing Partner

Art Direction & Design

info@globalvillage.world

Sven Boermeester

Glen Edwards

Ravi Handve

InnovationsoftheWorld.com

Global Village President

Co-Publisher

Editor & Writer Globalvillagepublishinginc.com GLOBAL VILLAGE

Callie Van Graan

Evan Rothman

Sue Ritz

Production Manager

Global Village COO

Anita Govender

Tamlyn Bischofberger

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

126 154 178 208 CHAPTER FIVE

INNOVATION IN PUBLIC RELATIONS, CONSULTING & MARKETING

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

REGIONAL ENABLERS

CHAPTER EIGHT

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES, INNOVATION IN URBAN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & PLANNING & REAL ESTATE MANUFACTURING

Innova tionsoftheWorld.c o m Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in The “INNOVATE®NEW JERSEY” Vol 2. Neither “INNOVATE® NEW JERSEY” nor Global Village assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions, nor submissions by participators. All rights reserved: No part of this publication shall be reproduced, copied, transmitted, adapted, or modified in any form or by any means.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THE CRADLE OF AMERICAN INNOVATION

From the invention of the lightbulb to the development of C++, one of the most foundational computer programming languages, New Jersey has long been the cradle of American innovation. It was here where scientists discovered a cure for tuberculosis, researchers first heard the last echoes of the Big Bang, and where the transistor, the heart of all computer chips, was conceived. New Jersey may not be the biggest state, but we have always punched well above our weight, leaving an outsized impact on the world. With more scientists and engineers per square mile than anywhere on the planet, we remain an engine for innovation. The people and organizations you will read about in the following pages are carrying on that incredible legacy. They are the dreamers, the creators, and the entrepreneurs who are building new technologies and solutions that will not only drive our economy, but change our lives as we know it. You can see it happening in every corner of our state and in every field of human endeavor – whether it is in artificial intelligence, Fintech, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, or any other industry. To keep this tradition alive, our Administration is doing everything we can to grow our innovation economy. We have made hundreds of millions of dollars available to small businesses and startups with targeted investment funds – particularly for Black and Brown entrepreneurs, who have historically been denied access to capital.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

We are also actively preparing our talented workforce for the seismic shifts that disruptive technologies will present. We established task forces on the future of work and artificial intelligence, and we created the state Office of Innovation, one of the nation’s first. These efforts have led to the development of better training opportunities, the piloting of novel solutions like lifelong learning accounts, the modernizing of government services to make it easier for small businesses to start and grow, and so much more. Meanwhile, to support the entrepreneurs of tomorrow, we have made record investments in education to ensure New Jersey remains home to the nation’s number-oneranked public school system. We have also increased Tuition Assistance Grants for tens of thousands of recipients and expanded eligibility for Community College Opportunity Grants and the Garden State Guarantee at our four-year institutions, so even more students can earn their degrees without being crushed by student debt. So alongside our entrepreneurs and innovators, we are building the next New Jersey – one filled with possibilities and where everyone has the chance to make their dreams a reality. Whether you are a New Jerseyan or just looking to partner with the best, our state is open for business and ready to change the future. Come join us. Philip D. Murphy Governor of New Jersey

innovation.nj.gov 7

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

JOIN NEW JERSEY’S THRIVING AND DIVERSE INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM. JAMES BARROOD, INNOVATION+ | TECH COUNCIL VENTURES

both masters and professional degrees. We value education here, and it shows in our commitment to higher education - from the Ivy League (Princeton) to an exceptional state university and college system, to outstanding STEM education at institutions like Rutgers University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rowan University, Stevens Institute of Technology, Fairleigh Dickinson, Montclair State and The College of New Jersey, among others. But these colleges and universities equally value their deep linkages to the region’s entrepreneurial communities, and their roles as engines of innovation. I can tell you this from personal experience. I started working at one of nation’s first university-based entrepreneurial programs, at Fairleigh Dickinson, in 1997, and I’ve had a first-hand view of how these links have deepened into an exceptionally robust set of programs and initiatives state-wide. Entrepreneurship programs and activities including startup weekends to welcome and encourage new entrepreneurs and developers. Technology accelerators and incubators give startups a home and a community. Innovation programming. You name it, we have it.

I’ve spent over 25 years evangelizing New Jersey as a truly remarkable (if occasionally under-appreciated) center of innovation. It’s been my responsibility and pleasure - to show leaders the powerful advantages of plugging into our regional innovation ecosystem, in markets ranging from internet to biotech. Today, I’m more excited about New Jersey’s potential and realities than I’ve ever been. This Garden State, of course, has a long heritage of innovation. Thomas Edison planted his invention laboratories here - and also launched the nation’s first movie studio here, in a quintessential early example of the interplay between devices, content, and entertainment. AT&T’s Bell Laboratories invented the transistor and information theory and discovered the expanding universe here and, as innovation powerhouses tend to do, Bell Labs spawned immense activity as its scientists and researchers moved on, transforming great ideas into companies of their own. New Jersey welcomed a wide cross-section of the world’s most significant pharmaceutical companies - creating and sustaining a foundation for wider innovation in medical R&D and healthcare more broadly.

These are just a few of the ways New Jersey’s entrepreneurs, technologists, and scientists have organically evolved strong networks to promote innovation. As the former CEO of the NJ Tech Council (TechUnited), I’ve seen these efforts firsthand, too. Through TechUnited, BioNJ, the Princeton Tech Meetup, TiE, BioNJ and other thriving support organizations, our innovators regularly come together to build a virtuous circle of successful entrepreneurship. Exited founders give back to the community in money and time, and an active investor group of VCs and angels (i.e., JumpStart Angel Network) is providing both capital and expertise to emerging startups. As just one example, the Tech Council Ventures Fund which the Council and I helped launch - is a $55M early-stage venture capital fund investing in promising companies located throughout the region. We’re making available crucial early funding to companies in industries ranging from FinTech to HealthTech to enterprise tech to clean tech-backed here on the ground with the expertise of a remarkable network of active partners and advisors.

As at other key centers of innovation, New Jersey hasn’t rested on its laurels or a storied past. I can tell you from first-hand experience that the state has built out all the elements of a thriving modern innovation ecosystem. First, ours is an enormously educated population: 4th among the 50 states in the percentage of adults with bachelor’s degrees, and 7th in 8

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Another area where we’ve come a long way: we have benefited from robust government leadership under Governor Phil Murphy and the NJEDA which celebrates and nurtures our innovative ecosystem - and above all respects and listens to innovators. Businesses don’t get everything they want here, but they do get a fair hearing from leaders who truly want them to succeed, and aim to build an environment where they can. There’s one final point about New Jersey that makes me especially proud to recommend it to you. From the days of Edison’s “muckers” to his remarkably creative team of inventors from across the U.S. and far beyond - we’ve always embraced smart and hard-working people from everywhere. We still do. We know immigrants start more businesses: they always have. By welcoming them, we’ve been rewarded with a brilliantly diverse community of entrepreneurs and innovators. They aim to change the world, and they’ve found New Jersey a great place to do it. That’s why I wrote this piece: to invite you to join them.

jamesbarrood

InnovationPlus.us 9

NEW JERSEY’S INNOVATION CULTURE: PIONEERING PROGRESS AT AMERICA’S CROSSROADS

Situated at the crossroads of America’s most vibrant urban centers, New Jersey’s strategic location has long been more than just a geographical advantage. It is a beacon, drawing together the brightest minds and the boldest ideas, catalyzing economic and technological growth. This intersection of history, diversity, and ambition has propelled New Jersey to the forefront of modern innovation, making it a trailblazer in sectors ranging from biotechnology and pharmaceuticals to telecommunications and renewable energy. At the heart of New Jersey’s innovation culture is its dynamic and diverse environment. The state’s melting pot of cultures, perspectives, and ideas fosters an atmosphere where creativity thrives, and breakthroughs regularly occur, driven by the same force that propelled Thomas Edison to revolutionize motion pictures, sound recording, and countless other innovations. This diversity drives innovative thinking and ensures that solutions developed in New Jersey are adaptable and relevant globally. New Jersey’s academic institutions and research facilities such as Bell Labs, are central to this narrative of progress and pioneering spirit. These are not mere centers of learning and discovery; they are the beating heart of the state’s innovation ecosystem. Here, the boundaries between academia, industry, and government blur, creating a unique synergy that fuels transformational research and development. This tripartite partnership is a cornerstone of New Jersey’s approach to innovation, facilitating a seamless transfer of ideas from the laboratory to the marketplace. The state’s innovation culture is characterized by its resilient and adaptive business environment. The state’s economic policies and incentives are designed to nurture startups and attract global corporations, creating a vibrant landscape where businesses of all sizes can thrive and contribute to the state’s innovative momentum. Delving deeper into New Jersey’s innovation culture, it becomes clear that this is where challenges are viewed as opportunities, and the status quo is continually questioned. This relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible have solidified New Jersey’s position as a leader in the global innovation arena. The next big idea is always just around the corner, waiting to be discovered. 10

CHAPTER ONE

THOUGHT LEADERS

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

MY BACKGROUND AS A FACULTY MEMBER AND EXPERIMENTAL GENETICIST KEEPS ME CONNECTED WITH THE CHALLENGES AND NEEDS OF FACULTY AND TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCES FOR RESEARCH STUDENTS. MICHAEL E. ZWICK, RUTGERS UNIVERSITY SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR RESEARCH

Driving policy change is essential to encourage a culture that’s inclusive of a rich diversity of opinions and professional expertise, leading to innovation that benefits society. My background as a faculty member and experimental geneticist keeps me connected with the challenges and needs of faculty and transformative experiences for research students. By partnering with key constituencies, we design policy that supports the current and future needs of research and innovation. As the leader of a university wide office that oversees many research and innovation support functions at Rutgers, ensuring our processes support a 21st-century enterprise is second to none. We are consistently working with key constituencies, including our university wide administrative partners, to improve business processes and implement cutting-edge technology such as artificial intelligence. Developing an organizational culture that seeks constant improvement is difficult, but I am lucky to work with research professionals who are among the best leaders in their respective fields. Without access to reliable and timely data, it is difficult to make decisions that impact a large, complex research enterprise. With over 300 research centers, more than 40 core facilities, over $900M in sponsored awards, being data informed allows our team to communicate effectively and make the best decisions about where to invest limited funding to support the growth of the research and innovation enterprise. Finally, without partnerships between the Rutgers research and innovation enterprise and industry, cross-pollination of ideas that result in commercialization, and ultimately benefits to society, would be a rare occurrence.

Research, discoveries, innovations, and solutions define the Rutgers research enterprise. That is why my vision, and the mission of the Rutgers Office for Research, is to support the research, scholarship, and creative endeavors of all Rutgers faculty.

Rutgers is a world-renowned, cutting-edge research institution that is on the verge of becoming a $1B research institution. Thanks to the efforts of our research faculty, administrators, leaders, the Office for Research staff, and industry partners, I am excited about the future. By focusing on driving culture change through policy, developing efficient and effective processes, being data-informed, and focusing on partnerships, I know Rutgers’ research and innovation enterprise will reach its full potential as a primary hub of innovation.

Since joining Rutgers as the Senior Vice President for Research in 2021, I have focused on streamlining and simplifying the support researchers need to succeed. Doing so enables researchers to make a positive impact on the quality of life in New Jersey and beyond while boosting the state’s economy. As research becomes more complex, collaboration and inclusivity of experts across disciplines and between the university and industry partners are more critical than ever. Focusing on how to establish a rich environment for research partnerships to flourish is one of the cornerstones of the research and innovation foundation represented in four pillars: policy, process, data, and partnerships.

rutgersresearch

research.rutgers.edu 14

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

INNOVATION IS THE LIFEBLOOD OF NEW JERSEY’S ECONOMY. THE HELIX WILL CREATE AN ECO-SYSTEM THAT WILL HELP REIGNITE THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT OF EDISON, SARNOFF, WAKSMAN, AND CLAUDE SHANNON, UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF THAT SPIRIT FOR A NEW GENERATION. CHRISTOPHER J. PALADINO, PRESIDENT, DEVCO

only achieve key redevelopment objectives but to also address important public policy goals. Currently under development through Paladino’s leadership is the $900 million Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center project and a $55 million new elementary school. Also underway is H-1 @ The HELIX, a $730 million facility that will include the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, a Translational Research facility in partnership with Rutgers University and the New Jersey Innovation Hub providing space for start-ups and entrepreneurs. Most recently, Paladino lead the completion of the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and residential tower. Prior projects completed under Mr. Paladino’s stewardship have included the development of the new Atlantic City campus for Stockton University, the South Jersey Gas headquarters, the College Avenue Redevelopment Initiative on the Rutgers-New Brunswick campus, and the renovation of the former Rutgers Law School in Newark as university housing, together with many other key redevelopment projects in New Brunswick and throughout New Jersey. Paladino received both his bachelor’s and law degrees from Rutgers University. He has served as a Distinguished Senior Policy Fellow at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University and was honored by the University as a Loyal Son of Rutgers. Paladino also received an Honorary Doctorate in Public Service from Stockton University. He currently serves as a Trustee of the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Board and as a Director of South Jersey Industries. He previously served as a Member of the Rutgers Business School Real Estate Executive Committee. Mr. Paladino has served as President of the New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO) since 1994. Under his leadership, DEVCO has developed 8.3 million square feet in residential, commercial, academic, and institutional development projects valued at $3.5 billion. By establishing unique public-private partnerships, Mr. Paladino has successfully completed numerous projects to not 15

NBDEVCO nbdevco

devco.org

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

AN INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM IS COMPRISED OF VARIOUS STAKEHOLDERS CREATING A DYNAMIC WEB OF LINKAGES AND CROSS LINKAGES. JUDITH SHEFT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CSIT Jump Into New Jersey’s Innovation Ecosystem Across the globe, countries are seeking to harness the power of the invention to innovation pipeline to drive economic growth and address a wide range of societal issues including national security, health, inequity, education, and environmental challenges. It is estimated that 85% of a country’s economic growth can be attributed to innovation. However, an innovation economy is an ecosystem that requires various factors working together to thrive and achieve the desired economic outcomes. These factors include: An ongoing base of inventions from academia and industry A source of risk capital to support inventions from ideation and early R&D through subsequent demonstration to market commercialization A talented workforce at all levels Infrastructure, service providers and facilities necessary to implement the range of activities from lab to market A culture of innovation that celebrates innovation in all its forms Innovation is New Jersey’s birthright. The Garden State has been home to key innovations in numerous industries including the steam locomotive, air conditioning, condensed soup, whitening toothpaste, Band-Aids, the antibiotic tetracycline, and barcodes, to name just a few. New Jersey was Silicon Valley before there was a Silicon Valley with the invention of the transistor at Bell Labs in Murray Hill. In the bio pharma field, New Jersey is known as the “medicine chest of the world”. An innovation ecosystem is comprised of various stakeholders creating a dynamic web of linkages and cross linkages. A critical component for a healthy innovation ecosystem is its underlying culture. An ecosystem that is open to all with a high degree of inclusivity in which players trust each other, are willing to collaborate and are flexible is an ecosystem that is sustainable leading long-term growth. Innovation is key to the future success of communities, countries, and the planet. I encourage everyone to jump into New Jersey’s innovation ecosystems, link and leverage resources and collaborate with different organizations to catalyze positive economic outcomes.

New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology

njeda.com/csit/ 16

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THROUGH COLLABORATIONS WITH OTHER INSTITUTIONS, WE’RE NOT ONLY MATCHING STUDENTS AND EMPLOYERS, WE’RE ALSO WORKING TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF PEOPLE THROUGH SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND RESEARCH. ALI A. HOUSHMAND, PRESIDENT, ROWAN UNIVERSITY WORDS OF WISDOM I’m a dreamer. I dream big. The ability to imagine a better reality helped transform my own life and, later, an entire institution. Yet, it requires a willingness to do something different, perhaps even radical. From my own experience, I can say that everything starts with education, whether it’s through a trade school, a community college or a traditional four-year institution. Yet, student debt and rising costs have put education higher and higher out of reach for many. So, I began building stronger partnerships between our public research university and nearby community colleges, sharing brands and aligning degree programs in a first-of-its-kind fashion. Today, those partnerships are boosting the community college system and offering students more than two dozen affordable “3+1” degree pathways to jobs that are in high demand. By working closely with large employers, we’re also creating workforce development programs and stackable credentials that build skills and boost careers. Through collaborations with other institutions, we’re not only matching students and employers, we’re also working to improve the lives of people through science, innovation and research. For example, Rowan University and Virtua Health, the largest health system in southern New Jersey, recently partnered to create a new medical and biomedical research college that promises to train more personnel and recruit researchers, including biomedical engineers who will develop the next innovations in medicine. The partnership will be fueled, in part, with an $85 million gift by Virtua.

A lifelong believer in the power of education, President Ali A. Houshmand holds master’s and doctoral degrees in industrial and operations engineering. His entrepreneurial approach to growing the University has focused on four goals: increasing access, improving quality, ensuring affordability and promoting economic development.

At the same time, we’re developing New Jersey’s first veterinary school. The school is designed to meet the increasing need for veterinarians. Such bold steps propelled Rowan’s transformation from a once wellregarded state school into a top 100 public research university, doubling enrollment in a decade. Today, it’s the third fastest-growing public research university in the nation.

RowanUniversity rowanuniversity

Change is a good thing, if it’s done in the right way. It’s how we move forward.

rowan.edu 17

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO EXPAND, RELOCATE, OR START A BUSINESS, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN NEW JERSEY. WESLEY MATHEWS, PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER I’ve been lucky to call many places around the world my home. As a career diplomat, I gained an understanding of life in other countries by experiencing it firsthand. My experiences with different cultures around the globe have afforded me the perspective that guides my professional career and allows me to truly appreciate just how special New Jersey is. Diversity is the cornerstone of life and business in New Jersey. Immigrants from around the world have made New Jersey their home, bringing with them rich cultural traditions and unique perspectives. Attracted by the value of being here, dozens of international companies have selected New Jersey for their global headquarters. A range of landscapes – from beaches to mountains to bustling cities – gives residents a place to live that best suits their preferences. And laws supporting women’s rights to healthcare, protections for transgender people and the LGBTQ+ community, further solidify the state as a safe and welcoming place. If you’re looking to expand, relocate, or start a business, look no further than New Jersey. We have everything you need to ensure your company thrives and your employees feel valued. In my opinion, there is no better place to live, work, and play. New Jersey has so much to offer. Here, diversity and vibrant communities shine. With our inviting nature, welcoming policies, varied cultural communities, and ideal location, it’s no wonder we are home to the most diverse city and ranked among the most diverse states in the country. We are indeed at the geographical, intellectual, and cultural crossroads where businesses can thrive. Through good governance and an appreciation for the importance of quality-of-life issues, New Jersey is one of the best places in the world to establish, grow, and relocate a business. In my role at Choose New Jersey, I’ve seen how being open to all possibilities means nothing is impossible. I am now proud to be a New Jerseyan (I wasn’t born here but got here as quickly as I could!) and look forward to raising my family here and calling this state my home for life. Wesley Mathews is the President & Chief Executive Officer of Choose New Jersey, the state’s leading nonprofit economic development organization. Previously, Mathews served as Deputy Economic Counselor at the United States Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he was responsible for the management of U.S.-Saudi economic and energy policy. He spent thirteen years as a U.S. diplomat serving in Germany, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Washington, D.C. In 2018, he served as a loaned executive to the New Jersey state government, establishing the state’s Office of International Trade and Investment at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). He is the recipient of several U.S. Department of State awards, including multiple Superior Honor Awards for advancing U.S. economic diplomacy.

Choose New Jersey 11-43 Raymond Plaza West Suite 1420 Newark, New Jersey 07102 (609) 297-2200 ChooseNewJersey choose-new-jersey-incChooseNJ ChooseNewJersey

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

OUR RESPONSIBILITY IS TO NOT ONLY PROFFER KNOWLEDGE, BUT ALSO TO EMBRACE OUR ROLES AS NAVIGATORS, PARENTAL FIGURES, COACHES AND MENTORS WHO TRULY ENGAGE WITH STUDENTS ON A PERSONAL LEVEL. MICHAEL J. AVALTRONI, PH.D. PRESIDENT FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY COMBATING A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

More than ever, students crave meaningful connections and a community of belonging. Schools must respond by creating a culture of caring within our campuses. Our responsibility is to not only proffer knowledge, but also to embrace our roles as navigators, parental figures, coaches and mentors who truly engage with students on a personal level. That also means preventing students with mental health needs from slipping through the cracks.

In my two decades in higher education, I have witnessed seismic political, social and economic shifts that have had major effects on college communities throughout the nation. But today we are facing our greatest crisis because I see a generation of students crying out for mental health support. According to the most recent data from the Healthy Minds Study, 44% of college and university students struggle with depression, 37% experience anxiety and 15% have considered suicide. These are the highest rates of mental health disorders reported over the 15 years this survey has been conducted.

Colleges can no longer just be institutes of higher learning. While we can’t protect students from the factors impacting their mental health prior to their arrival on our campus, we can and must transform our schools into supportive and nurturing communities that help set students on a positive path for the rest of their lives.

No matter how stimulating and instructive our college courses may be, students won’t be able to benefit from these educational offerings while experiencing high levels of psychological distress.

Michael J. Avaltroni is the president of Fairleigh Dickinson University. An alumnus of the institution (BS 1999) he gained his Ph.D. at Princeton University and then became a faculty member at FDU. He was then named dean of the School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, which he helped found and led to great success. He became provost in 2022 and then president in 2023.

To succeed, students need so much more from colleges than an excellent academic education. We must adapt by rethinking our traditional role as educators and work towards creating campuses that are a holistic ecosystem of well-being, providing the resources, support, and caring environment that enables our students to develop into healthy and independent adults. Our nation needs this future workforce and citizenry to emerge from their years of schooling with the intellectual and emotional strength, curiosity and resilience necessary for successful and fulfilling lives and careers.

Follow President Avaltroni at @FDUPresident on Instagram and X and Michael Avaltroni on LinkedIn. fairleighdickinsonuniversity fduwhatsnew FDUWhatsNew fairleigh-dickinson-university 19

fduwhatsnew FDUWhatsNew

fdu.edu

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

WE CONTINUE WITH NEW JERSEY’S SPIRIT OF INGENUITY BY LISTENING TO OUR CLIENTS’ NEEDS AND DEVELOPING PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES TO HELP UNLOCK THEIR POTENTIAL AND OPPORTUNITIES ON SEVERAL FRONTS. KELLY BROZYNA, CEO-STATE DIRECTOR, AMERICA’S SBDC NEW JERSEY

New Jersey is an amazing, dynamic, and engaging state with a beautiful tapestry of people, landscapes, and industries. Having lived in several states nationwide, I can truly attest to New Jersey’s brilliance in spirit and ingenuity.

New Jersey’s innovation brought the world the boardwalk, movies, electricity, and submarines. In 1977, New Jersey also helped bring the Small Business Development Centers into existence, as it was one of the pilot states to help small businesses and entrepreneurs with Rutgers University and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). And over 45 years later, the NJSBDC is still pushing forward.

It is synonymous and a bit foretelling that NJ was the first state to sign the Bill of Rights because it is that very spirit of ingenuity, resilience, and grit that makes New Jersey the innovative and entrepreneurial state that it is. That same energy also attracted me to New Jersey, as it has attracted millions from all over the world.

At the NJSBDC, we pride ourselves on celebrating innovation and diversity. We endlessly look to find new and engaging ways to help New Jersey’s small businesses and entrepreneurs successfully start and grow 20

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

NJSBDC Small Business Learning Labs (SBLLs)

their businesses. Whether working with clients to help them improve their credit or helping them understand the intricacies of completing an RFP toward winning a contract, we stay in the trenches to champion New Jersey’s businesses. In fact, in the early phases of the pandemic, the NJSBDC worked to address concerns raised while communicating with business owners, training to include necessary health / safety strategies, self-care, emotional awareness, and mental health resources while also shifting the dynamic and integrated inspiration into our activities, developing #NJThrives to share success stories of businesses able to succeed despite the pandemic, which turned into a comprehensive series of webinars aiming to help businesses overcome post-pandemic challenges.

The NJSBDC’s Learning Labs were designed to help businesses gain in procurement readiness / scalability, state compliance / grant readiness, and creditworthiness / access to capital, all significant hurdles to business growth and profitability. Through the SBLLs, businesses work within a small cohort of similar business owners to finalize and submit procurement certification applications, state-compliance applications, grants, and other necessary items for a business’ legitimacy or profitability. The wonderful deployment of the labs creates an environment of learning and growth. When the business leaves our SBLL’s, they will ultimately “hit” the submit button and walk away knowing their application was successfully submitted - this is a new way of ensuring innovation is working at its best!

Today, our work continues to drive our innovation. We continue with New Jersey’s spirit of ingenuity by listening to our clients’ needs and developing programs and initiatives to help unlock their potential and opportunities on several fronts. Some of these programs and initiatives include:

Capital Team

NJSBDC’s Tech Team

The NJSBDC Capital Team is a powerhouse of diverse professionals with extensive experience of over 100 years in various private sectors, dedicated to helping small and midsize businesses thrive.

The NJSBDC’s Tech Team was created to help businesses commercialize their technological and innovative pursuits by creating the NJSBDC Tech Team. In the dynamic landscape of technology-driven entrepreneurship, the NJSBDC Tech Team is a beacon of support and guidance for innovators and tech-based small businesses in New Jersey. With a diverse range of initiatives, this dedicated team offers a comprehensive suite of resources and expertise to help businesses navigate the complex world of federal grants, particularly the coveted SBIR/STTR programs.

Originally established to help businesses secure funding, the Capital Team has since evolved, offering a broader range of services and expertise. Our team members possess vast knowledge and experience across various private sectors, ensuring tailored support for every unique business challenge including capital, procurement, cyber security, supply chain and so much more...

NJ Business Resource Hub

The NJSBDC Tech Team stands apart from the fold with its unique PreSubmission Review Panels. Collaborating with seasoned experts who have been on the other side of federal agency evaluations, they meticulously replicate the grant review process, providing invaluable feedback to applicants and significantly enhancing their chances of success.

Continuing to address New Jersey’s small business needs and ensure they have the resources needed to reach their success, we’re leveraging a myriad of partners across the state. These partnering organizations reflect the state’s diversity, including women, minorities, immigrants, veterans, LGBTQ+, and disabled business owners. As a result, we aligned economic development resources for all businesses across the state, creating an NJ Business Resource Hub.

For entrepreneurs, the potential rewards are substantial. Each accepted proposal can unlock a share of the $2,000,000 in grants from federal agencies, offering a financial boost to fuel the R&D and the commercialization of their innovative endeavors.

As you can see, the NJSBDC network is not only in lockstep with where New Jersey businesses are but also leading the pack on where we need to go. Join us as we continue to embody the New Jersey spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation as we continue to push the needle forward.

In an era where innovation drives progress, the NJSBDC Tech Team stands as a vital partner, ensuring that New Jersey’s entrepreneurs can access the funding and expertise they need to turn visionary ideas into reality.

NJSBDC njsbdc njsbdchq

njsbdc.com 21

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

WE WANT TO BUILD ALL NEW PRODUCTS AND GO AFTER NEW MARKETS. BUT LET’S NOT FORGET WHAT MADE US SUCCESSFUL IN THE FIRST PLACE – PEOPLE. STUART COOK, CHIEF INNOVATION OFFICER, VALLEY NATIONAL BANK

In recent years, we have seen a number of examples of how people have driven innovation in financial services. The rise of fintech, for example, has been driven by teams of people who saw the need for more convenient and affordable financial services. These teams developed new technologies and products that have transformed the way people bank, invest, and borrow money. Yet, innovation in financial services does not need to come solely from Silicon Valley. But rather it can come from a strong financial institution with a rich legacy and a Silicon Valley start-up mindset and culture. That’s what we have been building at Valley Bank for the last 5+ years. We have been focused on innovating our services for the future and preparing ourselves for advances in technology like we see today. How have we been doing it? What’s it take for a bank that, like most banks, relies on legacy banking systems and cultures to operate? First, we changed the way we built products and created a more productcentric culture. Second, we began to explore and implement new technology to go after underserved markets within the financial ecosystem. Third, and most importantly, we looked closely at how we leveraged our strength – our people and the relationships they build with customers. LEVERAGING OUR DIFFERENTIATOR IN THE AGE OF AI – PEOPLE Yes, we want to build all new products and go after new markets. But let’s not forget what made us successful in the first place – people. People create and maintain the relationships that are essential for innovation.

We are entering a new age of innovation where artificial intelligence will revolutionize the way we work, interact with our customers, and drive business outcomes. It’s going to impact all industries, including banking and financial services. Yet, while everyone rushes up the Gartner hype cycle to the peak of inflated expectations with things like AI, we can’t forget what has always driven innovation, customer experience, and business results - people.

Valley has been around for more than 95 years and there is a lot in our DNA that has led to our continued success, such as our customer service, customer centricity, and embeddedness in communities. As the financial services industry continues to evolve, it will become increasingly important for organizations to invest in their people and their cultures to drive innovation that will meet customers’ needs and expectations. By doing so, we can ensure that we have the talent and expertise needed to identify what innovation is needed, build it, and maintain our success for another century.

To put it in perspective: People are the ones who identify the need for innovation. They are the ones who see the gaps in the market and the opportunities for improvement. People are the ones who develop and implement new ideas. They are the ones who have the skills and expertise to make innovation happen.

ValleyBank

People are the ones who use new products and services. They are the ones who provide feedback and help to shape the future of our industry.

valley.com 22

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THE PANDEMIC TAUGHT US TO UTILIZE TECHNOLOGY IN NEW AND DIFFERENT WAYS, VIDEOCONFERENCING BECAME AN INTEGRAL PART OF OUR BUSINESS. FRANCIS J. GIANTOMASI, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, CSG LAW

Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC (CSG Law) is a New Jersey law firm first and foremost. When we began developing our new firm headquarters, we were committed to staying in the state, and in Essex County specifically. While many companies were downsizing and reducing their office needs during the pandemic, we began to envision the law firm of the future. One that would provide opportunities for collaboration at all levels to best serve our clients. We felt it was important as we emerged from the pandemic and remote workplace environment to continue to build the firm’s culture – the connective membrane that tethers our team together. The pandemic taught us to utilize technology in new and different ways, videoconferencing became an integral part of our business. We invested in laptops for all employees and even eliminated traditional phones, moving to a Zoom platform, which allowed for seamless connectivity from any location. These changes helped to pave the way for the technology developments in our new headquarters. A feature of our new office is a dedicated client-facing conference center, which allows for the separation between legal practice floors and outside guests. In addition, the space allows us to host a wide variety of meetings, providing us with the opportunity to meet in person and virtually with many clients and other business leaders. On the practice floors, the decision was made to create consistent offices, allowing the firm’s culture and team spirit to shine through – with the most senior partners and junior lawyers enjoying the same sized offices, complete with custom-designed furniture that maximized the use of the space. We also have numerous meeting rooms and collaborative spaces to provide our employees with a myriad of ways to maximize their efficiency through in-person or remote collaboration. Many will say this but not many will mean it. At CSG Law, it’s family first and that’s for real. We don’t just talk the talk – we walk the walk. We have found that by providing our team with the support they need to succeed and thrive, in the end it is our clients who will benefit. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 marketing@csglaw.com 973-325-1500 CSG_PC Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC

Francis J. Giantomasi (Frank), a member of the Executive Committee of CSG Law, plays a critical role in the firm’s Real Estate, Development & Land Use Group. Over the course of his career, Frank has guided clients through a wide variety of planning, zoning and development projects throughout the Garden State.

csglaw.com 23

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THE PACE OF INNOVATION IS RAPIDLY ACCELERATING, AND OPTIMIZATION IS AN ESSENTIAL TOOL IN THIS ENVIRONMENT. STEVE SASHIHARA, FOUNDER & CEO, PRINCETON CONSULTANTS

Innovating by Optimizing In 1980 I founded Princeton Consultants based on the thesis that optimization could improve business decision making. Princeton University, from which I’d just graduated, and Bell Labs were pioneers in the academic study of optimization algorithms.

I wrote a book, “The Optimization Edge: Reinventing Decision Making to Maximize All Your Company’s Assets,” to demystify and evangelize optimization to business executives. Readers have welcomed the accessible framework to think about and use optimization. Jim Goodnight, the CEO of SAS, which I visited as a user in the 1980’s, wrote, “For executives who don’t have an optimization strategy, this book is a must read.”

“Optimization” gets used in many contexts. I define it as, “a decisionmaking process and a set of related tools that employ mathematics, algorithms, and computer software not only to sort and organize data, but to use that data to make recommendations faster and better than humans can.”

I have seen many different types of organizations achieve extraordinary gains in productivity, efficiency, and customer service through optimization. Innovation-minded executives should know what optimization is and how to ensure its success. Above all, they should ask for it!

Initially Princeton Consultants built software applications that included portfolio optimization for pharmaceutical and financial services clients. During this time, I recognized that it wasn’t enough to develop great solutions—we had to ensure their successful deployment, so I oriented our firm to blend IT and Management Consulting. We hired hybrid employees who combine an engineering or mathematical perspective with a deep understanding of the business. Today we develop and implement optimization solutions for many of the best-known companies across many industries.

Princeton Consultants Links princeton-consultants PrincetonDotCom

The pace of innovation is rapidly accelerating, and optimization is an essential tool in this environment. To spot opportunities, my colleagues and I look for the cross-product of two areas: (1) emerging technologies that are moving from the “hype” to the “affordable reality” stage, and (2) industries and business process areas that are ripe for change.

princeton.com optimizationedge.com 24

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

REVOLUTIONIZING AN ENTIRE INDUSTRY DID NOT HAPPEN OVERNIGHT. DECADES OF LEADERS AND INDUSTRY MONOPOLIZERS MADE THIS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE: CHALLENGE ACCEPTED. ABBY AYOUB, CEO, OPTICAL ACADEMY

Every business that I’ve poured my heart into was founded on the idea of adding value and convenience to everyday life. I saw a problem, found one million ways to fix it, and stayed laser focused on the solution even when it didn’t make sense to other people. To do this I needed to master a few things: time, nature, and leadership. Time is the most expensive asset. It’s important to maximize the time you have in a day. Valued time not only for your business but for yourself, family, and friends. What’s even more important about time well spent is time not well spent. There will always be good days and bad days. Your bad days should never drag on longer than a night. Wake up the next day, take a deep breath, look or be outside, and keep it moving. Your mindset is everything. Do not dwell- the world owes you nothing! Nature is a guide to all. Look up and around- The sun shines and the night comes. It rains and it dries. The consistency I have found in nature taught me that no matter how much effort you put in to try to change the cycle of the moon or the sun, some things just are the way they ought to be. Not everyone you meet will share your passion and understand your mission. Be upfront with your intentions, what’s on your mind, and what you want or need to be able to deliver your mission. If something goes against your nature- do not let it in.

journey is very important. Remember - energy cannot be created or destroyed, it can only be transferred.

Leadership is the commitment you make to yourself and everyone who has believed or doubted your mission. It’s the heart and soul of what you are trying to accomplish. There is no turning back when you’ve made this devotion. Who you choose to join your

These philosophies help me be unapologetically myself. Be you! Absolutely do not fake who you are and what your mission is. You must always say what you need to say and do what you need to do to evolve and stay focused on the forefront of innovation. 25

Tel: 1-800-530-2730 opticalacademy optical-academy

optical-academy.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

OUR CHRONIC CARE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS HELP TACKLE THE RISING BURDEN OF CHRONIC ILLNESSES. JINPIN YING, PRESIDENT, CYBERMED

The future of healthcare is undergoing a transformative revolution, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and an increasing commitment to greater equity across patient populations. From the time that CyberMed was established, one of the prevailing issues that we are focusing on is how the technology can address the disparity in healthcare resources access. Just as telemedicine has emerged as a key solution to bridge the accessibility gap, the future holds promise to better assist historically underserved patient communities, increase patient engagement and maximize data for improved outcomes without additional burden to physicians and Clinicians. Health care is not only the role of doctor, but also the patient, and they have to work together. We believe lifestyle changes will lead to great improvements in health care outcomes. And the key for lifestyle change is to have patients understand their own medical condition in plain language. In this evolving landscape, the democratization of medical knowledge is paramount. While patient portals have made healthcare information more accessible, the real challenge lies in ensuring that patients truly comprehend the information presented. To tackle this, we are incorporating AI and automated translation technologies to transform complex medical terminology into simple and clear explanations. Putting the patients’ health data in their hands is the first step, but it is incomplete. Patients need to understand the results. Understanding is the linchpin for behavior change, and behavior change is a crucial component in improving one’s health. Today’s doctor is overburdened with documentation. Physicians should not find themselves spending more time with computers and EMRs than with their patients. CyberMed has been leading the way to optimize the interaction between the EMR system and the physician. We are adding AI, coupled with Chat GPT, to serve as a powerful tool for making data-driven decisions in real time, functioning as a personalized medical assistant for doctors. These AI-driven decision support systems alleviate the burden of documentation, granting doctors more time for meaningful patient interactions. The potency of AI further extends to creating meaningful statistics based on actual patient data in real time. I am particularly excited about the ability to enhance prescription precision and medication identification for quicker and better patient results. Imagine data driven results at the fingertips of the clinicians, and how that changes the landscape.

The integration of AI and technology promises to revolutionize healthcare, making it more accessible, comprehensible, and personalized, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all. And it is my commitment to continue advancing for these ideas as realities at CyberMed, to ultimately enrich and enhance the experience for all of our end users.

And finally, the notion of healthcare is no longer confined to the doctor’s office or the hospital; it has extended into the home environment. I would further posit the future envisions healthcare as an integral part of daily life, with technology gathering a wealth of data points to aid in decision-making. This approach ensures that healthcare remains a continuous aspect of life, offering additional layers of care without overburdening doctors.

Email: info@cybermedcorp.com

cybermedcorp.com 26

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

COMPANIES WILL BE FUELED WITH NEW STREAMS OF CONCIOUSNESS TO COMPETE ON THE GLOBAL A.I. STAGE. MICHAEL ROSE, FOUNDER OF PERMEVO, VIGNETIC AND TKTKONNECT

WORDS OF WISDOM: To harness this potential, we must invest in education, mentorship, and skill-building platforms across regions of underinvestment. As AI ushers in a new era of talent demand to fuel productivity advancements, there will be no end to the demand for creative thinkers. By engaging underrepresented talent in the US, Africa, and across the world, American companies will be fueled with new streams on innovation consciousness to compete on the global stage.

The global talent market is a pressing concern that affects organizations and economies worldwide. According to a survey conducted by ManpowerGroup, 69% of employers reported difficulty in finding skilled workers in 2022. This shortage has been attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts, skills gaps, and the rapid pace of technological advancements like Generative AI. In our interconnected world, the global talent gap remains a significant obstacle to all areas of progress. However, it is essential to recognize that talent knows no boundaries, and individuals from diverse backgrounds have the potential to contribute immensely towards solving global challenges. As advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation accelerate, and traditional workplace models are upended, the need for highly skilled knowledge workers with freshly unencumbered perspectives will be critical.

Michael Rose is a visionary leader and New Jersey native who sits at the intersection of talent development and technology optimization. With a deep passion for innovative business solutions and developing talent, Michael has dedicated his career to leveraging technology to address workforce challenges by creating businesses geared towards addressing the global talent gap. As an entrepreneur in staffing, consulting and managed services for the private and public sector, Michael has witnessed the transformative power of technology and its ability to connect people and ideas across borders. Inspired by this, he embarked on a journey to bridge the global talent gap and create opportunities for thousands of aspiring individuals from all backgrounds.

Across the United States and around the world, talent starved organizations are coming to the realization that traditional communities and regions for sourcing highly skilled talent have become exhausted and labor arbitrage has waned. Hence, previously overlooked regions such as American deep south states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana have become attractive. The 125 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) operating, primarily, in this region are receiving new attention as this talent market emerges. HBCUs play a significant role in higher education, providing opportunities for African American students to receive quality education. According to data from the United Negro College Fund, HBCUs graduate almost 20% of African American students who earn undergraduate degrees. However, McKinsey research indicates that HBCU graduates are underrepresented in leadership positions, with only 3% of Fortune 500 CEOs and less than 1% of tech startup founders coming from HBCUs. Similarly, the continent of Africa, with its rich cultural heritage and vast underemployed talent pool (60% of its population are under the age of 25), has far more than natural resources to offer. Untapped, skilled talent in these regions have a crucial role to play in closing the talent gap and enriching the global talent pipeline. By embracing these markets and providing opportunities for growth and development, we can tap into a new wellspring of innovation and creativity that will benefit all sectors.

Driven by a fierce entrepreneurial spirit, Michael has founded for-profit companies, Vignetic Inc., TKTKONNECT and the newly launched PERMEVO Inc., with the central mission of bringing opportunities for growth, equity and prosperity to underrepresented workforce populations in the US and abroad. Furthering this commitment, PERMEVO serves Life, Health and Data science verticals, under the value statement that “Everyone Deserves to Live a Healthy and Fulfilling Life”. Under his guidance, Michael’s companies have become a beacon of workforce innovation, developing leading-edge solutions that have a profound impact on the business sectors and global communities they serve. As a passionate advocate for arts, education and health equity, Michael also seeks to elicit impact through board and advisory positions with McCarter Theater of Princeton, NENI (National Education Network Inc.), WeXL, and SERV Behavioral Health System of New Jersey.

permevo

Permevo.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

WE HAVE MADE A SOLID IMPACT AGAINST SOME TRULY CONCERNING TRENDS WITHIN THE SCHOOL SAFETY AND WELLNESS SPACE. C. PARKHILL MAYS III,,CEO, STOPIT SOLUTIONS

I was born and raised in Central Florida and grew up with loving and caring parents to whom I attribute much of my success in life. After a good education at a small liberal arts university in western Virginia, I spent my first few years of adulthood working as an accountant in Washington, D.C. My occupation and an interest in New York City pulled me north, and I eventually moved to the big city in 1988. Shortly thereafter, opportunity drew me away from the comfort of a large company – and into the world of technology start-ups. There, I have spent the balance of my 35-year career as a CFO for technology, retail, and legal information start-ups. I have been blessed through my experience with each of those opportunities. Gravitating toward STOPit Solutions was an easy move for me as I rapidly got behind the mission of our company’s founder and began contributing more than nine years ago. Today, as Chief Executive Officer we have made a solid impact against some truly concerning trends within the school safety and wellness space. As I look forward, I have learned that seeking advice and counsel from a number of people is the best way to form opinion on how we can contribute in the years ahead. My teammates and colleagues who have joined me here at STOPit Solutions over these last nine years are special individuals who care deeply about impacting the lives of young people. I share these experiences with my family every day, and each of them has supported me during this nine-year mission. Along the way, I was fortunate to meet a wonderful person who has been my wife of 33 years. We are both blessed with two wonderful daughters, and as I look back on my career and life in general, I realize that I, too, have been truly blessed with this opportunity of helping schools keep their communities and surroundings safe and their students well.

stopitsolutions stopit

stopitsolutions.com 28

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

TODAY’S ADVANCEMENTS ARE BYPRODUCTS OF A SCIENTIFIC RENAISSANCE THAT HAS DEVELOPED A STEADY PIPELINE OF NEW BREAKTHROUGHS AND INNOVATIONS. DR. GER BROPHY, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF BIOPHARMA PRODUCTION, AVANTOR

Bioproduction has taken a remarkable journey over the last several decades. In recent years, the demand for specific and powerful biologic therapies has continued to increase, underpinned by the ongoing development of monoclonal antibodies therapies (mAbs) and augmented by new platforms such as Cell and Gene Therapy and also nucleic acid drugs and vaccines. The market continues to grow rapidly, and rising demand for treatments and therapies also reflects how biologics are expanding into new therapeutic areas, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. This demand is being sustained by global and growing geographic reach, label extensions, and the development of biosimilars. Developments in molecular biology and clinical insight have also required emerging modalities, such as cell and gene therapies, nucleic acid–based medicines, and new workflows in engineered vaccines such as mRNA technology. In this new era of precision medicine, cell and gene therapies will continue to provide novel ways to address chronic conditions and diseases. Most recently, the importance of agile systems in bioproduction like single-use technologies as well as the need for high quality raw materials have been required to support solutions to the diseases of the future. These advancements are byproducts of a scientific renaissance that has developed a steady pipeline of new breakthroughs and innovations. In today’s environment, we know COVID-19 is still impacting the biopharma industry now and into the future. The effect of raw materials shortages and constrained logistics assets has opened the eyes of all involved, and improvements will require even stronger relationships between bio manufacturers and their suppliers to develop solutions together and assure business continuity through improvements in supply chains. There is no stronger environment for these kinds of collaborations to flourish than in New Jersey. And as the scientific community looks ahead to a future that will bring not only more treatments but also more challenges and more requirements for novel solutions, biomanufacturers and suppliers will need to continue to work in continued collaboration. Biomanufacturers obtain better yields, get better development results and increase the speed to market when they work with suppliers who understand their goals and are creative and innovative in their approach. Science is counting on companies in New Jersey to work together – so are the patients we all ultimately serve.

Dr. Ger Brophy is Avantor’s Executive Vice President of Biopharma Production. He leads the growth and development of Avantor’s Biopharma Production business to support the current and future needs of biopharma customers. Before Avantor, Dr. Brophy held various R&D, strategy, and business development positions with GE Healthcare Life Sciences, GE Healthcare Medical Diagnostics and Amersham and has his doctorate in molecular biology from Dublin City University in Ireland. Avantor Avantorinc Avantor_News avantorinc

avantorsciences.com 29

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

COMMUNICATION IS BEHAVIOR; IT’S SOMETHING YOU DO. KNOWING IN THEORY HOW TO HIT A BASEBALL IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR HAVING A COACH PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON YOUR STANCE, GRIP, SWING, AND FOLLOW-THROUGH. JOHN HACK, CTO & CO-FOUNDER, INTERFLEXION

Let’s dissect a commonly cited trait for both leaders and salespeople: Empathy. I’ve seen definitions in training materials such as “understand what someone else is feeling,” or “the capacity to place oneself in another’s position.” While true, you can’t measure that, and it’s hard to teach. Let’s take another approach: dissect a conversation where “empathy” is being expressed. Here’s an example: a customer, Tracy, has called to complain that a shipment was incomplete, and it’s going to cause problems. The account manager replies, “Tracy, If I were in your shoes, I’d be upset too. Our mistake has cost you time and money. Let me make it right…” Where is the “Empathy” in this reply? Let’s break it down. The manager: Used the person’s name Said that they would feel the same way Acknowledged the problem Stated that they would help This is “Empathy” made measurable. Four components. Each can be measured.

CONVERSATIONAL PERFORMANCE

You can now assess and teach this as a skill. You can give feedback on each component. It can be practiced. You can review customer service calls to identify what reps are doing right and where they can improve.

Are your people ready to do the job you’ve prepared them for? Do your managers know how to give feedback? Are your salespeople really listening to customers?

Practice and feedback – the formula for performance improvement.

John Hack, CTO and co-founder of Interflexion, holds a bachelor’s from MIT, a master’s from NYU and three patents. His career spans natural language processing, data visualization, predictive analytics, and business information systems, with a strong focus on Performance Management.

Managing performance starts with measuring performance. But how do you measure workplace conversations? Language is complex. Conversations are rarely grammatical. Context matters. Individual expression varies, but it’s the heart of authenticity. Is there an objective metric? Breaking down interpersonal skills is notoriously difficult. But it can be done.

interflexion johnhack

Communication is behavior; it’s something you do. Knowing in theory how to hit a baseball is no substitute for having a coach provide feedback on your stance, grip, swing, and follow-through. Interpersonal skills are no different.

interflexion.com 30

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THE JOURNEY OF DEVELOPING AN IDEA INTO A VIABLE SOLUTION AND BRINGING IT TO MARKET HAS BEEN INCREDIBLY HUMBLING AND FULL CIRCLE . .

JOSE ESPINOZA, FOUNDER OF MOVE THE NEEDLE, LLC

Daysi Gardenia Bernita, migrated to the USA in the pursuit of the American Dream with her six month old son in tote. Though a successful engineer in her native country of Ecuador, the language barrier and need to provide for her son and family back home, relegated her to being a seamstress. As Daysi’s only son, I had the privilege of benefiting from her courage and sacrifice, which gave me access and opportunity to private then public education. In 1998 as a freshman in high school, I received a laptop through a technology program - Project SMART. At the time, Union City, a densely populated Latino immigrant community was the 2nd lowest income city in NJ. A bilingual educator turned board of education leader, Fred Carrigg, developed a grant to bring tech forward tools into the UC public schools. That laptop was my introduction to the power of technology. That laptop coupled with the honors and AP coursework and the Road to College Program led me to graduating #3 in my class and a full scholarship to New Jersey Institute of Technology. That laptop, access to world wide web information and a college education opened a path for innovation. After a successful decade-long corporate career followed by exposure to the startup world, I decided to take all of the professional and personal experiences to bootstrap my own business ventures. The journey of developing an idea into a viable solution and bringing it to market has been incredibly humbling and full circle. Decades later, the North NJ community continues to be densely populated, low income, home to many other Daysi’s and Jose’s. Yet, tech programs that empower community members are not as cutting edge, the college path is riddled with student loan debt making it even less appealing to low-income first generation students, and the brave founders of color continue to face challenges in accessing funding, mentoring and resources to develop their innovations. Realizing these gaps and needs is what led to Move the Needle, LLC and Move The Needle Impact Group, - a startup incubator and event space that connects founders to investors, developing companies and a nonprofit focused on workforce development particularly in digital skills with job placement aimed at Black and Latino communities who make up less than 10% of participation in the technology space. We’re all blessed and highly favored; through this work we believe we can provide access to the next generation to skip a few hurdles we had to overcome and invite them to impact the world in a positive way for generations to come. 31

movetheneedlellc movetheneedleio

movetheneedle.io

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

GO!FOTON’S OWN INNOVATIONS ARE DRIVEN BY THIS INTUITION OF AN ADDED DIMENSION. DR. SIMIN CAI, CEO, GO!FOTON

FINDING THE ADDED DIMENSION “Innovation begins with the perception of a previously unnoticed additional dimension in a given frame of reference. It results from grasping a property of the status quo that’s been missed, and then following through on this changed awareness to implement either a solution to a problem or an enhancement of value,” explains Dr. Simin Cai, CEO of Go!Foton. “The change may sometimes be a small one, but great innovations are capable of creating orders-ofmagnitude improvements. In either case, though, innovation emerges from seeing the same things everyone else sees, but imagining them from a newly found and completely different perspective that animates a crucial insight.”

like the feathers of a peacock so that even the largest hands can switch connections quickly and efficiently. Another example of Go!Foton’s instinct for practical innovation is provided by the company’s SELFOC lenses. These lenses feature a gradient refractive index of the glass medium, enabling lensing power with flat surfaces instead of the curved surfaces required for lenses with a uniform refractive index. The flat geometry of the SELFOC lens confers significant advantages for end users: it not only facilitates the mounting of the lens, but also permits applications requiring multiple lenses and/or optical filters to be attached together or to an optical fiber. Such applications include small form-factor optical communications devices and insertable medical probes.

