Please sign NJMEP’s petition. For any questions, call 973-998-9801

We the undersigned are all New Jersey-based Manufacturers, STEM companies, and Partners stand with NJMEP (New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program), and we are offering this discourse as one of complete support and of great concern, as this critical program continues to fight for sustainability and growth during a time where the industry needs it most.

Protect New Jersey Manufacturing

Sign the Petition to Restore Critical Manufacturing Support

New Jersey’s manufacturing industry is facing an unprecedented challenge. Despite delivering a massive return on investment, driving innovation, and supporting thousands of good-paying jobs, the state’s manufacturing support through NJMEP has been zeroed out of the State Budget — and federal funding could be next.

The time to act is now. Your voice is essential.

Why This Matters:

The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) is the bridge connecting our state’s manufacturers to the workforce, technology, and resources they need to remain competitive. NJMEP:

• Serves thousands of small and mid-sized manufacturers across all 21 counties.
• Delivers high-impact workforce development, training, and consulting services.
• Helps create and retain thousands of manufacturing jobs.

Without NJMEP, countless manufacturers — especially those in cities like Newark, Paterson, Trenton, Vineland, and Camden — will lose access to critical resources that help them adapt, grow, and thrive.

The Threat:

• The State Budget has eliminated funding for NJMEP.
• Manufacturers are already facing workforce shortages, inflationary pressures, and supply chain challenges.
• Federal NIST-MEP funding is also uncertain, putting even more strain on our state's industrial backbone.

The Call to Action:

We urge New Jersey’s manufacturing industry — employers, employees, and partners — to stand united and tell our elected leaders that NJMEP funding is vital.

By signing this petition, you are showing policymakers that manufacturing matters, and that this industry is ready to fight for its future.

What You’re Supporting:

• Restoration of full NJMEP funding in the State Budget.
• Continued access to workforce development and training for manufacturers.
• Economic growth, job creation, and community development across New Jersey.
• Opportunities for youth, veterans, and underserved communities to find meaningful careers in manufacturing.

Add Your Voice:

• Please sign this petition and join the growing coalition of manufacturers, partners, and advocates committed to protecting the future of New Jersey’s manufacturing industry.

Thank you for your support,

Peter Connolly, Chief Executive Officer
New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP)