Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Last updated: September 2025
EMERGENCY HELP FIRST
If losing income, a lease, or childcare is about to shut your business down, take these steps today.
- Call the NJ Business Helpline: 1-800-537-7397 to reach the New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC) for free, live guidance and referrals. You can also use live chat at Business.NJ.gov. (nj.gov)
- Contact the SBA New Jersey District Office: 973-645-2434 for lender connections, disaster loan guidance, and fast triage. Office: 2 Gateway Center, Suite 1002, Newark. (sba.gov)
- Check SBA Disaster Loans (if storms/flooding impacted you): Loans up to $2,000,000 with first payment and interest deferred for 12 months; current interest caps typically up to 4% for businesses. Apply online or call 800-659-2955. Note: SBA is accepting and reviewing applications; new loan offers may be delayed if federal funding lapses. (prod.sba.gov, sba.gov)
- Get free one‑on‑one counseling: New Jersey Small Business Development Centers (NJSBDC) and the SBA‑funded Women’s Business Center at WCEC offer no‑cost help. Example: NJSBDC Newark 973-353-5950; WCEC 973-507-9700. (njsbdc.com, wcecnj.org)
- Childcare cost crisis? New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is temporarily closed to new applications as of August 1, 2025, but existing cases continue. Call the Child Care Help Line 1-800-332-9227 and check free public preschool options in your district. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov)
Quick Help Box
- Fastest single point of contact: NJBAC Helpline — 1-800-537-7397 (licensing, permits, funding referrals, certifications). Live chat also available. (nj.gov)
- Current NJEDA small‑business grants/loans: Small Business Improvement Grant (up to 50,000∗∗),SmallBusinessLeaseGrant(twoawardsof∗∗2050,000**), Small Business Lease Grant (two awards of **20%** of annual lease), Main Street Acquisition Support Grant (up to **50,000 closing‑cost reimbursement), free E‑commerce support, NJ Capital Access Fund loans (up to $250,000), and more. Status varies; see tables below. NJEDA Call Center: 844-965-1125. (njeda.gov, njcapitalaccessfund.com)
- SBA financing (if bank says “no”): 7(a) loans up to 5,000,000∗∗;504loansupto∗∗5,000,000**; 504 loans up to **5,500,000 for major assets; Microloan up to $50,000 (interest generally 8–13% via local nonprofit lenders). (sba.gov)
- Women‑focused training and coaching: WCEC Women’s Business Center (973-507-9700), Rising Tide Capital’s 12‑week Community Business Academy (fees on a sliding scale, scholarships typically cover tuition), LAEDA’s free 9‑week EDTP in South Jersey (856-338-1177). (wcecnj.org, communitybusinessacademy.org, laeda.com)
- Certifications that unlock contracts: SBE, M/WBE, VOB/DVOB, LGBTQ+; $100 State certification fee is waived indefinitely; apply via the State’s Uniform Certification Service. (business.nj.gov)
- Tax savings if you’re in a UEZ: Charge 3.3125% sales tax (half the State rate) and get certain purchase exemptions. (nj.gov)
Why this guide is different
This page condenses real New Jersey programs single mothers actually use, with current dollar amounts, links, phone numbers, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid. Sources are official State, federal, or established nonprofit sites, verified for September 2025. (njeda.gov)
What changed in 2025 that affects you
- NJEDA small‑business support is robust: The Main Street Recovery suite has invested over $185 million since 2021, with specific products open now (Lease Grant, Improvement Grant, Acquisition Support Grant, E‑commerce support). (njeda.gov)
- Micro Business Loan: Fully subscribed; applications closed (previously 2% interest, no payments Year 1, potential forgiveness at Year 5). Consider NJ Capital Access Fund instead (fixed rates last posted 8.5%–10.5%; up to $250,000). (njeda.gov, njcapitalaccessfund.com)
- Child care subsidy (CCAP): Closed to new applications as of August 1, 2025; existing families retain benefits if still eligible. Look for free preschool expansion seats in many districts and Head Start. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov)
- SBA fees: For FY25, SBA charges no upfront fees on 7(a) and 504 loans of $1,000,000 or less, reducing closing costs. (sba.gov)
Table 1 — NJEDA Main Street & Related Programs You Can Use