He picks up a pencil. “If you look at it, most people will see a long, thin yellow object, a geometric line. But if there is a hole on the table and you want to drop the pencil through the hole, this ‘line’ perspective of the pencil would prevent you from doing so. If on the other hand you stare at the pencil from the point head on, it’s just a dot, a geometric point. This ‘point’ perspective will enable you easily to drop the pencil into the hole.”

Dr. Cai even applies his model to economics. “For healthy and sustainable growth, innovation itself is the added dimension. Go!Foton is one of many companies in New Jersey following proudly in the footsteps of Edison, Einstein, and other science and technology pioneers from the Garden State. With its rolling hills, extensive shoreline, and dense forests, New Jersey has always been a wonderfully threedimensional place. Our mission at Go!Foton is to Bring Light To Life and add a dimension by contributing as much as we can to the vitality of this great state through innovations in optics and photonics.”

“Einstein’s Special Relativity adds the time dimension to three-dimensional space and explains why wavebased light can propagate in a vacuum, an enigma that could not be understood in Newtonian mechanics. And his theory of General Relativity takes a further step by asserting that this four-dimensional space-time is not flat but actually curved, thereby reconciling Special Relativity with the Newtonian Theory of Gravity.” Go!Foton’s own innovations are driven by this intuition of an added dimension. The PEACOC® High Density Fiber Management Platform is the company’s award-winning solution for the growing epidemic of connection clutter faced by central offices and data centers as accelerating demand for broadband access and bandwidth necessitates continuing densification of optical fiber in the network. Representing a revolutionary advance for both inside and outside plant physical architecture, PEACOC® (Platform with Enhanced Access for Compact Optical Connectors) enables telecom operators to navigate the densification-induced chaos of optical connectivity by directly addressing a multiple challenge that has vexed the industry for years: namely, how to enable human fingers, often stout and sometimes clumsy, to manipulate flawlessly the tightly-packed connections between delicate cables of optical fiber (itself sometimes as thin as a human hair) without interrupting traffic and without using special tools in the field, while minimizing the footprint of equipmentfilled racks and cabinets through which the cabling must be routed. Go!Foton answered these challenges by adding another dimension to traditional fiber patch panels, allowing the connection ports to spread out

Dr. Simin Cai has served as CEO of Go!Foton since 2009, when he founded the company after leading a management buyout of NSG Group’s telecommunications business. Prior to joining NSG, Dr. Cai worked for several start-up optics and optical instrumentation companies before participating in the founding of Avanex, now part of Lumentum. Dr. Cai received a BS degree in Applied Physics from Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Shanghai, China. He has a Master of Engineering degree in Engineering Optics and a Ph.D. degree in Physics, both from Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. Go!Foton GoFoton gofoton

gofoton.com 32

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THE REAL HEROES ARE THE PATIENTS, PARTICIPANTS, AND HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS WHO SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS AND EXPERIENCES. MICHELLE SHOGREN, CEO, INNOVATE IN WHAT YOU DO! LLC

To really make these trials shine, we need to spread the word and embrace change. It’s not just about finding willing volunteers (although that’s a biggie). It’s about creating a culture that celebrates these game-changers. We’re talking innovation! We’ve got to make trials more user-friendly, patient-centric, and efficient than ever before.

With 25+ years in clinical research, Michelle Shogren, CEO of Innovate In What You Do! LLC, started as a patient participant, then journeyed through nursing, clinical trial monitoring, and a significant role at Bayer Pharmaceuticals. Her innovation-focused path culminated in founding her own company in 2022. Michelle is dedicated to revolutionizing clinical trials, championing user voices, and driving healthcare innovation.

The real heroes are the patients, participants, and healthcare professionals who share their insights and experiences. They’re like the GPS guiding us to the treasure chest of medical discoveries.

Unleashing the Magic of Clinical Trials: Where Hope Meets Science! Ever wondered about the unsung heroes in the world of healthcare? Well, they’re not caped crusaders, but they’re just as amazing—clinical trials! And guess what? I know a thing or two about them, having started my journey as a participant in clinical trials and continuing to spend over 25 years in the field.

So, let’s rally for clinical trials, not just as a healthcare option but as beacons of hope for a brighter, healthier future. Let’s team up, break down barriers, and turbocharge these trials to reach their full potential. After all, they’re the catalysts for groundbreaking discoveries that can change lives!

You see, clinical trials are like the secret sauce in the recipe for medical breakthroughs. They hold the promise of better treatments, life-saving solutions, and the future of medicine itself. Think of them as the superhero origin story for healthcare.

In our healthcare innovation journey, clinical trials are our guiding star, and it is high time we follow their light toward a future filled with health, hope, and a dash of superhero magic!

Clinical trials aren’t your average science experiments. They’re where science, heart, and sheer determination come together. They’re a ray of hope for people facing daunting health challenges and seeking a better quality of life.

Innovate In What You Do LLC innovateinwhatyoudo

innovateinwhatyoudo.com 33

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

MY ROLE IS CLEAR: TO BE A CATALYST FOR CHANGE, A GUARDIAN OF JUSTICE, AND A HARBINGER OF A FUTURE WHERE LAW MEETS EMPATHY AND WHERE JUSTICE INTERTWINES WITH COMPASSION. THERESA A LYONS, FOUNDER, LYONS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. A LEGACY IN THE MAKING Our clients are the heartbeat of our existence. They remind us why we chose this path. They are the reason we fight, innovate, and care. We carry their battles as if they were our own because, in truth, they are. The discipline of law falls under humanities. Too many lawyers forget that. Employers forget to place humans at the center. Societies sometimes forget that, too. Every social ill on this planet would be cured if every human could try to either create a job for someone else or check in on a neighbor.

Equality is our battle cry. We championed diversity long before it became a hashtag or a trend. Twenty years ago, my firm threw down the gauntlet: we’re more than just lawyers – we’re revolutionaries in suits or sweatpants, if we choose. We set the bar high with unlimited paid time off for lawyers a decade ago, well before the world embraced such progressive ideas. Our workspace is a sanctuary, equipped with candy in every room and toys in the waiting area. The essence of social work isn’t just in what we do; it’s ingrained in who we are.

Bucking the System We’ve heard all the lawyer jokes, stereotypes, and memes. Sadly, most of them are true. Everybody hates a lawyer until someone needs us. We’re bucking the system at Lyons & Associates, P.C. Too many people presume that wealth and compassion are at odds – and they’re not. We don’t just represent; we stand beside every client, from billionaires to the homeless, treating them with the dignity they deserve, all while litigating like warriors.

BUILDING THE FUTURE The next step: I’m building a future that transcends my personal ambitions. I’m building Lyons & Associates into a legacy firm – the first such by a woman in New Jersey. It’s about paving the way for the next generation of legal mavericks, ensuring they have a platform to excel, and continue this legacy. My role is clear: to be a catalyst for change, a guardian of justice, and a harbinger of a future where law meets empathy and where justice intertwines with compassion. Commendable or crazy, either way, I’m doing it.

I became a lawyer by mistake. While at Rutgers University studying for an M.A. in Social Work, I came across a class named ‘Law and Social Work,’ a dual degree in law and social work. I was one of the first graduates in the state. My journey didn’t stop there. The soul of social work with the impact of legal prowess? Yes, please. Equality and Compassion We’re changing the system. I live and breathe two things: making the law respectable and championing equality. Lawyers overthink, while social workers feel too much. In between lies the perfect medium.

lyonspc lyons__associates

lyonspc.com 34

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

NOT UNDERQUALIFIED, JUST OVERLOOKED: A COMMITMENT TO SERVING UNDERREPRESENTED FOUNDERS DARREL FRATER, INVESTMENT ASSOCIATE, VISIBLE HANDS Visible Hands is a venture capital firm with an accelerator designed to highlight and invest in the untapped potential of overlooked founders. In late 2020, our team set out to raise $10M for our first fund. As of June 2022, we’ve successfully exceeded that goal, closing $10.5M to invest in women and founders of color with the support of amazing Limited Partners such as Atento Capital of the George Kaiser Family Foundation, Bank of America, Equity Alliance, Brown Advisory and many others! You can learn more about Visible Hands and how we support underrepresented founders on our website at https://VisibleHands.vc. Visible Hands is a venture capital firm with a 14-week, virtual-first accelerator on a mission to highlight and invest in the limitless potential of overlooked founders. At the earliest stages of company-building, we provide meaningful funding (Up to $175K), personalized support, and social capital to help our founders build exceptional technology startups. Darrel is an Investment Associate at Visible Hands VC where he assists in managing a portfolio of 90+ companies. Prior to Visible Hands, Darrel was a Venture Fellow at Score 3 Ventures where he helped underrepresented founders raise over $1M in startup capital and mentored over 60 founders since joining in 2019. Darrel is a 3-time founder with his latest company being a live streaming platform for networking called TheClub which he founded in 2020. He is an MBA graduate from The College of New Jersey where he studied strategy, innovation, and leadership.

Darrel Frater, MBA The record startup fundraising and investment climate of 2021 has slowed considerably as public market valuations for late-stage tech companies have declined drastically, and concerns around rising interest rates have added to VCs’ hesitation for making new investments. Black entrepreneurs, in particular, have been hit hard by this pullback from investors. New data shows Black-founded startups in the U.S. had only raised $324 million by mid-June, 2022. This is a massive reduction compared to the $850 million - $1.2 billion range per quarter seen across the prior five quarters, according to Crunchbase. As a minority founder and investor myself, it’s disheartening to see the continued disparity in investment opportunities for underrepresented founders. We are often left in the dark when it comes to the “game” of fundraising. In order to successfully fundraise as a minority founder, it’s important to leverage tools and information that drive transparency into the fundraising process. Transparency enables minority founders to understand the nature of what they’re up against, find networks dedicated to overcoming these challenges, and ultimately reach their fundraising goals.

Visible Hands Team

This is what anchors my work in developing opportunities for underrepresented founders as an investor through Visible Hands.

Visible Hands VisibleHandsVC VisibleHands

VisibleHands.vc 35

CHAPTER TWO

INNOVATION IN ACADEMIA 36

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

As the fourth-largest non-governmental employer in the state, supporting over 58,000 jobs, Rutgers represents the collective knowledge of a diverse workforce that is critical to providing solutions to modern challenges. In fact, Rutgers ranks first in New Jersey and 64th in the nation on Forbes’ list of the 500 best large employers in America. And as a premier research institution, Rutgers takes its role seriously. One of its three mission components is to conduct innovative research that contributes to the medical, environmental, social, and cultural well-being of the state, as well as aiding the economy and the state’s businesses and industries.

Complex societal challenges require innovative solutions that transform and improve lives around the world. As a top 20 public research university with more than 300 research centers and institutions, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, offers a wide variety of programs that drive and support diverse and inclusive research, scholarship, and creative endeavors. Rutgers is a top national research university and New Jersey’s preeminent public institution of higher education, an inclusive engine that brings diverse groups together to drive innovation.

Thanks to the technologies licensed by the OfR, Rutgers received just over $12.7 million in total licensing revenue in FY 2023. The office helped launch five companies that were founded based on technology developed at Rutgers, bringing the current total to 102 active Rutgers startups. In total, OfR received 160 invention disclosures, applied for and received 121 patents worldwide, signed 92 licenses and options, and executed nine exclusive licenses. The OfR departments behind these efforts, Technology Transfer and New Ventures, are made up of scientists and intellectual property (IP) experts with industry experience, working diligently with Rutgers researchers to help guide their research from proof of concept through patenting, licensing, and commercialization.

With over 67,000 undergraduate and graduate students representing 120+ countries, all 50 states, and all 21 New Jersey counties, 8,000 full- and part-time diverse faculty, 14,000 full- and part-time staff, and 1,500 international scholars representing nearly 100 countries, there is no shortage of ideas and innovations from within Rutgers’ four Chancellor-led units (Rutgers Health, Rutgers-Camden, RutgersNewark, and Rutgers-New Brunswick). Rutgers researchers are tackling some of the world’s biggest problems, creating innovative and potentially life-changing solutions, all with the goal of improving the lives of those within our communities and beyond. In 2023 alone, 4,225 research awards went to 1,569 Rutgers researchers, totaling almost $1 billion in research grants and sponsored programs. This funding supported key breakthroughs in areas such as climate change, cancer treatment, food shortages, and more.

Recent examples of Rutgers innovations that are making a positive impact include the development of disease- and climate change-resistant commercial basil, a high-profit crop that many small family farmers rely upon. The creation of this novel strain of basil by Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences researchers is the focus of Fields of Devotion, a science-in-action film, that won the Best Climate Film award from the New York Science and Nature Film Festival. Another example is innovative base editing technology developed by Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS) researchers, which enables precision genetic engineering for gene therapy, cell therapy, and agricultural improvement, and has been sublicensed to a global biopharmaceutical company. The invention, marketed as Pinpoint™ technology by Revvity, Inc. subsidiary Horizon Discovery,

Innovation starts with an idea. Rutgers strives to advance the innovations developed within its halls, labs, and fields, from their conception all the way to their transformation into products, services, and partnerships for the public good, generating value for the university and the state. The Office for Research (OfR) is at the forefront of that endeavor, supporting researchers in all areas, including funding, administration of grant awards, collaborations, patenting and licensing, and even the commercialization and entrepreneurship of Rutgers innovations. 39

has been sublicensed to AstraZeneca to support its creation of cell therapies for the treatment of cancer and immune-mediated diseases.

is Universitywide Core Services, offering specialized laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment, unique instrumentation, and shared services managed by scientists with technical expertise and experience and available on a fee-for-service basis.

OfR hosts conferences, workshops, and symposia throughout the year, bringing together researchers from different fields with industry and government representatives, to provide faculty the opportunity to network with potential collaborators, share best practices, and learn more about the exciting research and innovation being conducted at Rutgers. Moreover, the Office for Research submits nominations of Rutgers researchers for local and national awards. Through the Technology Transfer unit, the office selects researchers to nominate for honors, including but not limited to the Research and Development Council of New Jersey (RDNJ) Edison Patent Awards, AUTM Better World Project, Bell Labs Prize, National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Fellows, and TechUnited Catalyst Awards, assembling the application packet with a compelling case as to why the Rutgers researcher(s) should be selected.

These facilities provide a robust capability for researchers and companies in a variety of industries that may not have the resources to purchase the necessary equipment to further their discoveries. While many companies that use Universitywide Core Services are from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, Rutgers research cores have successfully provided services to firms across the United States, Europe, and Canada. In October of 2022, Rutgers unveiled its newly renovated 30,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art Research Tower that is home to a handful of core services. Located at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, the Research Tower facility is now home to core services including Molecular Imaging and a Comparative Medicine Resources Training facility. It features a fully equipped modern teaching classroom for undergraduates to receive hands-on learning, a program that began in the Fall of 2022.

In 2022, two Rutgers technologies received Edison Patent Awards and one faculty member was named an NAI Fellow. School of Engineering professor F. Javier Diez-Garias and Rutgers startup SubUAS CEO Marco Maia received the RDNJ Edison Patent Award in the Defense category for the ‘Naviator,’ the first drone that can operate in multiple and different environments through its multiplane propulsion system, while RWJMS associate professor Shengkan (Victor) Jin and his then postdoctoral research fellow Juan Carlos Collantes took home the Biotechnology award for their Pin-point™ technology. Maria Laura “Marila” Gennaro, a professor of medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and a professor of epidemiology at Rutgers School of Public Health, was named an NAI fellow, which is the highest professional distinction accorded solely to academic inventors. Gennaro’s research focuses on infectious diseases, particularly tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19.

Located within the Proteomics Building/Rutgers Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine is the Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics Protein Data Bank (RCSB PDB), which is the United States’ data center for the global PDB archive of 3D structure data for large biological molecules such as proteins, DNA, and RNA. Operated by Rutgers and funded through grants from the National Science Foundation, the US Department of Energy, the National Cancer Institute, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health, the PDB was established as the first open access digital data resource in all of biology and medicine. Today it is a leading global resource for experimental data central to scientific discovery by making PDB data available at no charge to all data consumers without limitations on usage. Recently, the RCSB PDB announced the expansion of its data storage capacity through the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Open Data Sponsorship Program.

As a public research university, Rutgers also serves as a research hub for the Garden State and beyond, providing integrated support and resources for innovators and established or emerging companies seeking to advance critical research and development (R&D) goals. Among these resources 40

In fact, since 2012, Rutgers has begun or completed more than $2.5 billion in building projects, with more on the way, including The Health & Life Science Exchange (HELIX). Construction has begun on the first of three HELIX buildings, a publicprivate development planned in downtown New Brunswick and accomplished through Rutgers’ partnership with the New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO). This innovation district will provide industries and other higher education institutions with a critical ecosystem to research, learn, work, and collaborate. Rutgers Health at the HELIX will be the new home to Rutgers RWJMS and a Rutgers translational research facility equipped with a variety of labs to advance the work of 80 research teams and put into practice health innovations that will improve individual and public health. The three-year construction project will support more than 7,000 jobs and generate about $83 million in local, county, and state tax revenues. Once completed, the HELIX is projected to produce approximately $880 million in economic activity annually in the state, including supporting about 4,500 jobs, according to an economic impact report on the project. Rutgers collaborates with state and local organizations to support startup companies. Moreover, entrepreneurs and companies can connect with Rutgers by searching for experts on potential research collaborations on ResearchwithRutgers.com. This free, online gateway allows visitors to search the university’s expansive research network for leading experts, facilities, and capabilities in STEM-related fields. The mission of the Office for Research is to support the research, scholarship, and creative endeavors of all Rutgers faculty. The office accomplishes its mission through its five facultyfacing units: Research Administration, Research Relationships, Universitywide Core Services, Technology Transfer, and New Ventures. Each area is staffed by scientists and professionals who understand the world of research inside and out and whose goals are to provide researchers with the tools they need to continue their work, including the administration of grants and awards, the discovery of research funding, collaboration opportunities, access to Rutgers core services, as well as entrepreneurship, commercialization, and more.

The OfR also focuses on student advancement through hands-on education and training in research administration and the different areas of the research life cycle by way of internships, fellowships, graduate assistantships, and work-study opportunities for students. Moreover, state-wide conferences such as the New Jersey Research Cores Partnering Conference and the New Jersey Academic Drug Discovery Conference provide opportunities for students to attend cutting-edge research events, network with faculty and industry partners, and present posters of their research efforts.

Recently, Research Administration reached an important milestone by earning prestigious accreditation from the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs (AAHRPP) for the first time. Through this coveted certification, the Rutgers Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) and Institutional Review Board (IRB) join the elite ranks of accredited university HRPPs. Rutgers animal facilities are USDA-registered and accredited by Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALACi), an association widely recognized for its standards of excellence in laboratory animal care. Moreover, Office for Research staff members serve in leadership roles on a variety of national and international organizations such as AUTM, National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA), European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ECLAM), and the Institute for Research on Innovation & Science (IRIS).

Through its support of the research, scholarship, and creative endeavors of all Rutgers faculty, the collaborations between the Office for Research team and Rutgers faculty serve as a testament to how research, innovations, and technologies can better people’s lives through improvements in the medical, environmental, social-economic, and cultural well-being of our state, the nation, and the world.

RutgersResearch

research.rutgers.edu 41

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

RUTGERS HEALTH - A RESEARCH, TRAINING AND INNOVATION POWERHOUSE

With nearly 7,000 students across eight schools and an array of centers and institutes, Rutgers Health leverages the university’s clinical, behavioral, public health, laboratory, engineering, and social science capabilities to train health professionals and researchers and expand access to quality care. Rutgers Health is among the few academic health centers in the U.S. that include dental, graduate, health professions, medical, nursing, pharmacy, and public health schools on one campus.

The institute’s Duncan and Nancy MacMillan Cancer Immunology and Metabolism Center of Excellence is aiding researchers in their efforts to understand and leverage the human immune response to treat cancers that don’t respond to standard therapies. The Center for Pediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Research, supported by $10 million in state funding annually, enables investigators to broaden scientific understanding, increase survival rates, and improve quality of life for children with cancer.

As the state’s largest academic health center, employing 1,300 clinical providers and treating 2.8 million patients annually, Rutgers Health scholars spark the ideas that become cures, train the innovators and caregivers of tomorrow, and help keep our communities and the world well.

When it opens in early 2025, the Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center will provide patients with state-of-the-art outpatient and inpatient care. Accompanied by research laboratories, retail space, and services devoted to patient wellness, it will be the first of its kind cancer facility in New Jersey.

Affiliations with RWJBarnabas Health and the VA New Jersey Healthcare System provide Rutgers Health with access to patients for translational and clinical research while bringing discoveries from the bench to the bedside. Proximity to New Jersey’s extensive biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, along with a research budget of more than $450 million, help ensure that Rutgers Health serves as an engine for health care discovery, innovation and economic development.

Uterine Cancer and 9/11 Following lobbying by researchers at the Rutgers’ Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, uterine cancer was added to the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program’s list of WTC-related health conditions. Women who worked as responders at Ground Zero and those who lived or worked nearby will receive full coverage from the WTC Health Program for uterine cancer treatment. They also will be able to seek compensation from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.

Cancer Care and Research As New Jersey’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey in partnership with RWJBarnabas Health provides patients access to the latest treatments including clinical trials. Patient care and research are at the center of the mission. 42

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Coronavirus Response

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Innovation, aims to accelerate innovation in cardiology, improve heart disease detection, and reduce overall health care costs.

Rutgers is leading the fight against COVID-19 with innovations in clinical, biomedical, and social science research. At the Center for COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness (CCRP2), researchers work to create safe protocols for handling the virus and testing for new variants, while conducting clinical trials on vaccines in partnership with private and public organizations.

Cancer Care for Botswana A Botswana-Rutgers Partnership for Health breast cancer research initiative, which was recognized by President Joe Biden’s administration in a recent Cancer Moonshot update, aims to close the breast cancer screening gap in Botswana. The partnership is piloting a rapid “screen and treat” program that will evaluate evidence-based interventions for breast cancer screening in the Serowe region of the country. This effort is a collaboration involving the Office of the President of Botswana, Botswana’s Ministry of Health, the University of Botswana, and Rutgers Global Health Institute. A second program, Cancer Kitso, is an education and training initiative for health care workers in oncology in Botswana and other African countries.

Located within the Rutgers Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (i3D), CCRP2 researchers are developing experimental models to help understand how COVID-19 triggers prolonged and debilitating symptoms – from persistent respiratory problems to impaired cognitive function – and have designed a new rapid test for detecting coronavirus variants in minutes.

Population Health Study The New Jersey Population Health Cohort Study aims to understand how life events and stress affect health, particularly within historically disadvantaged groups, multigenerational families, and immigrant groups throughout the state. Led by the Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research at Rutgers, the study will enroll up to 10,000 participants throughout New Jersey to deliver practical, actionable information for improving population health, well-being, and health equity.

The Rutgers University Microbiome Program is a university-wide initiative focusing on fundamental microbiome science research, education, translational and clinical research, technology transfer, and community outreach. Housed at the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, the program aims to develop academic, clinical, and industrial infrastructure to advance microbiome knowledge and practice in New Jersey and beyond.

Clinical and Translational Science

Research Challenge Winner

Based at the Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, the New Jersey Alliance for Clinical and Translational Science (NJACTS) is facilitating the development of new therapies and treatments to improve health and healthcare in the state. A consortium coordinated by Rutgers Health, NJACTS includes Rutgers and Princeton universities; New Jersey Institute for Technology (NJIT); medical, nursing, dental and public health schools; several regional hospitals; community health centers; outpatient practices; industry; policymakers; and health information exchanges.

One of many examples of exciting discoveries by our students comes from Leelabati Biswas. She is pursuing a dual doctoral degree in medicine and microbiology and molecular genetics (M.D.-Ph.D.) from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Leelabati won the 2022 American Medical Association Research Challenge for her project, “Decoding Pregnancy Loss: Validating a Novel Genetic Biomarker of Poor Egg Quality.” The competition is the largest national, multispecialty medical research event for medical students, residents and fellows, and international medical graduates to showcase and present research.

A Better Microbiome

NJACTS is advancing translational science by training the next generation of researchers and by working to understand the heterogeneity of disease and responses to interventions in diverse individuals, communities, and populations.

Algorithms for the Heart

Rutgers Health RutgersU rutgersu

To improve the detection of heart disease, Rutgers and Heart Test Laboratories Inc., a medical technology company, is engaged in a multiyear collaboration to develop artificial intelligence-based electrocardiogram algorithms. The collaboration, based at the newly established Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Center for

rutgershealth.org 43

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

the excitement of discovery, is a hallmark of Rutgers–Camden. Students participate in cutting-edge faculty research from as early as their sophomore year. Rutgers–Camden is committed to the highest standard in every area of its students’ education, from the quality of our professors and curriculum to unique opportunities that allow for interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world experiences.

RUTGERS UNIVERSITY IN CAMDEN: Research Innovation with Local Impact and Global Reach

Building the Code: Helping Scientists Collaborate Through Software Rutgers University in Camden researchers in the Center for Computational and Integrative Biology (CCIB) are currently bridging the diverging fields of biological information (DNA) and biological function (proteins) through an innovative program that uses software engineering

Grace Brannigan, associate professor of physics and director of the Center for Computational and Integrative Biology (photo by Ron Downes Jr.)

Rutgers University in Camden provides groundbreaking, impactful research while offering students truly experiential education in a closeknit, supportive environment. Rutgers University is one of the oldest, most respected institutions of higher learning in the country; Camden is a city known for its determination and resilience. Rutgers–Camden is resolute, relentlessly driving innovation across the region and beyond, while providing incredible opportunities for students to learn by doing.

and artificial intelligence to promote collaboration among scientists. Led by Grace Brannigan, associate professor of physics and director of the CCIB, The groundbreaking Codes4Life (C4L) program is supported by a $2 million National Science Foundation Research Traineeship (NRT) grant. The C4L research team comprises nine scientists trained in computational genomics, evolutionary genomics, computational biophysics, and computational chemistry, who are collaborating on projects focused on the interface between genetics and proteins. Even though DNA and proteins are closely linked within cells, there is a traditional lack of communication between scientists in these two fields, worsened by the shortcomings of currently available software. The C4L program focuses on creating and executing software as a powerful method for sharing data and bridging this disciplinary divide.

With more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Rutgers– Camden offers a rigorous Rutgers University education combined with all the benefits of a small, intimate learning environment. Leaders in their respective fields, our faculty are widely published, internationally recognized, and consistently awarded highly competitive research grants. Our students do more than just learn from expert faculty: They work sideby-side with them to uncover solutions to the challenges facing the city, the region, and beyond. As a leading R2 research institution, Rutgers–Camden provides students unprecedented opportunities for hands-on research. Faculty members are committed to innovative teaching at every level—undergraduate, master’s and doctoral—and inspired by the ideas and opinions of their students. This faculty mentorship, where professors and students share

The National Science Foundation program advances biological research and develops an effective graduate STEM training model that is efficient, integrated with cutting-edge research, and able to be widely adopted. A principal component of C4L—and a primary reason for the NRT grant—is 44

the program’s use of innovative and systematic approaches to develop a diverse group of 25 Ph.D. students over the course of the project, with an additional 15 Ph.D. and 15 master’s degree students expected. The curriculum includes a mentorship program with industry professionals that will help students develop software that meets and exceeds industry standards.

Driving Innovation: Trailblazing Traffic Experiment Reveals Hidden Benefits of Autonomous Vehicles Rutgers University in Camden partnered with Nissan North America, Toyota, General Motors, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, David Salas-de la Cruz, associate professor of chemistry and Abby Morales, Ph.D. student and several other universities nationwide to (photo by Ron Downes Jr.) conduct the world’s largest traffic experiment The test was conducted on the recently opened I-24 MOTION testbed, the in Nov. 2022. Using a fleet of 100 specially equipped Nissan Rogues, only real-world automotive testing environment of its kind in the world. Toyota RAV4s, and a Cadillac XT5, researchers tested an AI-powered Stretching for four miles just southeast of downtown Nashville, the cruise-control system designed to increase fuel savings and ease traffic by smart highway is equipped with 300 4K digital sensors capable of logging reducing human-caused roadway congestion. 260,000 vehicle-miles of data per year. The experiment—which ran on a sensor-filled portion of U.S. Interstate Built to Last: Fostering Breakthroughs in Sustainable Building 24 in Tennessee—aimed to replicate results from an earlier, closed-track Materials study where a single AI-equipped vehicle smoothed human-caused traffic congestion, leading to a 40 percent fuel savings. Rutgers University in Camden researcher David Salas-de la Cruz has made it his life’s work to replace the petroleum-based materials According to CIRCLES Consortium researchers, just one vehicle equipped currently fueling the world economy with natural alternatives. The with adaptive cruise control (ACC)—which has the ability to speed up sustainable materials created in his research lab hold promise in reducing and slow down a vehicle while maintaining a safe distance relative to environmental pollutants driving the onset of climate change. the vehicle in front of it—could change the driving behavior of up to 20 surrounding cars. This in turn causes a positive ripple effect in day-to-day David Salas-de la Cruz, a native of Puerto Rico, is among Rutgers– traffic. Benedetto Piccoli the Joseph and Loretta Lopez chair and professor Camden researchers developing natural substances that can be of mathematics, and his colleagues have spent the ensuing months regenerated from trees, plants, biodegradable waste, algae, and grass. The analyzing data collected on the AI-equipped vehicles and their impact on materials are intended to replace common construction materials such the flow of traffic over the duration of the experiment. as wood, concrete, and steel. David Salas-de la Cruz’s team is producing a durable, lightweight, naturally based plastic-like material with sugars and softeners that can be folded and formed for architectural and manufacturing use. The project, supported by a five-year National Science Foundation grant, involves a multidisciplinary research team from Rutgers-Camden, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Rowan University. David Salas-de la Cruz’s career in chemistry—a field in which Hispanics comprise just 7.1 percent of the workforce in the United States—is a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in laboratory science. It is why David Salas-de la Cruz supports and encourages students like Abby Morales. Morales, a Camden-born Ph.D. student who has conducted research in David Salas-de la Cruz’s lab since her junior year of high school. His message to young Hispanic students is simple: with passion and perseverance, you, too, could change beliefs and misconceptions—all while reducing the global carbon footprint. Rutgers University–Camden RutgersCamden Rutgers_Camden rutgers-university-camden 45

camden.rutgers.edu

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Excellence in Scholarly Leadership, Innovative Research, Student Success, and Community Engagement

Pillar I: Scholarly Leadership

Rutgers University–New Brunswick, the nation’s #15 top public university (U.S. News & World Report), is proud to show the world what excellence looks like.

Eco-Glider Offshore Wind Initiative The emerging offshore renewable energy industry will require a workforce with diverse skills across many sectors. The Eco-Glider Offshore Wind Initiative, funded through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the state Board of Public Utilities and led by the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, will deploy 22 robotic, underwater gliders off the New Jersey coast to study ocean and marine ecology conditions.

What fuels our innovation? Membership in the Big Ten Academic Alliance and the Association of American Universities. More than 20 programs and schools in the nation’s top 10. Research, economic, and service engagement that touches every corner of New Jersey and beyond. Scholarship that cross-pollinates across the STEM fields, arts, and humanities, and addresses society’s grand challenges. The rich diversity of our more than 40,000 students and 10,000 faculty and staff. A commitment to student support.

Gloria Steinem Endowed Chair in Media, Culture, and Feminist Studies A collaboration between our School of Communication and Information, Institute of Women’s Leadership, and Department of Women’s and Gender Studies at the School of Arts and Sciences, the chair—currently held by internationally recognized writer, editor, cultural critic, and educator Roxane Gay—exists to honor, retain, and recruit eminent scholars and practitioners who will help immerse the university community in debate and scholarship about new media, social change, and power structures.

Our recently launched Academic Master Plan will help us reach our full potential as a national leader of higher education through the four Pillars of Excellence outlined here.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Socially Cognizant Robotics for a Technology Enhanced Society Funded by a National Science Foundation grant, Socially Cognizant Robotics for a Technology Enhanced Society (SOCRATES) convenes faculty and students from technology and social science backgrounds. This partnership between the School of Engineering, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, and School of Arts and Sciences focuses on the societal impact of robots as they become integrated into everyday life and work as well as the development of socially aware technologists and technologically aware social scientists.

Pillar II: Innovative Research The First Saliva-Based Test for COVID-19 Our researchers led the creation of the first COVID-19 saliva-based test, which received emergency-use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration and allowed for broader population screening than throat and nose swabs.

Rutgers Summer Service Internship Initiative The Rutgers Summer Service Internship (RSSI) Initiative is a universitywide program through which undergraduate students participate in meaningful internships with nonprofits and government organizations while expanding their knowledge and skills as engaged citizens. RSSI provides students with a $5,000 stipend and three funded academic credits. It has placed students in more than 100 high-impact public service internships.

Reefence: A Mosaic Oyster Habitat for Coastal Defense Rutgers was awarded a $12.6 million Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency grant to develop an oyster-based shoreline ecosystem to help protect coastlines from storm damage, flooding, and erosion. It will focus on oyster reefs in the Gulf Coast and combine novel cements and concretes with state-of-the-art shellfish breeding and the latest ecological engineering of shoreline habitats.

Pillar IV: Community Engagement

The Rutgers-Eagleton Poll Conducted by the Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling, the RutgersEagleton Poll is the nation’s oldest university-based statewide polling operation. It measures New Jerseyans’ attitudes about politics and policy and serves as a resource for news media, scholars, and the public. Its rigorous statistical methods support research in social and behavioral studies and scientific, systematic data collection, and it collaborates with scholars across Rutgers.

Brandt Behavioral Health Treatment Center and Residence The Brandt Behavioral Health Treatment Center and Residence, scheduled to open in fall 2023 as the centerpiece for the Rutgers Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, will be New Jersey’s first treatment facility exclusively for adolescents and young adults that is backed by an academic health leader like Rutgers. Created through a partnership that includes the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology and University Behavioral Health Care, the Brandt Center will be the gold standard for evidence-based youth behavioral health care, positively impact the field of mental health delivery, and train the next generation of clinicians.

Pillar III: Student Success Coastal Climate Risk and Resilience Traineeship This National Science Foundation-funded initiative is preparing graduate students to meet the challenge of coastal climate change. Coastal Climate Risk and Resilience (C2R2) integrates expertise from diverse fields: urban planning, climate science, oceanography, engineering, sociology, and economics. It provides graduate students with the opportunity to conduct research that integrates natural, socioeconomic, and engineered elements of coastal systems.

Project Resilience Our Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology partnered with Jersey City Public Schools, the state’s second-largest school district, for a federally funded initiative to provide students with social-emotional learning and trauma-focused, evidence-based interventions; support teachers and school leaders with training and coaching in traumainformed classroom practices; and strengthen collaborations between mental health agencies and community partners for screenings, referrals, and direct services.

Road to Wall Street Road to Wall Street bolsters the industry knowledge and interview skills of select students who demonstrate a strong interest in and knowledge of the financial markets. Students benefit from the Rutgers Business School’s proximity and ties to Wall Street and from counseling, training, a financial modeling and valuation course, peer and alumni mentors, and yearround access to industry executives through guest lectures, site visits, networking events, and workshops.

Rutgers University–New Brunswick RutgersNB rutgersnb

newbrunswick.rutgers.edu 47

RUTGERS UNIVERSITY–NEWARK DRIVING INNOVATION THROUGH DIVERSITY & SOCIAL MOBILITY Rutgers University–Newark is a leading urban research university that leverages diversity and high-impact scholarship to cultivate the talent essential to transform communities and change the world. An anchor institution in our home city, we are not just in but of Newark. The RU-N community has long recognized that our location is both a defining influence in our story and a distinctive strength. Our long-standing recognition as one of the most diverse research universities in the United States reflects the diversity of our city and region.

Rutgers-Newark (foreground) is proudly embedded in the heart of New Jersey’s largest city and cultural capital.

We attract and cultivate globally competitive talent on many levels, from generations of students hungry for the opportunities afforded by a first-rate higher education in a major American urban center, to faculty who vigorously embrace the opportunity to produce high-impact scholarship and engage the community while preparing these students for professional success and informed citizenship. Our location is also a magnet for professional staff committed to advancing our research, pedagogy, and social impact within an inclusive campus culture focused on excellence. These factors underlie Rutgers-Newark’s perennial recognition as one of the nation’s most effective universities at facilitating social mobility.

Undergraduate students using a remote sensor to see below the surface of New Jersey’s Meadowlands. •

We seek to forge mutually beneficial, sustainable partnerships that pool the talent of our faculty, staff, and students with that of experts across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, which not only makes for better, more creative solutions to the grand challenges facing our world, but creates more effective learning environments. Our work toward this end is organized under five broad areas that capture much of the scholarly expertise and civic-oriented interests in anchor institution work:

• • • •

Building Inclusive Educational Pathways to Increase Post secondary Attainment Achieving Equitable Growth through Urban Entrepreneurship and Economic Development The Arts and Culture Strong, Healthy, and Safe Neighborhoods Science and the Urban Environment

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Geochemist Ashaki Rouff with vegetables harvested from a community garden where she helped remove soil contaminants.

Rutgers-Newark’s debate team, perennially among the best in the U.S., with national championship trophies.

Our strategic activities in these areas range from cross-disciplinary initiatives rooted in community, to partnerships with diverse “communities of experts,” to co-created spaces in the city and region. A few examples include:

•

The work of environmental geochemists from the university working with community groups to identify and remediate the presence of toxins in the soils of community gardens.

When you partner with Rutgers-Newark, you: •

•

• •

A Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and Economic Development and Center for Law, Inequality & Metropolitan Equity that are core contributors in the City of Newark’s efforts to advance equitable growth while mitigating gentrification that threatens to displace longtime residents, 85% of whom identify as African or Latinx American; A broad-based collective impact network of 40+ organizations working together to increase college attainment in Newark, The Newark City of Learning Collaborative; A new Honors Living-Learning Community emphasizing “local citizenship in a global world” that has been lauded as a national model in The New York Times; Express Newark, a 50,000-square-foot university-community arts collaboratory in the historic Hahne & Co. building downtown; Catalyzing the Newark Public Safety Collaborative, a group of scholars, law enforcement, city officials, nonprofits working on re-entry of formerly incarcerated city residents, and community members using evidence-based approaches to increase the safety and security of neighborhoods and decrease recidivism.

• • •

•

Fuel an engine of economic prosperity and social mobility for diverse new generations of change makers; Leverage the ‘diversity bonus’ to create better, smarter solutions that result when people of many backgrounds tackle problems together; Increase educational access and pooling ideas and resources across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to create more sustainable, equitable communities; and Spur collaboration and learn what it means to live and work across differences that threaten to divide us.

To explore partnerships, please visit Newark.rutgers.edu or email RU-NCommunications@rutgers.edu.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

THE GATES TO INNOVATION ARE OPEN

Jennifer Rexford, Princeton University provost and the Gordon Y.S. Wu Professor in Engineering, welcomed a large audience in September 2023 to the launch of the Princeton Language and Intelligence Initiative, a new multidisciplinary initiative focused on large Artificial Intelligence (AI) models. Photo by Sameer Khan, Fotobuddy Rigor and relevance: Princeton research and innovation today. It’s an exciting time at the university. Princeton has brought energy and determination to new programs that nurture and unleash the enterprising spirit of faculty, students, staff, and alumni. In a state with a venerable history of discovery and innovation, Princeton has proactively broadened its efforts to connect research with the greater innovation ecosystem in New Jersey and beyond.

With more than 50 Nobel prizes awarded to faculty, staff and alumni, Princeton University has long been a source of extraordinary fundamental research. While many of today’s Princeton researchers continue to pursue curiosity-driven knowledge, increasing numbers among them also want to help solve the major challenges of our time in realms ranging from healthcare to sustainability to information systems. 50

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

“For a place like Princeton, Innovation is not simply ‘Entrepreneurship.’ It is the translation and transmission of the knowledge, technologies, and advances developed in our research labs, libraries, and workspaces to the global community for the benefit of humanity.” — Craig B. Arnold, Vice Dean for Innovation; co-leader, Princeton Alliance for Collaborative Research and Innovation.

technology investors, and other partners. In his lab, Arnold heads a research program ranging from basic science to applied technology aimed at developing a deeper understanding of materials synthesis and processing in advanced manufacturing, energy storage and conversion, and optics and photonics. In the Nation’s Service and the Service of Humanity In keeping with its informal motto, Princeton is accelerating the societal impact of its inventions and opening new opportunities for its powerful research to make a difference in people’s lives. To learn more, visit Princeton.edu and innovation.princeton.edu. For research, entrepreneurship, and innovation inquiries, email odfr@princeton.edu

Photo by Kevin Birch Encouraging Entrepreneurship Princeton promotes entrepreneurship by offering education and training, advisory support, collaborative spaces, and funding resources. While many efforts serve the University community, the Princeton Innovation Center-BioLabs aims more broadly: Science startups wishing to apply for residency in this incubator do not have to be connected to the university, and the center’s entrepreneurship programming is open to all. Further, Princeton connects with entrepreneurs around the globe, bringing them the latest science and innovation through a robust slate of outreach events. Expanding research collaborations with industry Princeton has spurred a significant increase in corporate engagement, developing novel opportunities for academic researchers to collaborate with industry. Multidisciplinary efforts such as the Princeton Catalysis Initiative and the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment offer scientists, engineers, and scholars the opportunity to explore the intersections of what were once separate fields — intersections at which breakthroughs are often made and attract industry interest.

“Over the years I’ve noticed the impact that all universities have on the economy, both the national economy and the local economy. Research educates students, and researchers create startup companies and work with local companies. Universities really are economic engines.” — Peter Schiffer, Dean for Research and professor of physics.

Photo by Sameer Khan, Fotobuddy Establishing academic leadership to advance research-driven innovation As vice dean for innovation, Craig B. Arnold leads the Princeton Innovation initiative and oversees university efforts to grow an innovation culture across disciplines, aiming to strengthen engagement with entrepreneurs, alumni, industry,

princetonu princeton

princeton.edu 51

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

PERSONAL. GLOBAL. TRANSFORMATIONAL. THE HALLMARKS OF AN FDU EDUCATION ARE PERSONAL SUPPORT AND CONCERN, GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES AND OPPORTUNITIES, AND TRANSFORMATIONAL EXPERIENCES.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

offered, and Bergen Junior College in Teaneck , N.J., was purchased as a second campus. In 1956, Fairleigh Dickinson attained university status. One year later, the beautiful 178-acre Vanderbilt-Twombly estate in Florham Park and Madison, N.J., was acquired to serve as another campus.

Founded in 1942 by Dr. Peter Sammartino and his wife, Sylvia (Sally), Fairleigh Dickinson University has grown into the largest private university in New Jersey. More than 11,000 students from 44 states and 79 other countries are enrolled on FDU’s two campuses in New Jersey and its campuses in Wroxton, England, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

FDU became the first American university to own a campus in England when it acquired Wroxton College from Trinity College, Oxford University. Opened in 1965, Wroxton College offers American students an array of graduate and undergraduate courses as well as an enriching cultural experience. Formerly a 13th-century abbey, Wroxton College is now a beautifully restored and modernized Jacobean mansion.

Beginning as a two-year junior college in Rutherford, N.J., today the University offers nearly 100 degree programs at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral levels. Fairleigh Dickinson University strongly emphasizes an international component to its curriculum and provides its students with a global and multicultural perspective. The University has consistently been an innovator, adapting to the changing educational demands of the students it serves.

Recognizing that the student profile on most U.S. campuses is changing dramatically, the University’s Petrocelli Center for Continuing Studies (formerly New College of General and Continuing Studies) was formed in 1998 to provide a unified approach to an enhanced focus on the adult learner and to continue to position FDU as a leader in providing learning opportunities in a strong academic foundation for students of all ages.

Responding to the need for higher education in northern New Jersey, the college expanded to a four-year curricula in 1948. In 1954, the first graduate program — a master’s degree in business administration — was 53

Trustee and FDU alumnus Winston Lowe presents the presidential medallion to President Michael Avaltroni at his inauguration on September 27, 2023. Over the years, Fairleigh Dickinson University has maintained its commitment to broadening global horizons and fostering greater international understanding. In 2000, the Board of Trustees adopted the following mission for FDU: “Fairleigh Dickinson University is a center of academic excellence dedicated to the preparation of world citizens through global education. The University strives to provide students with the multidisciplinary, intercultural and ethical understandings necessary to participate, lead and prosper in the global marketplace of ideas, commerce and culture.”

and Florham Park offers a classical undergraduate and graduate experience for the contemporary world in a small-college setting.

In addition to Wroxton College, the University opened its second international campus in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in fall 2007. Each of the University campuses has developed a unique character and vitality. The Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck and Hackensack, features a university atmosphere with an international perspective attracting nearly equal numbers of graduate and undergraduate students from throughout the United States and around the world. Fairleigh Dickinson’s Florham Campus in suburban Madison

Fairleigh Dickinson University has enjoyed special partnerships with prominent institutions around the globe. For example, the University has been associated with the United Nations since it was founded in 1945 and has earned special designations with the world body that provide unique learning opportunities for students. With the depth and breadth of its faculty and programs, Fairleigh Dickinson University has positioned itself as a quality, comprehensive private university serving the citizens of New Jersey and beyond.

The Silberman College of Business is accredited by the prestigious AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and has been named among the nation’s best by The Princeton Review. Many other programs are also highly ranked. And FDU has been repeatedly recognized as a “Military Friendly® School” by G.I. Jobs magazine.

President Avaltroni with members of FDU’s academic leadership team

TODAY AND TOMORROW

In fall 2023, FDU announced the establishment of FDU Health, a comprehensive and innovative new division that combines new initiatives along with existing programs from multiple colleges and schools within the University. This hub for interdisciplinary health care education and training will open doors of opportunity for students and address the growing needs of the health care sector. For decades, FDU has been at the forefront of health education, research and service with bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs. FDU Health builds on this legacy, providing integrated, world-class training for students pursuing opportunities in the growing health care field.

In 2023, Michael J. Avaltroni became the first alumnus of FDU to become the president of the institution. Under his leadership, FDU is embarking on a new chapter and a renewed commitment to “Students First!” FDU is more determined than ever to meet students where they are, define its priorities around students’ changing needs and provide them a place where they belong and where they can forge an identity and make a powerful impact. As Avaltroni said during his inaugural address, “As an institution we have defined our North Star. The path forward means focusing people and resources on programs and priorities that best serve and support students.”

Building on the creation of FDU Health, a number of exciting developments are underway.

Among recent developments and highlights: FDU created a new strategic plan titled FDU Will Soar. The six major strategic goals include: Recruit students, Retain current students, Graduate students, Partner with institutions that can enhance offerings, encourage more to Give to our programs and students and better Position and communicate FDU’s special traits and accomplishments.

FDU, for example, created the Transforming College Campuses (TCC) program, spearheaded by the School of Psychology and Counseling in collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs. Funded through a generous donation, the TCC program will support the mental-health needs of FDU’s undergraduate students and foster opportunities for undergraduates and graduate students to pursue careers in mental health-related fields. The project embeds graduate students with firstyear students taking a mandatory course, A Transition to University Life. The students remain paired with the graduate students for their first two years at the University to foster support and mentorship. The TCC program also provides physical spaces on the campuses where students can go for support and resources.

In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report’s collegiate rankings, FDU resumed its place in the top 50 regional universities in the north, but even more importantly, the University was ranked number 14 in Best Value Schools and number 13 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. In addition, the University did very well in a new category created by the organization, ranking number 17 in “Undergraduate Teaching Programs.” “We have long prided ourselves on the value we offer and the opportunities we provide our students to move upwards, so to see those hallmarks recognized in these rankings are especially gratifying,” said President Avaltroni.

FDU also recently became the first private college in New Jersey to join the Moon Shot for Equity, a national network of colleges and universities committed to eliminating equity gaps in higher education. 56

Players and fans alike celebrate after the FDU Knights defeated top-seeded Purdue in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. Each participating school has committed to implementing more than a dozen research-based best practices proven to remove systemic barriers to student success. These commitments range from updating academic policies, to working together to establish common academic pathways, to providing equity-mindedness training to university leaders. FDU has a rich history and strong legacy of providing access and opportunity for students to transform their lives and this is yet another milestone in our institutional development.

fellowships to ensure that FDU students can pursue and complete their education. FDU has taken great strides in recent years to make an FDU education affordable, including a major tuition reduction in 2021, and this campaign will further help provide the resources students need to overcome hurdles and open doors. President Avaltroni believes the University’s best days lie ahead. “Through devoted service to our students, FDU can continue to forge an impactful presence in higher education so our graduates will continue to transform their lives and the world around them.”

FDU has also recently enhanced its commitment and support for Hispanic students through the Hispanic Center, which includes programs for English speakers with Latino roots and for emergent bilingual students, as well as programs for traditional college-aged students and adult learners. The University has been recognized as a Fulbright Hispanic Serving Institution Leader and in 2022 was honored by Excelencia in Education as a national collegiate example of excellence for the advancement of Latino students in the classroom and in the workplace.

Fairleigh Dickinson University fairleighdickinsonuniversity fduwhatsnew FDUWhatsNew fairleigh-dickinson-university fduwhatsnew FDUWhatsNew

In 2023, FDU announced a new fundraising campaign, “Students First,” which will be dedicated entirely to supporting students throughout their academic journeys. Funding will support scholarships and

fdu.edu 57

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

INNOVATION THROUGH EDUCATION

One of the top 100 public research institutions in the nation, Rowan University doesn’t just educate—it innovates. That’s obvious: In its growth in recent years—that includes more programs and doctoral degrees. More buildings (including new structures for the School of Earth & Environment, the Rohrer College of Business and the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering to accommodate growing enrollment). And more students, doubling enrollment in little more than a decade to nearly 23,000, making Rowan the third fastest-growing public research university in the United States, according to The Chronicle of Higher Education.