| Program | What it Pays | Key Eligibility | Status/Notes | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Business Improvement Grant | Reimbursement up to 50% of eligible project costs, cap $50,000 | NJ small business/nonprofit; min project $5,000; FFE/building improvements | Rolling until funds exhausted | Small Business Improvement Grant (NJEDA) (njeda.gov) |
| Small Business Lease Grant | Two grant payments equal to 20% of annual lease | New/expanded 5‑year, market‑rate leases (250–10,000 sq ft), first‑floor space | Applications open | Small Business Lease Grant (NJEDA) (njeda.gov) |
| Main Street Acquisition Support Grant | Reimburse up to $50,000 for closing costs on a recently purchased NJ commercial property | SBA “small” by NAICS; must occupy ≥1,000 sq ft; closing after 10/1/2024; apply within 12 months of closing | Open; one grant per EIN | Acquisition Support Grant (NJEDA) (njeda.gov) |
| Small Business E‑commerce Support | Free consulting: websites, online ordering/booking, SEO, digital marketing | NJ small businesses in restaurant, retail, personal care; commercial location | Email EcommerceSupport@njeda.gov | E‑commerce Support (NJEDA) (njeda.gov) |
| Main Street Micro Business Loan | Up to $50,000, 2% interest, 10‑year term; Year 1 payment/interest deferred; potential forgiveness after Year 5 | ≤10 FTE; ≤**$1.5M** revenues; formed ≥6 months | Fully subscribed; closed | Micro Business Loan (NJEDA) (njeda.gov) |
| NJ Capital Access Fund | Flexible working‑capital loans up to $250,000, fixed rates last posted 8.5%–10.5%, 36–60 months | In business ≥1 year; ≤50 employees; ≤**$10M** revenue | Active via nonprofit lenders; 100 loans approved by May 2025 | NJ Capital Access Fund (njcapitalaccessfund.com, njeda.gov) |
Step‑by‑Step: Start (or Formalize) Your NJ Business
Start with the action that unlocks banking, funding, and contracts: registration.
1) Register your business with NJ Treasury
- Where to file: Online Business Formation (LLC/Corp/LP/LLP) or NJ‑REG for sole proprietors/general partnerships.
- Fees: 125∗∗tofilemostfor‑profitformations(∗∗125** to file most for‑profit formations (**75 for domestic nonprofits). Then file NJ‑REG for taxes/employer registration. File at least 15 business days before opening a location or hiring. After that, you can obtain your Business Registration Certificate (BRC) when needed for public contracts or grants. (nj.gov)
- Links:
- Form/Register a New Business (LLCs/Corps)
- Online Tax/Employer Registration (NJ‑REG) (all businesses)
- Getting Registered — instructions (njportal.com, nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Treasury/DORES customer contact at 609-292-9292 for registration help, or use the Business.NJ.gov live chat. (nj.gov)
2) Open the right bank account and bookkeeping
- Use your EIN and formation documents to open a business account and set up a simple bookkeeping tool. This is crucial for loans/grants.
Plan B: If you’re not formed yet, start with NJ‑REG for a sole proprietorship (free) to separate taxes and open a DBA account; then convert to an LLC when ready. (njportal.com)
3) Check licenses, zoning, and sales tax
- Use Business.NJ.gov’s step‑by‑step wizard and live chat to identify licenses and sales tax obligations for your specific industry. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1-800-537-7397 to have NJBAC walk you through permits and contacts at your municipal office. (nj.gov)
Table 2 — Certifications That Help Women‑Owned Businesses Compete
| Certification | Why it matters | Cost | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Business Enterprise (SBE) | Access to State set‑aside contracting (target of 25% to SBEs) | $0 (State fee indefinitely waived) | Business.NJ.gov Certifications → Uniform Certification Service (UCS) (business.nj.gov) |
| Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) | Recognized by many local governments/prime contractors | $0 (fee waived) | UCS online portal (document list available) (njportal.com) |
| Veteran/Disabled Veteran (VOB/DVOB) | Separate State programs; DVOB has 3% set‑aside | $0; annual reverification | VOB/DVOB guidance (business.nj.gov) |
| LGBTQ+ Owned Business (LBE) | State‑recognized certification | $0 | Business.NJ.gov Certifications (business.nj.gov) |
Tip: Keep scans of ownership IDs, formation documents, tax returns, org chart, lease, and bank letters ready. Treasury provides detailed document lists for WBE/MWBE. Certification support line: 609-292-2146. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Book a free session with NJSBDC or WCEC to review your package before you submit. NJSBDC requires a short e‑request for counseling (eRFC). (njsbdc.com)
Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ): Lower Sales Tax and Purchase Exemptions
Why this is first‑tier for retailers and salons in UEZ cities: Certified sellers may charge 3.3125% sales tax (half rate) on most in‑person, zone‑originated sales; qualified UEZ businesses can also use UZ‑5/UZ‑4 certificates for specific tax‑exempt purchases (subject to annual caps and rules). (nj.gov)
- How it works: Reduced rate applies to in‑person sales in the zone and deliveries from the UEZ location per State rules. (nj.gov)
- Get certified: Apply via DCA’s UEZ Business Certification system using Premier Business Services; then follow Taxation’s filing rules (UZ‑50 monthly). (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the UEZ Authority at 609-292-1912 or the UEZ Help Desk 877-913-6837 for certification steps. (nj.gov)
NJ Grants and Loans You Can Realistically Access
A) NJEDA Small Business Improvement Grant (reimbursement)
- Amount: Up to $50,000; 50% of eligible project costs such as building improvements or new furniture/fixtures/equipment. Rolling until funds are gone. (njeda.gov)
- Eligibility: NJ small business or nonprofit; project ≥ $5,000; good standing; tax clearance required. (njeda.gov)
- Timeline reality: Plan several weeks to gather bids/receipts and get tax clearance; reimbursement comes after verification.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: See the next option or use NJSBDC to scope a smaller, staged project. (njsbdc.com)
B) Small Business Lease Grant (rent support)
- Amount: Two awards equal to 20% of total annual lease payments on a qualifying five‑year lease. (njeda.gov)
- Key rules: New or expanded first‑floor space (≥250 sq ft); market‑rate; lease within 12 months prior to application; wage standards apply. (njeda.gov)
- Real world example: A stylist opening in an Elizabeth UEZ storefront can pair the Lease Grant (two 20% lease awards) with UEZ reduced tax to make opening-month cash flow workable.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NJBAC (1-800-537-7397) to review municipal incentives or landlord build‑out credits; consider the Improvement Grant for equipment instead. (nj.gov)
C) Main Street Acquisition Support Grant (post‑purchase closing costs)
- Amount: Reimburses up to $50,000 of closing costs if you purchased a NJ commercial property after 10/1/2024 and you occupy at least 1,000 sq ft. Apply within 12 months of closing. (njeda.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you haven’t closed yet, discuss 504 or 7(a) real‑estate financing with SBA lenders and revisit NJEDA after closing. (sba.gov)
D) Free E‑commerce/Digital Marketing Consulting
- Value: Redesign a basic site, implement online ordering or booking, optimize Google/Meta ads plans — at no cost through NJEDA‑selected vendors for restaurants, retail, and personal care businesses. (njeda.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: NJSBDC and WCEC run frequent e‑commerce classes and 1:1s statewide. (njsbdc.com, wcecnj.org)
E) NJ Capital Access Fund (working capital loans)
- Amount/terms: Up to 250,000∗∗,fixedrates(lastposted∗∗8.5250,000**, fixed rates (last posted **8.5%–10.5%**), 36–60 months, via nonprofit lenders (CDFIs). More than **8.6 million approved by May 2025. No prepayment penalty. (njcapitalaccessfund.com, njeda.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply with a local CDFI microlender below; ask SBA NJ for Lender Match. (sba.gov)
Table 3 — CDFI Microlenders Serving NJ (friendly to startups and thin credit)
| Lender | Typical Amounts | Rate/Terms | Notes/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCEDC | 5,000–5,000–50,000 microloans (startups ≤**$35,000**); higher amounts via other products | Fixed 5.0%–7.75%, up to 6 years; select “Business Advantage Loan” offers up to $75,000 at 1% for qualified established firms | No prepayment penalties; online checklist and pre‑qualify available |
| Greater Newark Enterprises Corp. (GNEC) | 5,000–5,000–100,000 | Fixed 5.99%, typical terms 4–5 years; collateral needed above $30,000 | Prioritizes low/moderate‑income and underserved founders |