In recognition—Rowan earned Carnegie R2 (High Research Activity) research status. U.S. News & World Report and other publications and organizations continue to rank Rowan highly. And faculty, staff and students consistently receive honors at the regional, national and international levels, including Fulbright, Goldwater and Boren awards, as well as funding from the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation and National Endowment for the Humanities, among other organizations.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Researchers at Rowan University’s Advanced Materials & Manufacturing Institute are working to develop new plastic composites using sustainable materials. In research—Rowan enjoys long-term partnerships and collaborations with business and industry, government and nonprofit organizations in New Jersey and beyond, often serving as their de facto R&D arm. The work spans Rowan’s medical schools, STEM programs, humanities, and more, while developing new relationships, including with Lockheed Martin, the U.S. Army and a host of business and government organizations. In developing new technologies—Rowan is among the first affiliates in the National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Northeast Hub, a training network to grow the societal and economic benefits arising from NSF-funded research in science and engineering. And in commitment to the community and the economy—this commitment includes a new partnership with Virtua Health, southern New Jersey’s largest health system, which aims to transform and advance health care research and education. INNOVATION THROUGH CLINICAL DISCOVERY The Virtua Health College of Medicine & Health Sciences of Rowan University is transforming South Jersey into a regional hub for innovation, research and clinical discovery. The college encompasses New Jersey’s only osteopathic medical school; an expanded nursing and allied health professions school; a new school of translational biomedical engineering and sciences; multiple new research institutes; and aligned clinical practices to improve patient care and train the health care workforce of the future. Presently in its planning phase, the School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences will provide the college’s focal point for health discovery and innovation. The blueprint for advancing its research goals is breathtaking in both speed and scope. Rowan Boulevard, Glassboro, N.J. With support from Virtua Health’s $85 million philanthropic investment, the school is recruiting 50 new faculty investigators, including basic and clinician scientists, over the next decade. Plans include the construction of a new facility to support basic, translational, and clinical research. 59

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Hands-on research experience is a key component of Rowan University’s undergraduate program, strengthening students’ opportunities for employment or competitive graduate programs.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Rowan University’s entrepreneurship program encourages entrepreneurial thinking across majors. Offered through the Rohrer College of Business, the program ranks among the nation’s top 50. The school’s first three research institutes will focus on issues of vital concern: Institute of Cardiovascular Innovation Institute of Solid Organ Transplantation & Regenerative Medicine Institute for Health Equity UNIVERSITY OF—AND FOR—THE FUTURE Rowan is dedicated to providing an accessible, affordable undergraduate education and to tackling research that addresses real-world problems— particularly at the intersection of science, engineering, technology and medicine. Rowan University’s rapid transformation from a well-regarded state school to a national research (Carnegie R2) university with two medical schools will soon include New Jersey’s first veterinary school. Once the program is fully accredited, Rowan University will be only the second university in the nation to offer the M.D., D.O. and D.V.M. degrees. The University will continue to explore ways to improve higher education, making it more accessible and affordable; pursue practical research that addresses real-world problems in health care, the environment, technology and other fields; and better the economy of the region, always transforming itself to meet the needs of an ever-changing world.

RowanUniversity rowanuniversity

rowan.edu 61

CHAPTER THREE

INNOVATION IN LIFE SCIENCES, HEALTHCARE & MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 62

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

FORGE CONNECTIONS WITH NEW JERSEY’S ACADEMIC RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS

ResearchwithNJ.com is a free online portal that showcases New Jersey’s experts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including their professional backgrounds, publications, and achievements. The portal is structured to encourage collaboration between entrepreneurs, businesses, and New Jersey’s academic research institutions. The comprehensive database covers scientific research from five prominent New Jersey universities with plans to expand to additional New Jersey institutions. The portal can be accessed at www.ResearchwithNJ.com.

Governor Phil Murphy announced the launch of Research with NJ in the summer of 2018 at the same time he announced the re-establishment of the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT). Research with NJ was originally developed as a collaborative effort by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) to forge stronger connections between New Jersey’s research universities and the industry; and was transitioned to CSIT and OSHE in 2022 due to the Commission’s close ties to both the startup and academic communities. The alignment of businesses and academic institutions will help to grow New Jersey’s economy by creating opportunities for the state’s institutions of higher education to compete on the national and global levels.

Research with NJ offers more than 280,000 pieces of research output that commercial enterprises, ranging from startups to global corporations, can use to fuel their growth. Topics range across a broad spectrum of disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, psychology, sociology, and others. The newly expanded Research with NJ portal has search capabilities for specific subject matters that align with New Jersey’s strategic industry sectors through the site’s “strategic pillar” tabs.

Plans are underway to expand the number of New Jersey institutions engaging with the site and enhance outreach to emerging companies and academic professionals strengthening connections between New Jersey’s research universities and industry. 64

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Research with NJ highlights Garden State’s leading research experts and facilities, enhancing the visibility of research output. It also increases opportunities for users to create partnerships and build innovative new businesses and products based on the latest scientific and technological breakthroughs. Businesses can gain access to relevant areas of expertise, facilitating the transfer of technology to the marketplace. This includes information on subject matter experts, facilities, publications, intellectual property, news, and events. Research with NJ serves as a conduit to innovation, facilitating the commercialization of novel ideas and products and attracting more funding to ensure pioneering research can continue at New Jersey’s world-class institutions.

Industry Association, Choose New Jersey, BioNJ, the HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, the Research and Development Council of New Jersey, and TechUnited. The advisory board provides oversight and recommendations to ensure the portal’s sustainability and success.

To date, the Research with NJ platform has sourced nearly 280,000 outputs from all participating universities, incorporating more than 5,000 individual profiles, more than 150 core facilities, and grants/ projects topping 6,400. The portal strengthens the state’s ability to promote the high quality and volume of research produced by our researchers to a global audience. Since its inception, visitors from 220 countries have accessed the site to help identify collaboration and partnership opportunities. Elsevier, a global information and analytics company, created the Research with NJ database combining its state-of-the-art technology and vast repository of research data. Research with NJ is the result of the integration of existing databases at the university level through Elsevier’s Pure software platform. New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology

Research with NJ was developed under the leadership of an advisory board consisting of the participating research universities and industry representatives from the NJEDA, OSHE, New Jersey Business and

ResearchwithNJ.com 65

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology - CSIT

The Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) is responsible for strengthening the innovation economy within New Jersey, encouraging collaboration and connectivity between industry and academia, and the translating of innovations into successful high-growth businesses. CSIT is committed to advancing innovation-based economic development and job growth, and to creating a stronger, fairer economy for all New Jersey citizens by keeping the Garden State at the forefront of scientific and technological innovations.

New Jersey’s economic growth, everyone needs to be able to contribute. Consistent with this approach, a major pillar of all CSIT programs is increased intentional and targeted outreach to female and minority entrepreneurs and communities that have historically had limited participation in the innovation economy. Currently, approximately 25 percent of the applicants to CSIT grant programs are self-identified female entrepreneurs, and 10 percent are underrepresented minority entrepreneurs.

Our Programs: CSIT links and leverages resources and collaborates with other New Jersey agencies to implement programs and policies to address the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, especially gaps in services and support for early-stage startups focused on technology commercialization with the potential for high growth and further investment. Emphasis is also placed on programs that drive increased academic - industrial cooperation and accelerate the commercialization of new technologies from New Jersey’s public and private research institutions. CSIT initiatives:

Grant Programs: CSIT offers a range of grant programs to assist early-stage entrepreneurs with Research & Development (R&D) - from ideation through commercialization. Seed grants support technology development, pilot demonstration awards enable companies to further test products in realworld settings, and R&D vouchers offset the cost of accessing unique specialized equipment at New Jersey universities, makerspaces, and federal and non-profit laboratories. Funding awards range from $25,000 to $250,000. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has provided funding for a suite of clean technology programs.

• Support and coordinate activities to assist early-stage science, innovation, and technology entrepreneurs; • Stimulate and promote strong academic/industrial cooperation to accelerate the commercialization of new technologies from public and private research institutions; • Encourage and propel the development of scientific and technological programs in areas of strategic importance; • Enhance science, innovation, and technology policy decision-making at all levels of State government.

Catalyst & Clean Tech R&D Voucher Programs: The goal of the Voucher programs is to 1) improve awareness, access to, and utilization of equipment, facilities, and makerspaces at New Jersey’s

Diversity, equity, and inclusion underpin CSIT activities. In order to bring new ideas and innovations to the market and fuel 66

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

world-leading universities and federal laboratories. and 2) subsidize access to R&D equipment, facilities and makerspaces for small New Jersey-based companies that are developing innovative technologies.

Catalyst Seed R&D Grant Program: The goal of the Catalyst Seed R&D Grant Program is to help New Jersey-based early-stage innovation-focused companies accelerate the development of technologies to transform new discoveries from the research stage into commercially viable products and services. Applicants developing life sciences therapeutics can apply for grants of up to $150,000, while all other applicants are eligible to apply for grants of up to $75,000.

Clean Tech Seed R&D Grant Program: The goal of this program is to help New Jersey-based early-stage cleantech/clean energy companies accelerate research and development and innovation of clean technologies to transform new discoveries from the research stage into commercially viable technologies, leading to industry and investor interest. The program is for companies developing or testing clean technologies intended to avoid emissions of, or recapture, greenhouse gases. Applicants can apply for grants of up to $75,000.

TECHNICAL RESOURCES:

Clean Tech Pilot Demonstration Grant Program: The goal of the Clean Tech Pilot Demonstration Program is to help New Jersey-based companies accelerate the commercialization and deployment of innovative clean energy technologies by demonstrating capabilities in a real-world setting. Companies must be developing or testing clean technologies intended to avoid emissions of, or recapture, greenhouse gases and/or criteria pollutants, or to enable such avoidance or recapture. Applicants can apply for grants of up to $250,000.

SBIR/STTR Coaching:

Maternal / Infant Health Seed R&D Grant Program:

ResearchWithNJ

The goal of the Maternal and Infant Health R&D Grant Program is to support innovation from researchers and entrepreneurs focused on developing technology, therapeutics, and other solutions to address maternal and infant health challenges in New Jersey. The grant will engage early-stage innovation-based companies in New Jersey to accelerate the R&D of technologies to transform new discoveries from the research stage into commercially viable products and services that impact maternal and infant health.

ResearchwithNJ.com helps businesses and entrepreneurs identify and collaborate with top New Jersey universities and experts. The free database has information on thousands of experts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) as well as their professional backgrounds, publications, and achievements. The site also highlights research departments and specializations along with details on core lab facilities.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Direct Financial Assistance Program:

The New Jersey Equity in Commercialization Collective (NJECC) is a National Science Foundation ADVANCE partnership program that was created to address the significant equity issues in academic technology commercialization and eliminate systemic barriers at all levels. NJECC aims to increase the diversity of STEM faculty researchers who participate in New Jersey’s entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem. NJECC partners with universities and organizations throughout New Jersey, including CSIT, as part of this systemic change initiative. www.njeccadvance.com

The New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) Network received the Federal and State Technology (FAST) grant that will be used to support specialized training, mentoring, and technical assistance for R&D-focused small businesses. Funded by the federal government’s SBIR and STTR programs, the FAST helps increase the number of SBIR/STTR proposals. For more information contact info@njsbdc.com.

New Jersey Equity in Commercialization Collective:

The SBIR/STTR Direct Financial Assistance Program aims to enhance the innovation economy in New Jersey through financial support to New Jersey small businesses seeking to participate in, or currently participating in, the federal SBIR/STTR program. The program has three objectives: 1) to increase the success rate of New Jersey grant applications seeking federal funding for SBIR/STTR programs, 2) to reduce the financial burden for small New Jersey companies that have won Phase I, Fast Track, or Direct to Phase II awards/contracts through federal SBIR/ STTR programs and 3) increase success and maximize the growth of small New Jersey companies in moving from Phase I to Phase II of the SBIR/ STTR federal programs. Companies that have received a federal Phase I award are eligible for $25,000 while companies that have completed their Phase I project and applied for Phase II can apply for $50,000.

New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology

njeda.com/csit 67

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Helping New Jersey’s Life Sciences Industry Bring Medical Innovation to Patients Around the World A life sciences powerhouse, companies with a footprint in New Jersey were responsible for nearly 50% of all new FDA approvals in 2022.

For more than 30 years, BioNJ has been the life sciences trade association for New Jersey – representing close to 400 research–based life sciences organizations and stakeholders across the healthcare ecosystem from the largest biopharmaceutical companies to early–stage start–ups. Because Patients Can’t Wait®, BioNJ is dedicated to ensuring a vibrant ecosystem where science is supported, companies are created, drugs are developed and Patients have access to lifesaving medicines when they need them. Innovation is the driving force behind medical breakthroughs and BioNJ is committed to promoting policies that facilitate tomorrow’s miracles. Recognized as a respected thought leader, an influential advocate and a sought–after convener of the life sciences industry, BioNJ works directly with legislative leaders in both Trenton and Washington D.C. to advance the life sciences industry, foster medical innovation and ensure health equity and healthcare affordability. BioNJ’s mission is to help our Members help Patients by providing transformative resources, advocacy, capital and State incentives, timely educational programs, skilled talent and a value–driven purchasing program. 68

BioNJ’s mission is to help our Members help Patients.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Committed to the vision of Health Equity for All, BioNJ believes that health equity in clinical trials is critical to deepening the understanding of the safety and efficacy of medicines in under-represented populations, expanding access to medical innovation for these populations and increasing dialogue and trust among the biopharmaceutical industry, communities and healthcare systems. By discovering new approaches, utilizing new technologies and developing new business standards to make trials more accessible, we can work to create more agile, efficient and Patient-centered medical research.

BioNJ released “Health Equity in Clinical Trials MBA Business Case Competition: Identifying Innovative Approaches to Strengthening Diversity Within Clinical Trials” which features highlights from all the submitted business plans, summaries of proposals that received top awards and learnings from the inaugural competition.

It is with this vision, that in 2022, the organization launched its Health Equity in Clinical Trials Initiative to identify long-term interventions, support companies to improve equity in their clinical trials, consider best practices and shape and impact policy. As part of this Initiative, BioNJ also introduced a first-of-its-kind MBA Business Plan Case Competition to promote the next generation of diverse clinical trial innovators and deliver useful protocols and successful models that can be used nationally to strengthen diversity in clinical trials and expand health equity.

Building the future. As entrepreneurs and capital are the engine and fuel for new company creation driving the next generation of therapies, diagnostics and tools in life sciences, BioNJ is proud to work side by side with our State partners to continue to attract new companies and ensure that entrepreneurs have the tools they need to flourish – from creating unique capital and State incentives to growing incubator and collaborative workspaces. Supporting the entrepreneurial community, BioNJ has hosted the industry’s signature partnering event in the Northeast, BioNJ’s BioPartnering Conference, for 13 years – created to foster collaborations and partnerships, facilitate investment opportunities, grow the ecosystem and bolster medical innovation. The event brings together the life sciences, biotech, healthcare and digital health sectors from across the globe to learn from one another and find potential investors and partners. Known for its unrivaled workforce – from early–stage innovators to commercialization experts – talent is often cited as the #1 reason companies move to New Jersey. BioNJ is engaged in helping our companies find the talent they need to ensure New Jersey’s life sciences ecosystem has the required talent needed to drive medical innovation forward. BioNJ’s state–of–the–art Talent Career Portal located at www.BioNJTalentNetwork.org has become the go–to resource for life sciences professionals throughout the tri–state area. “Because Patients Can’t Wait®” is BioNJ’s rallying cry and a reminder that our job is to help research–based companies discover and develop innovative therapies and cures to address unmet medical needs. New Jersey has been a world leader in medical innovation since the industry’s beginning and we are inspired by the privilege of working with those committed to changing the lives of Patients and their families around the world.

We are proud of and inspired every day by our Members – from biopharma professionals and academics to Patient advocates and the service providers who support our industry – who together are creating innovative treatments which are helping Patients live longer, better lives.” — Debbie Hart, President & CEO 609-890-3185 BioNJ@BioNJ.org. BioNJ BioNJ_Org

BioNJ.org 69

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

CAREGILITY IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF A NEW FRONTIER IN HEALTHCARE DELIVERY WHERE CARE KNOWS NO BOUNDS

When you hear about the benefits of telehealth, talking points often center on improved patient access to care through virtual visits with providers from home. Meanwhile, telehealth has been fueling a less talked about hybrid care movement that’s transforming patient care in inpatient settings as well.

hospital enterprise more effectively. Working with some of the brightest minds in audio/visual communications and clinical experts who have pioneered virtual care at leading healthcare institutions, the company developed an enterprise telehealth platform purpose-built for healthcare’s complexities.

Caregility, a leading provider of virtual care solutions, is at the forefront of a new frontier in healthcare delivery where care knows no bounds. Beginning in 2011 Caregility made early inroads into healthcare by enabling high-acuity virtual care models in the ICU for some of the nation’s leading health systems. That success led the company to expand into virtual observation solutions designed to reduce risk and enhance patient safety beyond the tele-ICU.

Today, the Caregility Cloud™ platform is trusted by more than 75 health systems to support remote patient visits and provider consults, and Virtual Nursing and Observation programs that enhance patient safety, drive clinical efficiency, and improve the bottom line. Since its origin, Caregility has worked side-by-side with healthcare providers to navigate some of the biggest challenges patient care has faced in decades, from a national pandemic to pervasive staffing shortages. Positive customer feedback earned Caregility the recognition as Best in KLAS Virtual Care Platform (Non-EMR) in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Along the way, the Caregility team identified an unmet market need for a scalable, reliable platform to support the use of telehealth across the 70

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Ron Gaboury, CEO and Mike-Brandofino, President

The company continues its trajectory of redefining the art of what’s possible in healthcare through recent advancements in clinical AI. New computer vision-enabled Augmented Observation and radar-based Vitals Capture capabilities are unlocking additional clinical insights for care teams, accelerating the speed of clinical intervention. These enhancements join Caregility Cloud’s ecosystem of intelligent telehealth endpoints, clinically vetted virtual engagement applications, sophisticated telehealth device fleet and program administration features, and an unparalleled array of technology integrations and service providers.

Email: info@caregility.com Tel: 732-440-8040

With over 30,000 connected telehealth endpoints supporting more than 6 million virtual care sessions annually, Caregility is a true pioneer in revolutionizing patient care delivery through innovative technology.

caregility.com 71

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

ILSE- Accelerate. Ignite. Innovate.

New Jersey Center for Science, Technology and Mathematics

Scientist in one of ILSE’s laboratories

The Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship (ILSE) is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization and staffed by a team of executives and entrepreneurs to accelerate life science discoveries to improve human health, including new medicines, devices, and transformative technologies. ILSE is a hub for hands-on entrepreneur support and company formation and builds on our expertise in genomics, bioinformatics, microbiology, microbiome, immunology & inflammation, antibiotic & antifungal R&D.

Over the past three years, ILSE has supported more than 250 entrepreneurs from academia and industry from all over the world through consulting on startup potential for various therapeutic, diagnostics and medical device technologies. Since ILSE’s inception and through its Biotech Launchpad, a comprehensive suite of facilities and services designed to maximize startup success and address commercialization barriers, ILSE has helped over 20 very early-stage companies and technologies raise over $18 million in “first money” from grants, family and friends, and seed rounds.

ILSE has three business units that support entrepreneurship and startup companies in different ways: a research institute, a life science company incubator at Kean University, and a business accelerator. These functions are interdisciplinary and draw on the expertise of the management team who come from the life science industry, and of the extensive global consulting network that spans the full spectrum of R&D and business operations.

PROMOTING INNOVATION IN NEW JERSEY We are proud of our accomplishments in entrepreneurship. We currently house 11 companies in our innovation center, employing about 40 people. Through direct and indirect support, we have helped these companies raise over $18million in grants and other funding. We have served as principal investigators on SBIR grants and other funding; we have generated corporate sponsored research for our companies; and we have served as sub awardees to provide scientific, technical, administrative, finance and HR support, as needed.

We perform our own original research, contract research for clients around the world, and collaborative research with our partners. Through the Biotech Launchpad, ILSE offers a comprehensive suite of services to support the commercial success of life science startups. This resource for scientists, clinicians and entrepreneurs gives nascent life science companies flexibility in choosing services and networks to support their growth and development in optimal ways. Biotech LaunchPad clients can select business support services that include assistance with incorporation and building a board of directors and scientific advisory board; establishing stock plans, corporate contracts and legal agreements; generating angel, seed and grant funding; and more.

LOCATION We are located in the New Jersey Center for Science, Technology and Mathematics building on Kean University’s campus in Union, NJ, with easy access to the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. We are also adjacent to the Union Station stop on New Jersey Transit, 2025 minutes to NYC’s Penn Station. 72

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

“ILSE has made an important impact on our partner and client Companies,” said Keith Bostian, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of ILSE. “Since its inception, ILSE has played a critically important role in New Jersey’s ecosystem and connected many startups to difficult-to-find first money to get operations started.” Kean’s investment into ILSE has been an incredible success, paying dividends thus far in countless student opportunities for internships and employment and faculty research. “ILSE is motivated and inspired by the innovative spirit of entrepreneurs,” added Thomas Richardson, Ph.D., President of ILSE. “We are thrilled to support their efforts by helping them access the New Jersey life sciences ecosystem. From cancer and pain drugs to pioneering antimicrobials to diagnostic technologies changing the face of healthcare and delivery, we are committed to and excited by the boundless opportunities of this industry.”

Prokaryotics Inc. is a New Jersey startup founded by a team of former Merck senior scientists and led by Terry Roemer, former head of the Merck Antimicrobial Early Discovery Unit. Prokaryotics is committed to developing innovative therapeutics to address the crisis of multidrug resistant bacteria, and has licensed a number of early stage antibacterial programs from Merck, each focusing on a therapeutically novel target. Prokaryotics is chiefly funded by grants from NIH/NIAID, and in the first five years of operation has raised over 18 M USD in non-dilutive funding to support multiple programs which range in stage from early Lead Identification to Pre-Clinical Candidate selection. Prokaryotics recognizes the value of collaboration, and has forged partnerships with leading groups in allied disciplines including the Fundacion Medina, Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease, University of Florida Institute for Therapeutic Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health Center for Discovery Innovation, and Northern Antibiotics. https://prokaryotics.com/

Dr. Keith A. Bostian, Founder and CEO, ILSE painful diabetic neuropathy. Funded by the National Institutes of Health and New Jersey’s Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology, and collaborating with Rutgers University and ILSE, Plumeria has raised over $1M to create a biomarker-based companion diagnostic developed jointly between Plumeria and Rutgers. This product will be used to guide further clinical development of its lead drug. The team is led by cofounders Thomas Richardson and Rutgers Professor Lei Yu.

Kathera Bioscience is a biotech startup developing new drugs to treat life-threatening fungal infections that are becoming increasingly common causes of human disease. The company focus is on drugs with novel mechanisms of action targeting cellular enzymes that are essential for fungal growth and pathogenicity. KatheraBio is supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship. The team is led by co-founders Dr. Stephen Parent, a biopharma industry expert, and Dr. Steven Hanes, a Professor at SUNY Upstate Medical University. http://katherabio.com/ KatheraBio – Discovering Cutting Edge Antifungal Therapies https://www.linkedin.com/company/kathera-bioscience-inc/

Apinovo Pharma Innovations Inc. is bringing innovation to route selection and process chemistry for active pharmaceutical ingredient discovery scale-up, and manufacturing. Founded by Rashmi Barbhaiya and Mukund Chorghade, industry leaders in branded and generic pharmaceuticals and by ILSE, Apinovo aims to improve safety and cost effectiveness of existing drug and new chemical entities. Utilizing novel catalysts, green chemistries, and deploying other technologies, Apinovo innovates synthetic processes for expeditious and effective drug discovery, development, and manufacturing. http://apinovo.com/

Delphine Diagnostics, a New Jersey-based biotech start-up, has a mission to deliver best-in-class diagnostics products to accelerate effective treatment for patients with infectious diseases. Delphine is committed to developing and delivering reliable products that are also affordable. This

Plumeria Therapeutics is a New Jersey startup developing a novel, nonopioid pain drug as a new treatment for chronic pain conditions such as 73

The Atrium at New Jersey Center for Science, Technology and Mathematics

An analyst in one of ILSE’s laboratories

will allow it to establish trusted partnerships with doctors and hospitals and achieve its goal of saving lives.

dedicated equipment, fluorescent and confocal microscopy. Core facilities available at ILSE include a Core Analytical Chemistry Facility, Core Molecular Biology Facility, Core Genomics and Bioinformatics Facility and a Clinical Microbiology Facility. These facilities are well-equipped with appropriate instrumentation (see attached equipment list).

Delphine has licensed technologies from Research University and is engaged in product development and commercialization to accomplish the goal. Delphine believes in contributing to developing the talent pipeline in the biotechnology space and hence partners with schools and Universities offering internship opportunities in product development and supply chain areas. The start-up is funded by Angel Investors, and recently a non-dilutive Innovation Grant from the NJ state government.

In July 2021, a $3 million grant was awarded by the President of Kean University to establish a Major Research Infrastructure Core Facility within NJCSTM and ILSE. Equipment in this facility is readily accessible and will have direct impact on the contemplated research. Three LCMS instruments have been purchased, an instrument for walk-up support of medicinal chemistry, a high-resolution instrument for proteomics and small molecule research, and an instrument for metabolomic studies. A new 500 MGhz NMR, to be installed in 3Q 2022, will augment chemistry work. Expansion of the university’s super-computer cluster and data storage, as well as an upgrade of a 3-D visualization room for molecular modeling and docking studies, is expected to be operational in late 2022 and will support the computational aspects of the program. A highresolution confocal microscope was installed toward the end of 2021 in a new Biological Imaging Center, along with other equipment and computational, analytical/AI technology.

Prime Discoveries is a microbiome discovery company founded in 2017 where we develop microbial diagnostics for bacteria, virus and fungi. We develop automated NGS based microbiome sequencing assays and rapid isothermal amplification based diagnostics. We are developing rapid diagnostics for Pathogen screening including COVID, Influenza, TB, HPV, HBV, HCV, HIV; STIs including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomonas, Gardenerella; and drug resistant microbes. Our tests are developed to launch in CLIA laboratories and in Point of Care testing. Key investors include New York University, Boxgroup, Esther Dyson(23&Me), Francois Nader(Moderna), Charles Zegar(Bloomberg) etc.

Computer. Desktop computers are available in shared office spaces, with online access to the library system, and subscriptions to Microsoft 365 On-line, and Endnote, and access to SharePoint. The informatics system includes a centrally managed optic-fiber linked supercomputer. The Genomics and Bioinformatics Center includes a 130-node, 1000-CPU core computer cluster, a local 16-node server/server room, online cloud services, and hardware/software for metagenomics analysis and high throughput whole genome sequencing and annotation.

ILSE FACILITY ILSE has many laboratory resources available, including fully equipped molecular biology core and analytical chemistry core facilities, with topof-the-line equipment such as centrifuges, analytic balances, gel imagers, shakers, PCR and qPCR machines, liquid handling robot, incubators, plate readers, pH meters, spectrophotometer, a Beckman DU800 spectrophotometer with a Peltier cooling unit, LCMS, GC, GCMS and a 400 MHz NMR. Other research facilities at ILSE, include whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics support, tissue culture facilities with required hoods, incubators and other

Dr. Thomas P. Richardson, President, ILSE 74

Office. Offices are equipped with desks/chairs, bookshelves, filing cabinets, high speed internet connections and telephone. Shared office areas contain printers, copier and fax machines, paper cutters, mailboxes, shredders and general office materials, and kitchenette. Shared space includes a Board Room and Conference Room, both with videoconference capabilities and meeting rooms for up to 200 people.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Extended Discovery Resources. ILSE has access to discovery services through ILSE Core Lab Network Partners, an external network of laboratories providing a full suite of discovery through development and commercialization services and a network of over 80 consultants with a full range of R&D expertise, coordinated by ILSE.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Nanopore DNA Sequencer (Oxford) Nanodrop (Thermo-Fisher) Qubit DNA Conc. Reader (Perkin Elmer)) PCR Thermocyclers & Enclosures Real Time PCR Thermocycler (BioRad) (2) Capillary Electrophoresis (Agilent) OT-2 Pipetting Robot (Opentron) Refrigerated Microcentrifuge (Eppendorf) Refrigerated Benchtop Centrifuge (Beckman Allegra) Refrigerated Ultracentrifuge (Beckman Optima Max) Focused-Ultrasonicator-M220 (Corvaris) Gyrotary Shakers (New Brunswick) Benchtop Shakers/Incubators Microcentrifuges (Eppendorf) Filtermate Harvester (Packard) UV Transilluminator Thermomixer (Eppendorf) Turbidity Meters Drying Ovens Vortexers, Water Baths, Stir Plates, pH Meters, Pipettors Automated Multichannel Pipettors Balances (analytical & technical) Microwaves DNA / Protein Electrophoresis Apparata & Power Supplies Chemidoc Imaging System (BioRad) iBright Gel Imaging System (Thermo)

Adesis, Wilmington, DE. Discovery & process chemistry, custom chemical synthesis, specialty manufacturing and analytics New Path Molecular Research Ltd, London, UK. Chemistry CRO focusing on using complex functional molecules to tackle challenging targets in drug discovery, specializing in peptides and natural product-based therapeutics. Isomerase Therapeutics, Cambridge, UK. Microbial pathway bioengineering and biotransformations, synthetic chemistry, natural product chemistry & libraries. IHMA, Chamsburg, IL. Screening services, in vitro studies of new and existing antimicrobials,

EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE AT ILSE Facility Equipment Autoclave (Getinge) Glassware Washer (Lancer) DI/RO Purified Water System (Millipore) Biological Safety Cabinets Chemical Fume Hoods Flammable Storage Cabinets Refrigerators/Freezers (4C, -20C, -80C) CO2 Incubators, Dual Chamber Liquid Nitrogen Dewar (specimen storage) Deli Case/Chromatography Refrigerator Upright Atmospheric Incubators, 25-45C

CHEMISTRY EQUIPMENT Waters ZQ 2000 AMU single quadrupole mass spectrometer (Waters ZQ 2000) LCMS with Dual lambda absorbance detector (Waters) HPLC system (Agilent 1100) UHPLC System (Agilent Flexar FX UV-VIS) Calorimeter (Parr) Initiator-Microwave Synthesizer (Biotage) CombiFlash Chromatography (Teledyne) Rotary Evaporators Centrivac Concentrator (Labconco) Vacuum Concentrator (SpeedVac)

MAJOR EQUIPMENT Stellaris SP8 Confocal Imaging System (Leica) NextSeq 500 DNA Sequencer (Illumina) 500 MHz NMR (JEOL; to be installed soon) 400 MHz NMR (Varian) with autosampler LC/MS Analytical: Xevo GS-XS System (Waters) LC-MS/MS Quad System: ZenoTOF 7600 (Sciex) LC/MS System: TLC/CMS-UPLC/CMS System (Advion Expression) FT-IR Spectrometer (Perkin-Elmer) GC/MS (Perkin-Elmer Clarus system) Headspace GC/MS (Perkin-Elmer)

COMPUTATIONAL EQUIPMENT CAVE - Computer Assisted Virtual Environment system (Mechdyne) Multiple Headset- based VR Systems 130 node, 1000 CPU core compute cluster CRAC (Data Center AC) Purchase approved and underway for 600 CPU core compute cluster with 20 A30 GPUs Unix and Windows Computational Servers Laptop and Benchtop computers

BIOLOGY EQUIPMENT Anaerobe Chamber Microscopes (High Power, Inverted, Fluorescence, Evos fl) UV-Visible Spectrophotometer (Spec 200E) Spectrofluorometer (Shimadzu) Flow Cytometer (Beckman Coulter) 8 Color Flow Cytometer (Atune) Electroporation System (Biorad) Multimode Microplate Reader (Biotek) Absorbance Microplate Reader (Biorad) Fluorescence Microplate Reader (Tecan) Bioanalyzer-DNA (Agilent)

The Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship ilse_bio institute-for-life-science-entrepreneurship

ilsebio.com 75

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

HINJ supports a robust innovation ecosystem for life sciences companies, patient access to their discoveries, and New Jersey as a leading life sciences hub. HEALTHCARE INSTITUTE OF NEW JERSEY (HINJ): LEADING MEDICAL INNOVATION, ADVANCING GLOBAL HEALTH, DRIVING NEW JERSEY’S ECONOMY

The mission of the life sciences – in New Jersey, across the United States and around the world – is as ambitious as it is straightforward – to research and develop new medicines, therapies, medical devices, technologies and diagnostics to detect, treat and cure diseases and improve the quality of life for patients.

New Jersey is widely known as the “Medicine Chest of the World,” not only for its concentration of life sciences companies, but also for their historic commitment to innovation and improving global health.

The life sciences industry today is one of New Jersey’s premier economic drivers. Fourteen of the world’s top 20 research-based biopharmaceutical companies and 11 of the world’s top 20 medical technology companies maintain a significant presence in the state.

Founded in 1997, the HealthCare Institute of New Jersey (HINJ) serves as the trade association for the leading research-based biopharmaceutical and medical technology companies in New Jersey, including many of the world’s largest as well as smaller, growing companies.

The biopharmaceutical and medical technologies sectors annually generate a combined $120.9 billion in economic output for New Jersey, or approximately 19 percent of the state’s Gross Domestic Product. Nearly 84,000 New Jersey jobs are directly supported by the biopharmaceutical and medical tech sectors. About 430,000 New Jersey jobs are supported, directly or indirectly, by those two sectors.

Driven to improve global human health, for over 135 years the life sciences industry in New Jersey – which includes biopharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical technology, device and diagnostics companies – has helped people live longer, more productive and fulfilling lives. 76

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

The state’s strategic geographic location allows for ease of collaborating with other domestic and international research hubs, affords ready access to capital and consumer markets, and provides a global transportation network. A specialized industry supply chain that has developed over more than a century. A steady pipeline of life sciences start-ups. Industry-leading manufacturing capabilities.

HINJ strives to ensure life sciences companies have a supportive innovation ecosystem to discover and develop new cures and treatments, patients have access to the medicines they need, and that New Jersey remains a vibrant global life sciences hub with all of the attendant economic and quality-of-life benefits.

Why New Jersey? Because our state possesses many compelling assets that have historically made it an attractive location for life sciences companies and the thousands of enterprises that support it: As the home of a world-renowned industry cluster, much of the global industry leadership is based in New Jersey. The cluster provides endless opportunities for companies to collaborate. New Jersey offers a highly educated and skilled workforce and boasts the number one ranked K-12 school system in the country. New Jersey is home to a dynamic innovation ecosystem with multiple world-class research universities and institutes. 77

Working on multiple fronts throughout New Jersey and in Washington, D.C., HINJ is proud of the many and varied accomplishments it has achieved on behalf of, and delivered to, its member companies, patients, the State of New Jersey, and its other stakeholders, including the business and labor communities, academia and community-based organizations.

HealthCare Institute Of New Jersey HINJ_ORG HealthCareInstituteofNewJersey

hinj.org

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

SETTING SCIENCE IN MOTION TO CREATE A BETTER WORLD As the world demands solutions for increasingly complex diseases and health care needs, biopharmaceutical manufacturers face greater pressure to build momentum and develop breakthrough treatments and therapies. Today’s biologic drugs are providing revolutionary treatment options, and Avantor is there to drive science and innovation forward to meet these challenges alongside our customers.

how Avantor is driving breakthroughs, making a difference, and empowering associates to make a difference in the life sciences space. Here, customers collaborate with biopharma researchers to address current and emerging challenges in biopharmaceuticals, biologics, and cell and gene therapies, resulting in data-driven insights that support the development of new solutions.

Avantor® is relentlessly moving science forward

This center is one of twelve research and applications facilities where we conduct both proprietary and customer-specific development activities. These facilities, along with our more than 200 manufacturing, distribution, and sales centers, are strategically located to support our global customers.

Scientific breakthroughs rarely happen on their own. Moving science forward demands expertise and innovation. From discovery to delivery of mission-critical products and services, Avantor is a trusted global partner to customers in the life sciences, advanced technologies, and applied materials industries. The world’s leading biopharmaceutical, medical device, and diagnostic companies, as well as those in the education, research, aerospace, and semiconductor industries, rely on us to help them accomplish their missions.

Beyond biopharma, we drive innovation in … Avantor Services Our Services business supports major biopharma, pharmaceutical, educational, and industrial research organizations with lab, clinical, and production services, helping them transform their operations and solve intricate challenges. In the process, we’ve returned hundreds of thousands of hours back to science, enabling customers to reach peak efficiency.

Avantor’s 13,500 associates are passionate about setting science in motion to create a better world We share enthusiasm for innovation, excellence, and achievement. We never settle for the status quo. Whether we are collaborating with our customers to advance science or solve multifaceted problems, we help them reach their goals more efficiently and effectively. Take biopharma for example. Whether it’s a vaccine, monoclonal antibody, recombinant protein, cell and gene therapy, or small molecule treatment, the largest biopharmaceutical manufacturers depend on us to quickly and confidently move through research and production. From the small-scale bench to pilot plant and full commercial manufacturing, our products, services, and expertise enable our customers to bring new treatments to patients faster.

Healthcare Our solutions help protect and improve patients’ lives. Avantor serves an array of healthcare needs with advanced materials including high-purity silicones, proven diagnostic solutions, and nutraceutical products. And, we have the regulatory expertise to assist medical device companies in obtaining product clearance.

Education & Research The education and academic research community makes a vital contribution to science, continually expanding the frontiers of our knowledge. Avantor has a long history serving the education research community, supplying laboratory solutions that help catalyze innovation.

Innovation close to home and across the globe Our state-of-the-art Bridgewater Innovation Center, which opened in New Jersey in 2017, is designed to support the strong biopharmaceutical industry presence in the region. This Center of Excellence showcases 78

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Advanced Technologies & Applied Materials

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

challenges that life science companies face today. We want innovative bio manufacturers to know that when they are scaling towards breakthroughs, we can and will scale with them.”

Whether in the extremes of space or in the nanoscale world of semiconductor fabrication, advanced technology materials from Avantor play a crucial role in the world’s most demanding applications and environments.

Avantor’s Bridgewater Innovation Center and our overall approach to innovation at an enterprise level are key to supporting our customers in their endeavors.”

Collaborating for the future We’re proud of our associates and how, together, we are moving science forward to create a better world—from facilitating groundbreaking discoveries to delivering novel therapies, devices, diagnostics, and other scientific breakthroughs.

— Nandu Deorkar, PhD, VP of R&D, Biopharma Production for Avantor Avantor Avantorinc Avantor_News avantorinc

“It’s an exciting time for developing new treatments and therapies. The most important goal of the Bridgewater Innovation Center is to combine Avantor’s talent and capabilities with customer insights to drive strategic projects that we know will have impacts on the future of medicine.” “For example, building customized products to support cell and gene therapies and supporting faster speed-to-market addresses the

avantorsciences.com 79

I N N O V A T E

Princeton-based Syridex Bio is a biopharma investment firm that makes early-stage, venture creation investments in innovative treatments that can bring transformative changes to diseases disproportionately affecting underserved communities. It is uniquely focused on doublebottom-line returns, delivering compelling returns for investors while accelerating health equity. Syridex Bio was founded on the belief that everyone deserves a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health. For too long, deep inequities have persisted across our pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical systems. Despite increased public attention on the problem in recent years, progress remains far too slow.

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

BIOPHARMA INVESTMENT FIRM SYRIDEX BIO ADDRESSES HEALTH EQUITY BY FUNDING R&D OF THERAPIES DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTING UNDERSERVED POPULATIONS

Syridex Bio is addressing this gap in the market by strategically investing in therapies that treat diseases disproportionately affecting underserved communities. By financing the development of drugs and treatments addressing the world’s greatest health disparities, it is convinced that it can accelerate health equity globally and achieve strong financial returns for its investors. Sicklerville, NJ native Squire Servance established Syridex Bio in 2022. As Founder and Managing Partner, Servance oversees the impact-driven investment firm’s operations, growth strategy, investment decisions, and fundraising execution. Servance attended Rutgers University where he double majored in biomedical engineering and cell biology & neuroscience as part of his lifelong dream to help others through his interest in medicine. After earning his JD and MBA from Duke University, he held leadership roles at life sciences companies Repligen and Baxter, where he gained valuable experience and insights on what it takes to bring medicine from R&D and clinical trials to FDA approval and onto the market. While ensuring that investors experience strong returns for their investment is always top of mind, improving the future for patients of color around the world is also very much a labor of love–so much so that Servance named Syridex Bio for his two daughters by combining the first syllables of each of their names.

innovation-enabler because tons of medical researchers would welcome the opportunity to discover new therapies to treat diseases like sickle cell and lupus–they just need the funding to enable them to do so. I also believe that Syridex Bio will demonstrate that investing in therapies to help underserved populations is not only right ethically, but a smart financial decision that will pay off big dividends for our investors in the long term.”

“Innovation for innovation’s sake isn’t a great strategy, but when you have an important mission like helping to solve health equity disparities, it’s extremely motivational,” says Servance. “I view Syridex Bio as an 80

Looking ahead, Syridex Bio’s anticipates that next year it will begin making investments in its first round of identified innovative therapies. In addition to investing in new therapies to treat patients of color, Syridex Bio will also begin looking at additional ways to address the significant health gaps that currently exist. syridexbio

syridexbio.com 81

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

HEALTHCARE HAS NEVER BEEN THIS SIMPLE FOR BOTH DOCTORS AND PATIENTS.

Low Res. Image In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the integration of technology is indispensable. CyberMed Health is at the forefront of this digital revolution, offering a wide array of IT solutions that encompass electronic health records (EHRs), revenue cycle management, remote patient monitoring, telemedicine, and chronic care management. Based in New Jersey, CyberMed Health is a catalyst for healthcare transformation.

Electronic Health Records are the digital backbone of modern healthcare. They enable healthcare professionals to access and share patient information seamlessly. CyberMed Health provides robust EHR solutions that streamline patient data management. This not only reduces paperwork but also minimizes errors and ensures that healthcare providers have real-time access to a patient’s medical history. It’s a gamechanger in improving the quality and coordination of care.

CyberMed Health’s journey in the healthcare IT industry is a testament to the growing need for innovative technology in healthcare. The company was founded with a vision to bridge the gap between traditional healthcare practices and modern technology. This vision is especially relevant today, given the challenges posed by the global healthcare landscape. The company’s mission is to enhance patient care, improve operational efficiency, and drive financial performance for healthcare providers through its innovative solutions.

The financial health of a healthcare institution is as critical as the wellbeing of its patients. CyberMed Health’s Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) solutions help healthcare providers optimize their billing and payment processes. From coding and claims submissions to denial management and patient billing, RCM plays a pivotal role in maintaining the fiscal stability of healthcare organizations. CyberMed Health’s RCM system is designed to minimize revenue leakage, enhance billing accuracy, and accelerate cash flow. 82

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) has gained significant prominence, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. CyberMed Health’s RPM solutions empower healthcare providers to keep a constant watch on their patients’ health from afar. This technology is a lifeline for those with chronic conditions, as it allows for real-time monitoring and data collection. Physicians can adjust treatment plans as needed, and patients enjoy the convenience of not having to travel to medical facilities as frequently.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Additionally, by offering remote patient monitoring and telemedicine, CyberMed Health addresses critical issues related to access, equity, and convenience. This is particularly relevant in rural or remote areas where healthcare resources are scarce. The ability to remotely monitor patients and provide medical consultations can be a lifesaver in many situations. Our chronic care management solutions help tackle the rising burden of chronic illnesses. By implementing a proactive approach to managing these conditions, healthcare providers can reduce the strain on emergency services, decrease healthcare costs, and ultimately improve the quality of life for patients.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare. It allows patients to consult with their healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes. CyberMed Health’s telemedicine solutions facilitate these virtual encounters, offering secure video conferencing, integrated EHR access, and e-prescription capabilities. Telemedicine not only improves access to care, especially in underserved areas, but also minimizes the risk of disease transmission in times of pandemics.

In a world where healthcare and technology are increasingly intertwined, we see ourselves playing a pivotal role in transformation. Our comprehensive suite of IT solutions, spanning EHRs, RCM, RPM, telemedicine, and CCM, reflects our commitment to enhancing patient care, improving operational efficiency, and driving financial performance.

Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension require ongoing management. CyberMed Health’s Chronic Care Management (CCM) solutions provide a systematic and proactive approach to caring for patients with long-term health issues. This includes regular check-ins, medication management, and personalized care plans. The aim is to improve patient outcomes while reducing hospitalizations and healthcare costs.

By harnessing the power of digital innovation, CyberMed Health is not only adapting to the changing needs of healthcare but also shaping its future. In a world where effective healthcare is essential, CyberMed Health is making a difference by offering the tools needed for better patient outcomes and a more sustainable healthcare system.

The impact of CyberMed Health’s services on the healthcare landscape is multifaceted. First and foremost, our IT solutions streamline administrative processes, reduce the risk of errors, and enhance overall efficiency. This not only benefits healthcare providers but also translates into a more positive experience for patients.

Email: info@cybermedcorp.com

cybermedcorp.com 83

I N N O V A T E

N E W

IMPACT DRIVES WHO WE ARE AND HOW WE OPERATE. “We help schools keep their students safe. That’s the best way to describe our mission.” Violence and mental health issues are running out of control in schools across our nation. There’s not a day that passes without news of a major safety incident, and we often don’t hear about the mental health concerns. STOPit Solutions isn’t simply a technology company, it is a group of safety and wellness professionals on a mission to support and transform climate and culture in our schools. STOPit was founded in 2014 with a vision to fight cyberbullying and empower students to do their part to stop individuals from harming themselves and others. The company has evolved over the years, beginning as a single product offering, and growing into a comprehensive safety and wellness solution, with world-class resources that create safer, better connected, and healthier learning and living environments. Today, STOPit Solutions proudly partners with more than 8,000 schools and organizations, delivering innovative solutions that protect and save lives daily. “Impact drives who we are, what we create, and how we operate,” shares Parkhill Mays, CEO at STOPit Solutions. “Our team members are driven by a desire to save and protect lives through each and every action they take with our audience.”

More Than Just an App In its early days, STOPit revolved around its technology: an app that helped curb bullying in schools. HELPme, a comprehensive wellness solution for K-12 Schools, came about more recently and is now in more than 1,000 schools and growing fast. 84

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Normalizing Asking for Help

The process begins through partnership with a motivated school or school district. After planning and onboarding, the STOPit team assists school partners with launch which can range from interactive videos in home room to a well-orchestrated live event with press coverage. Launch is essentially introducing this life-saving solution to students, staff, and families to establish a community approach and support structure for managing today’s most visible concerns in and around school and young people.

“The STOPit team monitors, measures, and maintains a culture of safety and well-being.” Parkhill adds: “We instil a spirit of awareness across schools by stressing that it’s OK to ask for or seek help or tell someone when you or a friend or classmate is in trouble.” In fact, bystander reporting – or Upstanders as STOPit refers – is the most common and effective form of reporting and awareness on its network. STOPit’s team operates 24/7/365 as problems unfortunately do not keep a normal schedule and are rarely convenient.

“Students come to school with much more than the capacity to learn; their backpacks are full of challenges we can’t see,” states Parkhill. “We need to normalize asking for help – and STOPit and our engaging solutions are the empowering tools.” The app itself is a highly configurable mobile platform designed specifically for the schools it serves. It is not a one size fits all solution and must be localized to provide the best protection and value. It is also far beyond simple reporting – there are engagement resources built all through the solution and plenty of methods for communicating in the manner most comfortable to the user.

No Waiting Games In 2018, the company introduced its Crisis Center. Essentially, when a student has a concern or is in distress, he, she, or they can reach out via the STOPit or HELPme App, or via Chromebook or phone. The Crisis Center reviews the message right away, assessing all information and intervenes in emergencies – immediately – as many of these situations cannot wait until the next school day. “If there is an emergent situation overnight or anytime, whether it be a safety situation,

Parkhill Mays, CEO

suicide ideation or self-harm, the Crisis Center intervenes immediately,” explains Parkhill. “We route these situations to someone who can help right away. We don’t wait for the next day because sometimes these problems don’t wait.”

attention to these life-threatening situations – all hours of the day and night, including holidays and summer breaks. “We like to think that we make a difference by doing our part to avert potential tragedies and also afford educators time to focus on the business of educating kids,” Parkhill asserts.

And, while bullying remains a problem in schools, STOPit has evolved to keep up with the times. During the COVID-19 pandemic social isolation became the norm and students were forced to stay home for months without interaction with friends. The result unfortunately was stress, anxiety, and mental health issues occurring at a level never seen before among students.

Safety needs are growing, and technology is changing at unprecedented speeds. Customers can rely on STOPit Solutions for innovative solutions that continually serve the education world and their communities. stopitsolutions stopit

Post-COVID mental health issues have more than tripled for young people. And mental health events requiring emergency services have more than doubled. STOPit’s crisis team offers immediate support and

stopitsolutions.com 87

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Optical Academy has been pioneering the change in the delivery of eye care by making eye care the most convenient, affordable, and accessible it has ever been.

The company came to life 14 years ago after CEO, Abby Ayoub, crossed paths with a 15-year-old girl who was desperate for an eye exam. The eye exam uncovered a brain tumor that blasted her retina that could have been found years prior had she had the proper care. The young girl was getting screened by her school nurse and although she failed the screening yearly, was never brought to see an Optometrist for follow-up care. At that very moment Optical Academy was born to provide accessible, convenient, and affordable eye care to all, beginning with children. The unchanged fact that over 70 percent of children who fail a vision screening never get seen for follow-up care was the backbone behind Abby’s passion for creating Optical Academy’s Glasses 2 Classes Program.

The simple fact is that most people who have never worn eyeglasses do not know their visual capabilities. They will not take time off of work or school because it is typically not a painful problem that you can see or feel. Visual problems are usually left on the back burner of health-related appointments but sometimes it can be too late. Abby recognized the issue that people just don’t have time to take off for appointments that might not feel necessary and she decided it’s time to meet people where they spend most of their time, at school, work, and with their communities.

I N N O V A T E

N E W

The Glasses 2 Classes program was piloted in NYC public schools providing eyecare and eyewear to hundreds of special needs students. Since then, Optical Academy has grown to provide eye exams and eyewear to hundreds of thousands of students yearly, nationwide. Through the growth of the Onsite Eyecare program, Optical Academy has developed a Worksite Wellness & Safety division, bringing this same affordable and accessible eye care to the workplace.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Statistics provide that 60% of employees who have a vision plan never utilize their benefits. Most of them do not have the time to take off work for non-emergency appointments. Optical Academy has set up pop-up optical shops in thousands of workplaces where employees can utilize their benefits and spend their free time doing what they want to do instead of spending a day at the doctor’s office. The worksite safety program also allows employers regulated for safety eyewear to cut their safety eyecare and eyewear costs by over 75%. They receive a more structured safety program to target every employee for necessary vision screenings and safety glasses all in one day. The company has no cap on innovation. While servicing onsite at both schools and worksites, Abby recognized a developing need for members to follow up through telephone after we have already left their onsite event. She saw a shift in the type of care people were looking for and immediately set in her next domain and venture: TeleOptometry.com™. The development of TeleOptometry became a major necessity during the pandemic when most fields took the shift to telemedicine. The only difference for Abby is that this program was already in development prior to any shutdown. When the world came to a sudden stop, Optical Academy members already had a remote line of communication for any eyecare and eyewear need. TeleOptometry

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

allows people to renew existing prescriptions, get treated for infections, and get fit into new glasses all from the comfort and safety of their homes. Abby has a big passion for people and an even bigger one for creating. Countless efforts have been made to diminish the impact that the Optical Academy program has had on the Optical industry. This served more as motivation for creating and doing things differently. The company’s mission and purpose are stronger than the bottom line. The need to create and being fearless of failure are the powers behind Abby’s entrepreneurial capabilities. The world will always be changing and Optical Academy will continue to evolve to provide the most convenient and accessible eyecare. Tel: 1-800-530-2730 opticalacademy

optical-academy.com 91

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Go!Foton - We Bring Light To Life

The company serves the carrier, data center, and MSO markets with solutions that include its flagship Platform with Enhanced Access for Compact Optical Connectors (PEACOC®), a revolutionary optical fiber distribution management system for network operators dependent on consistently reliable optical connectivity, and especially for those confronting the twin challenges of accelerating fiber densification and relentlessly growing demand for greater network capacity and everloftier performance targets. In all its varied implementations, PEACOC® represents a game-changing breakthrough that continues to set the standard for efficient network management in the increasingly complex world of optical connectivity. .

Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey with a lineage that can be traced back to Japanese multinational Nippon Sheet Glass, Go!Foton (www.Go!Foton.com) is a global photonics company with a strong presence in the optical communications industry. We apply our proven expertise in optics and photonics to solving real-world problems for our customers with a scalable and customized approach, and we bring innovation to the market by developing advanced applications for a diversity of end uses, including fiber optic connectivity platforms for telecommunications networks and data centers, and imaging processes for life sciences diagnostics and research.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

THE ORIGINS OF PEACOC®

As a world leader in the development and deployment of advanced optical networking technologies, Go!Foton plays a major role in the ongoing international buildout of next-generation wireline and wireless networks.

Several years ago, Go!Foton set out to solve a problem that had vexed builders of telecommunications networks for decades: how to allow human fingers - often stout, sometimes clumsy - to manipulate thousands 92

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Dr. Simin Cai, CEO of fragile connections among delicate hair-thin strands of optical fiber while at the same time minimizing the physical footprint of racks and cabinets loaded with equipment through which the fibers are routed, all without interrupting traffic and without using special tools in the field. An additional challenge: designing a product that would easily adapt to the network’s expanding scale and rapidly changing architectures, and to the relentless densification of fiber required by market-driven adoption of emerging ultra-high capacity protocols, both wired (e.g., NG-PON2 and other new access standards) and wireless (5G.)

use of bulk cable and field-connectorization, Go!Foton’s game-changing approach decreases overall total cost of ownership by dramatically reducing the inventory requirements associated with carrying multiple lengths of pre-connectorized drop cables.

ON THE ROAD WITH PEACOC® AND FRIENDS The Go!Foton Mobile Demo Vehicle (MDV) is a functional demonstration and training resource which highlights Go!Foton’s comprehensive fiber connectivity solutions. Featuring the company’s award-winning PEACOC® fiber management platform, our expansive portfolio of terminated cable assemblies, and our OSP line of high density enclosures and terminals, the MDV allows our team to partner with carriers and data center operators to conduct simulations of actual implementation scenarios as they evolve their fiber infrastructures to support greater densification and meet the continuing challenges of a fastgrowing market.

Go!Foton’s inspiration? The ornamented train of a peacock. CTO David Chen explains: “If you look at peacocks with feathers retracted, you’d never guess what kind of mating show they can put on for peahens when they fan out. Why couldn’t we do the same thing for fiber connectors? When the fibers are passing optical signals to each other, the connectors can ‘hide,’ but when we need to switch the connections, they can fan out just like the peacock’s feathers.” In this “switching” mode, each connector would be separated from the adjacent one with enough space between them to enable even “fat-fingered” technicians to do their job quickly and unobtrusively, while avoiding costly mistakes.

BIOMEDICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES Go!Foton provides lenses and optical probes for a variety of biomedical and life sciences markets. These range from general endoscopy to specialized applications such as cardiac ablation. Over the past decade, however, two significant areas of focus have emerged.

What then emerged as the result of Go!Foton’s “Eureka!” moment was the development of what the company calls its platform with enhanced access for compact optical connectors, branded by the acronym “PEACOC®”. Today, the PEACOC® High Density Fiber Management System represents the most versatile connectivity platform in the market. And Go!Foton engineers continue to extend the application of PEACOC® spreadable adapter technology well beyond its original use case as the differentiating feature of the company’s highly efficient patch panels for central office and data center equipment racks; recently, for example, the company launched a line of durable and waterproof PEACOC®enabled compact hardened terminals that support the use of inexpensive standard connectors in the outside plant environment. By eliminating the requirement for proprietary hardened connectivity and supporting the

In the clinical medicine domain, Go!Foton supplies probes to Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) medical equipment makers. OCT is widely used in ophthalmic diagnostic 93

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Go!Foton’s other major life sciences initiative empowers cutting-edge neuroscience research utilizing fluorescence microscopy. By enabling video capture of firing neurons this technique can be used to locate areas of activity in the brain, thereby allowing researchers to determine which loci are engaged in the accomplishment of a specific task. The goal of such research is to decipher neural circuits – various collections of neurons and synapses which, when activated, are each capable of performing a distinct function (such as the so-called “knee jerk” reflex.).

devices for non-invasive scanning of the retina and optic nerve, but examination of other regions of the body often requires disposable insertable probes. Using harmless infrared light instead of X-rays, these probes rotate at very high RPMs to produce detailed digital images of the subject tissue. Because OCT probes are not reusable, the ability to produce them at high volumes while maintaining the exacting quality standards necessary for OCT diagnostic applications presents a dual challenge. At Go!Foton, we’ve met both: our OCT probes are manufactured in our own state-of-the-art facilities and feature our own self-focusing gradient index (GRIN) lenses coupled with a patented prism design to furnish precise and repeatable beam characteristics.

Similar research with mice and other small animals is also helping to revolutionize the understanding of brain function. Lenses developed by Go!Foton specifically for this purpose are a key component of the tiny single photon and two photon microscopes that facilitate experimentation. 94

As a pioneer in optics innovation for decades, Go!Foton is constantly seeking new opportunities to expand our leadership positions both in biomedical optics and the use of optical imaging in the life sciences. Go!Foton provides lenses and optical probes for a variety of biomedical and life sciences markets. These range from general endoscopy to specialized applications such as cardiac ablation. Over the past decade, however, two significant areas of focus have emerged. In the clinical medicine domain, Go!Foton supplies probes to Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) medical equipment makers. OCT is widely used in ophthalmic diagnostic devices for noninvasive scanning of the retina and optic nerve, but examination of other regions of the body often requires disposable insertable probes. Using harmless infrared light instead of X-rays, these probes rotate at very high RPMs to produce detailed digital images of the subject tissue.

GoFoton GoFoton gofoton

gofoton.com 95

I N N O V A T E

N E W

18LOOP DEPLOYS VIRTUAL REALITY HEADSETS TO KIDS WITH CANCER TO HELP FIGHT THE DISEASE 18Loop deploys advanced virtual reality (VR) headsets to kids with cancer to help them tolerate treatment, recover and thrive. 18Loop has distributed over 100 VR headsets to children with cancer in 32 states. 18Loop reaches its children through a partnership with the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO). Virtual reality is vital in healthcare, and we have seen its benefit in bolstering mood, limiting pain, increasing physical activity, promoting collaboration and introducing immersive learning. VR is more effective than morphine for pain when the correct environment is introduced. It also has no addictive qualities. Our experience with kids with cancer has been that the technology is a true family intervention. Statistically, 16,000 children are diagnosed with cancer in the United States each year. Over 400,000 are diagnosed globally. It normally takes three or more years for a child to win the fight against pediatric cancer. 87% of the children who are diagnosed win their fight, but not without serious lingering side effects that require continued support. What’s worse is that most treatments are optimized for adults with very little innovation and drug development taking place that is targeted for the pediatric population. However, as a nonprofit, 18Loop is undeterred by the statistical data or market demographics. Our team knows that mood is vital to maintaining the fighting spirit for our affected kids and that spatial computing technology has matured to the point that its impact as an intervention can be measured and quantified. 96

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

These days, our kids use Meta Quest 2 technology for pain distraction, but also to meditate, collaborate and participate in immersive learning. The tech has come a significant way and we expect access to VR, augmented reality (AR) and other spatial computing capabilities to mature technologically and be impacted by commoditization over time. This will help with access as standards develop and mature and hardware costs are driven down not by subsidy but by the perfection of the manufacturing process and price drops in components. We are already anticipating new releases from Meta, Apple and others who will raise the bar. Late one night during the formative first year of 18Loop, I watched a TV news segment that touted the potential benefit of Virtual Reality. Underserved students were exposed to VR immersion in environments that they otherwise wouldn’t have had access to that simulated travel around the globe. So as 18Loop, our new nonprofit, began testing Oculus, we became convinced that VR could be transformational and radically impactful to our constituents. I was absolutely amazed how immersion created a sense of wonder through the early Oculus technology. Even at the cutting edge of technology adoption, it was immediately obvious that VR could have a profound effect. Initially, our belief was that immersion was an entertaining distraction, but a series of discussions with healthcare innovation leaders, oncologists and the parents of teen cancer patients indicated that the benefit was deeper than our team had imagined. The first obstacle that we had to overcome in our mission to deliver VR to pediatric cancer patients was finding the right methodology and partner with whom to conduct research. The organization that allowed us to distribute our initial headsets was the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO).

decisions they must make in hope of a cure for their child. Comprehensive resources include the only book in the world on the diagnosis and treatment of a lethal brain tumor called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG); the only book written on pediatric palliative care for children with cancer; a comprehensive book for teachers called Educating the Child with Cancer, among others. The ACCO’s attention to the educational needs of children and adolescents with cancer and access to cancer families and institutions made our partnership perfect. Together, we started a pilot program to bring VR technology to teens with cancer with the goal of reducing anxiety, stress and pain during treatment. The program has been incredibly successful, including reducing anxiety for teens during end-of-life.

Founded in 1970, the ACCO has been at the forefront of education and advocacy for children with cancer for the past five decades. In addition to addressing the disparity between adult and childhood cancer research funding at the state level, ACCO distributes more than 35,000 educational materials to children with cancer and their families without charge each year. The organization identifies gaps in educational resources, recruit leading experts in the field as authors, then publish comprehensive books to assist families with the difficult 97

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

recommended and eventually used by Elizabeth’s family was organic and surprising. When the 18Loop team discovered that Elizabeth was regularly working on her mood by immersing herself in our recommended Tripp environment for virtual meditation, we were overjoyed to hear that the benefits were felt quickly. What we did not know was that Elizabeth’s brothers would use Tripp to calm down when their emotions ran high as they coped with their sister’s illness. Also, to exercise and release energy, we found that our early research participants would immerse themselves in Beat Saber and boxing games that we initially didn’t proactively recommend. Part of the beauty of giving away the headsets has been the freedom that cancer families have in choosing content. To this day, we strongly recommend software to affect mood. That being said, we are frequently surprised about how the kids use their headsets when they are not immersed in the environments that we package with the tech.

Three years ago, the Acco’s CEO, connected us with Elizabeth, the first child with cancer to receive an Oculus Quest VR headset. 18Loop had offered the ACCO a few different early VR options, and we settled on the Facebook/Meta headsets we felt could deliver a potential result. That was the beginning of our research initiative, the Joint Experimental Intervention Research Study, or JEIRS. Today, 18Loop has over 100 headsets in the hands of teens and children with cancer, and the results are making an impact that even our most optimistic forecast could not envision. The ACCO allows 18Loop to reach kids with cancer directly, provide them with Oculus headsets to keep and to monitor their progress both at home and in the hospital. Our close partnership, augmented with funding from Servier Pharmaceuticals, allows our team to circumvent arduous hospital institutional review board processes and the controls that keep us from operating without impediments. This is a perfect situation for 18Loop, as the budgetary constraints of funding research in cancer centers as well as the length of the studies themselves didn’t allow us the experimental flexibility that we required to make an immediate impact. There is much truth to the fact that we learned an amazing amount organizationally by simply gathering feedback from Elizabeth and our first few 18Loop kids and sharing it with experts and peers. Elizabeth, a sixteen-yearold pageant queen, was suffering from a relapse of neuroblastoma and her family unit was suffering with her. The process by which VR technology was

When I shared the behavior of Elizabeth’s family with doctor Jeffrey Gold at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA), he became very interested in the impact of VR as a family intervention. Essentially, 18Loop had deployed Tripp, a leading health and wellness meditation app, and Oculus VR technology and had achieved a palliative care physician’s dream: a family intervention centered on new technology with transformative benefits. VR helped Elizabeth’s family to let off steam physically, but it was the mental health benefit (including ancillary pain mitigation) that stood out. Basic immersion is a useful distraction, but what Tripp had done was to amplify this effect with scientifically specialized images and audio that augmented the neurological impact of the experience. Once we began to bring our JEIRS study to scale, we realized that we could subdivide our areas of impact into five categories, all of which relate to mindfulness and amount to startling proof of the efficacy of VR for our kids’ mental health. 18Loop’s VR intervention affected mood, pain, physical exercise, immersive learning and collaboration. Some of these areas were measurable immediately, others required the recruitment of industry partners who could help us with our goals for our ACCO kids. Today, 18Loop partners with the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO), American Medical Extended Reality Association (AMXRA), Cleanbox, the International VR Healthcare Association (IVRHA), Servier Pharmaceuticals and Tripp. 18Loop 18loopphotos 18Loop1 18loop

18loop.org

THE IMPACT OF P360’S INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY

way. For example, right now, sales reps are having difficulty connecting with prescribers and their staff. In-person meetings are extremely hard to secure, email open rates are average, at best, and healthcare professionals don’t have time to deal with portal logins or app downloads (there are just too many). However, despite these barriers, it is vitally important that life science companies remain connected with the care community.

The life sciences industry is about improving people’s lives. It operates in an incredibly competitive and complex environment where being ahead of the curve is critical. And getting their life-enhancing products to physicians, specialists and other healthcare professionals requires that companies be proactive in adopting innovative technologies that help them to, ultimately, improve patient outcomes. That’s where Piscatawaybased P360 comes in.

Given this, several technologies have been developed to try and help life science commercial operations and the healthcare community to better coexist. But despite there being some fascinating innovations, engagement hasn’t improved very much. And that’s why P360 created the ZING Engagement Suite.

Founded in 2007, Anupam Nandwana and Ed Vaz created P360 with a vision of helping life sciences companies connect with patients, partners and healthcare professionals in a more efficient, less abrasive

“P360 offers a diverse range of exclusive products tailored for life science businesses. Our offerings include commercial operations tools like sales and marketing enablement, enterprise data management, and advanced 100

Anupam Nandwana, CEO & Founder, Edward Vaz, COO & Founder commitment to patient-centricity, and culture of continuous improvement set them apart from the competition and position them as a leader in the industry. P360’s innovative solutions are helping life sciences companies improve patient outcomes, streamline their operations, and achieve their business goals. As the industry continues to evolve, P360 will undoubtedly continue to be at the forefront of innovation and progress.

AI and machine learning capabilities,” explained Anupam Nandwana, Co-Founder and CEO of P360. “What sets our industry-standard solutions apart is their ability to be customized to meet the complex workflows and regulations of the life science industry, catering to each unique use case.” ZING, one of P360’s top technologies, revolutionizes sales team engagement with healthcare professionals. This innovative platform eliminates traditional barriers by enabling compliant communication through various channels. With features like text messaging, voice and video calling, collaboration, and QR code scanning, ZING offers seamless and secure omnichannel communication. The platform also includes AI assistance, signature capture, easy integrations, and more to enhance the user experience.

p360solutions p360 P360_Solutions P360-Solutions

P360 is a shining example of the power of innovation in the life sciences industry. Their cutting-edge technology, focus on collaboration,

p360.com 101

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

AT INNERSTILL WE HELP PEOPLE FEEL BETTER BY DEVELOPING, LAUNCHING, AND DELIVERING BIOELECTRICAL NEUROMODULATION SOLUTIONS THAT NORMALIZE HOMEOSTASIS.

Innerstill Founders, Hank Beckhoff and Dr. Yakov Katsnelson MD, PhD

Innerstill was one of 17 start-ups awarded a combined $1.275M in grants from NJ Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology’s (CSIT’s) Maternal and Infant Health Research and Development (R&D) Grant Program. Innerstill is researching mindvybe’s effect on women struggling with the “baby blues’ and postpartum depression. Pictured: Mahako Etta, Program Manager, NJ Commission on Science Innovation and Technology, Ellyn Ito, CEO & CoFounder, Innerstill, and Judith Sheft, Executive Director, NJ Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology.

From pioneering animal studies in vagus nerve stimulation to patenting and launching neurostimulating technologies for pain relief in the late ‘80s, Dr. Katsnelson’s relentless research bore fruit. Recruited to the US in the early 1990s, Dr. Katsnelson developed first-in-kind, non-invasive transcranial neuromodulation technologies, offering hope to those battling depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

We’re built on the purpose-driven vision of our intrepid founders, Yakov and Hank. In the early 1980s Dr. Yakov Katsnelson, while helming a pediatric ward in St. Petersburg, Russia grappled with a shortage of painkillers. Driven by empathy for his young patients, he embarked on a groundbreaking journey. Collaborating with colleagues, Dr. Katsnelson explored the potential of leveraging the body’s own bioelectric rhythms, aiming to safely mimic an analgesic effect.

In 2013, Dr. Katsnelson joined forces with Innerstill’s other founder, Hank Beckhoff, a retired psychotherapist and the former director of one of Pennsylvania’s largest integrative health practices. Upon witnessing the remarkable transformations brought about by Dr. Katsnelson’s technologies and recognizing the potential of Dr. Katsnelson’s approach, Hank became inspired to revolutionize the path to wellness. 102

Fast forward to 2021, a year that marked the culmination of years of dedication and innovation. Driven by their shared vision, Hank and Yakov, along with co-founders Ellyn Ito, Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Beth DuPree, MD, FACS, ABOIM, Chief Medical Officer, Laate Olukotun, Chief Product Officer, and Blake Redbone united their strengths to create Innerstill. This groundbreaking venture is launching platform, medicationfree, non-invasive neuromodulation technologies to enhance and restore health for anyone on the continuum from ‘flourishing to floundering’, from performance enhancement to complex challenges like postpartum depression, addiction, long COVID, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Says Ellyn Ito, Chief Executive Officer, “Seeing my teenage son struggle during the lockdown was heart-wrenching. Hank and Yakov’s technologies were transformative for him, unlike anything else. The genius and promise of their medication-free innovation compelled me to get involved, ensuring these technologies reach the millions in need.” A mindvybe experience

mindvybeTM - a first-in-kind general wellness product In 2023, Innerstill launched mindvybeTM, a vagus nerve and acupressure point stimulator designed to promote mental and emotional well-being through patented, multi-channel simulation parameters similar to the body’s natural bioelectric rhythms. Leveraging years of research and development, mindvybe’s waveform and frequencies are unparalleled in optimizing the human body’s performance without risk of overuse and no side-effects.

Medical Technologies Harnessing the synergy of Hank and Yakov’s expertise in cuttingedge treatment modalities, Innerstill is continuing on the forefront of innovation, developing non-invasive deep brain and direct-current neuromodulation technologies to aid individuals and caregivers battling neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimers, and Lewybody disease. Moreover, their solutions extend to a wide array of medical concerns rooted in neuro hormonal imbalances, encompassing areas such as addiction, depression, and anxiety.

Studies show that in as few as five, twenty-five minutes sessions, over 90% of users experience lasting improvements in wellness. Notably, mindvybeTM has also been shown to modulate heart rate variability (HRV) metrics in just one 25-minute session, reflecting its immediate impact on physiological responses.

“We are not just pioneering changes in treatment; we are revolutionizing the way we approach healthcare and the way wellness can be achieved,” says Hank Beckhoff, Founder and Visionary. “In time and with our growth, we at Innerstill are committed to ensuring that our technologies are available to all in need.”

In the near future, Innerstill expects to have mindvybeTM units available for take home use. In the meantime, certified mindvybeTM coaches offer tailored sessions at various locations, catering to individuals seeking comprehensive wellness solutions. Innerstill is also collaborating with colleges, universities and corporations pioneering the concept of ‘vybe lounges’. These innovative spaces empower students and employees to combat stress and enhance focus through calm and relaxation, marking a transformative step toward a healthier, balanced future. Innerstill’s mindvybeTM is more than just a wellness product; it is a catalyst for cultivating more thoughtful, centered and more productive communities.

innerstillhealth.com 103

104

CHAPTER FOUR

GREEN TECH, SUSTAINABILITY, ENERGY & ADVANCED MATERIALS

105

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Offshore wind presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will further New Jersey’s clean energy goals, create thousands of union construction jobs, and ensure a more resilient environment and economy for future generations. This booming industry will open doors for thousands of New Jerseyans looking to reap the benefits from these investments, moving us closer to Governor Phil Murphy’s vision for a stronger, fairer New Jersey and cementing our position as a national leader in offshore wind.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

to the state’s GDP and drive the creation of 1,500 or more manufacturing and operations jobs. To date, the New Jersey Wind Port project has already amassed over 200,000 union job hours. These projects, and others that follow across the state, are expected to be a formidable, long-term source of economic activity and job creation in numerous sectors such as construction, manufacturing, operations, and professional services. In 2030, New Jersey is projected to see approximately 20,000 new jobs across the state related to offshore wind or more, given the Governor’s accelerated offshore wind energy target, from both in-state and regional demand. Many of these new jobs will be in occupations that already exist in New Jersey, but training for these occupations need to scale significantly and require additional training to meet the specific needs of the offshore wind industry. New Jersey will leverage and expand its strong workforce to address the industry’s needs and support the development of a diverse and inclusive labor force. This workforce infrastructure includes organized labor, workforce development boards, K-12 schools, community colleges, four-year universities, communitybased organizations, private training providers, and others.

The state’s central East Coast location and significant investments in port and supply chain development position it well to support offshore wind projects along the Atlantic. These assets, combined with Governor Phil Murphy’s plan to reach 11 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind by 2040, have made New Jersey a leader in the industry. The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is proud to play a role in the emergence of this vital sector. South Jersey, in particular, is an emerging hub for offshore wind. Today in Paulsboro, workers are fabricating steel monopiles. Just 30 miles down the Delaware River in Salem County, construction of the first purposebuilt wind port in America has been underway since 2021, and in the next several years this port is projected to add half a billion dollars annually

New Jersey is developing the Wind Institute for Innovation and Training (“Wind Institute”) to engage and coordinate a wide range of stakeholders 106

to fuel a robust and diverse industry workforce, and champion research and innovation that unlocks market potential.

careers as wind turbine technicians with Ørsted and other developers within the burgeoning offshore wind sector. Offshore wind curricula for elementary, middle, high school, and career and technical schools classes that align with New Jersey’s climate change curriculum standards are also under development. Most recently, the NJEDA’s Board approved a combined $3.7 million in grants under the Offshore Wind Workforce and Skills Development Grant Challenge to support the development of new offshore wind training programs with a particular focus on serving residents of New Jersey’s Overburdened Communities. Grants were approved for MidAtlantic States Career and Education Center, Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical College, New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance, Apex Solutions Foundation, and Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association.

Wind Institute efforts to date include: Entering agreements with Gloucester County Institute of Technology (GCIT), Salem County Vocational Technical School, Camden County Technical Schools, and Camden County College to support the expansion of welding and painting programs to prepare workers to fabricate large-scale monopiles, which are used as the foundation of offshore wind turbines;

As offshore wind grows in New Jersey, it’s critical to build a well-trained and qualified workforce that meets the needs of the industry. Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, the NJEDA is committed to ensuring high-quality workforce development training programs are available so that all New Jerseyans, especially those living in minority and low-income communities, have equitable access to this emerging industry.

Awarding the New Jersey Offshore Wind Safety Training Challenge to Atlantic Cape Community College to establish an industry-recognized Global Wind Organization safety training program and facility to prepare workers for jobs in the growing offshore wind industry; Establishing the Wind Institute Fellowship Program to support undergraduate and graduate students at New Jersey’s top public and private research universities to pursue offshore wind related research; and with Wind Institute support, Ørsted and Rowan College announced a partnership to provide a first-of-its-kind offshore wind training initiative, Wind Power Ready: Atlantic City. This new workforce development program will recruit, train and place local candidates in

NewJerseyEDA newjerseyeda NewJerseyEDA njeda

njeda.gov 107

FACILITIES AND SPACES

The New Jersey Bioscience Center - Incubator offers 27 wet labs, the most of any life sciences incubator in New Jersey, as well as educational programs, help identifying funding sources, and access to small business development resources, networking opportunities, and administrative support. The New Jersey Bioscience Center – Step Out Labs offers postincubation intermediate lab and office space for expanding biopharma companies.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), the state’s principal agency for driving economic growth, offers numerous resources to support emerging companies choosing to grow in the Garden State. As part of Governor Phil Murphy’s economic development strategy to reclaim New Jersey’s role as a leader in innovation, the NJEDA has prioritized connecting technology and life sciences startups with access to affordable lab and office space.

“We’ve been fortunate to experience exponential growth and attribute it, in large part, to New Jersey’s pharmaceutical infrastructure and its culture of innovation. The state-ofthe-art equipment at the Step-Out Labs, combined with the proximity to top universities, puts us at a great advantage as we seek to advance our products.”

New Jersey is home to over five dozen collaborative workspaces — incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces. Research has shown that startups nurtured in collaborative workspaces are more likely to succeed than unassisted enterprises. Situated in the heart of the state’s research corridor between Rutgers and Princeton universities, the NJEDA’s New Jersey Bioscience Center research park in North Brunswick offers three different options – incubator, step-out, and stand-alone space, allowing companies to grow all on one campus. This means a company can go from a solo 900-square-foot incubator lab to a 60,000-square-foot facility. Additionally, the availability of pad sites allows for custom-built, stand-alone facilities.

— Lars Birgerson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Adlai Nortye USA and tenant at the NJ Bioscience Center Step-Out Labs.

108

The NJEDA is also supporting the development of the New Jersey Health + Life Sciences Exchange (HELIX) in New Brunswick, an innovation district providing industries and universities the critical ecosystem to research, learn, work, and collaborate. It will bring together public, private, and academic sectors to create a world-class hub of innovation and a strong base of support and talent pipeline for innovative companies. Coming online in 2025, this state-of-the-art facility will include institutions like Rutgers and Princeton universities, and RWJ Barnabas & Hackensack Meridian Health. The HELIX, which will also house the Rutgers University medical school and an Innovation Hub for startups, will be a unique place where discoveries can go from ideation to bedside. To support the youngest members of the state’s innovation ecosystem, the NJEDA offers two financial support programs that help emerging companies move to collaborative workspaces.

Continuing his commitment to grow innovation industry specific facilities, Governor Murphy announced in 2021 that the NJEDA and Princetonbased venture capital firm SOSV would form HAX LLC to bring SOSV’s acclaimed HAX hard tech startup development program to Newark and that SOSV would establish the HAX program’s U.S. headquarters at the Newark site. The accelerator subsequently leased 35,000 square feet at 707 Broad Street in downtown Newark. Companies accepted into this leading accelerator will be in new state-of-the-art space that will include labs and dry bench work and will bring together a community focused on reducing carbon emissions.

NJ Ignite offers up to nine months of rent support – up to a total of $25,000 - for technology and life sciences companies as they begin to use approved collaborative workspaces. The spaces are independently managed and offer spaces such as private offices, labs, and hot desks - all to meet the needs of each unique company. The shared spaces also host events to support individual companies’ growth and to bolster the state’s innovation ecosystem. NJ Accelerate incentivizes graduates from approved accelerators to consider locating in New Jersey, as well as to showcase the talent in the state’s accelerators on a national stage. Specifically, the NJEDA matches investment provided by approved accelerators with up to $250,000 in direct convertible loans for startups that locate in New Jersey within six months after graduating from approved programs, with bonuses for companies that are certified as women or minority-owned. The NJEDA also provides rent support for up to six months to companies locating in NJ Ignite collaborative workspace.

NewJerseyEDA newjerseyeda NewJerseyEDA njeda

njeda.gov 109

I N N O V A T E

N E W

FUNDERS & INVESTORS

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

the late 1990s, the NJEDA has approved more than $1.2 billion in funding for over 575 technology and life sciences companies through this program.

Understanding that early-stage companies have particularly unique challenges when it comes to securing capital, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) offers a suite of resources to support them throughout their lifecycle. As the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth, the Authority plays a pivotal role in ensuring that innovation-focused companies have the financial tools they need to succeed.

New Jersey’s Angel Investor Tax Credit Program offers investors a 20 percent refundable tax credit against qualified investments for New Jersey businesses. The program supports technology companies with a physical presence in New Jersey that conduct research, manufacturing, or technology commercialization in the state. Seen as a means to both invest in emerging companies and attract capital into the state, this program is open to investors worldwide. Investments in a business located in an Opportunity Zone or New Markets eligible census tract, or a business that is certified as minority or women-owned by the State are eligible for a five-percent bonus. Over $800 million in investments have been leveraged to receive tax credit awards through the program since it began in 2013.

Two of the NJEDA’s most popular resources for emerging innovationfocused companies are the state’s Net Operating Loss (NOL) and Angel Investor Tax Credit programs. Heralded as a lifeline for companies that have not yet reached profitability due to heavy investment in product and market development, New Jersey’s Technology Business Tax Certificate Transfer Program more commonly known as the NOL Program enables eligible technology and life-sciences companies to sell net operating losses in New Jersey and unused research and development (R&D) tax credits to unrelated profitable corporations for cash. The cash can then be used for working capital or to fund research. Since

“Participating in a program that will connect us with cash in a nondilutive manner will have a positive impact on our company. As a serial entrepreneur, I know that the most successful businesses use every available resource to grow and scale. We are grateful to the NJEDA, and the State of New Jersey as a whole, for their commitment to emerging 110

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

companies like ours.” Citius Pharmaceuticals Co-Founder, CEO and Chairman Leonard Mazur. In line with Governor Phil Murphy’s commitment to building the most diverse and inclusive innovation ecosystem in the nation, the programs and initiatives the NJEDA has developed since 2018 all place diversity, equity, and inclusion at the forefront and are designed to help minority and female-led companies in a variety of sectors flourish. Together with First Lady Tammy Murphy, the NJEDA started the New Jersey Chapter of Golden Seeds in 2020 to connect female founders with seasoned investors. Golden Seeds is a nation-wide angel investor network dedicated to investing in female-led startups. Through a partnership with Golden Seeds, the NJEDA is creating the opportunity to increase available capital for women-led businesses as well as mentoring entrepreneurs to support and grow New Jersey women-led businesses. Another funding source opening in 2023 is the New Jersey Innovation Evergreen Fund (NJIEF), a ground-breaking tool designed to grow the state’s innovation economy. Under the NJIEF, the State will become an equity investor in startups deploying up to $600 million into companies alongside professional venture capital groups. The Fund will also create mentoring, networking, and educational opportunities to help position New Jersey companies for success.

otherwise be unable to pursue the launch of a new venture due to the needs for income or, in the case of a recent graduate, who would choose to accept employment in lieu of entrepreneurship due to socioeconomic constraints.

One of the NJEDA’s newest offerings – the New Jersey Innovation Fellows program – provides mentorship and grants of up to $400,000 to teams of first-time entrepreneurs. Through the program, the NJEDA will support teams of at least three entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, and income replacement capital. The grants are designed to replace a stream of income an entrepreneur might forgo to launch an early stage business. The NJEDA anticipates that support from the NJIF Program will attract innovative ideas and entrepreneurs who would

NewJerseyEDA newjerseyeda NewJerseyEDA

njeda.gov 111

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

that are better ADVANCED Innovations for the environment and MATERIALS help make the world safer

The Honeywell Advanced Materials headquarters in Morris Plains, New Jersey

It would be hard to name a company that touches lives in more ways than Honeywell Advanced Materials.

humankind’s most consequential challenges: saving the planet from the very real threat of climate change.

Ready-now innovations from Honeywell Advanced Materials keep people comfortable in buildings and cars and food cool in supermarkets. Its products make it easier and safer to take life-prolonging medicines. Smartphones and other electronics would not work without its electronic materials. Its fibers protect service members and law enforcement officers. And Honeywell Advanced Materials is on the front lines in facing one of

New Jersey is the hub of this global business that is improving quality of life every day and in every corner of the world. For more than a century, talented teams of Honeywell employees have been tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges, from its headquarters in Morris Plains, New Jersey, and at Advanced Materials labs, offices and production facilities worldwide. 112

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Honeywell Spectra® Medical Grade (MG) Bio fiber in blue

Honeywell Advanced Materials manufactures Aclar® barrier film used to produce blister packaging

Honeywell Advanced Materials is a provider of electronic materials that are an integral part of the semiconductor-manufacturing process Honeywell Solstice® N40 (R-448A) refrigerant

Ken West, President of Honeywell Advanced Materials day determined to make breakthroughs that will improve the human condition and protect the environment. More than 400 Honeywell Advanced Materials employees are engineers and technologists who have been awarded 462 United States patents, 250 of which are active and in force.

Honeywell Advanced Materials businesses develop and manufacture a wide variety of high-performance products, including environmentallyfriendly, low-global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerants, and materials used to manufacture end products such as bullet-resistant armor, semiconductors and pharmaceutical packaging. More than 3,000 talented, diverse and highly engaged employees — including approximately 1,200 here in New Jersey — come to work every

113

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Honeywell Advanced Materials Drives Environmental Transformation

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Packaging innovations from Honeywell Advanced Materials help pharmaceutical companies deliver drugs and other products that prevent and cure diseases, treat chronic conditions and improve the quality of life for people all over the world. Aclar® ultra-high barrier films are used to produce blister packaging, which provides the effective moisture barrier protection needed for drug stability and efficacy. Over the last five decades, Aclar film has become the first choice of over-the-counter, originator, generic and animal-health drug manufacturers.

When it comes to innovation, Honeywell’s Solstice® portfolio has supported environmental transformations across a number of industries. Solstice refrigerants, blowing agents, aerosol propellants and cleaning solvents replace materials that deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming. Developed using breakthrough hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) technology, Solstice products have low GWP, which help reduce greenhouse gas emissions without sacrificing product performance.

Probably best known for protecting soldiers and law enforcement officers in the field, Spectra fiber is renowned for its lightweight strength and versatility. Pound-for-pound, Spectra fiber is 15 times stronger than steel and more durable than polyester, making it extremely appealing for use in a wide range of medical, industrial and recreational applications.

So far, Honeywell has invested a billion dollars in research, development and new capacity for its Solstice technology, having anticipated the need for lower-GWP solutions to combat climate change more than a decade ago. The use of Solstice products has resulted in the reduction of more than 295 million metric tons of greenhouse gasses, equivalent to eliminating emissions from more than 62 million cars for one year.

For example, in the medical field, Spectra Medical Grade (MG) bio fiber is an ideal material for sutures, surgical robots, catheters, joint reconstruction and medical devices. In addition to its strength, Spectra MG bio fiber is biocompatible and reduces body inflammation and irritation to promote healing. In 2022, Honeywell introduced blue colored fiber technology that improves accuracy and safety during medical operations.

The demand for low-GWP materials is increasing as the drive to achieve carbon neutrality gains momentum, and Honeywell innovators are answering the call. In one of the biggest applications for Solstice — supermarkets — Honeywell Advanced Materials recently introduced a new low-GWP refrigerant for use in new equipment: Solstice N71. It expands Honeywell’s line of Solstice products, which includes, among others, Solstice N40, the most widely adopted replacement refrigerant for R-404A for the supermarket industry, that is already used to keep food fresh and frozen in more than 60,000 stores worldwide, including Whole Foods stores in the United States and 160 Walmart stores in Mexico and Central America.

Spectra fiber is also used to produce cut-resistant gloves and clothing to give workers an extra layer of protection in factories or commercial kitchens. When lightweight strength is critical, Spectra fiber can be found in industrial and recreational applications including rope and lifting slings, mooring lines, fishing line, sail cloth and security netting. Honeywell’s NduroMatt™ matting agent is a breakthrough innovation for paint formulation, which provides significantly better protection against burnishes, scratches and stains. Other Honeywell additives improve the performance and durability of materials used in the roofing and paving industries, while Honeywell Advanced Materials waxes and wax blends are used to improve plastic and rubber products.

But it does not stop there. Honeywell Advanced Materials is helping customers find new ways to use Solstice products in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), heat pump and district heating applications globally. Meanwhile, at the end of 2022, Solstice yf (R-1234yf), a low-global-warming-potential refrigerant used in automobile air conditioning systems, is used in about 185 million vehicles globally. By 2025, it is estimated that more than 100 million cars using R-1234yf will be on the roads in the United States. Solstice blowing agents are used to create highly-effective insulation for homes, buildings and appliances. And Solstice Propellant is a more earth-friendly aerosol propellant for personal care products, pressure dusters, lubricants, cleaners and disinfectants.

Fine Chemicals, Electronic Materials and More When quality and purity levels cannot be compromised, customers worldwide turn to Honeywell Advanced Materials for support. Products include organic and inorganic compounds along with fine chemicals. Innovation abounds in the semiconductor industry and Honeywell Advanced Materials is a critical provider of electronic materials that are an integral part of the semiconductor-manufacturing process. The Honeywell Electronics and Chemicals group supplies materials to leading foreign and domestic chip manufacturers, and the materials end up in all types of industrial and consumer electronic equipment, including smartphones, tablets and laptops.

Honeywell engineers and technologists continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with new Solstice applications and offerings including innovative e-cooling technologies for data centers and near-zero-GWP propellants for metered dose inhalers. In 2022, Honeywell announced a commercial partnership with AstraZeneca to develop and bring to market next-generation respiratory inhalers that use near-zero-GWP propellant to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Products made by Honeywell Electronics and Chemicals include coil sets, electronic chemicals, electronic and thermal interconnect materials and more. Honeywell is the world’s leading provider of sputtering targets, a technology used to apply thin films on computer chips, and continues investing to expand capacity to produce these advanced materials to support semiconductor manufacturers in the United States and internationally.

From Pharmaceutical Packaging to Ultra-Strong Fibers to Specialty Additives Honeywell Advanced Materials is also a leading producer of fibers, films and polyolefin polymers and copolymers for products ranging from pharmaceutical packaging to medical devices, body armor, protective clothing and fishing line.

114

I N N O V A T E

N E W

For more than 100 years, Honeywell Advanced Materials has been delivering cutting-edge technologies that make the world a better place. As a whole, Honeywell is committed to achieving carbon neutrality in its operations and facilities by 2035 and recently announced a new set of commitments that further advance its sustainability goals, including committing to set a science-based target with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) that will include scope 3 emissions and participation in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Climate Challenge. The company also supports the Paris Climate Agreement.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

environmental and social goals. About 60% of Honeywell’s new product introduction research and development investment is directed toward products that improve environmental and social outcomes for customers. Honeywell Advanced Materials is contributing greatly to this effort.

For more information visit: pmt.honeywell.com/us/en/businesses/ advanced-materials Honeywell Advanced Materials 115 Tabor Road Morris Plains, NJ 07950

These efforts build on the company’s track record of sharply reducing the greenhouse gas intensity of its operations and facilities as well as its decades-long history of innovation to help its customers meet their 115

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Envisioning the Future Through a Century of Excellence Founded in 1923, Turtle stands tall as a beacon of enduring success in the US market, marking its presence as one of the largest independent electrical and industrial distribution companies. Having amassed a century of experience, Turtle doesn’t just rest on its past laurels. Instead, it envisions a future illuminated by sustainable solutions, transformative infrastructure projects, and profound advancements in energy transitions. Indeed, it’s a centennial celebration of resilience, growth, and an indomitable spirit to innovate. While rooted in history, Turtle’s vision is firmly future-focused. Guided by the wisdom and innovation of its female leaders, Executive Chairman Jayne Millard and CEO Kathleen Shanahan, Turtle doesn’t just adapt to change — it leads it.

Company leadership includes Kathleen Shanahan, CEO; Jayne Millard, Executive Chairman of the Board and fourth generation of family leadership; and Luis Valls, President.

From Electric Beginnings to Industrial Innovations Turtle’s journey began with two friends who saw the potential of electricity in America. A century later, Turtle champions its mission of “Rethinking Energy. Advancing Tomorrow.” However, their aspirations don’t stop at electricity. Every decision at Turtle revolves around “thinking green” and making decisions that consider the environmental impact. “Our strategy is to be the nation’s leading supplier

116

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Millard adds that the essence of Turtle’s culture is the trust and security it offers to its employees: “To foster innovation, there needs to be high levels of trust. Employees need to feel secure and cared for.” This dedication is underscored by Turtle being named one of NJBIZ’s ‘Best Places to Work’ in NJ – their third such accolade. Their new headquarters at 100 Walnut Avenue, Clark, epitomizes its commitment to the state of New Jersey, where it has operated since 1933, and to staff and innovation. Designed for “Radical Collaboration” – a brand value – it not only incorporates electrical efficiency systems, but its open architecture spaces encourage mentoring, offer wellness centers, and foster a teamwork culture. of renewable energy solutions,” shares Ms. Millard. “Currently, 100% of our specialty business is tied to projects with sustainability components primarily aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions or supporting the use of clean energy. In addition, 53% of the remaining business supports these projects to provide a complete solution to our customers.”

“Our new headquarters is built to ensure that this remarkable culture of teamwork and collaboration will continue to grow with us for years to come,” says Ms. Shanahan. Turtle’s growth can be attributed to its two-pronged strategy. One, by following its loyal customers into new terrains, thereby drawing in fresh partnerships. Secondly, Turtle stays ahead by identifying and fulfilling market needs through novel business units. Ms. Millard explains the broader vision: “Kathleen and I, and our stellar leadership team, constantly ponder how wide our lanes can get.”

From energy rebates through intelligent commercial energy management solutions, water reclamation initiatives, infrastructure upgrade projects, and wind and solar solutions, Turtle leads its customers to reduce consumption and maintenance costs while improving productivity and environmental efficiency.

Women at the Helm Mapping Tomorrow: A Strategy for Future Excellence

The story of Turtle isn’t just about a business; it’s about the women who’ve led it through challenges, transitions, and growth spurts. From Ethel McNamara Turtle, who took the reins during the challenging 1940s, to Ms. Millard, Turtle is a testament to visionary female leadership. Ms. Millard encapsulates the spirit of innovation that courses through Turtle’s veins, proudly stating: “With innovation at our core, we are a young company at heart.” This sense of continual renewal, coupled with deep industry knowledge, sets Turtle apart.

A third-generation female leader and fourth-generation family member, Ms. Millard reveals the key to Turtle’s success: “While there is no question that male founders and leaders in our company have been key in our success, I think there’s something special in women’s leadership in our family. There is a core dedication to our values – ensuring the succession of delivering what is best for our customers and employees – and indeed our community – that has characterized the women leaders. My forebears had steely resolve with passionate hearts.”

With 100 years under its belt, Turtle is not slowing down. With its eyes set on the future, it is poised to continue its legacy of innovation and leadership. Through strategic expansion, commitment to its workforce, and a dynamic leadership team, Turtle is not just a company but an inspiration, ready to light up the world for another century.

What drives the company’s longevity? “It is a dedication to the values of prioritizing our trustworthy customer relationships and the professional fulfillment and wellness of our employees,” shares Ms. Millard. “They – and by extension our manufacturer and supplier partners – are our extended family, and we treat them all with that respect.”

Internal Strength: Turtle’s Backbone

turtle-&-hughes

But what fuels Turtle’s ceaseless innovation and growth? The answer lies within – its dedicated and loyal workforce. Both Ms. Millard and Ms. Shanahan emphasize nurturing a corporate culture that prioritizes employee well-being, loyalty, and innovation.

TurtleandHughes TurtleAndHughesInc turtleandhughes turtleandhughes

“What keeps me up at night is ensuring that we are creating pathways for people to realize their full potential at Turtle,” says Ms. Shanahan. Ms.

turtle.com 117

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

ON A MISSION TO ELIMINATE THE IDEA OF WASTE

TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Through collaboration and innovation, we’ve developed the world’s first solutions in everything from recycling to reuse. Businesses, government entities, and consumers work with us globally to keep trash out of landfills or from incineration.

THE TERRACYCLE DIFFERENCE

TerraCycle operates several lines of business including free recycling programs that are sponsored by brands, Zero Waste Boxes that are available for purchase to recycle hundreds of varied waste streams, a regulated waste division to handle Universal Waste, and a reuse platform called Loop to provide consumers with a way to purchase household products in reusable containers at their favorite retail stores.

Overconsumption and a throwaway culture have led to a global waste crisis. While even complex waste is technically recyclable, most materials are not profitable to recycle. As a result, waste piles up in landfills and pollutes our planet while virgin materials are extracted from the earth to create new products. At TerraCycle, we’re on a mission to eliminate the idea of waste. Together with the businesses, communities, and individuals we’ve partnered with over the past 20 years across 20 countries, we’re on a journey to move the world from a linear economy to a circular one, keeping trash out of landfills and from incineration.

Through collaboration and innovation, we’ve developed the world’s first solutions in everything from recycling to reuse.

FROM NEW JERSEY TO GLOBAL TerraCycle is proud to have started in New Jersey over 20 years ago. The company’s headquarters remain in Trenton, while it has since grown to operate in over 20 countries including Thailand, where the TerraCycle Global Foundation works to reduce the flow of plastic waste from rivers

Putting us at the forefront of innovation is our in-house research and development team in Trenton. 118

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

accessible global platform for reuse and enables the expertise and operational capability to bring the idea to life. Loop’s model is built to scale the impact of reuse across a cross-category global ecosystem of products, and to make these products as accessible and convenient as possible for consumers by distributing them through a network of existing channels and retailers. We’ve applied the principles of durability and reuse to consumer products at scale by building a system that meets consumers where they are, offering convenient ways to buy reusable products and return them with ease anywhere in our collection network. Our vision is a transformative circular economy that reduces our global reliance on single-use disposables while offering unparalleled consumer experience, accessibility, and convenience. We are building an ecosystem that offers a reusable alternative for every consumer product category, a dense network of return collection points that makes a “reuse bin” as ubiquitous as today’s street corner trash cans, and an integrated system that enables customers to buy reusable products anywhere and return them anywhere. This end state - which transforms reuse into a system that’s just as convenient as throwaway culture without sacrificing product experience or selection - is not only a solution to the waste crisis, but also a competitive and transformative business model for our partners.

and canals before it can reach the ocean. In close partnership with local communities, we design world-class river waste prevention, collection and recycling solutions in regions of the world suffering from heavily polluted waterways. One hundred percent of collected waste is diverted from entering our marine ecosystem.

REUSE: THE NEXT FRONTIER In 2019, TerraCycle created a platform called Loop that goes further than recycling solutions - to help companies tighten the circle and shift from single use to reusable ecosystems. Loop fills the industry gap of an

ACCOLADES TerraCycle engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community across a wide range of accessible programs, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and individuals, has raised over $44 million for schools and nonprofits since its founding. TerraCycle’s key partners include large multinational corporations such as P&G, Unilever, Nestlé, Mondelēz, Coca-Cola, Clorox, McDonald’s, Burger King, retailers such as Carrefour, Ahold Delhaize, Kroger Inc., Tesco, Aeon, Walgreens, Walmart, and hundreds of other companies large and small who provide recycling and reuse programs to consumers. TerraCycle has more than 200 awards and recognition including the United Nations Momentum for Change, Time Magazine Best Inventions, Time Magazine 100 Most Influential Companies, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Fortune Magazine Top 52 Companies Changing the World (#10) and CNN Risk Takers. Terracycle terracycle TerraCycle

terracycle.com 119

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

REVOLUTIONIZING LITHIUM-ION BATTERY RECYCLING THE RISE OF PRINCETON NUENERGY In the heart of innovation, within Princeton University, a remarkable journey began that will soon redefine the landscape of lithium-ion battery recycling. Founded in 2019, Princeton NuEnergy (PNE) embarked on a mission to revolutionize the way we view, handle, and recycle critical materials throughout all stages of battery production and life. At the core of PNE’s vision lies a groundbreaking patented surface treatment technology, the Low-Temperature Plasma-Assisted Separation (LPAS™) process. This offers a uniquely sustainable and cost-effective solution to a global recycling problem.

THE BIRTH OF AN ECO-FRIENDLY VISION PNE’s journey began with fundamental goals of reducing waste and costs associated with traditional lithium-ion battery recycling processes. Two forms of battery waste exist — waste is produced during manufacturing (referred to as scrap), as well as at end-of-life – when batteries are no longer appropriate for their application. Lithium-ion batteries power our modern-day world. Unfortunately, handling of manufacturing scrap and ultimately battery disposal results in ecological harm and the loss of precious resources. Conventional recycling approaches involve hightemperature smelting or acid-leaching treatments that damage cathode materials and produce considerable toxic waste as they reduce high value batteries to elemental nickel, cobalt, lithium and other products which must be rebuilt from scratch to create new batteries. Chao Yan, Founder and CEO

In contrast, PNE’s LPAS™ process not only reclaims and repairs cathode material at all stages of production and throughout the battery’s life cycle, but it can also accomplish this at a significantly reduced cost and with far less waste compared to its counterparts. This is because the rejuvenated cathode material is directly used as input to new batteries, and it is never reduced to elemental form. PNE’s technology and the advanced manufacturing techniques it represents will play a pivotal role in helping the United States retain control over critical materials by enabling costeffective and fully domestic manufacturing processes.

LEADING THE CHARGE: PNE’S INNOVATION TAKES FLIGHT In late 2022 Princeton NuEnergy launched the first-ever U.S. end-toend lithium-ion battery direct recycling production facility, a truly groundbreaking event, located in McKinney, Texas. This advanced manufacturing facility not only creates quality jobs but also provides proof of PNE’s position as a pioneering force in sustainable technology. 120

BATTERY GRADE REJUVENATED MATERIALS CATHODE (99.9% Purity)

ANODE (99.9% Purity)

POWERED BY EARLY-STAGE SUPPORT PNE’s success would not have been possible without the invaluable support it received during its early stages. Organizations like the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT), the Department of Energy (DOE), and numerous grants including the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) STTR Phase I & II, and Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) grants have all played pivotal roles in propelling PNE’s innovative journey.

and resource conservation of lithium-ion batteries. The ongoing rigorous testing and assessment with samples from a wide range of customers will continue to validate the viability and superiority of this transformative approach.