| NJ Capital Access Fund (multiple CDFIs) | Up to $250,000 | Fixed (last posted 8.5%–10.5%), 36–60 months | Streamlined intake, nonprofit lenders, technical assistance |
SBA Loans: When you need larger amounts
- 7(a) Loans (most flexible): Up to $5,000,000 for working capital, equipment, real estate, refinancing, and partial buyouts; eligibility based on size, credit, and ability to repay. Use SBA Lender Match or contact SBA NJ staff. (sba.gov)
- 504 Loans (major assets): Up to $5,500,000 for fixed assets (real estate, heavy equipment) through Certified Development Companies; long‑term fixed rate. (sba.gov)
- Microloans: Up to 50,000∗∗vianonprofitintermediaries;averagemicroloanisabout∗∗50,000** via nonprofit intermediaries; average microloan is about **13,000; interest generally 8–13%. Funds cannot be used for real estate or to pay existing debts. (sba.gov)
- Fee break that helps: For FY25, SBA upfront fees are 0∗∗on7(a)/504loansof∗∗0** on 7(a)/504 loans of **1,000,000 or less, which lowers closing costs. (sba.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call SBA NJ at 973-645-2434 for local lenders or ask SCORE to help package your request. (sba.gov)
Table 4 — Clean Energy and Equipment Funds That Cut Bills
| Program | What it Covers | Amount | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|---|
| NJ Manufacturing Voucher Program (NJMVP) | Portion of eligible manufacturing equipment costs (incl. installation); bonuses for woman/minority/veteran ownership and NJ‑made equipment | 30%–50% of project; 7,500–7,500–250,000 max | NJ manufacturers; Phase‑specific windows; check status |
| NJ Clean Energy Loans (NJ CELs) | Co‑lending for clean‑energy projects (solar, electrification, efficiency) | 250,000–250,000–10,000,000 (NJEDA share) | Small businesses; SSBCI‑backed |
| NJ COOL | Grants for building retrofits that cut greenhouse gas emissions in Overburdened/Adjacent Communities | 50,000–50,000–1,000,000 | Commercial/industrial/institutional owners/tenants in eligible geographies |
| Utility Direct Install (examples) | Turnkey efficiency upgrades (HVAC/lighting/refrigeration) with high incentives; on‑bill 0% financing | Up to 70%–80% of project cost (program‑tiered) | Small/mid‑size commercial customers; demand thresholds apply |
Free, Ongoing One‑on‑One Help
- NJSBDC: 10 regional centers (free, confidential advising; training). Start by submitting the eRFC; Newark’s center: 973-353-5950. (njsbdc.com)
- WCEC Women’s Business Center: Free/low‑cost classes, 1:1 counseling, e‑commerce coaching. Address: 227 Main St., Chatham; 973-507-9700; info@wcecnj.org. (wcecnj.org)
- Rising Tide Capital: Community Business Academy (12‑weeks) with sliding‑scale materials fee (150–150–375 typical), locations in Jersey City/Newark/New Brunswick. Phone 201-432-4316. (communitybusinessacademy.org, risingtidecapital.org)
- LAEDA (South Jersey): Free, selective 9‑week EDTP (≈75 hours), Camden/Bridgeton cohorts; 856-338-1177. (laeda.com)
- SCORE (free mentors): Northeast NJ (Bergen/Passaic) 800-634-0245; Princeton SCORE 609-393-0505; additional locations statewide. (score.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1-800-537-7397 (NJBAC) and ask to be routed to the nearest SBDC/WBC/SCORE team. (nj.gov)
Childcare While You Build Your Business
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): New applications paused as of August 1, 2025; existing cases continue. Income rules use 250% FPL and 85% SMI thresholds at redetermination (2025–2026 chart available). Child Care Help Line 1-800-332-9227. (childcarenj.gov)
- Free Preschool Expansion: Many districts now offer free, full‑day preschool for 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds; expansion funds added in FY25; additional legislation in July 2025 aims for universal preschool/full‑day K. Contact your district’s preschool office. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NJ 2‑1‑1 for local childcare scholarships and Head Start slots. (nj.gov)
Disaster and Emergency Capital (for storms, fires, and other declared events)
- SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Working capital when a declared disaster cuts revenue; first payment deferred for 12 months; interest up to 4%; up to 30 years; apply at sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955. SBA notes possible delays in new loan offers if federal funding lapses. (prod.sba.gov)