Moreover, PNE’s successes were further highlighted when it won the CleanTech Open National Grand Prize in 2021. These accomplishments highlight PNE’s relentless pursuit of excellence in recycling.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE WITH PRINCETON NUENERGY

DIRECT RECYCLING: A GAME-CHANGER In a world striving for sustainability, Princeton NuEnergy brings its groundbreaking LPAS™ technology and commitment to sustainable battery production and recycling practices. PNE is leading the charge in redefining lithium-ion battery recycling. As PNE embarks on the path of commercializing the first U.S. direct recycling production facility, we anticipate a future where battery waste is minimized, production costs are reduced, and environmental impact is minimized.

Direct recycling represents a fundamental shift in the way we perceive battery materials. Unlike traditional methods that break down materials to their base elements, direct recycling reclaims existing battery materials, offering immediate reuse without additional processing. The advantages include substantial reduction of cost, reduced CO2 emissions, lower energy consumption, and a minimal ecological impact.

In the words of Princeton NuEnergy, “Recycling is no longer just about extracting elements - it’s about reclaiming, revitalizing, and revolutionizing the way we power our world.” PNE’s ground-breaking technology is paving the way towards a brighter, more sustainable future, one recycled battery at a time.

Rejuvenated cathode active materials validated by Argonne National Lab and independent OEM testing have demonstrated the effectiveness of direct recycling. Their tests of recycled battery chemistries from PNE such as Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO), NCM111, and NCM622, have been proven to have equivalent and in some cases superior extended-life performance to OEM materials during rigorous 1,000 cycle testing. In fact, these same results have shown consistent high performance post-processing for an even wider range of commercially available battery chemistries.

princeton-nuenergy PNE_Cycle

PNE’s dedication to ‘cleaning’ and reclaiming battery materials directly will make a strong and positive impact to environmental sustainability

pnecycle.com 121

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

MODERN MEADOW AT A GLANCE FOUNDER

A PROTEIN DESIGN AND APPLICATION POWERHOUSE USING SYNBIO TO POWER NEXT-GEN SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

2011

HEADQUARTERS

Nutley, New Jersey

Business Units

Biomaterials, Beauty & Wellness, and Biomedical

ACCOLADES

A LEADER IN BIOFABRICATION

Fast Comppany 2022 Innovation by Design Awards

Modern Meadow, headquartered in Nutley, NJ, is a sustainable bio-design technology company that uses nature-inspired proteins to develop solutions that reduce our reliance on petrochemical and animal-derived inputs.

Business Intelligence Group 2022 Sustainability Product of the Year

The company creates solutions that make sustainable high-performance materials possible. Modern Meadow is a protein design and application powerhouse, creating next-generation materials using synthetic biology by harnessing the unique properties of proteins as building blocks for biofabrication.

Inc. Magazine 2022 Best in Business Award

Its scalable solutions drop into existing manufacturing processes, allowing partners to bring sustainable goods to market quickly and without high upfront costs. The company aims to drive innovation in sustainability and create new solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges.

Edison Award 2023 Modern Meadow’s Bio-Coll@gen Bronze Awards

PRODUCTS FOR THE WELLNESS OF PEOPLE & PLANET

ITMA 2023 Modern Meadow’s Bio-FREED Sustainable Innovation Finalist

Founded in 2011 with the mission to reimagine how the world approaches materials, sustainability and consumption, Modern Meadow’s approach, expertise, and technologies have evolved and expanded significantly in the past 10 years, but its goal to develop alternative, nature-inspired materials to replace animal-derived and petrochemical-based materials has been steadfast. While it is just getting started on this journey, its impact so far is a testament to what it could achieve in the future.

based protein and bio-polymer that maximizes performance and sustainability at the molecular level. Innovations such as Bio-Tex™, a high performance, leather-inspired material system that offers limitless possibilities in look, feel and color or Bio-VERA™ the latest sustainable, animal-free material that looks, feels and naturally ages like traditional leather, suede, or chamois have provided sustainable and solvent-free alternative, eliminating animal-based inputs and waste in favor of production-ready, traceable inputs.

With its drop-in technology platforms, companies in the textiles, materials, personal care, and biomedical industries no longer have to compromise between sustainability and performance. Modern Meadow’s has developed a diversity of bio-based innovations powered by Bio-Alloy™ a revolutionary miscible blend of plant122

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

DROP-IN TECHNOLOGY SCALED THROUGH INDUSTRYLEADER PARTNERSHIPS Modern Meadow’s innovations create boundless potential for partners to offer higher-quality, more sustainable versions of products that drive business success. They partner with companies developing bio-based supply chains and with businesses looking to design for sustainability from the start. Modern Meadow’s bio-based technology offers the world a new way forward by introducing a more effective, more responsible, and readily available supply. Modern Meadow’s ongoing research and development will continue to generate new offerings to transform the impact of consumer goods on people and the planet. The company envisions growing from creating high-quality replacements of existing products to catalyzing products better than we’ve ever seen before.

Modern Meadow’s expertise in protein engineering and precision fermentation are ideal for partners looking to build or maintain trust in the personal care industry. Bio-Coll@gen™ is Modern Meadow’s proprietary protein, sequenced from human collagen type III, which is what youthful bodies use to maintain healthy skin. Because it is sustainably sourced from non-animal origins, Bio-Coll@gen™ is both environmentally friendly and bio-active. It promotes the skin’s natural ability to produce more Collagen III, providing powerful anti-aging factors.

111 Ideation Way, Suite 100, Nutley, Nj, Usa 07110 Phone: 844-My-Meadow

modernmeadow.com 123

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

RELIABLE, SCALABLE, ANISOTROPIC INTERCONNECT SOLUTION FOR FLEXIBLE HYBRID ELECTRONICS Anisotropic electrically conductive adhesive compatible with automated SMT Processing Flexible Hybrid Electronics (FHE) are a demanding environment for reliable interconnects and component attachment on the Printed Electronics world. FHE is typically comprised of the combination of simple printed circuitry made with conductive inks and more complex electronics using microchips, and other high functionality components like LED’s and resistors. These components have traditionally been connected to rigid circuit boards with solder, and more recently onto flexible substrates with Electrically Conductive Adhesives (ECA’s). These technologies have shortcomings when used in high performance FHE applications. While solders provide the most conductive electrical connection, they are rigid and require the addition of an underfill adhesive as well as a post bond encapsulation.

ZTACH® ACE, an Anisotropic Conductive Epoxy, allows for simultaneous Z-axis connections of all the devices on a board, sheet, or textiles, across large formats. It requires no patterning, no bonding pressure, and can be cured at low temperatures. ZTACH® ACE can adhere to a wide range of substrates, including PET, TPU, various textiles and PCBs. This material acts as its own underfill, providing superior adhesion and shear strength, eliminating the need for a secondary underfill or post-bond encapsulation. ZTACH® ACE can achieve fine pitch down to 100-microns. Less than 50 microns pitch is currently in development.

ECA’s are less conductive, and also require underfill and/or over encapsulation. SunRay Scientific of Eatontown, NJ has developed ZTACH® ACE to provide reliable interconnections between electronic components and circuitry on flexible and even stretchable substrates, without encapsulation, even under repeated mechanical stress. ZTACH® ACE has been shown as a scalable assembly process for FHE manufacturing in an SMT line.

John M Yundt VP of Sales and Business Development

Fig. 1: ZTACH ACE - Columns 124

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

ZTACH® ACE works by the magnetic alignment of ferromagneticconductive particles through SunRay’s patented ZMAG™ magnetic pallet. As illustrated in Figure 1, once placed on the ZMAG™ Pallet, these particles immediately align into z-axis “wires” magnetically held in place while the resin is hardened by the curing process. This electrically connects the device to the circuit. Because of the very low particle filler percentage, the resin creates exceptionally higher bond strength for the device versus traditional attachment methods. Since ZTACH® ACE is basically an underfill with conductive Z-axis columns throughout, it creates electrical conductivity at the pad locations and thermal dissipation between – all done while maintaining electrical insulation in the X-Y plane. Good performance of ZTACH® ACE has been demonstrated through thousands of components interconnected on hundreds of sheets on high volume SMT/reflow lines.

Fig 3. (LED attached to PET with ZTACH) Despite notable progress being made in e-Textiles, significant challenges remain relative to functionality, reliability, scalability, and cost. Robust interconnects have been repeatedly noted as a primary challenge in both conformal Flexible Hybrid Electronics and Stretchable e-Textiles. SunRay Scientific’s innovative Z-axis conductive adhesive is compatible with integrating into an SMT line with reduced steps, no pressure, and at low temperature. ZTACH® ACE, with minimal design requirements, is easily incorporated into current or new product designs while supporting miniaturization and light weighting of electronic assemblies and wearable e-textiles. ZTACH® ACE has been shown to be a reliable interconnect solution over conventional methods and has demonstrated scalable production of wearable electronics.

ZTACH ACE overcomes limitations of conventional solders ®

Unlike solder, ZTACH® ACE provides both the electrical connection and the underfill. Most solder connections on a flexible substrate traditionally require the addition of an encapsulant for protection and for maintaining adhesion of the less flexible interconnection joints. ZTACH® ACE has demonstrated reliability without the need for an encapsulant. This eliminates a manufacturing step and the localized rigidizing created by an encapsulant, with a less bulky product profile. No encapsulant is especially beneficial in LED applications as the clarity of the LEDs are not interfered by the addition of an optically clear covering. Nor is the performance over time impacted by the aging characteristics of an encapsulating material. This is particularly useful for the optimal performance of UV LEDs in medical applications.

Wearable electronics present challenges beyond traditional SMT circuit boards or flexible circuits Adhesion is particularly a challenge between rigid die and the stretching or moving fabric in wearable applications. ZTACH® ACE is applied in a single stenciling step, followed by magnetizing and curing. The material is applied across the entire footprint of the component to provide both interconnection and structural bonding to the electrical circuitry on the fabric. ZTACH® ACE stabilizes the interconnect sites - the Z-axis columns of aligned particles, held in place by the epoxy resin, allow for flexing of the surrounding textile while maintaining electrical connection. Fig. 2 (showing ZTACH column Alignment)

Fig 4. (showing process)

22 Meridian Road, Unit 1, Eatontown, NJ 07724

sunrayscientific.com 125

CHAPTER FIVE

INNOVATION IN PUBLIC RELATIONS, CONSULTING & MARKETING

126

127

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

CGI – A Leader in Innovation

In 1976, Serge Codin and Andre Imbeau, two young and ambitious entrepreneurs from Quebec City, Canada founded CGI, Consultants to Government and Industry. With a strong commitment and big dreams, Codin and Imbeau strived to create a company with an enjoyable work environment that promoted collaboration and innovation among its employees. Codin and Imbeau wanted to develop a firm they could be proud of, and that is exactly what they have achieved.

At CGI, consultants are insights-driven and outcome-based. All employees of the firm are focused on building strong, lasting relationships with their clients. By using a collaborative consulting approach, professionals at CGI work directly with clients, helping customers adapt, accelerate, and achieve their business goals. As a business and IT service partner, CGI professionals gather deep insights and knowledge of current and evolving industry trends. With this information, employees are able to build strategies and deliver services and solutions to address consumers’ needs. CGI strives to improve its client’s future, by providing and executing business plans that improve the quality and efficiency of the existing workflow. CGI’s self-discipline, strategic innovations, and strong commitment to its clients has helped the company acquire a loyal network of valuable relationships.

As time passed, CGI grew in sheer volume and reached new heights through project developments and successful mergers. Today, the company is one of the largest IT and business consulting firms in the world, with over 88,000 employees, 400 locations across the globe, and a net worth exceeding 12 billion dollars. More recently, CGI has been recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the best management consulting firms in the world. Although CGI has reached many milestones, the company’s attention to detail and its strong relationships with its clientele network has helped the firm stand out among its competitors and has attributed to its success.

Not only is CGI dedicated to its clientele network, but the firm also strives to uphold a positive corporate social responsibility. CGI is committed to creating a more inclusive and sustainable planet, by providing STEM and educational programs, participating in local volunteer events, and 128

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Ribbon Cutting of CGI New Brunswick offices.

New Brunswick P-Tech Students and CGI Leadership at Ribbon Cutting for New Brunswick office

CGI Leadership greets New Brunswick P-Tech students. Left to Right : Gianna Capriotti, Senior Consultant, Mike Reagan, Senior Vice President, Steve Starace, Senior Vice President and Business Unit Leader, Tim Hurlebaus, President

CGI Leadership greets New Brunswick P-Tech students

reducing CO2 emissions. These initiatives are several examples of how CGI has upheld a strong corporate image, which has fostered a work environment where employees can be proud of the company they work for. As time evolves, CGI will continue to innovate its existing business model, by further developing strong partnerships, encouraging entrepreneurship among its employees, promoting teamwork and integrity, and continuing to build a global world class information of IT and technology services and solutions. CGI cgigroup cgi_global cgi New Brunswick P-Tech Students excited to be in the CGI New Brunswick offices. New Brunswick office

cgi.com 129

OUR PURPOSE IS POSSIBILITY. AT MARSH, THE IDEA OF POSSIBILITY ISN’T JUST SOMETHING WE TALK ABOUT — IT’S SOMETHING WE’VE LIVED FOR OVER 150 YEARS.

We help our clients and colleagues grow — and our communities thrive — by protecting and promoting Possibility. We seek better ways to manage risk and define more effective paths to the right outcome. We go beyond risk to rewards for our clients, our company, our colleagues, and the communities in which we serve.

GLOBAL REACH With offices in more than 130 countries, Marsh is the world’s leading insurance broker and risk advisor. We provide industry-focused brokerage, consulting, and claims advocacy services, leveraging data, technology, and analytics to help reduce our clients’ total cost of risk.

LOCAL EXPERTISE With over 45,000 colleagues worldwide, we provide our commercial and individual clients with insights, advice, and support in the local markets in which they operate or where their business may face risks. We help you understand coverage nuances, regulatory developments, and risk trends. And we work together with you on placement, mitigating risk, and optimizing your risk spend. 130

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

ENABLING POSSIBILITY SINCE 1871 For over 150 years, clients have trusted Marsh to advise them during the most trying and celebratory times, helping them achieve success by becoming more resilient and attaining the possible. With new risks and opportunities constantly emerging, we help you navigate the changing risk landscape, realize your ambitious goals, and make your future more secure.

TECHNOLOGY Success in the technology industry hinges on an ability to seize opportunities afforded by innovation in a rapidly changing marketplace while managing associated risks. Data breaches, equipment and software failures, and other cyber risks remain ever-present, despite concerted efforts to reduce the impact of these and other business disruptions. Marsh’s global Technology Practice can help your company assess its risks, prioritize what’s most critical to you, and work together to help manage and mitigate your exposures. The US technology industry is represented by a diverse array of businesses, including those involved in e-commerce, esports and gaming, as well as fintech, hosting and cloud services, design and manufacturing of electronics components, and more. The US economy and consumers rely heavily on the products and services of tech companies, and it is therefore critical to protect the profitability and viability of these businesses through risk management. Marsh McLennan is the leader in risk, strategy and people, helping clients navigate a dynamic environment through four global businesses.

Our dedicated US technology industry specialists draw on regional and global insights to provide risk and insurance advice and guidance specific to your needs. We service more than 400 clients, which offers a great deal of perspective into the potential and actual impact on your business of emerging trends, evolving business models, and shifting regulations in the US.

of Excellence that can support your operations, providing timely access to insurance coverage options and addressing evolving risk management concerns. Marsh is the world’s leading insurance broker and risk advisor. With over 45,000 colleagues operating in 130 countries, Marsh serves commercial and individual clients with data-driven risk solutions and advisory services. Marsh is a business of Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC), the world’s leading professional services firm in the areas of risk, strategy and people. With annual revenue over $20 billion, Marsh McLennan helps clients navigate an increasingly dynamic and complex environment through four market-leading businesses: Marsh, Guy Carpenter, Mercer and Oliver Wyman. For more information, visit marsh.com, and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Our team has the experience and industry perspective to help manage your company’s most pressing risk resilience needs.

LIFE SCIENCES Marsh’s experienced life sciences risk management team can help develop solutions relevant to your business and to your risks, whether you are in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and supply, or contract research sector. Life sciences companies in the US continue to respond to an evolving healthcare and treatment landscape, providing innovative solutions to address today’s challenges. With this progress comes new financial and operational risks that must be managed to prevent business interruptions and sustain growth.

MARSH GUYCARPENTER MERCER OLIVERWYMAN

As your trusted advisor, Marsh can help your company reduce its risk exposures through tailored solutions that include insurance brokerage, advisory services, and risk management strategies. Our goals are the same as yours: protecting your assets and reputation, while maintaining profitability and business continuity.

william.destefano@marsh.com Tel: 973-452-1789 MarshGlobal marsh TheMarshChannel

Marsh’s dedicated specialists draw upon local, national, and global insights to provide specific advice and guidance for our more than 350 life sciences clients in the US. We also have a Clinical Trials Center

marsh.com 131

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

To innovate through AI and Optimization, many of the best managed organizations in North America trust Princeton Consultants.

Operating Efficiency. Reaching new heights of productivity and reliability; doing things faster, better, cheaper. 2. New Product Development. Creating a new product or service to break away from the competition. 3. New Business Model. Creating an entirely new business—staking out a new frontier or reinventing your value proposition.

Founded by CEO Steve Sashihara in 1980 and still headquartered in Princeton, we help clients improve performance through the successful deployment of AI and Optimization. Blending world-class technical expertise and deep business insight, our consultants work in small, agile teams to provide transformational solutions and services that drive innovation. Our firm’s leaders are frequent authors and guest speakers on best practices in AI and Optimization for business and technical executives.

We look for situations in which decisions are highly repetitive over short periods of time, across departments, or in multiple locations. Very small improvements in the quality of each decision can add up to big-time savings. In examining how the decisions are made, we explore if it would be valuable to “scope up” and consider the impact of each decision on the entire network, not just on a single location. AI and Optimization can transform decision making about assets—any resource an organization owns or controls that can potentially add value.

Where Do You Want to Innovate? Successful AI and Optimization begin with selecting the right area of opportunity. We work with executives on three levels to help them change the game:

132

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

AI and Optimization in Action Princeton Consultants has a four-decade track record of developing and deploying breakthrough solutions for a diverse clientele of industry leaders and innovators. Here is a sample: We helped the U.S. Census Bureau optimize scheduling and routing of the 350,000 field enumerators for the 2020 Census, the first ever to use smart phones and optimized routing. This award-winning project helped overcome natural disasters and the pandemic, contributed to more than $2 billion in savings, and transformed how the census will be conducted going forward. For a healthcare provider with more than 3,000 facilities, we are developing a scheduling optimization system that will greatly improve safety, service, and efficiency. The system evaluates billions of combinations and tailors recommendations for each venue, its staff, and its patients. For two of the world’s largest transportation networks—including trucking, aircraft, rail, and ocean carriers—we are creating new-generation planning systems. Innovative optimization and simulation techniques handle Big Data’s complexity and deliver recommendations rapidly. For a biotech manufacturer, we built a manufacturing plant simulation and developed a custom scheduling optimization solution. These applications helped reduce high production costs resulting from small batch sizes and manual processing, and helped executives rigorously evaluate different scenarios related to process improvement, plant scheduling strategy, and capacity planning.

Choosing the Right People AI and Optimization are challenging, creative endeavors that do not lend themselves to a large cast. When choosing the right opportunity, we look for the biggest possible prize; when constructing the right team, we look for the smallest possible team, which is typically made up of a project sponsor, subject matter experts, support personnel, and optimization consultants. Princeton Consultants has worked with, hired, and cultivated many AI and Optimization executives and team members. We can say that employees skilled in AI and Optimization possess both an inquisitive nature and the quantitative skills needed to turn results into tangible rules for optimization software. They have an “experimentation mindset.” Much has been said about the United States’ need to strengthen math and engineering courses in its schools to compete on a global basis. It’s a good start, but it is not sufficient. To lead the next wave of innovation, we need not only math majors and engineers, but also individuals with outstanding communication skills and creativity. If you would like to explore AI and Optimization to innovate at your organization, we will welcome a conversation. 133

Princeton Consultants Links princeton-consultants PrincetonDotCom

princeton.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

CEOs and CMOs are demanding more clarity, efficiency, performance and efficacy from their marketing enterprises. As marketing gets noisier, brands turn to Verasoni as a guiding light of calm and for measured strategies, and they have since 2005. Recognized for innovation and strategic guidance to clients ranging from Fortune 500 to middle market and venture-backed startups, Verasoni is a consultancy, advisory, and agency with a firm commitment to transparency and results. Abe Kasbo, our CEO, is the driving force behind our mission to redefine marketing that delivers transparency, accountability, and trust to every engagement.

134

V O L . 2

Fierce Client Advocacy Today more than ever, brands need a lighthouse with steady experience and the chops to navigate the increasingly complex and volatile seas of marketing, digital and traditional. Verasoni has reinvented the agency model to challenge the marketing industry by embracing three core principles: transparency, accountability and trust. These aren’t just words; they’re the distinct values that guide our every move, always putting our clients’ best interests ahead of ours.

Better Ideas: Innovation in Practice We bring seasoned business acumen to every campaign delivering efficient and effective campaigns while solving some of the most intricate brand challenges. Our heritage is built on innovation, before it was fashionable we partnered with the world’s largest dental distributor to build the first AI app in 2018 to deliver business service to the dental market. In 2014 we helped one of the world’s largest CPG companies build a first-of-its-kind store on Amazon, and in the process, we’ve built the foundations for our expertise in e-commerce and digital marketing that serve our clients to this day. And since we’re platform and channel agnostic, that frees up our imagination to deliver meaningful and memorable campaigns. Clients partner with us because talent matters. For example, both Michael Jordan and Abe Kasbo are guards, but if you’re picking a player for your team, who are you picking? Our clients select us precisely because we push our talents above and beyond expectations, and our strategic proclivity for competitiveness helps clients outmaneuver the competition. On our Managed Marketing Services (MMS) side of the house, we enable clients to be more agile and lean by delivering a complete suite of marketing talent and services to serve as an in-house partner at a fraction of the cost of an owned in-house team. The average client has been with us for over 8 years, speaking volumes about the extraordinary relationships we’ve been fortunate enough to build and the value we deliver to each and every client engagement.

Find us on LinkedIn or visit Verasoni.com to learn more.

Verasoni

verasoni.com 135

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

SHARON MAHN CEO & FOUNDER, MAHN CONSULTING, LLC.

‘‘

Regardless of how technology manifests and grows, the cornerstone of any company and its ability to succeed depends on its strong leadership and culture.

A 136

“Regardless of how technology manifests and grows, the cornerstone of any company and its ability to succeed depends on its strong leadership and culture. The people in the company are the most important. Finding key people to fill those opportunities is important, and technology assessment tools can help with that process.” Sharon Mahn is an executive search and consulting professional focused on lawyers. As CEO & Founder, Mahn Consulting, LLC., this New Jersey native utilizes advanced technology in a distinctive data-driven approach to enhance the person-job-organization fit for legal and compliance executives and leaders.

TRUST IN TECH

Her expertise brings extensive, hands-on experience in legal and corporate compliance placements in combination with an impressive track record of placements executed by experts in specific industries. This means clients get both vertical and horizontal specialists with significant depth in industry and function.

Her primary area of expertise is law firm merger and acquisitions deals. She also works with individual lawyers who have developed a large client base and/or exceptional expertise in their industry sector.

With a vast background practicing as a trial lawyer for several top New York City law firms before transitioning into legal consulting, advisory and executive search, Sharon also serves as a guest professor at the New York University Graduate School of Business and sits on several corporate and philanthropic boards in the New York City area. She is also an awardwinning entrepreneur, author, media commentator, business consultant, and philanthropist.

In her industry, she’s developed the tech tools to advance executive search and restructuring law firm models to enable lawyers to perform better and service their clients’ needs. Sharon strongly believes that technology tools can significantly assist in assessing a law firm or company culture – the glue that keeps human capital intact.

Law Dragon named her as one of the top legal consultants in the world, and SmartCEO named her as one of the country’s best female Chief Executive Officers. Sharon has been frequently quoted in the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, American Lawyer, and other leading media periodicals and featured on Fox News and CNN regarding political issues pertaining to female professionals.

She explains: “Technology also plays a large part in allowing companies to research their employees better with the advent of the internet, making resume deception less likely in the hiring process. At the same time, technology allows employers more of a reach and helps companies to connect with a larger employee candidate pool. Technology assists in transparency, much of which was not available even two decades ago.” What Sharon finds most compelling is how the industry continues to evolve. She shared an anecdote with us: “Years ago, critics were somewhat quick to dismiss the virtual firm as a viable business model for law firms, but again, the law firm industry is always slow to change! Most recently, I worked with Conrad Everhard, a former partner at several prominent law firms and founding member of the Flatiron Law Group. For years, Conrad has been growing his law firm with innovative and creative cloud-based tools and strategic top law talent acquisitions. I find this new breed of law firm’s managing partners to be thought leaders and certainly the law professionals to watch moving forward.”

PIVOTING PEOPLE PARTNERSHIPS “Coming out of law school, I never even knew that the legal recruiting industry existed,” Sharon shares. “I quickly learned that I enjoyed helping my clients solve their problems, but unfortunately, the practice of law was very different from the academics of law that one learns in law school, and I wanted a career change. I realized that I wanted to help people, but do it in a different way while still utilizing my law degree.” It was only after a legal recruiter reached out to me when I was a law firm associate that I learned about the existence of the field as a career opportunity. Working with that legal recruiter made me realize that helping others achieve their law firm career aspirations, something I felt would capitalize on every strength I had, was also something I could find great joy doing. I ended up getting recruited by that very same headhunter into her legal search firm, and that was how I landed my first job in this profession. I was hooked! To this day, I keep in touch with my former law firm colleagues and managers. They remain current clients and, more importantly, long-time friends.”

In the future, Sharon sees technology creating opportunities never before thought possible for her industry – and the legal profession. She foresees positions expanding in her industry that cater to the needs of employees, such as Chief Mental Health Officers, Chief Social Impact Officers, and other areas that consider the well-being and social responsibility that companies are now undertaking. She concludes: “I love my work as a recruiter and consultant, and I don’t feel as if I ever work a day in my life. It is rewarding, and I feel like I make a significant positive impact on people’s work lives, which make them happier as well in their personal life.”

Sharon Mahn Sharon M 137

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

A CDFI that Provides Technical ASSISTANCE and Lending capital so NJ Small Businesses Survive and Thrive Greater Newark Enterprises Corporation (GNEC) is a Newark-based non-profit certified community development financial institution (CDFI) with a proven record of delivering capital and microenterprise services to disadvantaged microentrepreneurs in the northern New Jersey areas of Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Bergen, Middlesex, Union and Monmouth counties of New Jersey. GNEC’s primary purpose is community development, and the organization carries out its mission by financing small business growth and development and providing financial services to disadvantaged residents in New Jersey.

Through providing capital solutions, GNEC assists clients to build assets for themselves and their families. While access to capital often provides short term stability for our clients, our technical assistance has lasting benefits. Since many of our clients face barriers in accessing the local business ecosystem, GNEC has designed its services to enable these barriers to be systematically removed. Our aim is to provide financial options so that no one must approach the predatory lending market. Our main lending products include:

GNEC’s products are designed to operate in the void between mainstream lenders (banks and other regulated financial institutions) and unregulated lenders (payday and online money lenders). Our aim is to provide options to our clients that do not have access to mainstream finance or technical expertise, to prevent them from having no fair financial options or from having to approach the predatory lending market. GNEC’s portfolio, products, and service reflect our commitment to the people and area in which we live and serve. Since its inception, GNEC has provided over 145,000 hours of technical assistance services to over 6,000 unique individuals, lent over $4 million on-book and over $15 million off-book. Of this amount, 63% went to African Americans, 24% Hispanics, 8% Whites and 5% Asians. Our loan clients have been 51% men and 49% women, with 41% being moderate-income, 31% low income, 14% very low income, and 93% to businesses located in moderate- to low-income census tracks. During 2020 and 2021 GNEC has provided technical assistance services to 700 unique individuals and loaned over $750,000 on-book and over $4 million off-book.

GNEC Business Builder Loan Program provides access to capital for small businesses that are unable to access full financing from the banks. These loans provide capital in the range of $15,000 – $75,000 at competitive rates. On occasion, GNEC also partners with other CDFIs and sector specialists to provide loans of up to $100,000. GNEC Dream Maker Loans are made for entrepreneurs who are seeking seed capital to take the first steps toward business ownership. These $2,000 - $15,000 loans are designed to give startups capital to purchase equipment needed to launch a business or their initial inventory. The Entrepreneurs of Color Fund – Newark Program was launched in February 2022 to assist minority-owned businesses from Newark in the opportunity to access capital at highly competitive rates. A key aspect of GNEC’s work is our delivery of technical assistance and business education programs throughout the year and through a variety 138

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

of partnerships. GNEC’s BackStop program is a multi-tiered technical assistance program launched in 2022. Tier 1 provides bookkeeping services and access to Quickbooks through experts contracted by GNEC. Tier 2 is a partnership with Dun & Bradstreet to provide GNEC with access to business credit building services, while the newly launched Tier 3 focuses on providing website development and social media services by experts contracted by GNEC.

Greater Newark Enterprises Corporation Email: info@gnecorp.org

GreaterNewarkEnterprisesCorporation greater-newark-enterprises-corporation 139

gnecorp.org

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

ART. DESIGN. BRANDING. To me, it’s not work, it’s life.

I worked hard to grow 325 from a one-woman consultancy to a fullservice award-winning agency with a client roster of leading companies transforming Biotech, Healthcare, Pharma, Manufacturing and Finance. Clients including Pfizer, Novartis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Evofem, Aspargo Labs, Angion, Synapse DX, Aerami Therapeutics, Polyurethane Machinery Corporation, Gold’s Gym, Fox Restaurant Concepts as well as our own beloved Garmany, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Jenk’s Club.

I’ve always had a passion for art and design. In high school, I painted a Shakespeare mural on the hallway wall in lieu of writing my English literature paper. Today, as I walk through the streets of New Jersey and New York City, I see my art, designs and branding quite often. Not only within local businesses, but within a variety of clients, including global franchises, national nonprofits and even on the NASDAQ marquee in Times Square. I began my agency in a garage office with no air conditioning, but a pool in the backyard to cool off throughout the day. I knew design was my calling and I had to start somewhere. Twenty-four years later, I can say I am extremely proud of 325’s reputation for exceptional brand-first marketing that has provided countless referrals throughout the years.

Our Focus 325 has always been a brand-first marketing agency because successful marketing and sustained growth are built upon the foundation of a strong brand. Our team brings strategic integrated marketing solutions and expertise to our clients and partner ecosystem. 325 has an exceptional track record of collaborating with clients to unlock the value of their business by elevating a company’s brand story, awareness and reinventing the future of their digital business. 325’s focus is to deliver the latest in creative design, strategic thinking and market opportunity to our clients.

I started 325 in 1999 after working for both global strategy consulting firm AT Kearney in their pharma practice, and for a strategic boutique design agency focused on global medical education and market insights for top pharma and biotech companies.

140

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Jersey Mike’s Subs Franchise Marketing Material

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

The Pfizer Journal Design

their goals. Our team of developers, designers, photographers, writers, social media strategists and more operate with a level of cohesion, efficiency and expertise that is extraordinary. We recognize that our clients’ success is our success at 325, and we’re proud to have built brands and developed marketing strategies that showcase the very best each client has to offer. We work to elevate and innovate our client’s brand to attract and engage. Every client relationship serves as motivation to continue performing to the highest standard.

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Logo Through close collaboration with every client, we build alignment with the company’s vision and the strategic purpose of every branding element. Some of the logo identities and brands created within 325 are still going strong after 24 years, the impact of an instantly recognizable brand is evident.

As 325 approaches a quarter century in business, I have more energy and enthusiasm than ever. My team and clients fuel it moreso. The ability of our clients to make a difference in people’s lives, and our ability to create brands and strategies that deliver life-changing impact, fuel my passion each and every day. I could not be more excited about what tomorrow will bring.

And while some of the most iconic logo identities we’ve designed may have started as a simple sketch, every letter, graphic and color carried meaning behind it. Every detail has meaning to shape perception and is a core principal in 325’s brand philosophy. Here, we breathe the brand. Making Your Innovation Understood + Recognized A brand is so much more than a logo that appears on all marketing assets. A brand creates the feeling people have when they encounter and interact with your organization. A brand is the expectation that your organization will continue to deliver on its promise to solve problems and make life better. These experiences, feelings and promises shape the perceptions that ultimately lead to customer satisfaction and recurring business interaction.

1999 Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, where it all began.

While our brand-first approach to marketing has earned 325 a number of accolades, our greatest reward is seeing a client grow and thrive. Whether it’s a technology firm completing a sale for tremendous profit, a manufacturing client with increased sales, or a biotech company getting listed on NASDAQ (and inviting me to ring the opening bell in Times Square), there is no greater thrill as a brand and marketing professional than seeing our clients succeed.

325 cheryl@weare325.com (732) 383-8953 weare325.com

Such a journey is only possible with an exceptional team. 325’s COO and Director of Client Services Tricia Roman is a 30-year colleague, confidante and friend who shares my vision and passion for helping clients achieve 141

MICHELINE NADER HEALTHCARE ENTREPRENEUR, BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, EXECUTIVE COACH, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER, PHILANTHROPIST AND PRESIDENT OF JESRA FOUNDATION.

‘‘

When leaders leap, civilization leaps and we can collectively emerge into a new paradigm of leadership — we all Leap!”

icheline Nader is dedicated to empowering people through transformational leadership. In her book, LEAP Beyond Success, Micheline introduces LEAP—Lean, Execute, Align, and Program — a transformational system designed for leaders who want to accelerate their growth and impact. Building from the groundbreaking ideas in her 2015 bestseller The Dolphin’s Dance, Micheline describes what lies beyond success, offering a wealth of knowledge for leaders ready to leverage their passions and master the arts of selfdevelopment and social impact. “The road we follow in life is not always a steady progression of promotions over the course of a career or lifetime. Sometimes leadership is thrust upon us unexpectedly, and we rise to meet it. At a very young age, I discovered the leader I was born to become.” With the belief that every experience in life is a lesson and opportunity for growth, Micheline has devoted her life and career to identifying, nurturing, and growing leaders - especially female leaders – of tomorrow. Her mission is transforming people’s passion into purpose by empowering leaders and individuals to create their own opportunities from the future and not be hindered by the past.

142

As a healthcare entrepreneur, Micheline founded and led the Blue Dolphin Healthcare Group, where she built, owned, and managed a chain of skilled nursing home facilities in the Midwest. After 15 years of operations, Micheline successfully sold her company to a publicly-listed healthcare group. She is currently the CEO of Jesra Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to creating breakthroughs in health and education. She holds several degrees, including a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing, a Master’s Degree in Public Health, and a Doctoral Degree in Healthcare Management. Micheline serves as a trustee of the board of directors of Fairleigh Dickinson University, chairs the advisory board of the Silberman College of Business and serves on other national boards. She continues to empower and enrich individuals by developing and implementing innovative content through her workshops and as a writer, as well as adding value to the institutions she serves. “Our uniqueness is the positive power that propels us forward. If we harness this energy and express it with clarity, authenticity, and focused action, it will infuse our life and our work. Fulfillment is the place where that innate passion meets our burning desire to contribute our purpose to the world.” Micheline shares.

Growing consciousness Her passion is to teach individuals the skills to develop their awareness and conscious leadership to lead and leap from the future and grow beyond their success. She shares: “With the digital revolution, individuals tend to become egocentric and focused on their own success. People are more focused on taking pictures with a smile and blasting them over social media instead of creating a real moment of happiness. They are interested in becoming famous over creating good.” “The challenge will be to move us to become ecocentric and bring people around us to succeed. We will lose interpersonal connectedness if we don’t develop our social awareness and empathy. Developing these qualities through making personal and professional transformational work accessible is a necessity. It is why I dedicate my life to writing, leading workshops, and creating courses focused on this much-needed content.”

Embracing the digital revolution Throughout her career, Micheline has understood and embraced the tools and opportunities presented by education. From building a healthcare group and an extensive career in hospital administration, she identifies today’s online technology as a springboard for education and entrepreneurship opportunities for female and underprivileged people. As a woman, Micheline is profoundly aware of the benefits of education she has enjoyed in her life. She is determined to make that opportunity available to other women as well. Micheline firmly believes that the world’s politics would be very different if more women were represented in public life. For that to happen, she feels that society needs to make it possible for more women to get an education. That’s where online education will transform lives and the future.

personal gains into societal gains, influencing the future of business and humanity. I call this breakthrough becoming a leaper. Leapers are triple winners: you win/I win/the world wins. Micheline is passionate about her vision. It drives her with a burning motivation to coach and guide emerging leaders who want to create success and help established leaders who long to have fulfillment in their life. Her tools to catalyze the transformation for individuals are practical and powerful. The world needs more of these kinds of leaders.

While the digital revolution redefines people’s daily lives and constantly evolves, Micheline believes that “conscious businesses, social uprisings for equality, and radical movements, will strengthen to counterbalance the changes. It will result in more online businesses and education opportunities, and colleges will focus more on entrepreneurial leadership and lifelong learners.” She continues: “Home entertainment and gaming will rise to the levels of virtual reality, and work will move away from the cliches of ‘9-to-5.’” In terms of healthcare, she reckons healthcare will suffer from staff shortages, but telemedicine will take over primary care. Societies that create healthcare access at affordable rates will evolve at a much higher speed and make ever greater levels of technological advantages. “Healthcare has evolved and changed so much since I started. Technology, Biotechnology, big data and AI, have changed the face of healthcare for the better. Those who know how to invest in these technologies, develop them and protect them will be winners. It is a privilege to live in this era with its leaps in medical and healthcare technology.” “With the explosion of biotechnology and other healthcare applications, What if consciousness could evolve at the same rate as science and technology?” The big realization that the most important role leaders can have is to serve others. This deep shift occurs when leaders start leading through compassion and extending far beyond their 143

michelinenader michelinenaderauthor

MichelineNader.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

MAKING THE SHIFT FROM “HOPE AND PRAY” TO “PLAN AND DO.” Where are today’s opportunities and possibilities for business success? And with all the information available and options to consider, how can you recognize them? Prioritize them? Evaluate them? Align them with your organization’s growth objectives? And a question that we hear with great frequency when making a marketing commitment: “What’s the ROI?”

At Delia Associates we investigate the process through our proprietary B2B Growth Planning Platform. This sytem of analytical tools and modeling techniques enables sales, marketing, and leadership teams to focus, prioritize, and articulate their most viable channels of growth. Through this process we are able to formulate and execute a marketing plan which fully aligns with an organization’s growth goals. It has been our experience through utilization of this system that when marketing is closely aligned to growth objectives and guided by clearly defined metrics, ROI may confidently be forecast to result.

Growth in business can be an area of great hope or conversely, an area of frustration and great disappointment. The determining factor is overwhelmingly influenced by knowing how to invest your marketing dollars.

144

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Ed Delia, PCM*, became President of Delia Associates in 1998, assuming full control of the company founded by his father, Michael A. Delia, in 1964. Under Ed’s leadership, Delia Associates has contributed directly to the success and growth of a wide variety of clients, from global to regional organizations.

Much like investing in an advanced piece of manufacturing equipment or the next generation of software technology, marketing ROI can be projected. The proper due diligence performed in evaluating variables such as market conditions, economic trends, industry forecasts, competitive landscape, target audience behaviors, and many others can pay handsome dividends. The ability to make focused, calculated investments in marketing to define growth goals forms the foundation for both growth and predictable ROI. That’s precisely what we do with the B2B Growth Planner.

As a well-established branding and marketing firm we’ve been at work for almost sixty years “planning and doing” to help businessto-business organizations reach their growth goals. We are thriving, well-positioned, and grateful to be part of the vibrant Garden State business community as our state continues to flourish with companies innovating in manufacturing, engineering, technology, packaging, and the life sciences.

*Professional Certified Marketer by the American Marketing Association

Tel: 908-534-9044 delia-associates deliaassociates delia_associates deliaassociates

delianet.com 145

THE STORY OF MEANINGFUL TRANSFORMATIONS: Data. Information. Intelligent Presentation. Action. Storied Data is a next generation publishing platform for the digital world. It allows users to combine visuals, data, and interactivity in a single document that provides an app-like experience and reduces information overload. In Storied Data, you can produce any document - reports, dashboards, infographics, catalogs, and more in an enhanced HTML format.

We needed to rethink the design and creation of information documents. No one has taken to re-thinking how document creation and publishing would work in the digital age where information and data are so abundant that it becomes a headache. We took on this challenge and decided to apply design thinking to reduce information overload in the trillions of documents created by banks, insurance companies, utilities, retailers, and many more.

We give users a single tool to combine graphic design, data and analytics, and interactive workflows to make documents aesthetically pleasing and easy to customize. Thus, users can get the most relevant insights instantly from rich data sets to make better decisions. The approach reduces information overload and also automates the process of document creation and personalization.

We disrupted the digital publishing market by combining three different tools into a single tool. By doing this, we save document creators time to create, time to learn different tools, integration of technologies, and cost to license different tools. We also changed the distribution model by eliminating end user licensing and development costs for interactive documents. We are saving companies money to support concurrent users when interacting with data. By distributing the data with the documents, we empower the end users to be in control of their own data. Finally, all of these innovations produce an enormous ESG effect. Users no longer have to print PDFs, they can print only the relevant information. This means less energy consumption in distributing and using documents. Opening 100 PDFs is equivalent to driving 6000 miles in a passenger car.

A regulator in Europe told us that we have an information overload problem that is causing an even bigger problem. The world is moving faster and faster, but it takes people longer to digest information. The excel sheets are getting bigger, the reports are getting longer, and people do not have time to read. They scan these sources and often miss important facts. This causes enormous losses. We were discussing reports that were required in order to prevent another mortgage meltdown like the one in 2008. But they were useless because of the information overload. It is not the people, rather the issue is the presentation of information. There was a clear need for another publishing paradigm that re-imagines how people perceive information.

We have in the tri-state area some of the most prominent financial, telco, and utility institutions that generate over 1 trillion documents.

146

Dr. Rado Kotorov, CEO

Rumen Beremski, Head of Business Development

We hope to convert them to our technology and save them money while simultaneously empowering them to provide more meaningful and user friendly information to their customers. PDFs and static HTMLs are outdated mediums for delivering information. We want Storied Data to be the new standard for presenting and sharing information in an interactive HTML format.

147

Yoshiko Akai, COO/CPO

Storied Data Inc. Email: info@storieddata.com storied-data Storied Data storieddata

storieddata.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

USER VOICE-DRIVEN INNOVATION: INNOVATE IN WHAT YOU DO! LLC REVOLUTIONIZING PHARMA & BIOTECH CLINICAL RESEARCH FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS.

Innovate In What You Do! specializes in applying innovation skills and methods to the ever-evolving world of Pharma and Biotech Clinical Research. Our team brings a unique combination of passion, energy, and extensive experience across the clinical trial ecosystem. We are driven by our belief that constant innovation is crucial for success in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Our services are designed to help companies stay ahead of the curve and embrace change with confidence. At Innovate In What You Do!, we utilize user voice and our signature 2I’s WYD (pronounced “two eyes wide”) approach to innovation as the foundation for our services. By leveraging these methods, we are able to provide tailored solutions that address the specific needs and challenges of each client. Our services include innovation advice, innovation workshops, skillbuilding training and camps, as well as developing new processes and procedures and challenging the status quo. All services are tailored to meet the needs of each individual client. We understand that every situation is unique and requires a customized approach in order to achieve the best results. Our team of experts will work closely with you to assess your specific needs and develop a comprehensive plan for success. 148

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Our ultimate goal is to build strong relationships with our clients rather than just conducting business transactions. We believe that by working closely together and understanding the unique needs of each company, we can help them make the most of every opportunity and achieve long-term success. At Innovate In What You Do! LLC, we pride ourselves on being more than just innovation consultants - we are partners in your success. Whether you’re seeking to develop your personal, team, or company skills, gain a better understanding of a specific stakeholder or user group, identify, and solve a problem, or investigate an opportunity we can help.

Innovate In What You Do LLC innovateinwhatyoudo

innovateinwhatyoudo.com 149

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Dr. Jo Anne White Holistically Transforming

Lives & Businesses to Success & Wellness

Dr. Jo Anne

INSPIRING AND ELEVATING BUSINESSES, LEADERS AND INDIVIDUALS TO ADVANCE WITH INTENTIONAL ACTION ADDING SIGNIFICANT VALUE TO OTHERS AND OUR WORLD.

Holistically Tra

ves & Businesses to Su Innovation involves making changes by introducing new methods, ideas or products that add value. Dr Jo-Anne White Consulting Services LLC created and continues to create innovative approaches and methodology in human rights, education, business, interpersonal relationships, and in the healing of the mind and body. Innovation is necessary to not only diminish, but dissolve, practices and interactions that sustain bullying, discrimination, exclusion, degrading treatment and inequality. Instead we must uphold basic human rights with respect to dignity, humane treatment, equality and inclusion in education, socialization and hiring 150

e White

ansforming

uccess & Wellness Dr Jo-Anne White

and advancement practices in business. When that happens we can truly say we live in a state, a community, hopefully a world, that fosters an extensive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

acceptance and entry into the children’s unique worlds, also demonstrate an educational approach relevant today. Dr Jo-Anne White received an award for being one of the top fundraisers, stepping out for the southern New Jersey Autism Speaks organization for their WALK NOW FOR AUTISM SPEAKS event. She was also honored with a Service Recognition Award in appreciation of leadership, dedication and continuous service in the interest of special needs students of Camden County, New Jersey.

Dr Jo-Anne White has been instrumental in raising awareness and spearheading an attitudinal shift on how society and the educational community viewed and treated children with special needs. Her award winning and Amazon international bestselling book “More Heaven: Because Every Child is Special”, although fiction, is based on a true story. It chronicles Dr Jo-Anne White’s experience piloting a program for children with autism and special needs who were previously denied the right to public education due to their differences. The techniques that she utilized were innovative and unconventional for its time. Yet they achieved the necessary results for these children to successfully learn, interact and gain self-esteem which hadn’t been feasible beforehand. These innovative methods including creative play, movement and the

Dr Jo-Anne White has also spoken up against bullying and its devastating, often life-threatening effects to children, youth and adults in schools, work environments, the community and cyberbullying. “Bully Free“, an international and award winning bestseller, showcases candid interviews and valuable advice in creating bully free environments, interactions, and behaviors at home, work, in schools, social situations, and more. It 151

recounts the hardships and victories of bullied children and youth with special needs and their families. Through each featured story, we learn about the consequences of bullying and what must be done to promote kindness, inclusion, and respect.

Innovation is not just sitting on your laurels; it’s a continuation of striving, creation, action and execution to make additional changes that add significant value. Professor at the University of Chicago’s Kellogg business school Joe Dwyer’s quote is most appropriate: “Innovation is the process of creating value by applying novel solutions to meaningful problems.”

Dr Jo-Anne White received a distinguished appointment as a Global Goodwill Ambassador (GGA) recognized for her civil and humanitarian work in Education, Women’s Rights, Entrepreneurship, and Coaching.

Despite educational and societal improvements and attitudinal changes that have occurred with respect to people with learning and behavioral differences, negative societal judgment still exists. Dr Jo-Anne White supports and advocates for the neurodiversity social justice movement whose goal is to increase acceptance and inclusion of all people while embracing neurological differences. Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of all people. Its position is that people experience and interact with the world around them in different ways. There isn’t a “right” way of thinking, learning, and behaving, nor are differences perceived as deficits. Unfortunately, neuro-divergent individuals are often penalized because

It’s not enough to speak out against the challenges faced in New Jersey and our world; we also need action and finances to support them. Proceeds from Jo Anne’s Joy and Gratitude Music Video and JOY e-book have been allocated to the nonprofit WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN: USING THE POWER OF FOOD TO HEAL AND EMPOWER COMMUNITIES AND STRENGTHEN ECONOMIES IN TIMES OF CRISIS AND BEYOND.

152

they don’t communicate, look or act like others who are more neuro-typical. Their abilities are frequently contested. To recognize and appreciate the value of others regardless of dissimilarities, what we’re accustomed to and comfortable with is a powerful way to apply innovation to the human condition. Addiction has increased over the last few years. Whether due to COVID, easier access to online betting, increased financial output for essentials or the day-to-day emotional and mental stress, people are upping their reliance on drugs, alcohol and more. As a member of WAAT (Women’s Association of Addiction and Treatment) Dr Jo-Anne White will be presenting “The Power of the Mind in Addiction and Healing” to its members. As a certified life, leadership, spiritual, and business coach, and energy master teacher, Dr Jo-Anne White incorporates different modalities to best serve individuals, families, couples, organizations and the leaders and entrepreneurs she works with. The goal is to cultivate their mental, physical, emotional health and spiritual health, enrich relationships including their relationship with self, develop and refine their gifts and talents, attain fulfillment, thrive and triumph. Known as the “Success Doc” to global audiences, Dr Jo-Anne White gets to the heart of what matters most. She’s designed and delivered imaginative training programs, seminars and curriculum for universities, nonprofit organizations, medical facilities, corporations and companies such as Temple University, West Jersey Hospital, The Professional Woman Network and Women In Communication. She teaches people how to overcome adversity and turn challenges into opportunities while helping business and organizations build unified teams and create more personal and professional success. Co-creation is an essential feature of Innovation. Dr Jo-Anne White has cultivated and taught the idea of co-creation. She’s facilitated its implementation within organizations by encouraging leaders to be more responsive to their teams. Thus the sharing and contribution of knowledge across all levels of the organization is fostered. This increases employee engagement, creativity and collaboration resulting in more employee satisfaction and retention. At an Innovation Business Excellence Forum, Dr Jo-Anne White presented how to motivate employees to think beyond their limits to unleash corporate creativity.

producer and host of the Power Your Life Shows and also a Featured Contributor, BIZCATALYST 360°. Innovation is an ongoing process that includes the introduction of new ideas, products, solutions and behaviors. Our world constantly changes. Companies, non-profits, individuals and organizations must keep up with the changes and be equipped to meet them with novel approaches to succeed. Tel: 856-795-5854 Email: joanne@drjoannewhite.com joanne@docwhite.org joanne.white.543 Dr.JoAnneWhite

Dr Jo-Anne White has been featured online, in national and international publications such as CNN.com, Good Housekeeping and WebMD. She’s made frequent guest appearances on radio and television networks such as NBC, CBS, CN8, FOX, World Talk Radio and Voice of America sharing her expertise. Dr Jo-Anne White is executive

joannewhite JWPowerYourLife jwpoweryourlife docWhite2 My Power Your Life Radio Show

drjoannewhite.com 153

CHAPTER SIX

REGIONAL ENABLERS

154

155

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

RECLAIMING NEW JERSEY’S STATURE AS THE INNOVATION STATE TO RESHAPE THE ECONOMY, GROW BUSINESSES, CREATE JOBS, AND INVEST IN OUR FUTURE New Jersey has been synonymous with innovation throughout its history. The state was the workplace of Thomas Edison – universally lauded as the greatest inventor ever. It is the birthplace of the electric light bulb, phonograph, telegraph, air conditioning, motion picture camera and the Band-Aid, just to name a few. New Jersey is also home to nine-time Nobel Prize winner Nokia Bell Labs. And we can proudly boast of having the most scientists and engineers per square mile in the world. As the leading voice for business in our state, and the most impactful statewide business association in the nation, it is only fitting that the New Jersey Business & Industry Association continues to set its vision on supporting New Jersey’s effort to re-establish itself as the Innovation State. Each day we focus on ensuring that our innovative industries have fertile ground upon which to grow, while we work alongside New Jersey’s policymakers to advance an agenda to achieve regional competitiveness and collaboration among academia, business and government leaders in order to succeed.