- SBA Business Physical Disaster Loans: Repair/replace real estate, equipment, inventory; typically up to $2,000,000 combined with EIDL. (sba.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NJBAC (1-800-537-7397) to connect you with County emergency small‑business resources and One‑Stop Career Centers for rapid re‑employment for staff. (nj.gov)
Table 5 — Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Single‑Mom Starter Pack)
| Need | First Call | Typical Amounts | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permits/licensing | NJBAC 1-800-537-7397 (or live chat) | Free | Business.NJ.gov (nj.gov) |
| Rent help on a new 5‑year lease | NJEDA Lease Grant | Two awards at 20% of annual lease | Lease Grant (njeda.gov) |
| Remodel/buy equipment | Improvement Grant | 50% up to $50,000 | Improvement Grant (njeda.gov) |
| Working capital | Capital Access Fund | Up to $250,000, fixed rates | NJ Capital Access Fund (njcapitalaccessfund.com) |
| Microloans | UCEDC/GNEC | 5,000–5,000–50,000 at 5–7.75% (UCEDC) or 5.99% (GNEC) | UCEDC • GNEC (ucedc.com, gnec.org) |
| Certification | UCS Portal | $0 State fee | Certifications (business.nj.gov) |
| One‑on‑one help | NJSBDC/WCEC/SCORE | Free | NJSBDC • WCEC • SCORE NJ (njsbdc.com, wcecnj.org, score.org) |
Application Checklist (print this)
- Photo ID and proof of NJ address
- EIN letter and formation documents (LLC/Corp) or NJ‑REG confirmation for sole props
- Last 3–12 months of bank statements
- Recent tax returns (business and personal, if applicable)
- Signed lease (for Lease Grant) or closing disclosure (for Acquisition Grant)
- Paid invoices/receipts and photos (for Improvement Grant reimbursement)
- Tax Clearance Certificate (NJEDA programs) and proof of good standing
- Childcare plan and hours (if you’re a caregiver and owner — funders will ask about availability)
- Basic business plan or one‑pager with costs and use of funds
- Backup: Alternate vendor quotes (prices change)
(Use NJSBDC/WCEC to scan this list and help fill any gaps before you apply.) (njsbdc.com, wcecnj.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing tax clearance: Many NJEDA grants require a current certificate; apply early. (njeda.gov)
- Signing a lease before understanding grant rules: Lease Grant requires market‑rate, first‑floor space, and timing rules; read them before you sign. (njeda.gov)
- Using improvement funds for ineligible costs: Site acquisition, vehicles, and soft costs won’t qualify under the Improvement Grant. (njeda.gov)
- Expecting microloans to pay off old debt or buy real estate: SBA microloans can’t do that. (sba.gov)
- Assuming childcare aid is open: CCAP is paused for new applications as of August 1, 2025. Plan alternatives early. (childcarenj.gov)
“What to do if this doesn’t work” — Fast Plan B options
- If grants are closed: Apply to the NJ Capital Access Fund for working capital; ask GNEC/UCEDC about microloans. (njcapitalaccessfund.com, gnec.org, ucedc.com)
- If you’re short on time: Book NJBAC live chat and ask for a “single‑session checklist review” and permit/licensing map. Phone: 1-800-537-7397. (nj.gov)
- If disaster hit: File SBA online now, then complete documents; you can amend later. Phone: 800-659-2955. (prod.sba.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Consider LGBTQ+ Owned Business certification (fee waived) for supplier diversity directories; WCEC and SCORE mentors can review your supplier strategy. (business.nj.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use One‑Stop Career Centers for training that works around medical schedules; ask lenders about payment deferrals; DCF hotlines connect to disability resources. Phones: 1-888-285-3036 (DDS), 1-877-685-8878 (CBVI). (nj.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Register as VOB/DVOB (annual reverification) to access set‑asides and supplier diversity. WCEC and NJSBDC can help with bid readiness. (business.nj.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Rising Tide Capital offers programs in English and Spanish; NJSBDC can help with ITIN/EIN issues; Business.NJ.gov has multilingual resources. Phone RTC: 201-432-4316. (programs.risingtidecapital.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If your business serves Tribal communities or you are a Tribal citizen, ask SBA NJ for federal 8(a)/HUBZone introductions and NJSBDC for federal contracting workshops. (sba.gov)