Michele N. Siekerka, Esq., President and CEO, New Jersey Business & Industry Association

Recognizing the critical need to understand how to catalyze our innovation ecosphere, NJBIA released an update to its Indicators of Innovation report in early 2022, which looks at how New Jersey stacks up to our competitors in terms of capital, talent and business climate. Looking at 12 key indicators of innovation and applying an overall score at the culmination of the report, we found the Garden State had slipped behind innovation leaders Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland to tie for fifth place with Connecticut in our seven-state region. However, as more of NJBIA recommendations to improve the innovation ecosystem become reality, we can look forward to measurable improvement in the years ahead. For example, our last analysis found that between 2010 and 2021 New Jersey was the only state in our region to experience a decline in the venture capital investment that is vital to a flourishing 156

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

NJBIA also has been advancing workforce development initiatives needed to support innovation and reduce the regulatory burdens that styme manufacturing and business growth. The New Jersey Pathways to Career Opportunities initiative led by the state’s 18 community colleges and NJBIA, received a $14.5 million investment from the state. Through this initiative, we are partnering with high schools, employers, and post-secondary institutions to help prepare students for career options in the 21st century economy. Additionally, we began the FY24 state budget process by asking lawmakers to increase state funding for the successful Career Pathways and Basic Skills Training programs and provide more financial support for cell and gene therapy biomanufacturing. Another big win for New Jersey manufacturers, who are disproportionately registered as corporations, has come in the form of a new law that changed the way global intangible low-taxed income (GILTI), and net operating losses (NOLs) are treated under the state tax code. Additionally, we saw to it that our largest corporations – including many manufacturers – benefited from the sunset of the 2.5% Corporation Business Tax surtax at the end of this year.

NJBIA Director of Economic Policy Research Kyle Sullender innovation ecosystem, but there have been exciting developments since then. The $731 million New Jersey Health + Life Sciences Exchange, a research, business incubator and research center in New Brunswick, is now under construction, and will bring together public, private, and academic sectors in a world-class innovation hub that supports a talent pipeline for innovative companies.

Our task of moving the innovation needle forward is attainable, especially when New Jersey leverages its richest assets: an ideal central location between Boston and DC, New York and Philadelphia; a nationally recognized K-12 education system; quality higher education institutions; and a skilled workforce.

Made possible by the Aspire program, part of the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020, this new gap financing program supports commercial, industrial, mixed-use, and real estate development projects to create revenue generating assets and well-paying jobs in the innovation economy.

Utilizing these assets along with an action plan found in our 2022 Indicators of Innovation Report, encompasses a coordinated response from academia, business and government so that New Jersey reclaims its stature as The Innovation State. Our full report can be found at www.njbia.org/indicators.

Biomanufacturing is a critical piece of the life sciences innovation ecosystem, and the good news is that New Jersey is now positioned as one of the top five biomanufacturing markets, according to 2023 research from JLL, a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company. JLL bases its assessment on the availability of skilled talent, growing demand, innovation measured by clinical trials and venture capital funding, and industry performance.

njbia NJBIA

njbia.org 157

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

SOLVING HARD PROBLEMS WITH HARD TECH SOSV’S HAX is the world’s most active early stage investor in hard tech - the difficult to build physical tech at the forefront of science and engineering in disciplines like robotics, material science, and chemistry. Many investors have shied away from hard tech, and the last 30 years of the venture capital industry have even been defined by ‘software eating the world’. But this only fueled a bigger resource gap for hard tech founders.

The most valuable part of the program is engagement with a globally diverse community of HAX founders. Many have been successful, all have learned hard lessons, and everyone is excited to help each other succeed. Our community has grown to include a curated group of mentors, experts and partners that give our hard tech startups the best edge.

This is HAX’s focus - to bring about more successful hard tech through investing and building with hard tech founders. Startups apply to HAX with an initial prototype, customer insight, and vision. We then invest capital and build alongside our founders, fundamentally inflecting their technical progress with our internal team of engineers and investment partners. Founders should think of HAX as an extension of their engineering, business development, fundraising, design, and marketing teams.

Our founders have a vision for a fundamentally better future built with hard tech - they know that it’s necessary to make an impact in solving the world’s most pressing problems, most notably in human and planetary health. We’ve made hundreds of investments in hard tech over the last decade into startups like Formlabs (MIT 3D printing startup), Opentrons (robotics for lab automation), and R-Zero (automated disinfection using UV-C).

As startups reach critical milestones, we support fundraising strategy and investor introductions. We also continue to invest over $25 million USD per year globally into these startups, and just raised an additional $100M of growth capital to support the later rounds of funding for our startups.

CHOOSING NEWARK We chose Newark for our global headquarters in 2021 and announced a partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to bring 100 hard tech startups and thousands of jobs to New Jersey in the coming years. 158

Its rich industrial history and talent pool - which draws from university ecosystems like Princeton, Rutgers, NJIT, and Stevens Institute of Technology - as well as access to corporations in the healthcare and industrial space is a huge benefit for early stage founders. Startups also benefit from access to financial hubs like New York City and location on the northeastern corridor transport system. The HAX initiative in Newark also includes the build out of a 35,000-squarefeet office in historic downtown Newark which will include industrial equipment for research and development of early stage hard technology and wet labs for chemistry. HAX founders also have access to partner facilities at locations like the New Jersey Institute of Technology. This access to advanced facilities gives hard tech startups an edge in rapidly prototyping, testing, and de-risking their technology. 159

Hax hax hax_co

hax.co

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

New Jersey, a hub for entrepreneurs and multinationals alike, is located in the most highly connected region in the U.S., with all the assets and accessibility any business needs.

OUR WORKFORCE:

Choose New Jersey is New Jersey’s leading nonprofit economic development organization. We stimulate job creation and attract capital investment with the aim of growing New Jersey’s economy. We market New Jersey globally as the most ideal state in the U.S. to live, work, and play, and we guide businesses in establishing or expanding operations here. Our staff, supported by a network of state agencies and private partners, provide free, confidential assistance to guide companies in establishing operations in New Jersey.

New Jersey’s diverse, highly educated, skilled workforce is one of our state’s greatest strengths. We are home to one of the most educated workforces in the nation – over 40 percent of our workforce graduates from college with a bachelor’s degree or higher, nearly 10 points above the national average. New Jersey has a rich tradition of bringing some very big thinkers to the world. We have the highest concentration of scientists and engineers per square mile in the U.S. It’s no wonder New Jersey is known for being home to some of the world’s biggest and brightest thinkers.

WHY NEW JERSEY? New Jersey offers the best combination of what people value: excellent education, entertainment, arts and culture, a top state to raise a family, and the ideal place to relocate or expand a business. We are in the heart of the country’s most important economic corridor, with unrivaled infrastructure to support commerce and one of the nation’s most diverse, educated, and skilled workforces. We have the country’s top-ranked public school system, some of the best universities in the world, beaches and mountains waiting to be discovered, and small towns and cities with vibrant arts, sports, entertainment, and food scenes. We don’t just talk about values like opportunity, prosperity, and liberty — we lead with them with some of the strongest laws in the country protecting women’s reproductive health, LGBTQ+ rights, and paid family leave.

OUR INFRASTRUCTURE: New Jersey is home to Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the nation’s busiest airports with unrivaled international nonstop destinations. Our combined regional airports in Newark Liberty International Airport, and Philadelphia create the #1 regional airport system in the country, servicing ~600 nonstop destinations. We also have the busiest maritime port on the east coast, the highest railroad density in the U.S., and thousands of miles of highways. Our extensive mass transit system includes NJ Transit, PATH, and Amtrak trains and makes for a robust transportation network. We move people and goods better than anywhere else. With state-of-the-art facilities, New Jersey is one of the 160

I N N O V A T E

N E W

fastest-growing hubs for logistics and distribution. Our dense network of highways and rails connects us to nearly 60 million consumers – almost one-fifth of the total American population – within a 250-mile radius.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

strongest anti-discrimination policies to protect people of different sexual orientations and gender identities. We allow transgender individuals to amend their birth certificates to match their gender expression and were the first state to mandate the inclusion of LGBTQ+ history in public school curriculums.

QUALITY OF LIFE: New Jersey consistently ranks #1 for its public school system, #1 for early childhood education, and is the #2 state to live in. Here, you are never more than two hours away from beaches, mountains, small towns, cities, farms, lakes, museums, theaters, sports, and more — including a thriving and diverse food culture.

SERVICES: If you are interested in relocating or expanding your business, start with Choose New Jersey. We will ensure a streamlined process from planning through move-in. Our free, confidential services include market intelligence, site selection assistance, state resources information, introductions to public and private partners, and public relations support. Need labor data or information on state incentives? Want to collaborate with higher education experts or connect with service providers? Looking for a property that meets your requirements? We can assist with it all. Visit choosenj.com to learn more.

Home to all four seasons and vast geographical diversity, New Jersey provides exciting recreational opportunities, such as rafting, skiing, hiking, surfing, golfing, and more. Our food culture is driven by our rich immigrant communities, agriculture industry, and the world’s highest density of diners. New Jersey also has many thriving downtowns full of art galleries, performing arts centers, unique shops, restaurants, and other cultural attractions. Sports are also a key component of New Jersey’s thriving entertainment scene. Our state is home to major league football, soccer, and hockey teams.

Choose New Jersey 11-43 Raymond Plaza West Suite 1420 Newark, New Jersey 07102 (609) 297-2200 ChooseNewJersey choose-new-jersey-incChooseNJ ChooseNewJersey

VALUES & DIVERSITY: New Jersey is proud to be the fourth most diverse state and home to the second largest population of foreign-born residents in the United States. New Jersey values women’s rights and recently reaffirmed those values by codifying a woman’s right to reproductive health care. We value families, offering one of the few state-level paid family leave programs with up to 12 weeks of paid leave. And New Jersey has some of the 161

NJSBDC - HELPS SMALL BUSINESSES GROW America’s Small Business Development Centers - New Jersey (NJSBDC), also known as New Jersey Small Business Development Centers, was established by Congress in 1978 as one of the first national SBDC pilot projects leading to the passage of Public Law 96-302. At present the NJSBDC network is comprised of the State Office located at Rutgers Business School in Newark, New Jersey. The network has 11 full-service, regional centers, and more than an additional 21 affiliate (or satellite) offices located throughout the state. Regional centers are hosted by and affiliated with two - and four-year college and university business programs with a major footprint for comprehensive small business assistance and outreach. NJSBDC Directors and consultants are paid, proven professionals with graduate level degrees in business and many years practical experience with bottom line responsibility. Working for the NJSBDC is their career of choice that continually challenges them with formulating strategic solutions to client issues. Every four years they undergo the rigors of the Baldrige Quality Assurance Standards to maintain the highest quality customer service and a national accreditation. These dedicated professionals have “skin in the game” to assist you with moving your business forward at no cost to you. Seasoned private sector consultants from an array of industries and occupations provide more specialized and in-depth counseling to established and high-growth businesses. Additionally, experts and training in international trade, government procurement, technology commercialization, e-commerce, and sustainability services are available statewide and coordinated through the NJSBDC network’s State Office. The NJSBDC network also provides opportunities for college students (undergraduate and graduate) pursuing business degrees to participate in research via experiential learning programs and obtain first-hand business experience under the supervision of business professionals and faculty at the respective host institutions, working through consulting teams.

162

Kelly Brozyna, CEO-State Director

163

164

Major Funding Partner: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) State Funding Partner: NJ Business Action Center (NJBAC) Primary Host Institution: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Other Key Private Sector Sponsors: (Bank of America, PSEG, NJ Banker’s Association, etc.) The NJSBDC leverages diverse funding sources to maximize small business resources & assistance Here are a few examples of NJSBDC Programs & Initiatives:

Women’s Entrepreneurs Rock The NJSBDC at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft hosts “Women Entrepreneurs Rock”, an annual signature event of insightful information, inspiration, and critical connections for current or aspiring women business owners.

Multi-State SBDC Hispanic Heritage Webinars During Hispanic Heritage Month, the NJSBDC at The College of New Jersey in Ewing created and leads a series of webinars to help Latin businesses understand the best strategies to start a business, gain financial backing, market their goods and services, and more. The areas of focus were based on topics Hispanic business consultants found mostly needed during counseling sessions with Latin business owners and entrepreneurs. This program partners with SBDCs of New York, Connecticut, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, and Washington State and more.

Veterans Programs The NJSBDC partnered with the NJ Bankers Association to help veteran entrepreneurs gain critical skills, such as digital marketing, project management, and supply chain management through Rutgers Business School’s Executive Education program. Also, a certificate course for service members and their families who are looking for help to start or grow their business was developed by the NJSBDC at Fairleigh Dickinson University at Madison, along with the Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, hosted a four-week virtual lecture series that focused on foundational building blocks of launching a company.

NJSBDC & Westfield Malls The NJSBDC at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah partnered with the Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus and the American Dream Mall in Rutherford to create a retail program, allowing small businesses to lease a storefront or kiosk at the mall under conditions far more accessible than before. A small business can now lease space for three months to a year as opposed to a multi year lease. The mall has inventory that is move-in ready for small businesses that would not be able to afford that expense. The center at Ramapo worked with business owners to develop marketing strategies, business plans, and to help them secure funding.

NJSBDC njsbdc njsbdchq 165

njsbdc.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

bout The Entrepreneur Organizat ABOUTIndus THE INDUS ENTREPRENEUR (TiE)(TiE) ORGANIZATION

among the world's largest ecosystems for innovation, entrepre TiE ranks among the world’s largest ecosystems for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development. With a global reach and a local focus, the heart of TiE’s efforts lies in its five foundational programs, – Mentoring, Networking, Education, Funding, and Incubation. With a focus on giving back to the community, TiE’s focus is on generating and nurturing the next generation of Entrepreneurs.

mic development. With a global reach and a local focus, the h History:

ts lies in its five foundational programs, – entoring, etwork Founded in 1992 in Silicon Valley by a group of successful entrepreneurs and corporate executives with roots in the Indian sub-continent, today TiE Chapters worldwide have become a vibrant platform for entrepreneurs, professionals, industry leaders, and investors. With its network of over 33,000 members globally (including over 3,000 charter members) in 62 chapters across 14 countries.

, Funding, and Incubation. With a focus on giving back to the c

s is on generating and nurturing the next generation of Entrep Events: Besides its flagship events, TiECon Silicon Valley and the TiE Global Summit – two of the largest professional conferences for entrepreneurs, TiE now has a wide range of programs including Special Interest Groups (SIGs), TiE Institute, DealFlow Meetings, TiE Young Entrepreneurs and TiE University Programs and, most recently, TiE Women’s and CEO Forum.

n 1992 in Silicon Valley a globally group successful entrepreneur “Over the past 30 years, the TiE by brand has becomeof synonymous with the democratization of entrepreneurial opportunity. That this was done entirely by a team of dedicated volunteers without any government assistance is a testament to the power of our network and the enduring spirit of giving back through mentorship. The TiE community has created a virtuous cycle of learning, gaining experience, achieving professional success, and then giving back to the larger communities we live in by nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

executives with roots in the Indian sub-continent, today TiE C

have become a vibrant platform for entrepreneurs, professio — Dr. Suresh Kumar, Professor, Author, and 5X Inc 500 Serial Entrepreneur

eaders, and investors. With its network of over 33,000 membe

over 3,000 charter members) in 62 chapters across 14 countri 166

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

TiE at a TiE AT A

V O L . 2

3,000+ C

rter

e emb

GLANCE Glance

33,000 + Members

USD 1 Trillion pm

Cou

ations

rtu

By supporting entrepreneurs with mentorship, education,

r ps Mento

167

estme

nts

ntries

25,000+

USD 50> 0 Billion

Inv

Loc

e ent Gen

lth G ne e

e rat

de t

2.5 Million

TiE NJ Team Leadership Team TiE NJ Leadership TiE TiE TiE NJ NJ NJ Leadership Leadership Leadership Team Team Team TiE NJTiE Leadership NJTiE Leadership NJTeam Leadership Team Team I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

TiE NJ LEADERSHIP TEAM

U. Kumar Kumar PresidentDr. Suresh U. Kumar Dr. Suresh Dr.Suresh Suresh U.Current Kumar U.U. Kumar Kumar President dent Member Dr. Suresh U. Kumar urrent Current Current President President President Board Member ber Current President Kumar .2025) Suresh U. Dr. Kumar Suresh U. Kumar

Board Board Member Member Member Board (2023 - Member 2025) 5) Board Current ident President Current (2023 President - 2025) (2023 (2023 (2023 - 2025) - 2025) - 2025) ber Board Member Board Member 25)(2023 - 2025)(2023 - 2025)

Raman Kapur RamanChairman Kapur and Raman Kapur Raman Raman Raman Kapur Kapur Kapur Chairman Pastand President Chairman and Raman Kapur Chairman Chairman Chairman and and and Past President Past President and Raman Kapur (2017 - Chairman 2022)Kapur Raman Kapur Raman

Past Past Past President President President Past President (2017 - 2022) (2017 - 2022) Chairman and Chairman Chairman and (2017 - 2022) and (2017 (2017 (2017 - 2022) - 2022) - 2022) Past President Past President Past President “By supporting entrepreneurs with mentorship, (2017 - 2022)(2017 - 2022)(2017 - 2022)

Badri Nittoor Badri Nittoor Past PresidentBadri Nittoor Badri Badri Badri Nittoor Nittoor Nittoor PastBadri President Nittoor (2013 - 2016)Past President

Past PresidentPast Past Past President President President (2013 - 2016) (2013 -- 2016) 2016)Badri Badri NittoorBadri Nittoo (2013 Nittoor (2013 (2013 (2013 - 2016) - 2016) - 2016) Past President Past President Past Presiden (2013 - 2016)(2013 - 2016)(2013 - 2016

education, investment, and networking, TiE NJ has built a strong and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem that fosters innovation in NJ” — Badri Nittoor, CEO - eureQa LLC & b4uleap

Jaswinder Chadha

Dr. Raj Lakhanpal

Dr. Founding Raj Lakhanpal Jaswinder Cha Lakhanpal Jaswinder anpal Jaswinder Chadha Chadha Past President President (2011 - 2012)Jaswinder (2007 - 2010) Dr. Dr. Raj Dr. Raj Lakhanpal Raj Lakhanpal Lakhanpal Jaswinder Jaswinder Chadha Chadha Chadha Founding President Past Preside g President Past President sident Past President Women Board of Directors Women Board of Directors Women Board of Directors ounding Founding President President President Past Past Past President President President (2007 - 2010) Women Women Women Board Board Board ofof Directors ofDirectors Directors (2011 - 2012) 10) (2011 - 2012) -Founding 2010) (2011 - 2012) hanpal Dr. Raj Lakhanpal Dr. Raj Lakhanpal Jaswinder Chadha Jaswinder Chadha Jaswinder Ch

WOMEN BOARD OF DIRECTORS (2007 (2007 (2007 - 2010) - 2010) - 2010) (2011 (2011 (2011 - 2012) - 2012) - 2012) esident Founding President Founding President Past President Past President Past Presid Women Women Board ofWomen Board Directors ofBoard Directors of Directors 010)(2007 - 2010)(2007 - 2010) (2011 - 2012) (2011 - 2012) (2011 - 201

Neetu Randhawa

Diya Matthews

Jyoti Vazirani

Sue Lakhanpal

Raman (chairman), Sue Lakhanpal (Treasurer), Anjan Lahiri, Matthews, Jyoti Vazir pur (chairman), SueKapur Lakhanpal (Treasurer), Anjan Lahiri, Diya Matthews, Jyoti Diya Vazirani, 168Anjan Raman Raman Kapur Kapur Kapur (chairman), (chairman), (chairman), SueSue Lakhanpal Sue Lakhanpal Lakhanpal (Treasurer), (Treasurer), (Treasurer), Anjan Anjan Lahiri, Lahiri, Lahiri, Diya Diya Diya Matthews, Matthews, Matthews, Jyoti Jyoti Jyoti Vazirani, Vazirani, Vazirani, n Raman Kapur (chairman), Sue Lakhanpal (Treasurer), Anjan Lahiri, Diya Matthews, Jyoti and Vazirani, Vijay Garg. Neetu Randhawa, Srinath Geedipalli, Suresh Vijar Kohli, andKumar, Vijay Garg. Neetu Randhawa, Srinath Geedipalli, Suresh Kumar, Vijar Kohli,

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

TiE NJ - EXECUTIVE TEAM

Executive Chairs: Dinesh Gurupur (Marketing), Priya Kartik (Events), Usha Agarwal (Membership), Jyoti Vazirani (Sponsorship), Sandeep Vyas (TiE U), Parth Mehta (Emerging Founders SIG), Bala Venkataraman (Life Sciences SIG), Bhaskar Sambasivan (Technology SIG), Srinath Geedipalli (Financial Services SIG), Prema Roddam, Shailja Dixit, and Nivedita Candade (Women SIG)

“My heartfelt thanks to my fellow entrepreneurs at TiE New Jersey who sift, select, and mentor the ideas and innovations best positioned for success in the U.S. and to leverage TiE’s Global network to help launch them.” — Raman Kapur, Chairman - NewGen Parenterals, LLC

tienjersey tie-new-jersey TiENewJersey

hub.tie.org/c/tienj 169

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

FOSTERING INCLUSIVE INNOVATION IN JERSEY CITY’S MELTING POT

In the vibrant heart of downtown Jersey City, a city that boasts one of the most diverse populations in the nation, Move The Needle at the Brand Experience Lab (a retail technology showroom) stands as a testament to the power of inclusive innovation. Founded by Jose Espinoza, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, this organization is a catalyst for change in a city where over 250,000 residents speak dozens of languages and hail from a kaleidoscope of cultural backgrounds and experiences.

for transformation. The mission is clear and potent: to democratize access to resources, disseminate pivotal information, and offer mentorship that empowers every member. From monthly networking events to tech nights and down right fun game nights - Move The Needle is a community staple devoted to uplifting its community both professionally and personally. Also hosting a non-profit in its space - The Move The Needle Impact Group - it is also investing in the local youth and equipping them with digital skills essential for today’s digital economy. This is where ideas spark, connections are made, and the future is shaped, collectively advancing towards a horizon of shared success.

NORTHERN NEW JERSEY’S TECHNOLOGY & ENTREPRENEURSHIP HUB

A TEAM CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY AND TECHNOLOGY This tech and entrepreneurship hub with over 16,000 square ft of space in the Lackawanna Building (a historical landmark of Jersey City) thrives on the synergy of startups and small business owners, providing a fertile ground for growth and collaboration. With an array of services including a dynamic open space, coworking membership, versatile event space rentals, and state-of-the-art podcast and photography studios, Move The Needle is more than a hub; it’s a catalyst

Jose Espinoza’s journey is interwoven with the city he serves. Raised by what he calls his ‘competitive advantage’ - a single mother, Daysi Bernita, from Ecuador, Jose experienced life as a scrappy kid who had to figure things out mostly on his own. He didn’t have extended family members or seasoned community resources that could mentor or guide his entrepreneurial spirit. As a result, he sometimes failed fast but learned 170

to get back up to continue to build. HIs own experiences serve as fuel to build and improve the resources that make business innovation easier for the next generation. His dedication to fostering the growth of startups and small businesses is matched only by his commitment to empowering the community through technology. Under his leadership, Move The Needle has become a beacon for technological innovation, providing a platform where the underrepresented voices of Jersey City can be heard and their ideas can flourish.

underserved. Melissa is currently involved in projects using AR/VR content with fine and generative art concepts, as Creative Director for Move The Needle. Melissa is the elder stateswoman who Move The Needle is lucky to have to share both her professional and personal life experiences that allow the next generation to move better than without the lessons she’s earned to pass along.

INNOVATION FOR ALL Move The Needle’s incubator and event venue are more than just spaces; they are breeding grounds for innovation that reflect the city’s demographic richness. Here, a young coder of African descent develops an app that helps citizens navigate the city’s services in augmented reality. A Latina entrepreneur hosts workshops on our personal relationships with money in order to start and scale businesses with intention. And a team of developers collaborate on a project that will revolutionize mental health through the production of an AI mental health companion.

As most stories that stand the test of time, one man can’t do it all - and behind Jose - is a powerful, authentic digital wizard who has helped bring his ideas into a colorful visual mosaic who serves as Creative Director for Move The Needle - Melissa Ulto. Melissa Negron Ulto, proud queer of Puerto Rican descent has created a unique career, creating award winning documentaries and video art, immersive, large scale interactive installations, and fine art paintings. She works and has worked with Lincoln Center, landmark of NYC, Teaching Artist for JCArts/Arthouse, teaching content production among many of her altruistic creative pursuits providing access through education to the 171

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE In a city where the digital divide mirrors the economic disparities, Move The Needle’s role extends beyond business incubation. It’s about ensuring that technological advancements are accessible to all, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Through workforce development programs in the making, Jose and his team are looking to equip high school students, re-entering citizens, and veterans with the digital skills needed in today’s economy even so to match them with startups and small businesses in the incubator, thus bridging the gap between talent and opportunity.

A REFLECTION OF THE CITY’S ASPIRATIONS The story of Move The Needle is a reflection of Jersey City’s aspirations. It’s a place where diversity fuels innovation, and where technology serves as a great equalizer. As Jersey City continues to grow, so does the promise that technology can be a force for good, a tool for empowerment, and a means to uplift every member of the community. Melissa Ulto, Ulto, Creative Creative Director Director Melissa

172

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

movetheneedlellc movetheneedleio movetheneedlellc In the bustling streets of downtown Jersey City, Move The Needle is more than a hub of innovation; it’s a beacon of hope and inclusivity. It’s where Jose Espinoza’s vision comes to life, where the city’s diverse voices find harmony, and where the future of technology is accessible to all. As Jersey City moves forward, Move The Needle stands at the forefront, not just moving with the city but moving the city itself, one innovation at a time.

movetheneedle.io Jose Espinoza, Founder

173

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

STORY OF = SPACE =SPACE strives to create a unique culture and positive sharespace. Headquartered in the City of Newark, our sharespace provides resources for startups, coaching for tech companies and an ecosystem for artists to share their work and thrive. We offer programming to help build, grow and scale businesses, with the vast majority (>85%) of that programming being free. Founded in 2015 as a pop-up experience, =SPACE has gone from a 900 square foot space to over 12,000 square feet (a growth factor of 13 in 5 years), in the heart of Newark. We are one of the very few BIPoC/Queer owned share spaces in the state and our facilities include amenities that focus on our community’s needs including various sized suites, dedicated desks, a state-of-the-art podcast studio, multimedia studio and a 1,200 square foot event space. This past year we did a great deal of outreach in collaboration with organizations like Wells Fargo, Local Support Initiative Corporation (LISC), and Verizon to help small business owners develop skills in everything from risk assessment to grant readiness. ES has always strived to help them mitigate any disruptive external issues like climate change and pandemics and more. We did so via pitch competitions for start-ups to coding classes for young adults who are able to go from being unemployed to earning over 70K a year, every business decision we make is based on what our community needs first. These resources are important for our community to access to ensure that they can continue to thrive to continue to provide services to this community, continue to pay their staff, and build their legacies.

=SPACE’s social impact mission is to close the wealth & knowledge gap in ownership by providing programming and tangible resources not only to our members, but the larger community. We are a safespace for people who are often bypassed, unseen and undervalued. 174

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Event Space

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

2022 has seen us activate our 19,000 sq. ft. facility in new and amazing ways, from converting 20 suites into boutiques for our MarketSPACE experience, to sound bowl and reiki healing on our second floor. Our digital classroom has held everything from art therapy events for Newark youth to cpr certification courses. We have hosted private art exhibitions and intense community roundtables. The impact is seen in every individual that leaves with new tools, community leaders who feel more connected, and entrepreneurs that gain more wealth. Our programming is about change-making through experiences.

Our event space has hosted large-scale convenings like talks on home ownership in Newark with LISC, and roundtables with the NJEDA on Black businesses in the state. Our event space is where movement happens for our community.

Podcast Studio In Season 03 of Ras in 60 we learned about our city’s movements. Mayor Ras J Baraka has hosted guests like Deputy Mayor Allison Ladd, Superintendent Roger Leon, and Philanthropic Liaison Kevin Callaghan all captured in our podcast.

We have increased our connection with educational anchors like the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII) to provide business classes for budding entrepreneurs. ES has built stronger small businesses by organizing resiliency courses with LISC to help them better prepare for any disasters or pandemics. We have tapped into local talent and helped new founders learn everything from business certification to pitch deck curation.

Multimedia Studio We were proud to host so many creatives in our multimedia studio, from videographers to Black founded Stock photography company POC Stock, they are dedicated to showing communities of color in an authentic and genuine way.

Digital Classroom Our digital classroom was developed to be an educational space for innovative minds to share their knowledge. You can host anything from business courses to mental wellness workshops.

EQUAL SPACE EqualSpaceCo 175

equalspaceco equalspaceco equalspace5882

iamequal@equalspace.co

equalspace.co

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

CULTIVATING TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY: HOW QREDIBLE® IS REVOLUTIONIZING THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY Qredible is a first-of-its-kind platform, leading the way in building trust and transparency in the cannabis, CBD, and hemp supply chains.

Product Quality Management: Due to limited regulations, cannabis products vary in quality. Managing multiple labs and COAs is difficult. Qredible integrates, standardizes, and automates the COA reception, distribution, and approval process, making COAs tamper-proof and easily shared across the supply chain for quality and transparency.

The legalized cannabis industry can be a maze of false, misleading, outdated, or missing information. Qredible’s unique platform is revolutionizing the industry by connecting the entire CBD, hemp, and legalized cannabis supply chain for efficient and profitable commerce while providing trustworthy and transparent information for all involved and significantly reducing the cost of compliance and risk management.

Regulatory Compliance & Enterprise Risk Management: Qredible gets companies on the right compliance path from the start. Our system automates compliance monitoring, vendor management, SOP authoring and tracking, supply chain monitoring, workflow approvals, alerts, and reporting. This proactive approach identifies and prevents regulatory problems and enterprise risks.

Qredible’s solutions support all industry players and protect businesses and consumers by reducing compliance costs and counterparty risk. The platform automates vendor management, compliance monitoring, reputation management, and compliant wholesale and retail transactions.

Financial Services Access: The cannabis industry’s varying legal status has restricted access to banking, merchant services, and insurance, which view it as high-risk. Qredible mitigates risks by providing irrefutable proof of credibility and transparency to expand business networks and build trust with financial institutions.

Qredible’s mission is to foster an ecosystem of trust so commerce is safer for all. The system promotes responsible businesses by making risk management easy and efficient.

Compliance Efficiency: Qredible offers the only industryspecific, comprehensive solution for supply chain, commerce, compliance, and quality management. Our unique, user-friendly data, reports, and certifications save time and money.

Key features include supply chain transparency through AI and blockchain, enterprise-wide supply chain connectivity, lab report management, SOP management, regulatory compliance tools, and assistance accessing financial services.

Omnichannel Compliant Commerce: Q-Transact™ is an omnichannel solution for both retail and wholesale transactions that integrates seamlessly with Q-Trust™ to provide compliance monitoring and oversight of e-commerce transactions. This system completely automates the e-commerce process while providing regulatory compliance checks to ensure adherence to compliant standard operating procedures.

QREDIBLE’S AREAS OF FOCUS Supply Chain Transparency: Our comprehensive, independent solution solves the growing problem of validating stated quality and compliance status in the hemp, CBD, and cannabis industries. By leveraging the latest AI and blockchain technology, we provide immutable, accessible validation for businesses.

Q-TRUST™ Q-Trust™ is a digital registry of verified products and brands and an integrated enterprise platform for these services and functionalities:

Supply Chain Connectivity: The Qredible ecosystem connects the supply chain through our Integrated Seed to Sale system. This real-time platform synchronizes cannabis operators’ seed-to-sale systems, manages inventory, tracks shipments, consolidates data, and facilitates compliant omnichannel transactions - maintaining quality and transparency.

Automated and artificial intelligence-driven compliance monitoring of digital marketing, including website, social media, and other online promotional means Active reputation monitoring and management 176

I N N O V A T E

N E W

Q-Vault: A blockchain registry of licenses, certifications, and lab reports that cannot be modified

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Advanced and integrated KYC monitoring and extended due diligence audits for financial institutions and merchant processors

THE QREDIBLE SEAL

Enterprise management of certificates of analysis (COA), industry licenses, and certifications

Verified and validated businesses in the Q-Trust™ system gain access to the Q-Verified Qredible Seal, a banner for trustworthiness and reliability.

Enterprise vendor management Enterprise management of authoring, tracking, and compliance monitoring of standard operating policies and procedures from seed to sale

It’s Time for the Cannabis Industry to Earn Trust At Qredible, we are on a mission to foster a symbiotic community and build the world’s strongest ecosystem of quality and credibility based on mutual trust–a place where merchants, distributors, retailers, financial institutions, labs, and consumers can all engage in safe commerce. By

Reputation management and monitoring

Info@qredible.com BeQredible beinqredible GetInQredible qredible-inc Qredible

Product marketing and social media compliance monitoring Integrated community of industry partnerships Industry research, analytics, and insights Market access and promotion

qredible.com 177

CHAPTER SEVEN

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES, DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & MANUFACTURING 178

179

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

A CENTURY OF INNOVATION AT THE FLAGSHIP TELECOM RESEARCH INSTITUTE The iconic Murray Hill, New Jersey headquarters of Nokia Bell Labs where we have been shaping society with technical innovations for almost a century. For nearly a century, Bell Labs has been revolutionizing the telecommunications industry from its headquarters in Murray Hill, New Jersey.

5G-Advanced, 6G and the Industrial Metaverse with research that will merge the human, physical and digital worlds in the decade to come.

The facility has been a hotbed of innovation for the renowned industrial research institute. Perhaps Bell Labs’ greatest brainchild, the transistor, was first demonstrated there in 1947. Groundbreaking inventions in cellular communications, radio astronomy and information theory followed. Then came the solar cell, the laser, the seminal Telstar satellite, the charge-coupled device and the Unix computer operating system that laid the foundation for the internet a dizzying string of discoveries and developments that resulted in ten Nobel Prizes and five Turing Awards.

Nokia Bell Labs has left a footprint on the disruptive innovations that created the foundation of information and communications technologies. It now entails two sister organizations: Bell Labs Core Research and Bell Labs Solutions Research. The former aims to create game-changing innovations that define the future of networks while the latter focuses on advanced technologies, architectures, systems and applications beyond Nokia’s current product and solutions portfolio. Together, they aim to solve the biggest challenges involved in digital transformation toward the next generation of technologies.

It’s fitting that an institute so influential in shaping modern communications would share a name with the inventor of the telephone. Bell Labs was established in 1925, when engineering departments in AT&T and Western Electric merged into one entity – Bell Telephone Laboratories Inc. It later came under the auspices of Lucent Technologies, Alcatel-Lucent and finally Nokia in 2016.

Even with its global impact, Nokia Bell Labs conducts research and projects that benefit the New Jersey region. In nearby Newark, for instance, Nokia Bell Labs partnered with AeroFarms, a pioneer in vertical farming, to provide a continuous monitoring solution to track millions of plants. This new approach to agriculture merges AI/ML, computer vision, wireless networking and drone orchestration and could change sustainable food production.

Today, it continues to capture the imagination with projects such as building an LTE/4G Network on the Moon and ushering in the era of 180

Nokia Bell Labs is using Artificial Intelligence and drones to help AeroFarms revolutionize vertical farming.

The Transistor was discovered in 1947 at Bell Labs and its researchers received the Nobel Prize in 1956. This tiny device has gone on to revolutionize the entire electronics industry. productive manner. This research provides a much-needed conductor to the orchestra of machines that make up the modern factory – and offers a blueprint for the industrial automation of the Metaverse that Nokia Bell Labs is spearheading. Similarly, research in New Jersey into Distributed Massive MIMO has created a novel solution to significantly increase uplink capacity and speeds in 5G networks that will pave the way for the 5G-Advanced era. A prototype has been deployed and tested at AT&T Labs and simulations have shown an increase in 5G uplink capacity between 60% and 90%. This technology is the bridge to 5G-Advanced, where by 2025 the 5G system will evolve to its fullest potential and extend to new devices, industries and places. We are laying the foundation through disruptive research that will lead to the 6G era, expected around 2030, when we will see the fusing of our physical and digital worlds. These and other innovations are at the heart of the Nokia Bell Labs vision to spread its technological advancements to the New Jersey area and beyond.

Peter Vetter, President of Bell Labs Core Research and Thierry Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research in front of the iconic Nokia Bell Labs headquarters in Murray Hill, New Jersey.

Nokia Bell Labs belllabs nokiabelllabs

Nokia Bell Labs research out of Murray Hill is also behind cutting-edge robot orchestration research that is currently being deployed in factories. This allows various robots from different manufacturers and with different functions to work on manufacturing floors in coordination with each other, and with human factory workers, in a safe, synchronized and

bell-labs.com 181

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Konica Minolta Revolutionizes the Workplace through Digital Transformation While Staying True to its Core Mission

Konica Minolta’s Client Engagement Center features a fully functional print shop.

DIGITAL BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION Nearly twelve years ago, Konica Minolta started the digital transformation (DX) conversation in its industry. This process of using digital technologies to create new — or modify existing — business processes, culture, and customer experiences allows it to meet changing business and market requirements. The company has built a solid foundation through its managed IT business, IIM business and VSS technology. With these pillars in place, the company is embarking on the opportunity to move into the next chapter of its business transformation – the acceleration of its managed services offering to better serve its clients and continue the shift to higher value services. Konica Minolta’s powerful legacy business is currently undergoing a dual transformation. Formed through the merger of Konica and Minolta in 2003, the company built its reputation and business around being one of the world’s leading suppliers of business and industrial imaging and printing equipment, most famously its multifunction products (MFPs). Its renewed business strategy is to capture and grow market share in this core business while forging ahead with the adoption of the Intelligent Connected Workplace. Together, these elements combine into a holistic offering designed to create long-term customer value and revenue growth by tapping into the hyper-growth possibilities of managed IT and data services to create a far bigger business.

The Workspace at Konica Minolta’s Client Engagement Center offers the latest technology for collaboration. Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) has been operating out of its U.S. headquarters in Ramsey, NJ since the 1970s. Across the country, more than 5,000 employees work together to reshape and revolutionize the workplace to achieve true connectivity through the Intelligent Connected Workplace. The company guides and supports its clients’ digital transformation through its expansive office technology portfolio, including managed IT Services, intelligent information management (IIM), video security solutions (VSS), managed print services and industrial and commercial print solutions.

“We want to be known as a consulting organization that helps businesses of all sizes with their digital transformation, from enabling a hybrid work style through automating business process to data capture and analytics to ensuring a secure workplace – all the things that are most critical to running their office operations,” said Sam Errigo, President and CEO. 182

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Sam Errigo, President and CEO, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.

SUSTAINABILITY FOR A HEALTHY WORLD Konica Minolta is consistently recognized as a global leader in sustainability. Its U.S. headquarters runs on 100 percent green energy sourced from a combination of wind, hydro and solar energy. The solar energy system consists of carport canopies supporting solar panels that produce about 10 – 15 percent of the campus’ energy needs. The company constantly looks for partnerships that allow it to further fulfill its mission to create value for society while contributing to a sustainable future. The company partners with the 17 goals of the United Nations for Sustainable Development to support people, the planet and prosperity around the world with a plan for measurable action on a global basis. The current agenda targets 2030 to reach these goals, which are integrated and balance the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. In 2021, Konica Minolta joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Green Power Partnership, which encourages organizations to use green power to reduce the environmental impact of electricity use. In 2022, for the second consecutive year, Konica Minolta partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation in an effort to revitalize U.S. national forests, planting 10,000 trees in forests affected by wildfires or other natural disasters.

The lobby of Konica Minolta’s Client Engagement Center welcomes visitors with a beautiful reception space.

Konica Minolta’s U.S. Headquarters in Ramsey, NJ is partially powered by solar energy and has been since 2013. The solar energy system consists of carport canopies supporting solar panels that produce about 10-15 percent of the Ramsey campus’ energy needs alone.

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT CENTER (CEC) Launched in spring 2020, the CEC at Konica Minolta’s U.S. Headquarters in Ramsey was a phenomenal resource during the pandemic to maintain its production and industrial print business. The two-story, 18,000+ square feet facility features the latest innovations in LED lighting, a fully functional print shop, multiple meeting rooms outfitted with the latest technology for collaboration, and an auditorium with a 100+ person capacity. The CEC showcases Konica Minolta’s latest print technology and the depth and breadth of its print portfolio. Visitors can receive product demos, sales and service training, and its dealer partners in particular are leveraging this asset to drive sales efforts. Konica Minolta continues to invest in the CEC to grow its capabilities in the interest of serving current and potential clients, as well as dealer partners. 183

Konica Minolta KonicaMinoltaUS Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. konicaminoltaus

KONICAMINOLTA.US

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

POWERING THE WORLD’S BIGGEST DIGITAL EVENTS THROUGH INTERACTIVE LIVESTREAMS

Kiswe is an award-winning technology company that helps partners fully monetize their content. Trusted by the world’s biggest entertainment and sports brands, Kiswe allows customers to seamlessly customize content for specific audiences, distribute content live or on-demand to their fans with branded ticketing and event websites, and create interactive experiences. Through its innovative cloud video technology ,Kiswe is revolutionizing the live streaming landscape. Using state-of-the-art technology, the cloud-based platform delivers multi-view, synchronized, high-definition, fast camera-switch video to digital devices worldwide. The company’s solutions encompass production, content distribution, fan engagement, and audience data services for the world’s biggest creators, artists, and sports brands. Kiswe’s two-way video technology enables audiences to participate in and consume live digital content, thereby creating immersive and socially connected experiences. Kiswe’s objective is to bring interactivity and personalization to conventional digital events, transforming passive viewers into active participants. Its Remote Integration (REMI) production workflow offers inclusive fan experiences by incorporating remote commentators from any location worldwide, offering multiple narratives and language options for audiences to enjoy. Kiswe’s multiview technology integrates live cameras from the event into its cloud-based production platform, providing fans the ability to fast-switch between various angles for optimal viewership.

their fans under their own brand and website. In addition, the Kiswe technology allows the content owner to collect and analyze valuable customer data and use it to grow their business.

Kiswe’s ability to white label the interactive streaming experience is one of its key differentiating features compared to large social media streaming platforms. Kiswe enables content owners to build their directto-consumer content monetization strategy and bring live events to

For music and creator events, Kiswe offers tiered tickets that provide partners with greater engagement and revenue opportunities. Special “rooms” allow guests to have virtual meetings with their favorite entertainers and VIP “backstage” opportunities. Kiswe’s technology 184

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

allows fans to sync their actions to cheer or participate in unique moments during concerts, creating a collective experience akin to being physically present. Kiswe’s crowd production platform captures all the fan interactions and produces a “fan wall” shared with the performing artists to acknowledge their live support worldwide. The company’s technology has been used to power a wide range of numerous high-profile solutions, including the NBA Leaguepass app, the LA Clipper’s Clippervision, the PGA Tour Twitter multicast, The Try Guys Live! Without a Recipe Finale, Times Square New Year’s Eve, The Rolling Stones, Queen + Adam Lambert’s “Rhapsody Over London” live-streaming event, as well as one of the biggest international sporting events in the world. The company has also set a Guinness World Record for the largest live streaming ticketed concert with K-pop group BTS. Kiswe has been recognized as one of TIME’s “ BEST INVENTIONS,” is a Deloitte FAST 500 company and one of Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech as well as Most Innovative Companies. Kiswe’s pioneering technology and platform transform live streaming experiences, offering interactive and immersive fan experiences that bring traditional virtual events to life. Before Kiswe, content creators, sports fans or virtual concert viewers passively enjoyed the program from their couches. Kiswe’s solutions enable fans to interact with players, content creators, commentators, and musicians from the comfort of their homes. Fans can speak, celebrate, and cheer with counterparts worldwide, making the online viewing experience no longer a solitary or idle one. With a commitment to inclusive and immersive fan experiences, Kiswe continues to lead the shift from passive to active viewing, providing something for everyone to enjoy.

kiswe

kiswe.com 185

eTeam A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE IN SOMERSET, NEW JERSEY

Diverse Service Offerings and a Client-Centric Approach

In the bustling town of Somerset, New Jersey, eTeam, Inc. stands as a shining beacon of innovation and success in the world of workforce solutions. With its headquarters strategically located in this vibrant state, eTeam, Inc has carved a niche for itself as a global player, serving clients across various industries in 70+ countries. This exploration delves into the remarkable journey of eTeam, Inc. – from company history to present day investments in tech-enabled businesses, softwares and products.

Foundations of Excellence With A Global Footprint

eTeam, Inc’s success can be attributed to its diverse service offerings, which cater to a wide range of industries and sectors. The company provides staffing solutions in areas such as IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and more. Whether a client needs temporary staffing, permanent placement, or project-based solutions, eTeam, Inc has the expertise and resources to deliver results. This flexibility and adaptability have been key drivers of eTeam, Inc’s continued success.

eTeam, Inc. was founded in the late 1990s by visionary entrepreneur, Ben Thakur. His goal was to create a company that would redefine the staffing and workforce solutions industry, delivering unparalleled service and value to both clients and job seekers. The company’s name, eTeam, Inc, reflects its commitment to building efficient, energetic, expert teams with the speed and agility necessary to serve clients in an increasingly borderless, digital world.

eTeam, Inc’s journey has been marked by its relentless focus on its clients. The company sees itself not just as a service provider but as a strategic partner to its clients. eTeam, Inc’s dedicated account managers work closely with clients to understand their unique needs and challenges. This client-centric approach ensures that eTeam, Inc delivers tailored solutions that address specific requirements, ultimately helping clients achieve their business goals.

Over the years, eTeam, Inc has grown from a small startup into a global force in the staffing industry. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has led to exponential growth and expansion. Today, eTeam, Inc operates in over 70 countries, with offices across North America, Europe, and Asia. Its global presence allows eTeam, Inc to offer clients a wide range of tech-enabled workforce solutions, tailored to local and regional needs.

A Diverse and Inclusive Workforce eTeam, Inc. understands the value of diversity and inclusion in today’s business landscape. The company actively promotes diversity within its own workforce and encourages clients to embrace diverse hiring practices. By fostering an inclusive environment, eTeam, Inc not only reflects the changing demographics of the workforce but also taps into a broader pool of talent and ideas, driving innovation and growth. 186

to quality, and dedication to clients as cornerstones of its success. The company’s future is bright, as it seeks to further enhance its global footprint, explore emerging markets, and embrace the ever-changing landscape of the staffing industry. As eTeam, Inc looks ahead, it is poised to continue its journey of excellence, shaping the future of the staffing industry and making a positive impact on the world.

Ben Thakur, President and CEO

Transformation, Agility, Partnership One of the defining features of eTeam, Inc, is its unwavering commitment to technology and innovation. The company recognizes that the staffing industry is rapidly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve is essential. eTeam, Inc’s over two decades of experience, staffing industry expertise and market prowess have led the company to naturally evolve its services, with an increased focus on technology based solutions. Today, through multiple business-aligned acquisitions, eTeam, Inc officially launched “eTeam Group of Companies”, the overarching business Group which contains not only eTeam, Inc. but also several other brands like High5, TOTAM, Elevance and COMPASS. Combined, the eTeam, Inc Group of Companies offer a true, one-stop, total talent experience. Founded on a strong vision and unwavering principles, eTeam, Inc, has grown from humble beginnings into a global leader. eTeam, Inc remains committed to its founding principles of diverse service offerings, focus on technology, commitment

eteaminc.com 187

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

END-TO-END LIFECYCLE SERVICES: Avaap Provides Digital Transformation Across Industries Avaap, an industry-focused technology management and advisory services partner, delivers strategic technology solutions and exceptional customer experiences. With offices and customers across the United States, Avaap’s expert consulting team has deep experience in healthcare, higher education, nonprofits, government, transportation, and other industries.

by Dhiraj Shah and built on the philosophy that if you love what you do, you’ll never feel you’ve worked a day in your life. This cultivated a workforce of individuals with deep knowledge and industry experience who love their profession and role in customer success, are committed to their colleagues, and motivated to achieve and make a difference for our customers.

Avaap’s success is focused on four pillars: employee engagement, talent development, strategic partnerships, and outstanding customer experience. Avaap was founded in 2006 in Edison, New Jersey,

In 2020, Avaap moved its headquarters to Columbus, Ohio, a midwestern technology and innovation hub. Today, Avaap employs more than 400 technology and business professionals across the country who stay 188

I N N O V A T E

N E W

engaged and connected through virtual happy hours, events, and more. This growth is testament to Dhiraj’s vision and genuine desire to improve customer business practices through strategic partnerships and exceptional software services.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

integrates proprietary change management methodology into every project we do, increasing the likelihood of project success. Our Avaap Change Academy trains change practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to lead their organizations and selves through people, process, or technology change.

CEO Steve Csuka took the helm in 2021 and under his leadership expanded relationships with Workday, Tableau and other enterprise software solutions. Today, Avaap has the second largest Workday Student team, bringing higher education customers access to some of the most experienced consultants in student system modernization. State and local government customers have gone live on Workday with success in streamlining processes, increasing access to data, and more efficient collaboration across business units.

Against the backdrop of the highest standards of delivery and customer service, Avaap is honored to have been recognized as a national Great Place to Work. Our people are our greatest asset and have stepped up for their clients and each other through unpredictable circumstances, supporting client initiatives related to the pandemic when people needed support the most. As Avaap looks forward, we are excited for the next evolution of growth, welcoming new team members and customers and continuing to provide innovative solutions that address changing business needs. Avaap AvaapUSA avaap avaap_usa

Avaap is proud to provide innovative solutions for customers and expertise in data and analytics. Our fraud, waste, and abuse offering saved a state government more than $1 million in fraud and duplicate payments using data and advanced analytics. Our team has found solutions to save hours of time for customers, including a data conversion accelerator that increases time to value with fewer manual labor and errors. In addition, Avaap’s market-leading change management practice

avaap.com 189

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

YOUR CATALYST FOR COLLABORATION IN AV, IT, AND VOICE

In a world where the only constant is change, the ability to adapt and innovate is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity. Within the increasingly dynamic collaboration industry, Yorktel stands as a shining example of a company that embodies these qualities. Their journey as a Managed Collaboration Services Provider has paved the way for businesses to seamlessly transition to the hybrid workplace model, optimizing productivity, cutting costs, and delivering an unparalleled end-user experience.

personalized touch. Their excellence is recognized by over 100 awards, including prestigious listings on the CRN MSP 500: Elite 150 and Solution Provider 500 as well as numerous partner of the year awards. Yorktel provides an all-encompassing AV solution, spanning design, integration, management, and 24/7 global help desk support. Their expertise also extends to professional consulting and staffing services, highlighting their depth in managed collaboration services. Yorktel’s expertise extends to Managed IT Services, where they proudly stand as one of the leading Microsoft Partners in 2023. Their specialization in security allows clients to make the shift to Office licensing, thereby reducing third-party subscription costs and boosting return on investment. Short, Chief Technology Officer at Yorktel, underlines their dedication to preserving the security of their clients’ entire collaboration estate. “We adhere to global IT and Business Systems standards such as ISO27001/270,-02, ISO9001, GDPR, CMMC, and others, seamlessly shouldering the role of compliance manager for all client endpoints, utilizing their extensive experience. This ensures that O365 and Azure remain secure across the entire environment,” says Short. In

At the core of Yorktel’s approach is the fusion of three key industries: Audio-Visual (AV), Information Technology (IT), and Telecommunications. By blending these pillars into a comprehensive “Collaboration” ecosystem, Yorktel simplifies the complexities of managing multiple platforms and vendor relationships, a common challenge in today’s fast-paced business world. With four decades of experience, Yorktel has become a global leader in Managed AV services. They’ve left their mark on over 100,000 rooms and 1,000,000 devices worldwide, offering both a global reach and a 190

a world where data security and compliance are paramount concerns, Yorktel’s expertise becomes invaluable. Managed Voice is another area where Yorktel excels, offering professional services and subscription and management through Cloud Voice/ Telephony for platforms like Cisco WebEx, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom. As an FCC-regulated carrier, Yorktel extends additional options for enabling Cloud Voice service, including direct routing for legacy devices or systems integration. Ben Sept, Voice Practice Lead at Yorktel, emphasizes their cloud-first approach. “We ensure a smooth transition from onpremise systems to the cloud, optimizing costs and operational efficiency. Our unified billing system presents all services in one comprehensive bill. This holistic approach allows organizations to concentrate on their core operations, with the assurance that their communication systems are in expert hands.”

Ron Gaboury, Chief Executive Officer (Right) Ken Scaturro, President & Chief Operating Officer (Left) Their holistic approach to Managed Collaboration Services, covering AV, IT, and Voice, simplifies the complex world of business communications. By harmonizing these essential components, Yorktel streamlines processes, reduces costs, and enhances the user experience. Their rich legacy, global presence, and dedication to innovation make them a reliable partner for businesses seeking to thrive in the ever-evolving communication landscape. With Yorktel as their guide, organizations can confidently step into the future of work, equipped for success.

Yorktel’s narrative doesn’t just highlight their past achievements but also their forward-thinking vision. They’re a company that embraces change, such as leveraging AI for monitoring technologies, and is well-prepared for future challenges. With a strong commitment to excellence, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of the evolving communication landscape, they lead the way in Managed Collaboration Services.

81 Corbett Way, Eatontown, NJ 07724 Tel: +1 732-413-6000 Email: learnmore@yorktel.com

yorktel.com 191

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

KAIZEN VOIZ

simple seamless secure

REVOLUTIONIZING SECURITY: KAIZEN SECURE VOIZ LEADS THE WAY IN VOICE BIOMETRICS

BEYOND WORDS:

In an era where data breaches and identity theft run rampant, Kaizen Secure Voiz emerges as a trailblazer, reshaping the security landscape with cutting-edge voice biometric solutions. As the digital realm expands, so do the challenges, and Kaizen stands as a beacon, providing not just security but a seamless and efficient authentication experience.

Kaizen’s voice biometric software goes beyond mere identification, boasting advanced features like keyword spotting, automatic speech recognition, and contextual awareness. The software not only recognizes voices but comprehends the subtleties of conversations, providing an unprecedented level of security and personalization.

Unveiling Kaizen Secure Voiz: Kaizen Secure Voiz, a pioneer in voice biometrics, takes the lead in innovation, addressing the evolving needs of industries such as banking, finance, security, insurance, telecommunications, and healthcare. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Kaizen has meticulously crafted a sophisticated suite of solutions that redefines authentication standards.

ELEVATING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: Kaizen’s solutions offer more than just security in banking and finance. These industries demand precision and speed for transactions. The software expedites transactions with precise keyword spotting, reduces wait times, and minimizes the need for repetitive personal information, culminating in an elevated customer experience.

THE POWER OF VOICE:

MEETING INDUSTRY NEEDS:

At the core of Kaizen’s offerings lies voice biometric authentication, a robust alternative to traditional methods. Envision a world where the burden of remembering complex passwords fades away. Kaizen’s voice biometric technology ensures a secure and convenient authentication method where your voice becomes the key.

Kaizen Secure Voiz has tailored its offerings to meet the unique requirements of diverse industries. From the intricate demands of healthcare to the fast-paced world of finance, Kaizen’s voice biometric solutions seamlessly integrate with existing systems, transforming security into an ally rather than an obstacle.

192

LOW RES. LOGO

THE KAIZEN ADVANTAGE:

CONNECT WITH KAIZEN SECURE VOIZ:

What sets Kaizen apart is its unwavering commitment to innovation. The software incorporates multi-modal biometrics, real-time fraud detection, continuous authentication, emotion detection, behavioral analytics, contactless authentication, multilingual support, personalized responses, and secure voice communication. It’s not just about security; it’s a comprehensive solution designed for the future.

To embark on a journey of enhanced security and seamless authentication, connect with Kaizen Secure Voiz. Follow them on social media for updates and insights into the ever-evolving world of voice biometrics.

CONCLUSION: Kaizen Secure Voiz is more than just a company; it represents a revolution in security. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, Kaizen stands tall, offering a secure, efficient, and costeffective solution. Every voice is unique. Kaizen ensures that your voice becomes your most secure credential. Embrace the future of authentication with Kaizen Secure Voiz.

YOUR SECURITY ALLY: Imagine a Chief Information Security Officer like Sarah navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape. Kaizen Secure Voiz becomes her ally, offering secure and efficient authentication. With features like keyword spotting and demographic analysis, Kaizen empowers Sarah to achieve her goals and confront challenges head-on.

Sales: sales@kaizenvoiz.com Investor Relations: info@kaizenvoiz.com Customer support: support@kaizenvoiz.com Careers: jobs@kaizenvoiz.com Kaizen Voiz

VISUALIZING THE FUTURE: Accompanying this article are images that capture the essence of Kaizen Secure Voiz. From team pictures to visuals illustrating the software in action, these images narrate a story of innovation, security, and a future where voices are not merely heard but recognized.

kaizenvoiz.com 193

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

TRAINING THAT’S 45% FASTER AND 1,000% LESS BORING. Sam Caucci is the Founder and CEO of 1Huddle, a workforce tech company that is the fastest way to level-up and fire-up workers using science-backed, quick-burst mobile games.. 1Huddle’s workforce training platform helps organizations across the globe onboard new hires faster, upskill better, and fire up employees proven to increase revenue and 5-star reviews. Before 1Huddle, Sam was the National Director of Franchise Sales and Marketing for the Parisi Speed School where he led the sales training program for 83 locations. He also was in a leadership role at LifeTime Fitness and the General Manager for Perfect Competition Athletic Development, training 2,500 elite professional athletes. 1Huddle (formerly known as Sales Huddle) was founded when Sam realized just how ineffective, outdated, and clunky most current training methods were. Nobody reads the manual, nobody watches the video modules, and 87% of what is learned in a live training session is forgotten within 30 days. 55% of the workforce is Millennial or Gen Z, only 15% of workers are engaged at work, and the average millennial will have played over 10,000 hours of games before turning 21. So why not turn your boring training into a game? That’s exactly what 1Huddle did. Imagine all your training, in a game, on your phone. It’s that simple.

The realization that sales training was broken for today’s younger workforce was the foundation of 1Huddle. What started out as a crosscountry 1-day sales training workshop has turned into a dynamic mobile game for employees everywhere. 1Huddle has quickly become an integral part of the sales and service strategies for thousands of workers across the globe. 194

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

OUR CLIENTS 1Huddle has impacted people across organizations in a wide array of sectors, including Loews Hotels, Pizza Hut, Audible (an Amazon Company), Madison Square Garden, Hand & Stone, RWJBarnabas Health, and U.S. Air Force.

Leading brands trust 1Huddle to move forward and fire up their team. How do you train?

ACCOLADES 1Huddle is continuing to grow quickly, having tripled its team size since 2018 and increased revenue 255% in just the first half of this year. With millions of games played, half a million games built, and tens of thousands of users across the globe, 1Huddle clients continue to see results such as: 22% increase in sales, 45% decrease in onboarding time, and 95+% voluntary participation. 195

Sam’s Social samcaucci sammycaucci Facebook LinkedIn

1Huddle’s Social 1huddle play1huddle Facebook LinkedIn YouTube

1HUDDLE.CO

INNOVATING MANAGEMENT: CUTTING-EDGE HR, PAYROLL, AND MORE FOR TODAY’S WORKFORCE INTRODUCTION

MODERN SOLUTIONS FOR TODAY’S WORKFORCE

Since our inception, Bektek has been on a remarkable journey of innovation and growth. What began as a pioneering venture into Time and Attendance management, with the introduction of HostedTime, our flagship software, has evolved into a one stop solution for today’s workforce.

Our journey of growth mirrors the dynamic needs of today’s business. Backed by a commitment to our clients and an unwavering focus on user-friendliness, we have expanded our offerings to encompass the full spectrum of workforce management. With integration of HR, Electronic Onboarding, Applicant Tracking, Workflow Management, Timekeeping and Payroll, we have become the comprehensive solution that businesses across industries turn to for efficiency.

OUR STORY At Bektek, our story is one of unwavering dedication to our customers and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Since our inception, we’ve been driven by a singular focus: putting our clients first. What began with a modest number of clients throughout New Jersey and New York areas, has blossomed into a nationwide presence. Today, we proudly serve clients from coast to coast, a testament to the effectiveness and reliability of our solution. What truly sets us apart is our organic growth driven by commitment, and dedication to our customers’ needs above all else. Our clients are not just numbers; they are the heart of our journey, and their success is our driving force.

196

HOSTEDTIME MOBILE: CONVENIENCE ON THE GO The perfect companion to HostedTime, our mobile app is engineered with our client workforce in mind. Our user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it easy to use, providing employees with the support and flexibility they need to thrive. Employees can view schedules, access timecards, bid for open shifts, request time off, access paystubs and W2s and much more. This gives employees convenience and control over their personal information, work schedules and pay details from anywhere, anytime.

SERVING THOSE WHO HELP US While we serve clients across various industries, we focus on hospitals, nursing homes, and a variety of medical centers. Our expert integrations in healthcare allow these critical institutions to seamlessly schedule, manage and pay their employees effectively and efficiently so they can provide the best care for their patients. Our understanding of the healthcare sector and our commitment to compliance and efficiency make us the partner of choice.

MEET THE TEAM Here at Bektek, our team is the driving force behind our success. We have expanded from a close knit team to a thriving family. We believe in the power of teamwork, and we invest in it.

TIME MANAGEMENT MADE EASY We revolutionized workforce management with our precisionengineered timeclock, designed to seamlessly integrate with HostedTime. In conjunction with our comprehensive software, our timeclock helps streamline payroll and timekeeping processes. With features such as biometric palm scanning and unique clock ID numbers, we eliminate buddy punching and make timekeeping secure and accurate. Better workforce efficiency is powered by Bektek.

2 University Plaza Dr, Suite 610 Hackensack, NJ 07601 (201) 584-8300

Bektekinc.com 197

USA MADE BASEBALL CAPS AND TOTE BAGS:

Low Res. Image Unionwear manufactures - from scratch — 100% made in USA baseball hats, backpacks, messenger bags, portfolios, and binders, with 160 union sewers in Newark, NJ. Mitch Cahn founded Unionwear in 1992 with six sewers and a contract to make baseball hats for Ralph Lauren, and has evolved by buying legacy manufacturers of related products and bringing them into a Newark facility fueled by lean manufacturing, automation, and cloud mobile information systems. Unionwear’s vision is first, to be the only choice for any organization seeking made-in-USA promotional hats and bags; second, to leverage technology, media, and data to improve costs, quality, and delivery better than anyone in its industry; and third, to make ordering custom goods as easy as ordering from Amazon. Unionwear really sells “Made in USA” to B2B clients who want to show their commitment to the American economy by putting a “USA Made” label inside company logo promotional items and event merchandise. The market has expanded from labor unions, political campaigns, and the 198

The platform is really a complicated collection of interconnected technologies that configure virtual prototypes based on a user’s tastes. The SKUs can be browsed, searched, and filtered as easily and intuitively as the products on Amazon. When purchased, raw materials are ordered, production is scheduled, and the product is created and delivered in weeks. This process has had unexpected benefits, like the elimination of the configured price quote, product development, and custom order processes, and a commanding presence on search engines due to its large catalog. The recent revolution in artificial intelligence has enabled Unionwear to double down on predictive configuration because it has eliminated barriers to the creation of virtual prototypes and theoretical products. Unionwear is now embracing robotics to enable it to increase its production in a city with limited space and a tight labor market. The company began with cobots and robotic arms assisting production line employees in doing repetitive tasks, and will have the first fully robotic canvas tote bag manufacturing line in North America.

US government to include large domestic manufacturers like Chrysler and Budweiser who want to remain consistent with their “USA Made” marketing, and socially conscious companies who want to avoid any affiliation with sweatshops that might come with a made in China label.

The company is preparing for a continued surge in demand for USA made products. This surge began with a movement toward reshoring caused by the supply chain crisis during the pandemic. The last thirty years have seen demand for USA-made goods rise whenever events such as the Olympics or a presidential election focus the national consciousness on the United States. The next five years are going to be a perfect storm with several generational events coinciding, including both the World Cup and Summer Olympics being hosted in the USA, and the 250th birthday of the United States. These prospects have catalyzed Unionwear’s investments in innovation, in its employees, and in its community.

For Unionwear, innovation has been less about product innovation and more about finding new ways to remain competitive with China or sell existing products to more markets. The competitive advantage of agile domestic manufacturers is their ability to make products on demand with precise appeal to ever-shrinking market segments. The problem is that there is no scalable platform that can convert this competitive advantage into sales. Manufacturers can guess what clients want, also known as product development, or they can ask the client to create their own iterations, but both methods are expensive and hemorrhage sales.

unionwearUSA unionwear unionwearusa

To solve this problem, in 2019 Unionwear developed a predictive configuration platform which has enabled the custom manufacturer to showcase its limitless capabilities by featuring over 100,000 styles of baseball caps on a user interface with the look and feel of a traditional ecommerce site.

unionwear.com 199

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

TRENDALYZE The industrial internet is vast but can be monetized fast with intelligent search. We are the leading knowledge management system for IoT data. In today’s world, business professionals understand that knowledge is power and want to be able to intelligently monitor and predict events leveraging data. However, data is accumulating at an unprecedented rate, pouring in from all sources. We help business professionals and organizations navigate the industrial internet and organize data to leverage information in decision making processes. Our platform is applicable across all industries - finance, healthcare, energy, environment, etc. All companies are being digitized, and companies are often unable to utilize the vast amounts of sensor and machine generated data; we have the solution.

proven, the insurance company settled. I looked for any solution to prove the guilt but could not find one. One day at the garage, a mechanic told me that a sensor records the heartbeats of the engine that contain the fingerprints of every action of the driver. With this data, it dawned on me that you could prove the fraud in less than 20 min. Thinking back on both stories, we realized that sensors actually record the heartbeats of everything - machine operations, human and environmental conditions. The wealth of knowledge contained in this data is enormous. All we needed to get the insights was a Google-like search engine for patterns. Hence Trendalyze. Our first application was in chronic pain management. But then we added retail, finance, automotive, product development, energy, and more.

I have been in the business intelligence industry for 20 years and I have seen it transform the decision-making and operations of companies. In 2010 we started talking about IoT and sensors. It was already a great idea, but a discussion I had with a cardiologist really put it into context for me. Millions of people die every year from heart disease. These patients often do not notice any prior symptoms, and therefore do not seek help. However, medical sensors can detect signs a human may not notice. If the patterns are recognizable by a monitoring system, these patients can receive help and we can prevent 80% of sudden deaths. I was also in a fraudulent car accident a few years ago. Somebody bypassed me and hit the breaks, causing a collision in which they were guilty. Since the guilt could not be

We consider ourselves an innovator. We had to create a platform for data that did not exist before. We had to create analytical methods that did not exist. We had to create simple workflows and UI so that everyone can use them. If you want to democratize knowledge, the tools have to be simple and intuitive. The amount of research and experimentation was breathtaking. We made many mistakes, but we kept learning because the potential for good is so great. 200

I N N O V A T E

Dr. Rado Kotorov, CEO

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Yoshiko Akai, COO/CPO

Rumen Beremski, Head of Business Development

The tri-state area is great for us because it has a variety of industries that are a good fit for what we do - finance, insurance, pharma, healthcare, utilities, and telco. Some of the biggest companies within these industries are located in the tri-state area, and they are at the cutting edge of collecting data that needs to be converted to knowledge. It is a highly concentrated area for the technology that we sell. We want to take our platform to the next level in providing solutions for pressing problems. Our current focus is building libraries of data patterns. From banking to healthcare, these pattern libraries will be the ultimate key across industries. 201

Trendalyze Inc. Email: info@trendalyze.com trendalyze trendalyze trendalyzeglobal Trendalyze Inc

trendalyze.com

Karl Schlegel and Mark Minevich, author of newly released book, Our Planet Powered by AI

Enjoying cigars and cultivating business with (From left) Cameron Kruger, Lindsey Nagy, and Damjan Dejanoski at the Park Avenue Club courtesy of Nagy Ventures and NeedCapital.AI

RENOVATIO GLOBAL - DRIVING SUCCESS THROUGH PEOPLE-LED “PLUG AND PLAY” PARTNERSHIPS AND BRINGING VISIONARY LEADERSHIP TO LIFE Renovatio Global (“Renovatio”) is a strategic business development consulting firm that helps “abundance mentality” CEOs hone vision, relationships, and resources into a force that hyper grows companies and redirects markets. The company is actively engaged in sectors including Technology, Defense, Energy, Healthcare, Media, and Internet Platforms. Renovatio is a Latin word that means “rebirth”. At Renovatio, we believe that people are an organization’s greatest asset. People, working together, build great companies and move civilization forward. Combining the power of people with “plug and play” strategic partnerships through a methodology we have adopted called “Authentic Collaboration”, we have found that companies can slingshot past the market and become magnetic poles to which the market is attracted.

We Believe that Business is Driven by Relationships We follow a simple equation: Life is all about relationships. Business is a subset of life. Business is all about relationships. It takes time to develop relationships and earn trust.

From left (Anthony Huneycutt, Karl Schlegel, Angela Ziegler, Digger Mesch, and Emilio Mahomar) bringing branding, entertainment, and minority business enterprise expertise

Therefore, Renovatio believes, and has witnessed, on numerous occasions that the key to hyper-growth lies in the alignment of people where each person’s individual needs, wants, desires, and concerns are factored into a larger co-created vision anchored by a shared mission, and set of values. When things truly click, people experience a transformation from the level of individual to a clear purpose, role, and level of belief as part of a unified organism driving toward a shared and compelling destination. Without the ability to articulate and make the vision and emotional state of a future outcome tangible, a CEO can be left with few tools to motivate, instill confidence, and unlock “quantum shift” level results. Furthermore, the right people-first “listening-centric” culture is essential to unlock the power of “cognitive diversity” empowering each individual to bring their A-game.

resources, and jumpstart or accelerate momentum through strategic partnerships. A simple way to think about Strategic Partnerships is to envision that you have a fishing pole, and you know of a river where fish are swimming. You have a choice. You can drop your line into the water and catch what you can, or you can speak with the person who controls the dam, create the right win-win exchange of value, and get all of the fish you need while optimizing energy and effort. Many times, strategic partnerships get lumped into sales or business development.

Laying a Strong Foundations and Embedding Force Multipliers

At Renovatio, we help clients utilize strategic partnerships to boost revenue, drive serviceability at scale, enhance market positioning, differentiate through enabling technologies, and mobilize advisory boards to enable clients to punch above their weight class in current or adjacent markets.

At Renovatio, there is a constant push to redefine the boundaries of possibility. When clients are onboarded, our team plays an internal game to see how quickly results can be delivered. Why do we get so excited about what our clients are doing? A large part of this comes down to our pre-qualification and client selection process. We actively seek clients that share similar values to our organization and place people first. When we find the right combination, we seek to maximize time, energy, and

At Renovatio, people make things happen, curiosity unlocks new possibilities, and technology is seen as an enabler. The firm strives for 202

effortless flow, believing that plug-and-play, people-led partnerships drive exponential growth.

Personalizing Strategy through Cognitive Digital Twins Karl Schlegel, our founder, is working with a company specializing in the creation of Cognitive Digital Twins by capturing the experience that a person has, combining that with gut-decision making, and tapping beyond the surface into the subconscious. Toward that end, several cognitive digital twins are being finalized to help companies make sense of strategic partnerships, know what a good strategic partnership looks like, and set in place some variables and KPIs to ensure that the objectives, revenue targets, and fit metrics are aligned to the stage of an organization from startup to scaleup to more mature operation. These cognitive digital twins will live in a rentable AI employment marketplace and be accessible through StrategicPartnership.AI.

Karl with 3D phone startup on sidelines at NFL game

Powerful Results Renovatio’s founder worked with Eco-Enterprise CEO, Lindsey Nagy, and Emilio Mahomar from Resilient Resources to position an end-to-end Power over Ethernet (PoE) LED lighting solution with Private Equity backed smart cities overseas which resulted in a signed deal with the potential to significantly move the P&L for several companies. The founder and another member of the Trillions Team restructured an aviation supply company formed in the 1960s supplying governments and militaries. Renovatio worked hands-on with a client to co-create an infrastructure, power, and data program that included next-generation solar and atmospheric element reclamation technology to help domestic and international governments. Renovatio brought value through a significant set of resources and partners including a nano cement company, a blockchain company, an AI company, and more enabling the use of data to monitor performance, offset capital risk, and map against ESG and SDG. This effort attracted interest at the Billion Dollar level for the client. Renovatio’s founder also served as a co-inventor on an IP creating a legal bridge between physical documents and data which grows in potential as digital twins, digital assets, and the lines between physical and virtual continue to blend. Renovatio’s founder helped turn a patent for remotely monitoring oil wells using drones into reality by bringing an AI team and platform to the table in 2017. This resulted in several thousand wells under LOI and winning an innovation award in China in collaboration with Lindsey Nagy. Renovatio has also been involved with consulting around several rollups in media, technology, and defense and continues to work closely with firms in the Mergers and Acquisitions space. Renovatio’s founder draws from a background in Venture Capital, Family Office, and Mergers and Acquisitions, and has consulted over 200 companies across a multitude of industries, using strategic partnerships to shift the landscape in terms of time and results for clients. One company that benefited from this approach achieved top 200 Inc. 500 recognition.

Enhancing Market Positioning through Perception and Mitigating Risk through Enabling Technologies When it comes to market positioning, we work with our clients to take their future-forward vision, anchor it emotionally, and use an unconventional playbook that combines market psychology with human behavioral response to tap into a “perception is reality” paradigm. Sometimes, it is easier to see this dynamic at work within publicly traded companies that are at the mercy of algorithms, market swings, and overall investor sentiment and confidence. As the stakes increase for publicly traded companies due to cybersecurity breach reporting requirements with letters from regulators paving the way for increased liability to CISOs, CFOs, CEOs, and Boards of Directors, strong policy governance and public perception management/investor relations are no longer adequate means of defense alone. This is where Renovatio brings enabling technologies into play that can be more than window dressing to shift a surging onslaught to a battle-ready proactive stance against uncertainty and threats. Solutions in this area include secure private cloud, post-quantum encryption, an independently developed blockchain architecture with an ability to support decentralization while offsetting counter-party risk, and a host of AI solutions backed by use case deployments across a multitude of sectors given Renovatio’s founder’s experience running AI SWAT teams years before the recent Generative AI craze.

The Trillions Team Renovatio Global is privileged to work with a team of experts known as the “Trillions Team” that have led through adverse situations including the Savings and Loan Bailout of 1989, rewriting the resiliency plan for a Fortune 10 company after 9/11, transitioning governments from Communism to Republic-based models after the Berlin Wall came down, and many other situations. One of the factors that stands out among the individuals on the team is the way that each team member can draw from past experiences and still approach a problem at hand from a present-forward position. Renovatio augments the Trillions Team with resources accessible through ecosystems of companies including NeedCapital.AI, Branded Global, Million Dollar Digital, networks of resources, and strategic partnerships. An area of growing interest on a regional as well as international level surrounds permaculture, food security, key-line design, and regenerative agriculture to support technologically advanced cities as well as more rural regions.

Let’s Bring Rebirth for a New Millennium Together Renovatio welcomes the opportunity to work with visionary CEOs who seek to create a powerful exchange of value with the people in their organization to slingshot past the market to become the leaders of today and the torchbearers of tomorrow. Together, let us co-create a brighter future, push the boundaries of possibility, and bring rebirth for a new Karl Schlegel Managing Partner Renovatio Global Email: info@renovatioglobal.com karlschlegel 203

renovatioglobal.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

INTERFLEXION DELIVERS AI-POWERED ROLE-PLAY THAT HELPS ASPIRING PROFESSIONALS IMPROVE THEIR CONVERSATIONAL SKILLS THROUGH GUIDED PRACTICE AND PERSONALIZED FEEDBACK.

INTERFLEXION WAS FOUNDED TO IMPROVE WORKPLACE COMMUNICATIONS.

While traffic crawled, we brainstormed what would have to be true at a company where all their people were having productive conversations. What kind of training would accomplish that?

Interflexion’s co-founders, successful fintech entrepreneur John Muldoon & tech innovator John Hack, had worked together during the dotcom era and bonded over their interest in emerging technologies and organizational performance.

As the bumper to bumper traffic continued, we brainstormed answers to these questions: At a company where all of their people were having productive conversations, what would that look like? What kind of training would accomplish that?

In 2019, we were returning from a meeting with a VR expert when we got stuck in New York City traffic and struck up a conversation about the proliferation of user-computer interface technologies. It then changed to the changing needs of the workplace. Technical skills were being automated. Remote working was on the rise, requiring more deliberate efforts to collaborate and communicate effectively. Conversational skills were becoming critical to both professional development and organizational growth.

Effective training at scale would require conversational AI. The timing was right. Conversational AI was approaching an inflection point, where it could help people have effective workplace conversations and would scale at low cost. We just needed to build a solution. We brainstormed how an AI coach could work. Rather than having a chatbot in conversation with the learner, we imagined it as an observer of real workplace conversations. It could analyze conversations, provide personalized feedback, and let the person practice to achieve mastery.

Yet, aside from scarce mentors, there were few options for developing these skills. Videos and multiple-choice tests didn’t seem to be working. Human coaching was expensive, even via teleconference. VR was intriguing, but infrastructure-heavy, and it still needed people to handle the interactions.

204

It would need to be engaging and allow people to speak in their natural voice. The technology would need to analyze the content and meaning of the conversation. The feedback would need to be immediate and actionable. The learner would have to feel safe to make mistakes. And it would be a workplace simulation game, where success brings you deeper into the story as you navigate life at work.

We’ve been working with several industry leading early adopters, and the results have been promising. Because we can measure the components of conversations, we can assess baseline skills, rate of progress, and level of mastery. AI-guided practice can make a difference. In one group of learners working on front line manager skills, students failed to handle over 92% of their interactions effectively the first time. It took several interactions with detailed feedback (3.5 on average), but over 90% ended up By the time we were back in New Jersey, the handling the conversations successfully. Moreover, traffic was flowing smoothly, and we had our an overwhelming majority of them reported that John Muldoon, Co-founder vision: AI-powered role-play to help aspiring they had in fact learned something new about being a professionals develop their interpersonal skills through guided practice manager, and that they would apply what they’d learned on the job. and personalized feedback. Traditional training, including the eLearning revolution, is focused on Building atop existing natural language models and adding proprietary knowledge transfer. Interflexion goes beyond knowledge transfer: It language analytics, we developed a mobile app inspired by video reinforces behavior change. We give people the opportunity to apply their phone calls. Learners speak naturally, in their own words, responding knowledge and practice their skills, all within a safe environment. Because to situations presented by colleagues or customers. The AI delivers it’s AI-powered, people can practice anytime, anywhere. immediate, personalized feedback: Did they take the right perspective, convey the right ideas, and ask the right questions? Guided practice Realistic role-play, guided by conversational AI and available on mobile continues until they achieve conversational fluency. Then they progress devices, can now deliver personalized coaching at scale. through the story. interflexion john-muldoon-aaa6616

interflexion.com 205

I N N O V A T E

N E W

WE DELIVER AUTOMATED AND INTEGRATED BIOMETRIC AUTHENTICATION FOR LIFE SCIENCE MANUFACTURERS.

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

At Integral we are building keys to the future of manufacturing. — Marc Diament, Founder

As we designed solutions we learned and improved and codified our learnings into a library of tools that allow us to work with nearly any kind of software. Once we worked this out, the world of pharma supply chain went and got even more complicated. Everything went virtual. Entire systems became virtualized software running on minimalized hardware. We had to figure out how to make our integrations work inside these complex nested architectures, and also enable sophisticated networked biometric sensors to interact in these environments without sacrificing speed and accuracy.

Who knew in 2003 that Passwords would become the bane of our existence and a constant drag on productivity? We did. We also knew that there was a technology called Biometrics that enabled computers to recognize humans uniquely. We decided to build a platform that would provide services such as software logins, Approval Sign-offs, as well as other automations. These could be integrated into the manufacturing supply chain to make it efficient and, importantly, easy for users. What we didn’t initially appreciate was the complexity of the operational design of pharmaceutical supply chain systems. After integrating a few systems, we quickly learned that these were not designed for other software systems to interact with them. We had to come up with one innovative method after another to give our software the ability to interact with and automate user authentication when the systems seemed actually to be designed to explicitly prevent this.

At Integral Biometrics, we spend a lot of our time eliminating milliseconds from our processes. Blazing speed contributes to the ROI and acceptance of our products, so we spend much of our time figuring out how to strip time from our processes while maintaining superior reliability. Everyone understands the desire to eliminate passwords from systems and processes-seems like a no brainer - now. However, we have to work out how to continue to reduce the time it takes to authenticate users 206

Marc Diament, Founder while enhancing security and compliance during the documentation and production of some of the worlds most important pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

remote work got even better. Our customers came to invest even more in our products as a critical component of their operations as they saw that our organization was as reliable and stable as our products.

Having a background in building internet networks and communications tools from his 10 years at AT&T, our founder, Marc Diament, built our company as a fully virtual organization starting 20 years ago. With a global market of customers it was imperative that we be able to travel and work from any location as if we were back in the office. The company was built on a backbone of cloud-based and networked infrastructure. This enabled us to hire great staff from anywhere in the world and tie them into a common work space and processes and create an organization that could enable a better work/life balance. These tools also effectively tie our customers’ global teams tightly into our workflow to enable close collaboration. As a lucky by-product, when the COVID pandemic impacted the world years later, our organization didn’t change the way we worked at all. Despite quarantines and shutdowns, we were able to continue as we always had and even improve as some of the tools for

The factory of the future will require that the people and systems that facilitate manufacturing efficiency, quality, and compliance will have to cooperate in a symbiotic physical and virtual operating environment. The team at Integral Biometrics innovates constantly to weave Biometric identification and user authentication automation into manufacturing systems to enable efficient trust, recognition, and cooperation between humans and machines. integralbiometrics integralbiometrics gxp_biometrics

integralbiometrics.com 207

208

CHAPTER EIGHT

INNOVATION IN URBAN PLANNING & REAL ESTATE

209

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

A POWERFUL ENGINE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

New Brunswick Development Corporation (Devco) was established in 1976 as a nonprofit development company to initiate redevelopment projects and to serve as the vehicle for public and private investment in the City of New Brunswick. Under the leadership of Christopher Paladino, DEVCO has initiated, developed, and managed 8.3 million square feet in residential, commercial, academic, and institutional development projects valued at $3.5 billion in order to aid in economic revitalization.

Devco undertakes community development projects as may be necessary to promote and improve the economic, social, cultural, institutional, and physical environment of the communities that it serves. Devco has developed a model that allows it to fulfill its mission in ever changing real estate and market conditions. It has focused on developing strong local collaborations and using true public private partnerships to promote and successfully carry out redevelopment projects. Devco, together with its public and private partners, work together to conceive of important and 210

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

essential redevelopment initiatives, develop sound project financing structures, put together teams of highly qualified professionals and contractors, successfully complete projects and manage the assets once complete. Devco’s use of public-private partnerships brings a business-oriented approach to its planning and redevelopment projects. Devco has built new public schools and state-of-the-art health care facilities, created public office buildings, hospitality ventures, and major mixed-use development initiatives and developed market rate, senior, student, and affordable housing, as well as participated in the planning necessary for continued growth and revitalization. Devco harnesses the key components of successful urban revitalization, while bringing the expertise necessary to leverage a variety of public and private resources to achieve multiple development goals. A longstanding history of institutional interplay allows the organization to leverage public and private resources to move projects from concept to construction in a timely and costefficient manner. For each of its projects, Devco assembles experienced teams of development partners, professionals, and government entities to bring a leading-edge approach to resolving issues and to achieve the successful completion of important public/private development initiatives.

represents the largest investment in Life Sciences research and education in New Jersey. Most recently, Paladino lead the completion of the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and residential tower, in partnership with the Mason Gross School of the Performing Arts, George Street Playhouse, Crossroads Theater, American Repertory Ballet, and Middlesex County.

Currently under development is the $900 million Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey project, together with the development of a new structured parking facility and the $55 million Blanquita B. Valenti Community School. Also underway is H-1 @ The HELIX, a new $730 million dedicated research, innovation, and medical education facility in downtown New Brunswick. The facility will include a new medical school for the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, a new Translational Research facility in partnership with Rutgers University and the New Jersey Innovation Hub providing space for start-ups and entrepreneurs. The project

Prior projects completed have included the Gateway Development Initiative in Atlantic City which included the development of the new Atlantic City campus for Stockton University, the College Avenue Redevelopment Initiative on the Rutgers-New Brunswick campus, and the renovation of the former Rutgers Law School in Newark as university housing, together with many other key redevelopment projects in New Brunswick and throughout New Jersey.

211

Innovation is the lifeblood of New Jersey’s economy. The HELIX will create an eco-system that will help reignite the entrepreneurial spirit of Edison, Sarnoff, Waksman, and Claude Shannon, unlocking the potential of that spirit for a new generation.” — Christopher J. Paladino, President

CURRENT/RECENTLY COMPLETED PROJECTS

Governor Murphy calls for growing the innovation economy and capturing the economic multiplier effect of those industries where up to five additional jobs are created by each job in the innovation economy. Several key sectors were identified as the foundation for this plan, including Life Sciences and Bio-Tech. A vital component of the Governor’s call to action is the targeted engagement and leveraging of the state’s major research universities to aid in the acceleration of early-stage companies from start-up to commercialization.

H-1 @ THE NEW JERSEY HEALTH + LIFE SCIENCE EXCHANGE (HELIX) Set to open in 2025, Devco’s latest project being developed in downtown New Brunswick is the first phase of the New Jersey Health + Life Science Exchange, or the HELIX. This project – known as H-1 - involves the construction and development of a 12-story, 574,000 square foot building consisting of three major components including the New Jersey Innovation HUB providing space for innovation and startups, new research laboratories for Rutgers University’s translational research effort and a new medical education facility for the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

The HELIX answers the call head on by establishing the only ecosystem in the country where academic researchers, entrepreneurs, medical students, and educators will co-locate in an environment of collaboration and discovery where creative collisions can truly occur.

In October 2018, Governor Phil Murphy issued a call to action with the publication of “The State of Innovation: Building a Stronger and Fairer Economy in New Jersey”. The plan establishes both a vision to return New Jersey to its former place as a global power in the innovation economy as well as a path to execute this vision.

From industry to academia, individuals to organizations, the HELIX is building a community at the forefront of innovation in Health & Life Sciences. We have strategically partnered with the State’s preeminent anchors in education, medical, and institutional innovation development. These Core Partners include Rutgers University, Hackensack Meridian Health, RWJ Barnabas Health, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and Middlesex County. Committed tenants include Princeton University and DEVCO. International University partnerships have been established with Tel Aviv University in Israel and Atlantic Technological University in Ireland.

In the plan, Governor Murphy affirms that innovation is the lifeblood of New Jersey’s economy and that the entrepreneurial spirit of Edison, Einstein, Waksman, and Sarnoff should serve as a challenge for us to unlock the potential of that spirit for a new generation. Specifically, 212

THE RUTGERS CANCER INSTITUTE OF NEW JERSEY Construction is also underway on a new, state-of-the-art, free-standing cancer pavilion. This project will expand the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Jersey’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This facility will include 96 inpatient beds, 84 infusion bays, 74 exam rooms, nine operating rooms, and extended outpatient care. There will also be state-of-the-art research laboratories. The ability to translate scientific findings from ‘bench to bedside’ and back to the laboratory will provide researchers with more immediate feedback on clinical trials. These labs will put “science on display” with visibility to patients and visitors. The 12-story, 520,000 square foot facility will be connected to the existing Cancer Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital via a skywalk. The new Cancer Institute will provide 500 – 600 new jobs once the project is completed in 2024.

NBDEVCO nbdevco

devco.org 213

When We Say Full Service, We Mean It that helps young and growing businesses at any stage plan, prepare and advance to that next level.

The Garibaldi Group is a boutique, independently-owned commercial real estate firm established in 1919. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the real estate landscape at every turn. Building off our successful partnership at Bell Works, our team aims to cultivate more groundbreaking commercial projects around New Jersey and strengthen the state’s innovation economy with more boots on the ground.

In 2013, The Garibaldi Group was hired as the leasing agent for over one million square feet of vacant office space in Holmdel at the all-butabandoned Bell Labs complex. Our team believed in the plans that Ralph Zucker and his firm, Somerset Development, had crafted for repurposing the iconic campus, but “there was so much unknown when we walked into that situation,” Jeff Garibaldi Jr. said.

New Jersey is indeed ‘a barrel tapped at both ends’ and we’ve spent more than 100 years embracing this challenge. Since 1919, we’ve invested in our clients who believe in New Jersey’s potential by providing top tier representation. With a dedicated team in place, we believe in building relationships that last, not ‘one-and-done’ transactions.

“Ralph was a serious guy who had a serious vision. He clearly had the town behind him, which was a huge step for the project. As long as he could live up to what he was proposing, we thought it would be successful,” Garibaldi said. “By no means did we think it would be this successful.”

Our determination is evident in the continued success of our Corporate Services team who is now responsible for a portfolio of over 25 million square feet nationwide. Since 1999, the team has remained a pillar of our commercial real estate business, consulting clients on consolidating their footprint, lease administration, site selection and other duties that are increasingly outsourced in today’s corporate arena.

Our dedicated team has leased 95% of the office space at Bell Works, totaling nearly 1.25 million square feet. At our headquarters, we’ve also leveraged the suburbian success of Bell Works’ Co-Lab, renovating the first floor of our building to create a brand new coworking space in Chatham, NJ. The Station, as we’ve aptly named it, is near capacity and exploring expansion options.

Today, we are focused on taking the experience gained from partnering with larger corporate clients and combining it with hands-on work with rapidly-growing technology start-ups. This allows us to offer a platform

214

I N N O V A T E

Jeffrey Garibaldi, Jr., President

“It has never been more imperative for a firm to be nimble and innovative. We are operating in uncharted territory as the dynamics of office life continue to shift. As an industry, we must step out of the comfort and denial, move through acceptance, and land in the space of welcoming this new landscape. The firms that are open and creative and who foster ideas through dialogue, trust and empowerment of their people will succeed. We are them. That is us.”

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Jeff Garibaldi, Sr., CEO

Jim Garibaldi, Chairman

“The Bell Works project has challenged, motivated and enabled us every single day, and The Garibaldi Group is a better company for it. When we first moved our team into the building in 2013, the atrium floor was littered with puddles from leaky skylight panels and the project was running on a hope and a prayer. At the time, I would regularly quote Bruce Springsteen: ‘Someday we’ll look back on this and it will all seem funny.’ Today, we get to smile.” — Jeff Garibaldi, Sr., CEO

“Our philosophy has been, and continues to be focused on cultivating an entrepreneurial -spirited, boutique and independent real estate firm. We strive to have a company of quality individuals, who are both highly skilled and of high character. This enables us to be nimble and agile, always in a position to pivot when we see change in the business climate.” — Jim Garibaldi, Chairman

The Garibaldi Group thegaribaldigroup garibaldigroup the-garibaldi-group-LLC

— Jeffrey Garibaldi, Jr., President

thegaribaldigroup.com 215

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

INNOVATING NEWARK’S SKYLINE: HANINI GROUP’S TWO DECADES OF TRANSFORMATIVE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT.

Kresge’s Building before / after 707 Broad Street, the former Kresge Newark building, is set to undergo a transformation that will resurrect its historic exterior, complete with a grand marquee.

77 University / 77 University is a new development project that promises luxury living, offering residents convenience, comfort, and style. Located just a block away from one of the most popular train stations in New Jersey.

It’s been over two decades since Hanini Group began contributing to Newark’s skyline. Our commitment to restoring and upholding Newark’s historic character is reflected in over $750 million worth of projects successfully delivered.

college town, hosting a vibrant student community of 50,000 across Rutgers University, NJIT, Seton Hall, and Essex County College. The opportunity to play a part in the inevitable upward trajectory of the City was a key factor in driving the investment in the City. Our philosophy starts and ends with blending technology with practicality.

We’ve been a part of this community since 2004 and, through careful restoration and rehabilitation projects, have changed Newark’s real estate landscape at a time when the others were nonbelievers.

Our benchmarks are set in sustainable urban development by anticipating industry trends and incorporating green building practices. In an effort to battle sickness and allergens, Hanini Group has introduced a highefficiency air scrubbing unit to our building standards. This cutting-edge system sanitizes and scrubs interior air from contaminants through redundant HEPA filters and UV light. The real highlight comes through scrubbing the air and reducing/eliminating the need to condition the outside air, thereby dramatically reducing energy costs.

In 2004, Newark’s real estate bore little resemblance to its present-day allure. Despite grappling with high crime rates, decaying infrastructure, and a dwindling population, a unique vision for the city began to take a foothold among the Partners of Hanini Group. This perspective highlighted unparalleled access to transportation, serving as a vital gateway in and out of the city. Additionally, Newark began to solidify its position as a thriving hub, attracting major institutions like PSE&G, Panasonic, and Prudential Insurance. Remarkably, it is also an unexpected

We’re committed to the future of innovative Real Estate solutions but will take no shortcuts in preserving the historic character of the projects 216

Samer Hanini / Managing Partner, Samer is a co-founder and managing partner of Hanini Group and a professional with expertise in real estate finance, business development, and construction management.

The Team / During a special visit from Teik C. Lim, the President of NJIT, and Andrew Christ, PE Christ, SVP of Real Estate, at the Hanini Group.

we work on. Historic Preservation is where our origins began and has since become a specialty of the firm that spreads far and wide through the company culture. As first-generation Americans, we’ve taken great pride in preserving the buildings that shaped the great American skylines for years. Navigating both ends of the spectrum defines our approach. Whether it’s preserving history, implementing technological solutions, or anything in between, we cultivate an atmosphere that celebrates diverse perspectives, fosters creativity, and drives positive change. Hanini Group shapes not just spaces but also the future of urban innovation through relentless improvement.

Hahne & CO / Hahne & Co. is a historic site located in the heart of downtown Newark that has been transformed into a thriving mixed-use development. Originally a department store that served the community for over 100 years, the site has been reimagined as a 600,000-square-foot development with a retail, office, and residential component. The crown jewel of the Hanini Group Portfolio, this development features the first Whole Foods in the City, which has become a vital resource for the community, providing access to fresh, healthy food options.

87 Halsey Street, Newark, NJ 07102 Email: info@hanini.com Phone: 973-878-1886 HaniniGroup hanini-group

National State Bank / The Historic First National State Bank building, located on bustling Broad Street in Newark, has been transformed into the iconic Hotel Indigo.

hanini.com 217

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN COMPANIES AND THEIR SITE SELECTION NEEDS THROUGH LOCATION ECONOMICS®

OUR STORY

At BLS & Co. our objective is to give our clients a competitive advantage by helping match their operational and organizational needs with an area’s attributes.

Biggins Lacy Shapiro & Company (BLS & Co.) is one of the largest independent firms in the specialty fields of site selection and economic development incentives advisory services. Our principals have been delivering our mix of services for more than twenty-five years and are highly respected leaders in their field. BLS & Co. is devoted to bringing insight and clarity to the business location decision-making process. Our unique blend of interdisciplinary skills—referred to as Location Economics®—addresses all essential facets of location decisions. Our team can help you identify, evaluate and select the optimal location for your operation and secure meaningful state and local tax credits and other business incentives to optimize the financial performance of that choice.

OUR SERVICES

Incentives Advisory | Incentives are an essential instrument of economic development that work by reducing costs and operational risks confronting companies that are relocating or expanding. Securing incentives is often a complex and rigorous process with many legal, financial and political nuances that can vary based on the type and scale of a project and the jurisdictions involved. That’s where we come in. BLS & Co. helps design incentive strategies and solutions that create value for our clients and lasting benefits for their communities.

Site Selection | For more than two decades, our principals and consultants have helped companies situate new plants, headquarters, back-office and shared services operations, manufacturing plants, logistics and distribution centers, R&D centers and mission-critical facilities.

Energy Services | As companies scrutinize their energy use, the conversation often focuses on the cost of power without considering other significant energy variables that could create unforeseen costs and 218

common strategy is to restore value by converting such property to higher and better uses. However, receiving permission to make changes in land use can be a complex and daunting task. Securing a master plan amendment, property rezoning, or site plan and subdivision approval requires sensitivity to the local community’s aspirations and an attainment to grassroots social and political expectations. As companies consider greenfield development projects or repurposing existing sites, assurances of a reasonable, predictable and timely approvals outcome become fundamental to a project’s success.

OUR KEY INDUSTRIES BLS & Co. serves clients in a wide variety of industries, including: Automotive & aerospace Consumer products E-commerce Financial & professional services Food & beverage Information technology Life sciences Manufacturing Power & energy

FEATURED CLIENTS BLS & Co. has worked with clients of all sizes. Some of our most notable include: Liberty Science Center American Electric Power Nestle Waters Biogen NJPAC Bloomberg Panasonic BNY Mellon Prudential Bristol Myers Squibb Quest Citi Sharp Eli Lilly & Co. Subaru Gartner The Philadelphia Inquirer Goya Philadelphia 76ers Hello Fresh JP Morgan Chase

OUR TEAM Biggins Lacy Shapiro & Company is dedicated to helping clients compete and flourish by optimizing complex and sensitive location decisions. Over the last twenty years our experts have built the firm’s best-in-class reputation for innovation, effectiveness and integrity in the delivery of corporate site selection and incentives advisory services.

risks, such as reliability, capacity and costs. Through our Sugarloaf Associates™ energy services affiliate, BLS & Co. offers a broad spectrum of energy procurement and assessment services that can be integrated into any phase of a corporate relocation or expansion project. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience in the utility industry, giving us a deep understanding of utility issues, methods, technologies, infrastructure and costs.

blsandcompany biggins-lacy-shapiro-&-company

Redevelopment | Large corporations often have legacy assets verging on obsolescence and thus contributing little economic value; these frequently include land and facilities held in a company’s portfolio. A

blsstrategies.com 219

I N N O V A T E

CAROLINE GOSSELIN

FOUNDER AND CEO, THE EXPERIENCE NJ TEAM AT EXP REALTY

‘‘

EXP Realty is the new frontier of Real Estate and is setting the new standard for agents and consumers. An Industry Transformed: Welcome to the Future of Real Estate The 2008 housing market crash sent shockwaves across the world. Not only did it change the banking industry, but the digital transformation created fertile ground for change and disruption in the real estate industry as well. In response, Caroline Gosselin, who spent most of her career at traditional real estate brokerages, let the tide of technology and the dawn of a new paradigm in brokerage business models lead to the transition of her entire operation to industry’s first cloud-based real estate brokerage, EXP Realty. With a fired-up entrepreneurial spirit and out-of-the-box thinking, she left Sotheby’s International after close to a decade. “I decided to join what I consider to be a true movement; EXP World Holdings Founder and CEO Glenn Sanford understood the pain points of the real estate industry like no one else. He also made the

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

agents share-holders in what they are building. That was a game changer,” shares Caroline. “In thirteen years, EXP Realty has grown to 86,000 agents across 24 countries and continues to thrive through challenging market conditions. The best part: we are taking New Jersey by storm, and we’re so excited for our growth in this great state.” Caroline is the Founder and CEO of The Experience NJ Team at EXP Realty. Guided by her passion and dedication for superior service, expertise in media and marketing, and love for people, Caroline has constructed one of the fastest-growing real estate teams in New Jersey. With guidance and leadership, she and her team have closed over $350 million in sales, establishing their expertise in the Northern New Jersey Market.

Business in the Metaverse: A Digital Landscape Caroline firmly believes that technology will continue to progress at a quick pace and refusing to adapt will “force traditional brokerages to the sidelines.” Through Virbela, the virtual working environment platform used by EXP Realty (created by their parent company over a decade ago), Caroline can provide options for her agents to connect with clients, conduct business and conduct the buying/selling process digitally. By creating an inclusive, community-driven online space that promotes productivity, collaboration, and realistic interactions, she believes she has empowered her agent partners to grow and scale their businesses faster, more efficiently, and sustainably.

Delivering All-in-One Solutions to Clients and Her Team Forward thinking companies are looking to create all-in-one consumer platforms to integrate real estate and lifestyle solutions

220

seamlessly. Caroline envisions that a Realtor will handle the entire process of buying and selling a home, as well as be the conduit for all additional services. In response to this change, Caroline and her team are actively working towards providing more ancillary services to her clients that stem out of housing, as she says, “The goal is for us to be able to be a one-stop shop for our clients, for everything from mortgages to home services and maintenance so we can become an all-inone real estate platform providing technology and services that deliver unparalleled consumer experiences related to their home and lifestyle.” Virbela has created technological and business advantages. It provides a learning platform for agents, where, through EXP University, agents have access to 80-plus hours per week of live and on-demand training on enhancing mindset, leveling-up skills and taking purposeful action in their real estate business. “I encourage our agents to embrace this market change and new technologies as an opportunity to scale their business offerings and increase their knowledge base to help their clients better navigate any market”, Caroline comments. As a result, the Experience NJ Team’s technology and workflow is more efficient, saves time, helps deliver crucial information and data, and keeps everything safely in one place in the cloud. Most importantly, it doesn’t keep agents geographically bound it allows them to help clients anywhere in the world with their residential and commercial needs.

Going Further Together To understand Caroline’s innovative leap, we’ll need to rewind a few years. Her journey into the real estate industry has been unique. After completing her master’s degree in International Affairs in Paris, France, Caroline and her husband moved to New York City. “Working in the international affairs/public relations realm in New York City was an amazing experience,” she recounts. “I had the opportunity to travel the

I N N O V A T E

country for several years, working closely with UN Ambassadors, organizing US Congressional Delegations around important topics like human trafficking, war refugees and climate issues.” All that changed when she and her husband decided to start a family. They resettled from Manhattan to the suburbs in New Jersey, where she had her son. After six months as a stay-athome mother, Caroline began investigating her options. While discussing ideas with family, real estate sales piqued her interest. After her first few years in the industry, Caroline recognized the real estate industry was ripe for disruption and change. “Why should we all work in our silos when we could collaborate and leverage each other’s strengths? I didn’t want to be a solo agent doing everything alone, I wanted to do what I was good at and build a team around what I lacked.” According to Caroline, “A huge percentage of Realtors practice part time; for those that are doing it full-time, their entrepreneurialism isn’t fostered or encouraged. More importantly, Realtors working at traditional brokerages have no stake in the companies they work for.”

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

in the field, which has become an Amazon best seller in 3 categories. Her team created the “In Quest of Better” agent community and the Quest conference, a brand agnostic conference aimed at giving back and bringing value to the real estate community.” Caroline states: “Our company [EXP Realty] allows you to think BIG!”

A People Business Harnessing technology, a shifting industry and its opportunities, Caroline brings people together beyond boundaries with advanced cloud-based technologies that foster interconnectivity and collaboration, boost morale and improve performance. This ultimately drives each of their agents’ success.

Leading the Next Generation of Realtors “I want to leave a legacy of inspiration and empower our agents to build and grow their own brands and run their operations like a real business they have a stake in. Agents change the lives of their clients, their families and their communities. I want to continue to inspire and provide opportunities for the next generation of Realtors.”

“While most see real estate as being transactional, we are really in the ‘people business’,” Caroline says. “We help our clients, who ultimately become friends, to find their sanctuary. We are high-level listeners, and our jobs require high emotional intelligence. We must understand our clients’ needs inside and out so we can lead them towards finding and creating their personal sacred space where they can thrive.”.

The Rise of the Real Estate Entrepreneur In less than a year at EXP Realty, Caroline and the Experience NJ Team have expanded their horizons and helped a handful of new agents start their real estate business from the ground up. We will be adding seasoned teams to our collective this year. Caroline smiles while sharing: “This year we also created a global real estate division, Experience Global Inc, which represents boutique hotels and sports teams worldwide. We launched a digital media company called Experience Media Inc., which creates all of our marketing for our agents and our listings. Caroline also managed to write a book called “Women Who Bossup in Real Estate” this year, an anthology with 15 other inspiring women

carolinegosselin TheExperienceNJTeam theexperiencenjteam TheExperienceNJTeam

www.experiencenjteam.com 221

222

CHAPTER NINE

INNOVATION IN FINANCE, INVESTING, LAW & ACCOUNTING

223

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

INNOVATION BREEDS CREATIVITY

implementing innovative models that improve processes, remove redundancies, effectively address issues, and deliver optimized services that meet our customers’ needs.

Valley Bank is committed to fostering a culture where people can collaborate, create, and conceive ideas that provide our customers with an unmatched banking experience. That’s why we don’t define innovation from strictly a technological perspective, but rather as a way to enhance our customers’ experience through thoughtful, creative solutions and tools catered to their needs.

“We use technology and data-driven insights to enhance our offerings, apply new technologies, and provide our customers with a secure and advanced banking experience,” Cook added.

“While it’s no secret that innovation significantly improves the customer experience, it’s important that innovation also leads to new developments that can modernize the banking industry,” says Stuart Cook, Chief Innovation Officer at Valley.

INVESTING IN THE TECHNOLOGY OF THE FUTURE For nearly a century, Valley has been a linchpin in local economies, and has watched the financial industry grow, evolve, and embrace a new wave of change and innovation, giving way to advanced solutions that are changing the playing field for our clients.

To ensure a seamless experience for all, for example, Valley has User Experience and Digital Banking teams aimed at developing and 224

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Valley Ventures, our Corporate Venture Capital group, makes early-stage equity investments into start-ups designed to transform the financial space. “It’s a priority of ours to invest in advanced tools and technologies that can provide an exceptional experience for our partners and customers,” says Cook. “It is our responsibility as relationship bankers to give our customers a user experience that makes their banking smooth, safe, and easy. Valley Ventures is a natural continuation of our decision to acquire Bank Leumi USA, and it equips Valley with an additional set of capabilities to engage the startup Ecosystem.” To date, Valley Ventures has a portfolio of twelve investments, and seeks to invest in companies that are tackling big problems in three verticals:

INNOVATION IS NOT JUST ABOUT TECHNOLOGY

Fintech, the use of technology to power innovation within financial services

Valley has put particular focus on specific industries that need better banking support. One example is our expansion of services for the cannabis industry.

Proptech, which is used by real estate professionals, underwriters, property managers, and banks, among others, to manage transactions

Over the past few years, Valley has become a leader in the cannabis banking industry, having become one of the few federally chartered banks onboarding cannabis business-related clients.

Enterprise Technology, investing in companies that can help us serve the needs of communities that have otherwise been overlooked “We are proud to offer the companies within our portfolio a series of benefits backed by strong security, deep industry expertise, and a culture committed to innovation,” says Cook

“We are proud to have developed an innovative banking model that allows this cash-dominant industry, which has been traditionally overlooked by financial institutions, to receive access to banking and investment capital,” says Cook.

EXPANDING TECHNOLOGY BANKING SERVICE

Under Valley’s cannabis banking program, clients can navigate complex cross-border operations through a software model developed by one of Valley’s service providers. The software identifies where a transaction happened and consolidates multi-state transactions into a single banking statement, simplifying the tracking of purchases across states. The Bank has also cut transport fees – which pile up on multi-state operators – saving clients tens of thousands of dollars over time.

As thought leaders in the tech industry, we know the nuances of the market, its players, and its movements, and we know that our clients are constantly required to change, adapt, and make big and bold decisions. Through our Technology Banking team, we offer a variety of services, including subscription financing and equity offerings designed to accelerate client growth and capital deployment. “We are committed to bring value to our clients through our years of expertise and our suite of best-in-class banking solutions,” says Ori Kaufman Grafter, Head of International and Technology Banking at Valley. “Our team is designed to help our clients navigate the industry and expand their reach.”

“Not only has this type of innovation allowed these businesses to operate efficiently, but its allowed this heavily taxed industry to generate revenue for local economies, create jobs in economically distressed communities, and open business opportunities for women, minorities, and social equity applicants,” says Cook.

Our Tech Banking teams are located in the East Coast, West Coast, and in Israel. We serve private equity and venture capital firms, technology entrepreneurs, and founders and executives that invest in, build, and manage technology and innovation companies.

Our commitment to innovation has been and always will be focused on the needs of our customers. Ensuring the success of our customers and our communities is what drives us to continue to expand the notion of innovation in everything we do.

As a full-service commercial bank, Valley has the tools to help companies achieve their ambitions. Whether needing cash management solutions, foreign exchange services, or other commercial banking services, our dedicated teams are equipped to help you achieve your goals.

We invite you to learn more about Valley Bank at Valley.com. ValleyBank

valley.com 225

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

JUMPSTART NJ: INVESTING IN EARLY-STAGE GROWTH COMPANIES IN NEW JERSEY AND BEYOND

valuations typically under $10 million. Primary areas of investment interest include, but are not limited to: SaaS B2B, health tech, ag tech, medical devices, manufacturing, alternative energy, shipping/logistics tech, and cybersecurity.

JumpStart NJ Angel Network invests in early-stage growth companies with high potential and innovative technology that disrupts traditional businesses. The group of angel investors screens more than 100 companies each year and invests an average $1.5 million annually in leading-edge startups. Based in the Garden State, JumpStart NJ invests in New Jersey, the Mid-Atlantic region, and beyond. The group has a goal to direct a third of its investments to New Jersey-based ventures.

A strong supporter of the New Jersey startup ecosystem, JumpStart NJ is always open to opportunities to collaborate with state entities like the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, investment groups, nonprofits, and higher education institutions. JumpStart NJ also has a partnership with Westchester Angels, a similar group based in Westchester County, N.Y., allowing members of both groups to have access to more deals.

JumpStart NJ believes that wealth creation starts with a strong relationship between the angel investor and the entrepreneur. All JumpStart NJ angels invest personally in a company. In other words, JumpStart NJ angels do not pool money to invest as a fund. The result is a strong, personal bond between angels and entrepreneurs. The membership has diverse interests and preferences, and each member makes his or her own investment decisions.

JumpStart NJ also hosts “Meet the Angels” events where startup founders can network with investors and receive informal feedback about their ventures. The casual events also allow JumpStart NJ to identify companies that might be invited to make a formal pitch in the future. One founder said after a “Meet the Angels” event: “Meeting experienced investors and mentors is invaluable. They provide a ton of experience and mentorship, and feedback is always important.”

With deep knowledge and experience in many areas, JumpStart NJ members invest not only their dollars but their expertise in helping young companies grow. The group’s members prefer to invest in companies that are generating revenues and with pre-money 226

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

JumpStart NJ is open to new members who share the group’s vision and are interested in selecting, investing in and mentoring early-stage growth companies. A JumpStart NJ member must be an accredited investor willing to make a minimum of one investment per year. The group meets monthly to hear presentations by startups and to discuss deals. We invite potential members to attend one of our meetings as a guest. Founded in 2002, JumpStart NJ was created with the active support of New Jersey Technology Council and New Jersey Economic Development Authority. Since its formation, JumpStart NJ has developed strong relationships with the angel and venture capital communities in New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia and Boston. These relationships allow JumpStart NJ to take full advantage of resources in the MidAtlantic region to help early-stage companies innovate and grow. JumpStart NJ is generously supported by its sponsors, Eisner Amper and Stevens & Lee.

jumpstartnjangelnetwork jumpstart-nj-angel-network jumpstartangels

To learn more about JumpStart NJ, inquire about membership or refer a company for funding, visit jumpstartnj.org or contact Sharon Waters, managing director, at swaters@jumpstartnj.org

jumpstartnj.org 227

WE’RE AN INTEGRATED TEAM OF INVESTORS AND OPERATORS THAT LIVE AND BREATHE THE OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FACED BY COMPANIES AT THE GROWTH STAGE

Low Res. Image Edison Partners is a leading growth equity firm that invests in highgrowth, capital-efficient companies in the fintech, enterprise software and healthcare IT sectors. Over our 37-year history, we have honed our expertise and unique approach to value creation for growthstage tech companies, delivering top quartile returns, and have been recognized with multiple industry awards.

strong product-market fit and momentum that has been achieved with capital efficiency. To find these companies, we focus on underserved geographies, markets beyond where private capital funds typically flow. In our nearly fourdecade history, and more than 260 investments, not one has been based in Silicon Valley. We have discovered stellar, fast-growing businesses in places like Birmingham, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Durham, and, of course, New Jersey.

We manage $1.6 billion in assets, selectively working with entrepreneurs whose businesses are growing rapidly and generating revenue between $10 million and $30 million. To date, Edison Partners has raised ten funds, with Fund X setting a record at $450 million.

Our integrated team of investors and operators provides multiple levels of personalized guidance and support for these growth-stage companies, with an approach grounded in a four-facet belief system we refer to as TACT (Trust, Accountability, Commitment, Transparency). These are the values our team lives by internally and in partnership with portfolio company executives.

But for us, it’s about more than just the money. Our investment strategy revolves around entrepreneurs who have a vision bigger than a check and want a true operating partner to help scale growth for their business. And we seek businesses which demonstrate 228

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

CEO Summits, regional Lunch-n-Learns, and much more.

“We deliver the firm to every investment with passion and commitment matching that of the entrepreneurs we back,” said Managing Partner Chris Sugden. “But it’s trust and empathy that are the foundations for a successful partnership between an investor and an entrepreneur and his or her management team.”

Edison Partner’s people-first, hands-on Chris Sugden, investment approach has resulted in 215 Managing Partner successful exits and has been lauded by not only the entrepreneurs we serve (as evidenced by a best-in-class Net Promoter Score of 72), but also by the investment industry and the media. In 2022 and 2023, we were named Best Growth Investment Firm by private capital advisory firm GrowthCap and have been named Business of the Year by NJBIZ.

Our firm’s partners have walked in the shoes of growth-stage founders, CEOs, and leadership teams. Given this, we are able to meet them exactly where they are, with right-sized capital and operating expertise. The domain, investment and operating experience of our investment team is further enhanced by our value creation platform, Edison Edge, bringing people, plans and programming - all tailored to the growth stage, strategy and operating needs. Pound for pound, there’s no other growth equity firm offering the breadth and depth of our support system for the stage and sectors that we fund.

We are the most active investor in New Jersey with 50 investments in the state. Three of our all-time best winners have hailed from New Jersey, including Zelis Healthcare (formerly PHX located in Bedminster), which has delivered a 38X return to date, and Billtrust (Lawrenceville), which delivered an 11X return. Our most recent exit out of New Jersey is Parsippany-based Northpass, a customer training and education platform. Current New Jersey-based portfolio companies include Hoboken-based Sphere and Health Recovery Solutions.

“We invest significant time, resources and money into the Edison Edge because we know it drives great outcomes for great entrepreneurs”, said Partner Casey Myers. “CEOs know they can rely on us and that we’re here and will lean in to support them with stage and sector-specific operating expertise and a strong network of executives, including many existing and former Edison CEOs, they can tap into at every turn.”

Given our strong presence in the state, Edison Partners was selected to participate in the state’s public-private partnership, New Jersey Innovation Evergreen Program, which marries capital with qualified New Jersey-based companies. And we’re proud of the work we have done in this state to help build an ecosystem of lawyers, accountants, recruiters, technology industry board directors, executive and other talent pools – which continues to grow stronger every year.

The first pillar of the Edison Edge is our operating centers of excellence, which offer personalized plans, playbooks, and processes that span Goto-Market, Product, Governance, Finance, Leadership, and Corporate Development and provide access to experts with more than 250 years of experience that serve as extensions of portfolio company leadership teams at every stage of the investment lifecycle. The second pillar of the Edge is our Edison Director Network comprised of more than 120 seasoned growth executives who serve on boards and as mentors for Edison company executives. The third and final pillar is personalized programs that leverage the power of cross-portfolio communities, networking, and best practices to promote actionable peer learning. Each year, we drive intentional connections in environments such as executive roundtables,

EdisonPartners Edison_Partners

edison-partners EdisonVideoSite

edisonpartners.com 229

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Provident Bank Wants to Create Advocates for Life by Creating an Innovative, First-Class Employee and Customer Experience

Provident Bank, the oldest and second largest financial institution headquartered in NJ, was established in 1839 in a one-room office in Jersey City, New Jersey. Since its inception, it has continually reaffirmed its commitment to the customers and communities it serves, as well as its employees across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The bank’s pledge to deliver innovative services, social impact, and human connection remains true all these years later.

lifelong advocates, all while maintaining a sustainable competitive advantage against its big bank competitors. With $13.6 billion in assets, Provident is among the largest banks headquartered in New Jersey. The bank provides a wide range of products and services that level the Anthony Labozzetta, President & CEO. playing field, including wealth management through their Beacon Trust subsidiary and insurance services through their Provident Protection Plus subsidiary - all while staying true to the community-bank feel and values that draw customers and employees in.

The importance of human connection touches every corner of the bank, down to the technology the bank uses. Provident’s first chief digital and innovation officer, Ravi Vakacherla, believes technology plays an important role in how community banks stay in touch with customers and finds the use of tech highly complementary in maintaining relationships with customers. He calls this “human plus digital touch.” It’s because of this that banking at one of Provident’s 95 branches located throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania might feel a bit different than banking with a big bank. The tellers, managers, loan and mortgage officers, and branch managers that assist Provident customers on a dayto-day basis carry a people-first philosophy throughout all the work they do.

The bank’s community-centric philosophy and philanthropic pursuits have long been a cornerstone of the way they do business. So much so, The Provident Bank Foundation (PBF) was established in 2003 with a dedicated focus on enriching the communities the bank serves.

This sense of community is deeply rooted in Provident’s mission to maintain the values that have turned customers into

Since then, the foundation has granted more than $30 million to not-for-profit organizations and institutions working

230

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

of the bank while providing meaningful employment for team members and a best-in-class experience for customers.

toward strengthening communities served by the bank. Grants provided by the Foundation provide flexible funding support for programs, projects, and/or initiatives that address one or more of PBF’s funding priority areas, which include community enrichment, education, and health, youth, and families.

“Banking is deeply personal,” said Tara Brady, First Vice President, Customer Experience Director. “It involves a great deal of connecting emotionally, listening, and building trust. Getting our customers to share their financial goals, stressors, and concerns means meeting them where they are, and then helping them get to where they want to be.”

It’s no surprise, then, that Anthony Labozzetta — who was appointed Provident Bank’s President and CEO in January 2022 — leads with employees, customers, and the community at the forefront of the bank’s mission. He knows that fostering a fulfilling experience for employees and delivering on the bank’s commitment to create deep emotional connections with customers are key to the bank’s success in developing an innovative, customer-centric culture that turns clients into fans and advocates.

Both Anthony Labozzetta, President and CEO, and Brady have underscored the importance of creating a workplace environment where employees of diverse backgrounds feel seen, heard, and appreciated in order to transform customer experiences. “Our ability to combine the personalized service and local decision making of a community bank with the resources and capabilities of a regional bank offers a unique advantage - it’s a compelling combination for our customers,” said Labozzetta. “This kind of dedication and commitment sets Provident apart from the competition as a leader in community banking,” adds Labozzetta.

To achieve this, the bank’s executive leadership team stresses the value of empowering and engaging the very employees who help to create long-lasting and meaningful emotional connections with customers. Provident Salutes, Provident Women, and the recently established Provident Bank Diversity Council are among the numerous employee resource groups created with this in mind. Provident’s DEI advancements have been recognized with awards from the African American Chamber of Commerce and New Jersey Chamber of Commerce.

To become a high performing organization and advance efforts to increase employee engagement and elevate the customer experience, senior leaders at the bank established a set of guiding principles to achieve the vision and mission

www.Provident.Bank

231

I N N O V A T E

N E W

GHO VENTURES

OUR STORY In order to understand what GHO Ventures is, we need to talk about Dr. Gregory Olsen. Greg started the company EPITAXX, a fiber-optic detector manufacturer in 1984 together with Vladimir Ban. It was sold in 1990 for $12 million. He then founded Sensors Unlimited, a near-infrared camera manufacturer in 1992 with Marshall Cohen. Sensors was sold to Finisar Corp. for $600 million in 2000, repurchased by the management team in 2002 for $6 million, and then sold again to Goodrich, Corp. in 2005 for $60 million.

232

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

It was during his time at Sensors Unlimited that he decided to become an “Angel” Investor and founded GHO Ventures, LLC in 2001. Greg is now President & CEO of GHO Ventures in Princeton, NJ where he manages his “Angel” investments, South African winery, Montana ranch, and performs numerous speaking engagements to encourage children – especially minorities and females - to consider careers in science and engineering. Greg is currently “Entrepreneur in Residence” and serves on the Advisory of both the ACEE & SEAS Councils at Princeton University as well as the Advisory Board to University of Virginia Materials Science and Engineering School. He is active in the NJTC Venture Fund, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the National Academy of Engineering. He serves on his investments’ Boards as well as the West Point ME Advisory Board, Fairleigh Dickinson Board of Trustees and the Deborah Heart & Lung Center Foundation. His technical interests are now in the power electronics and alternative energy fields. Greg Olsen was the third private citizen to orbit the earth on the International Space Station (ISS). After training for five months (900 hours) at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Moscow, he launched on a Russian Soyuz rocket TMA-7 on October 1, 2005 with Cosmonaut Valeri Tokarev and Astronaut Bill McArthur (Expedition 12). He then docked to the ISS on October 3, and returned to earth on Soyuz TMA-6 on October 11 with Cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev and Astronaut John Phillips (Expedition 11). He performed more than 150 orbits of the earth and logged almost 4 million miles of weightless travel during his 10 days in space.

GHO Ventures, LLC 92 Nassau Street, 2nd FL Princeton, NJ 08542 Phone: 609-497-6333 Email: jkennedy@ghoventures.com

ghoventures.com 233

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

A COLLABORATIVE FUND INVESTING IN EARLY STAGE COMPANIES SoundBoard Venture Fund leverages the diverse perspectives of our LPs to make investments through a collaborative and facilitated process

SoundBoard Venture Fund is an early-stage fund focused on scalable, tech-enabled, and capital-efficient businesses. We value collaboration, mobilizing our LP base to join our deal flow, diligence, and decision-making processes, assembling a broad range of perspectives into every conversation.

WHO WE INVEST IN When making an investment decision, SoundBoard looks for noteworthy founders and unprecedented leadership teams. We specifically focus on evaluating the leader/s of each company across the following criteria by leveraging formal tools & assessments:

• Listens to understand, not to respond • Surrounds themselves with the right people who complement their gaps

• Demonstrates salesmanship and a drive toward breakeven • Recognizes the importance of the company’s culture • Is able to manage and execute on the vision 234

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

Veronica Fey , Operations & Analysis

Surrounds themselves with

Listens to understand, not

the right people who

to respond

complement their gaps

Jonathan Hakakian, Managing Partner Demonstrates

Richard Magid, Founding Investor & General Partner

Recognizes the

salesmanship and a

importance of the

drive toward breakeven

company’s

culture

Is able to manage and execute on the vision

WHAT WE INVEST IN & WHERE WE INVEST

• We use tools (similar to DISC and Assess) plus our 20+ years in leadership development and coaching to understand the leadership strength of the team

• In addition to our local marketplace (NJ, NY), we are targeting secondary and tertiary

ecosystems instead of the traditional startup ecosystems (Silicon Valley, Boston, and NYC which are mature, overcapitalized, and overpriced) • Companies that are leveraging technology (tech-enabled) rather than inventing new technology • Seed/Series A startups that are post-concept and capital-efficient; they have identified a customer base who is willing to buy the product/service

OUR DIFFERENCE SoundBoard’s collaborative approach mobilizes our investors to join the evaluation and decision making processes, assembling a broad range of perspective and insights into every conversation. Our process is unique in that we host 8 LP meeting a year where we engage everyone in a facilitated conversation with the entrepreneurs and leverage the group’s expertise to make investment decisions. 235

189 Berdan Ave Suite 115 Wayne NJ 07470 soundboard-venture-fund

soundboardventurefund.com

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

CSG LAW: FULL-SERVICE LAW FIRM ANSWERING CLIENT NEEDS THROUGHOUT THE REGION For more than 50 years, Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi (CSG Law) has assisted a broad spectrum of clients in achieving their objectives by offering a comprehensive array of legal services. Our more than 185 attorneys play a key role on clients’ advisory teams, providing strategic guidance to private enterprises, public entities and individuals in highprofile matters throughout the Region.

By anticipating client needs, CSG Law has stayed on the cutting-edge of the delivery of legal services. In recent years, the firm has expanded key practice offerings across the legal spectrum, allowing us to offer a unique “one-stop shopping” experience for clients. The firm remains at the forefront of high-profile matters in the state, which can be seen in the team’s involvement in film studio projects as the state’s recently expanded tax credit programs take effect, as well as work in other growing industries.

Law firms are built on the talent of their teams, and our mission is to zealously advocate for clients with a commitment to excellence, empathy, and respect. This defines our “one-firm” vision and collaborative and supportive culture, which in turn leads to a unified team approach for clients.

236

I N N O V A T E

N E W

CONTINUING TO GROW AND INVEST IN THE CSG LAW TEAM

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

One of the most striking and innovative features of the new headquarters – aside from its expansive, three-story lobby carved out of the middle of the building – is that there are no landline telephones throughout the office. Instead, CSG Law’s headquarters utilizes an innovative video conferencing platform to enable audio and video communication seamlessly from any location.

Dedicated to nurturing a supportive workplace culture, we invest in our team, providing training, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement in order to attract, empower, and retain the highest level of talent. We are also committed to supporting an inclusive culture that encourages and celebrates the diverse voices of our clients, employees, and business partners. Our belief is that diversity of ideas, backgrounds and experience are essential to meeting our goal of providing world-class legal service.

CSG LAW CONTINUES TO LEAD Cutting-edge, strategic thinking and innovative execution are the hallmarks of CSG Law’s service to clients. We are proud of our workplace culture which values the contributions of the team above all else and supports the growth and development of team members to their fullest potential.

We have been recognized for our commitment to DEI by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association and employee feedback has earned us a place on the Best Places to Work in New Jersey list for many years.

EXPANSION DESPITE THE PANDEMIC CSG Law went remote at the beginning of the pandemic like many other businesses, but where the firm differed from others is that it fully embraced the accessibility and ease of videoconferencing technology to allow attorneys, employees, and clients to collaborate seamlessly. As conditions improved, the firm returned to the office in a hybrid model but not without learning a few lessons along the way.

CSG LAW AT A GLANCE 185+ attorneys 32% of firm’s partners are women l 50+ years of service l Offices in New Jersey and New York l l

Even before the pandemic, CSG Law was reevaluating its real estate needs with an eye on developing an office for tomorrow. Accordingly, the firm brought attorneys at various stages in their careers who represented a variety of practices together with C-suite administrators to establish a Lease Committee charged with developing an office for the next generation of leadership. Input from this team helped to outline the goals for the firm’s new headquarters, which resulted in the design and development of a future-forward, 120,000 square-foot office.

105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 marketing@csglaw.com 973-325-1500 CSG_PC Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC

csglaw.com 237

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

CORCENTRIC IS A LEADING GLOBAL PROVIDER OF PAYMENTS, PROCUREMENT, ACCOUNTS PAYABLE, AND ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SOLUTIONS TO ENTERPRISE AND MIDDLE-MARKET COMPANIES. CORCENTRIC’S BREADTH OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES

Corcentric Inc., headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., is a global provider of best-in-class procurement, payments, and finance solutions coupled with expert guidance to enterprise and mid-market companies. The company reduces stress and increase savings for procurement and finance business leaders by forming a strategic partnership to diagnose pain points and deliver tailor-made solutions for their unique challenges.

Corcentric’s Source-to-Pay solutions offer customers the ability to manage their sourcing, suppliers, contract lifecycles, procurement needs, invoices, and finances through highly automated and intuitive software. Corcentric layers in payments and financing capabilities to power multimodal payment disbursement.

While it originated as a provider of procurement and fleet management solutions for the transportation industry in 1996, Corcentric has used its technology and the expertise it developed throughout the past two decades plus to offer robust software, payment, procurement, and financing solutions to companies in multiple industries across the globe.

Corcentric’s Order-to-Cash solutions provide powerful lifecycle software that enables customers to automate their invoicing, cash application, and collection processes, including technology-enabled dispute management, outsourced accounts receivable management, and the ability to leverage Corcentric’s analytics software. The solutions are highly differentiated by offering customers lines of credit that deliver certainty of payment, radically reducing days sales outstanding and unlocking working capital as a result.

Corcentric delivers software, advisory services, and payments focused on reducing costs, optimizing working capital, and unlocking revenue. Corcentric’s solutions are designed to empower companies to manage spending more effectively, eliminate the inefficiency, expense, and lost opportunities caused by traditional paper-based processes, and increase their cash flow. Corcentric leverages its deep industry expertise, proprietary technology, and customer and supplier relationships to help enterprises and organizations of varying sizes manage complex and dynamic operational and administrative processes that are frequently managed manually and require substantial internal resources.

Corcentric’s Advisory solutions include implementation, strategic sourcing, and fleet solutions. Implementation supports the onboarding of customers onto Corcentric’s Source-to-Pay and Order-to-Cash solutions. Strategic sourcing partners with clients to drive value creation by leveraging Corcentric’s knowledge base, sourcing experience, and resources. Fleet solutions enables companies to reduce the total cost of fleet ownership and 238

improve control and visibility across the entire equipment lifecycle, including asset planning, financing, maintenance procurement, and equipment sales. Corcentric’s proprietary business-to-business Payments network is provided through its Source-to-Pay and Order-to-Cash solutions, driving a powerful network effect by bringing buyers and sellers together. As more customers come onto the platform, more transaction volume is monetized through Corcentric’s payment solutions. Encompassing all solutions, Corcentric’s Managed Services solves business finance problems across the entire spectrum of O2C, S2P, and Payments. Corcentric effectively manages these services and provides the technology needed to remove the burden of administration and the risk associated with buying point solutions while delivering a measurable ROI. Specifically, within these services is Corcentric’s Managed Account Receivable (AR) solution that replaces bad debt, payment risks, high days sales outstanding (DSO), and overworked teams with guaranteed business outcomes. Corcentric supports customers with a combination of subject matter experts, financial services, and software that can liberate working capital trapped in an AR ledger – giving customers the cash and peace of mind needed to grow a business.

AN INDUSTRY LEADER AND TRUE CUSTOMER PARTNER

Matt Clark, President & Chief Executive Officer

Over the years, Corcentric has been consistently recognized by industry leading analysts for its relentless commitment to customers and the advanced capabilities of its solutions. Today, more than 2,000 customers rely on Corcentric to streamline their purchasing and payments, control spend, boost savings, and maximize working capital.

info@corcentric.com corcentric Corcentric

Corcentric has an enviable history that combines organic business growth with targeted acquisitions. Whether venturing into new geographies, expanding its roster of offerings, or developing and enhancing exciting new solutions, Corcentric remains focused on providing a competitive advantage to customers around the world.

corcentric.com/resources corcentric.com/blog

239

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

In 2011, Doug and Melinda set out to start a new kind of CPA firm. They wanted to take a fresh look at the industry and create a firm that really addressed the needs of their clients – privately held businesses and their owners.

AXIOM IS DIFFERENT. BY WORKING EXCLUSIVELY WITH BUSINESSES AND THEIR OWNERS, THEY HAVE MUCH FEWER RELATIONSHIPS TO MANAGE AND ARE ABLE TO SPEND MORE TIME SERVING THEIR CLIENT’S NEEDS.

Small businesses in New Jersey and across the country share similar challenges. They often work with smaller accounting firms that have to manage so many individual relationships and returns, they cannot dedicate the time and resources needed to properly service privately held businesses. Similarly, when working with the larger firms, business owners often feel they are a small fish in a big pond and can feel like low priority clients.

Axiom’s partners are fully engaged in doing the work. They know everything that is going on with each client. Account management is relational and structurally flat. In other words, there is no tiered “junior accountant to partner level” structure carving up how your company and its information is processed and managed. Axiom is responsive and available. They encourage calls and are genuinely interested in your questions and needs. It’s how they continually develop their model and maintain a customer centered outside-in culture. According to Partner, Melinda D’Antouno, “Without ongoing dialogue with our clients, there is no way to improve the alignment between our services and what clients value most. In fact, it’s how we made the decision to eliminate hourly billing. Our flat fee model has increased client satisfaction exponentially.”

AXIOM defines their best customers as businesses who are lost in the middle. For the past 12 years, their approach and model has given these businesses a home. Small business owners often experience inconsistent levels of service, a variety of less experienced professionals to support them, high staff turnover, communication breakdowns, escalating fees, and a lack of continuity about the unique aspects of their business.

In 2016, the partners discovered a new need from their clients that needed to be filled. Many of the businesses they were working with were not big enough to employ a full –time or even a part-time CFO. However, they desperately needed to bridge the gap between the bookkeeper and the business owner. They needed someone to provide them with reliable financial information and to help them learn how to interpret the results and make better, more informed decisions using their own data. What they needed was the most strategic information at a price point that fit their budget. Axiom once again created a solution to a client problem. That is how AXCELERATE was born.

Doug and Melinda recognized these frustrations and were determined to create an innovative firm that would overcome these concerns.

240

DOUG SMITH AND MELINDA D’ANTOUNO CREATED A PROGRESSIVE CUSTOMER-FOCUSED ACCOUNTING FIRM TO UNIQUELY ADDRESS THE FRUSTRATIONS OF SMALL BUSINESSES

AXCELERATE is an innovative and highly efficient business performance management solution designed to provide business owners with reliable financial and operational data that can be used to drive their business forward. AXCELERATE provides budgets and forecasts, along with monthly performance reviews and KPI dashboards. The AXCELERATE service model provides the most concise business performance data without the need for an internal/part-time CFO. This helps small businesses grow while maintaining a spend they can afford – all without sacrificing effectiveness.

“At Axiom CPAs, we provide the right solutions, for the right clients. We do not attempt to be “all things to all people” but instead focus our time on those businesses and industries where we can provide the greatest value.”

AXCELERATE has been instrumental to a number of businesses that have successfully completed exit strategies. Both clients and potential investors/acquirers have commented that it is highly unusual to find privately held firms that have such a solid understanding of their business and the numbers. They have been extremely impressed with the amount of reliable and consistent data AXCELERATE has been able to provide them. AXCELERATE is a natural extension of Axiom’s accounting practice and solution that helps small businesses grow.

— The Partners

AXIOM is continually evolving in an effort to fill gaps and better serve businesses. They have developed an unwavering customer-centric culture operationally and continue to launch innovative services. AXCELERATE has been so successful, that they have just announced the launch of a new AXCELERATE PARTNER PROGRAM where they are working directly with other CPA, CFO, and consulting firms so that they can deliver the AXCELERATE model to their clients.

Melinda D’Antuono, CPA, MBA

Douglas C. Smith, CPA, CVA

103 Carnegie Center, Suite 300 Princeton, NJ 08540 609-955-3427 Email: info@axiomcpas.com

axiomcpas.com 241

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

WE STRIVE TOWARD EXCELLENCE BY PROVIDING A SUPPORTIVE, PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR STAFF AND CLIENTS.

on issues including divorce, child custody, child support, alimony or spousal support, property distribution, domestic violence or child abuse, same-sex marriage issues, father’s rights, mother’s rights, grandparent’s rights, criminal defense, business litigation and formation, and estate planning. Like a lighthouse keeper, Lyons & Associates shines a light on the best path forward.

With Purpose

Defining the Legal Landscape: A Lighthouse in the Storm

“I became a lawyer by accident,” Theresa admits. Her journey into the legal world was anything but ordinary, setting the tone for the firm. Initially set to acquire a Master’s degree in social work at Rutgers University, a chance class shifted her path, leading her to become one of the first to achieve a dual degree in law and social work. This blend of professions has deeply influenced her approach. “The soul of social work permeates everything I do,” she asserts. Lyons & Associates embodies this ethos, melding top-tier legal acumen with profound empathy.

“We’re a lighthouse in the storm,” Theresa A. Lyons describes her law firm, Lyons & Associates, P.C. Under the vision of this powerhouse attorney and relentless advocate for equality, it has risen in reputation and reach to redefine what it means to practice law. Established two decades ago, Lyons & Associates is a full-service law firm with 30 employees and three offices in Freehold, Morristown, and Somerville, New Jersey. It works with clients, locally and internationally, 242

Championing Equality and Social Justice The fight for equality is paramount for all at this firm. “We lived and breathed diversity before it was cool to do so,” Theresa shares. This commitment is not just about representation; it’s about genuinely understanding and meeting clients’ diverse needs. From billionaires to the homeless, Lyons & Associates treats every client with the same unwavering dedication, dignity, and vigor. The firm’s client-centric approach is illustrated by its principle of providing unparalleled legal representation while ensuring the well-being of clients – and lawyers. From unlimited paid time off for lawyers to a nodress-code policy, Lyons & Associates has challenged conventional norms, earning the title of one of the best places to work in New Jersey. “You get Supreme Court caliber counsel in Walmart sweatpants,” Theresa quips about its unconventional yet effective approach. Her degrees and experience have distinctly equipped her for cases related to the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) abuse or neglect, encompassing victim’s rights assertions and divorce proceedings. Every attorney in the firm exhibits compassion and empathy in line with social work values.

Culture of Kindness and Excellence “I don’t do social work; I live social work. And, the business reflects that,” muses Theresa. “I am thankful, grateful, and amazed that the incredible team that runs this company has bought into those values.” 243

Theresa A Lyons, Founder That culture of kindness and excellence runs deep at the company. “Being voted as one of the top places to work in New Jersey by the Best Companies Group is a recognition that gives us great pride at Lyons & Associates,” she proclaims. “We strive toward excellence by providing a supportive, professional environment for our staff and clients. Our positive work environment has been affirmed by the courts, peers, clients, and the media.” Most notably, some members of its legal team are certified matrimonial attorneys from the New Jersey Supreme Court and have been selected to the ‘Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs,’ ‘Super Lawyers,’ ‘Rising Stars,’ and American Institute of Family Law Attorney’s list of the ‘10 Best Female Attorneys in New Jersey’ for client satisfaction.

Envisioning the Future

Her vision extends beyond her tenure, ensuring that Lyons & Associates, P.C. continues to be a formidable force in the legal world. In her words: “The future, for me, is to ensure that there’s a future for them and those to come after them. Because to build a legacy firm, to build something that transcends me, I can’t keep that seat for myself.

For Theresa, the future is about legacy and opportunity. “I’m building what I hope to be the first legacy firm in the state of New Jersey started by a woman. I am so proud and excited about the younger partners in this firm and the younger talent on the bench,” she shares. 244

Lyons & Associates isn’t just a law firm; it’s a revolution in legal practice, blending compassion, innovation, and excellence.

Lyons & Associates, P.C. lyons__associates LyonsAssoc lyons-&-associate-p.c. 245

lyonspc.com

CHAPTER TEN

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

246

247

Joy of the Kitchen

(ACG) NJ, which awarded us the 2022 Corporate Growth Award. This honor is a testament to our remarkable and unprecedented 39% Cumulative Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) since the inception of the company, showcasing our unwavering commitment to progress and innovation.

Headquartered in New Jersey, Blue Sea Products was established with humble beginnings in 2005 and has since developed into a world-class vertically integrated seafood company. With over 41 years of experience in the global seafood and international transportation industries, Blue Sea is led by seafood veteran and CEO, Thomas Jacob. Starting off as a farmed shrimp company, Blue Sea has successfully recruited experienced and dynamic seafood professionals to establish a major presence in all key seafood commodities. Over the years, Blue Sea has made its mark with an excellent track record with its diversified portfolio of marquee customers in terms of high quality, reliability, value, and unsurpassed service. Our valued customers have truly recognized Blue Sea as a unique partner and have awarded us preferred vendor status with long-term rolling contracts.

We’re not just a thriving business; we’re a responsible one too. Thomas Jacob, our CEO, is also a respected member of the Board of Directors of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI). Blue Sea is also proud to be a Certified Minority Business Enterprise, demonstrating our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Our membership in NFI, GAA (Global Aquaculture Alliance), MHA (Marine Hotel Association), and NACUFS (National Association College & University Food Services) reflects our active participation in industry groups dedicated to upholding the highest standards of seafood production and distribution

These enduring partnerships have culminated in the prestigious recognition of Blue Sea Products by the Association of Corporate Growth

248

OUR PRODUCTS Blue Sea’s mission is to bring quality products direct from source to the end-user in the most cost-efficient way without compromising quality and service. As a global organization with vertically integrated partnerships, Blue Sea has expanded its portfolio into crab, finfish, calamari, scallops, lobster, and value-added seafood products. Our commitment to sustainability and quality shines through every product we offer. Our shrimp selection is a testament to this commitment, featuring both wild-caught and sustainably farmed options. Harvested from the pristine waters of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, our wild shrimp offers an unparalleled taste and texture. Meanwhile, our farm-raised shrimp, sourced exclusively from socially responsible and sustainable sources, provides a competitively priced alternative. For the utmost convenience, our value-added shrimp line offers a diverse range of ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat products, all at restaurant-quality standards. In the world of crab, our offerings are equally impressive. Whether you’re looking for the tactile satisfaction of cracking legs, claws, and clusters or the show-stopping centerpiece of a whole Dungeness crab, we’ve got you covered. Our range of blue and red swimming crab meat provides decadent flavor and visual impact, making it the perfect choice when you desire the essence of crab without the hassle. Scallops, directly sourced from the boats, offer a level of freshness and quality that sets them apart. They come in natural, dry, and processed options, allowing us to tailor them to your exact specifications while maintaining our commitment to sustainability.

Thomas Jacob, CEO

249

OUR PROCESS

When it’s time to indulge in the luxury of lobster, we have you covered with sustainably harvested 100% wild-caught lobster from a well-managed fishery.

Blue Sea’s commitment to seafood excellence extends to our ethical supply chain. We take a firm stance against slavery and human trafficking through our Supply Chain Integrity Program (SCIP), enforcing compliance Our finfish options, whether wild-caught or farm-raised, offer a delicious among our suppliers and materials. To guarantee the sustainability and and healthy choice. They’re high in Omega 3s and provide a clean protein Name, Designation social compliance practices of our suppliers, we have implemented a source, making them a core staple of a healthy diet worldwide. stringent supplier auditing program. Independent auditors thoroughly assess our suppliers, providing an unbiased verification of their adherence Our 100% wild-caught calamari is not only high in Omega 3s but also to our standards. This ensures that we maintain the highest quality and a clean protein, making it a valuable addition to your diet. Known for ethical standards in every product we offer. its versatility, calamari can be prepared in various ways, providing a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own kitchen. In our unwavering pursuit of ethically and sustainably sourced seafood, Blue Sea Products LLC adheres to the standards set by various certification To cater to your culinary needs, we offer a variety of preparation options, programs. We proudly participate in programs like the Aquaculture from block-frozen to cooked, pasteurized, raw, and IQF (Individually Stewardship Council (ASC), Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), and Marine Quick Frozen). Our commitment to quality and sustainability is reflected Stewardship Council (MSC). These certifications validate our dedication to in our certifications, including ASC, BAP, and MSC. preserving the oceans and supporting responsible fishing practices. We source our products from countries around the world, including Additionally, with strategically located distribution centers in the United Argentina, Bahrain, Canada, Chile, China, Ecuador, Greenland, India, States and Canada, we ensure prompt, high-quality seafood delivery. Indonesia, K.S.A, Morocco, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam. At Blue Sea Products LLC, our diverse and high-quality range of seafood products, combined with our unwavering commitment to sustainability and quality, allows you to elevate your seafood dining experience to a whole new level. Explore our offerings and taste the difference.

250

BLUE SEA TEAM At Blue Sea Products LLC, our success is driven by the remarkable individuals who make up our dedicated team. We take immense pride in the quality, innovation, and personalized customer management we offer, and it is our team that truly embodies these principles. With a collective experience of over 100+ years in the industry, our team stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence.

Our team members are not just employees; they are the backbone of our operation. Each individual brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the table, and together, we work cohesively to ensure that every aspect of our business operates at its best. We are passionate about delivering exceptional service, and this dedication is woven into every step of our work, from product development to customer support.

blueseaproducts

blueseaproducts.com 251

PERFECTING THE ART OF FRAGRANCE SINCE 1965 Born in India in 1965, Sawai Fragrances is a traditional Indian manufacturing business that is changing the way the world sees (or smells) perfume, in its new avatar in New Jersey. Sawai Fragrances was founded by Mr. Sawailal Jain in Kanauj, India - an area that is home to a huge variety of flowers traditionally used in fragrance creation. 60 years on, his granddaughter Purvi now takes the mantle of Master Perfumer, and has brought the Indian fragrance market’s spiritual leader out to the international market. In 1984, Sawai Fragrances became the first Indian name to bring their fragrances to the international market. It didn’t take them long to figure out that the traditional uses of fragrance in India differs from global usage. They quickly pivoted from being the makers of just essential oils and attars to a large-scale manufacturer of various forms of fragrances that can be used in every industry - from bath products, home fragrances to perfumes, food flavoring to retail store experiences. Very quickly, Sawai Fragrances’ business became about supplying to other businesses. Just like color is to sight, and music is to hearing, each fragrance has been developed to become the very meaning of beauty to the human sense of smell. To achieve this, fragrances need to be carefully handcrafted in order to achieve the perfect mix. This painstaking detail is what sets their product apart, and what makes the Master Perfumer Purvi’s job so vital. “Unlike many of our competitors, we don’t just run raw material through a machine to extract our fragrances. We believe the global 252

market demands aromas they’ve never experienced before, and that’s why we’re innovators first, and manufacturers second.”, she says, when asked about the importance of innovation to her brand. Over the years, the quality, aroma and uniqueness of the exotic, native-to-India fragrances have bred humongous demand for Sawai Fragrance’s products. Clients have often noted that the fragrances are of high quality, and tend to linger in the memory of their customers, thereby creating positive associations with their brand. In a world where brands invest millions in curating well-rounded, unique brand experiences, these quality fragrances create essential memory patterns for brands, using one of man’s most basic senses. Thus, Sawai Fragrances isn’t just an innovator. It’s an innovationenabler too. “We have recently launched a couple of retail brands of our own,” says Purvi about what’s next for Sawai Fragrances. “We hope to bring those to the global market, along with a catalog of fragrance-based innovations that help us bring more authentically Indian fragrances to the world in a variety of formats,” she concludes. In a world clamoring for relevance in people’s minds, eyes, ears and taste buds, Sawai Fragrances is an innovator for the nose - a sense they are experts at ruling for the past nearly 60 years.

EdisonPartners Edison_Partners

sawai-fragrances-usa

edison-partners EdisonVideoSite

website.com

sawai.us 253

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

325.............................................................................. 140

Honeywell Advanced Materials...................112

P360........................................................................... 100

= SPACE.................................................................... 174

Innerstill.................................................................. 102

PERMEVO.................................................................27

18Loop.........................................................................96

Innovate In What you Do! LLC.............. 33, 148

Philip D. Murphy...................................................... 6

1Huddle.................................................................... 194

Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship

Princeton Consultants............................... 24, 132

AVAAP, Inc..............................................................188

(ILSE).............................................................................72

Princeton NuEnergy.......................................... 120

Avantor, Inc.......................................................29, 78

Integral Biometrics.............................................206

Princeton University............................................50

AxiomCPAs............................................................240

Interflexion, Inc........................................... 30, 204

Provident Bank....................................................230

bektek........................................................................196

James Barrod (Tech Council Ventures I

QREDIBLE®............................................................176

Biggins Lacy Shapiro & Co................................218

Innovation +).............................................................. 8

Renovatio Global.................................................202

BioNJ, Inc...................................................................68

Jesra Foundation, Inc......................................... 142

Rowan University........................................... 17, 58

Blue Sea Products, LLC......................................248

Jumpstart New Jersey Angel

Rutgers University - Biomedical and

Caregility................................................................... 70

Network.................................................................. 226

Health Services.......................................................42

CGI...............................................................................128

Kaizen Technologies, Inc...................................192

Rutgers University - Camden.......................... 44

Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC /

Kiswe, Inc................................................................ 184

Rutgers University - New Brunswick..........46

CSG Law............................................................ 23, 236

Konica Minolta......................................................182

Rutgers University - Newark...........................48

Choose New Jersey......................................18, 160

Lyons & Associates, P.C..............................34, 242

Rutgers University - Research..................14, 38

Corcentric............................................................... 238

Mahn Consulting, LLC.......................................136

Sawai Fragrances................................................ 252

CyberMed Corporation................................26, 82

Marsh........................................................................ 130

SoundBoard Venture Fund............................ 234

Delia Associates................................................... 144

Modern Meadow, Inc.........................................122

STOPit Solutions............................................. 28, 84

Dr. Jo Anne White Consulting Services... 150

Move the Needle...........................................31, 170

Storied Data Inc.................................................... 146

Edison Partners.................................................... 228

New Brunswick Development

SunRay Scientific, Inc........................................ 124

eTeam, Inc................................................................186

Corporation (DEVCO)..................................15, 210

Syridex Bio............................................................... 80

Experience NJ Team..........................................220

New Jersey Business & Industry

TerraCycle, Inc.......................................................118

Fairleigh Dickinson University................ 19, 52

Association (NJBIA).............................................156

The Garibaldi Group.......................................... 214

GHO Ventures, LLC............................................ 232

New Jersey Commission on Science,

The Indus Entrepreneur (TiE).........................166

GoFoton...............................................................32, 92

Innovation and Technology (CSIT)..........16, 64

Trendalyze..............................................................200

Greater Newark Enterprises

New Jersey Economic Development

Turtle .........................................................................116

Corporation.............................................................138

Authority (NJEDA)............................................. 106

UNIONWEAR........................................................198

H A N I N I G R O U P..........................................216

NJ Small Business Development Centers

Valley National Bank.................................22, 224

HAX / SOSV...........................................................158

(NJSBDC)........................................................... 20, 162

Verasoni.................................................................. 134

HealthCare Institute of New

Nokia Bell Labs..................................................... 180

Visible Hands...........................................................35

Jersey (HINJ).............................................................76

Optical Academy.............................................25, 88

Yorktel..................................................................... 190

256

I N N O V A T E

N E W

J E R S E Y

V O L . 2

InnovationsoftheWorld.com

SHOWCASING THE BEST OF THE WORLD - CONNECTING MINDS - BUILDING COMMUNITIES

The Innovate series is a 300-page in-depth study and AR video series that showcases the people and companies that are leading the race within the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems of each city and industry. A book with augmented reality video, an online platform and a global network with a common goal of ensuring the brightest minds of the world connect and succeed.

IT’S A KIND OF MAGIC...

DOWNLOAD THE GLOBAL VILLAGE AR APP

TO VIEW 100 AUGMENTED REALITY VIDEOS IN THIS BOOK! To experience the future of print, download the Global Village AR App from the IOS or Android App stores. Open the App and hold it about 30cm above any page that contains an image with the “play” Icon.

Make sure your back camera is pointing at the page. Click the Play button that appears onscreen and immerse yourself in the latest updated content with reference to that page.

257

258

259

Top 100 World’s Most Innovative Universities GLOBAL VILLAGE

GLOBAL VILLAGE