- Rural single moms (transportation barriers): Start with remote counseling (NJSBDC/WCEC/SCORE) and NJ Capital Access Fund lenders; many accept e‑sign and uploads. (njcapitalaccessfund.com)
- Single fathers: All programs above are gender‑neutral unless noted; WCEC serves men and women. (wcecnj.org)
- Language access: NJBAC, NJSBDC, and Rising Tide offer multilingual support; ask for Spanish/other language sessions. (programs.risingtidecapital.org)
Resources by Region (find your local office fast)
- Statewide gateway: NJBAC Helpline — 1-800-537-7397 (live chat at Business.NJ.gov). (nj.gov)
- NJSBDC locator: Use the State network to find your county center; Newark example: 973-353-5950 (Essex). (njsbdc.com)
- One‑Stop Career Centers directory: Addresses and hours by county (resume help, training, support services). (nj.gov)
- WCEC Women’s Business Center: 973-507-9700 (North/Central). (wcecnj.org)
- Rising Tide Capital: Jersey City HQ 201-432-4316; Newark and New Brunswick sites. (risingtidecapital.org)
Real‑World Examples (common NJ paths)
- Home bakery to storefront: Start as a registered sole prop with NJ‑REG, sell at markets, then apply for the Improvement Grant to buy a display case/ovens and pair it with the Lease Grant for your first 5‑year lease. In a UEZ city, you can charge 3.3125% sales tax in‑store. (njeda.gov, nj.gov)
- Mobile stylist to salon: Use E‑commerce Support to add online booking and deposits; then pursue Capital Access Fund working capital to furnish chairs and sinks. If you later buy your suite condo, seek Acquisition Support Grant to offset closing costs (up to $50,000). (njeda.gov, njcapitalaccessfund.com)
- Cleaning service scaling up: Certify as WBE/SBE (free fee), then bid on local government contracts; apply for UCEDC microloan to buy equipment; use UPSKILL NJ employer training grants when open for training your team. (business.nj.gov, ucedc.com, nj.gov)
10 New Jersey‑Specific FAQs
- Where do I start if I only have an idea and no money?
Answer: Book a free counselor at NJSBDC/WCEC, then build a one‑page plan and register your business (NJ‑REG) to access mentoring and small grants/loans. Phones: 973-353-5950 (NJSBDC Newark), 973-507-9700 (WCEC). (njsbdc.com) - Are there grants just for single mothers?
Answer: State grants are based on business need and location, not parental status. However, NJEDA programs (Improvement, Lease, Acquisition) and UEZ benefits can lower real costs. (njeda.gov, nj.gov) - What’s a realistic timeline to receive NJEDA funding?
Answer: Plan time for tax clearance and document checks; approvals and reimbursements vary by product and completeness of your file. Use the NJEDA Call Center 844-965-1125 to confirm current timelines. (njeda.gov) - My business was hit by flooding. What’s fastest?
Answer: File an SBA disaster application immediately at sba.gov/disaster; first payments are deferred 12 months and interest doesn’t accrue for the first year on current EIDLs. Phone: 800-659-2955. (prod.sba.gov) - Can I get money to buy my shop?
Answer: Consider SBA 504 (fixed‑asset) or 7(a) loans for acquisition. After closing, apply for the Acquisition Support Grant (up to $50,000 for closing costs if you meet criteria). (sba.gov, njeda.gov) - I need a small, quick loan for inventory. What are rates now?
Answer: SBA Microloans go up to 50,000∗∗withinterestgenerally∗∗8–1350,000** with interest generally **8–13%** through local nonprofits (e.g., UCEDC, GNEC). **Capital Access Fund** offers up to **250,000 at posted fixed rates (8.5%–10.5% as of late 2024). (sba.gov, ucedc.com, gnec.org, njcapitalaccessfund.com) - How do I sell to the State as a woman‑owned business?
Answer: Certify as SBE (State set‑aside) and M/WBE via the free UCS portal; then enroll in State vendor systems and monitor bids. Certification fee is waived. Help line: 609-292-2146. (business.nj.gov, njportal.com, nj.gov) - What is the sales tax rate in UEZ cities?
Answer: 3.3125% for most in‑person sales from a certified UEZ business location, with purchase exemptions for the business (some annual caps apply). (nj.gov) - Who can walk me through export grants?
Answer: NJBAC’s Office of Export Promotion runs NJ STEP (SBA‑funded) to reimburse eligible export expenses. Call 1-800-537-7397. (nj.gov) - Are SBA loan fees high?
Answer: For FY25, SBA upfront fees are 0∗∗on7(a)and504loansof∗∗0** on 7(a) and 504 loans of **1,000,000 or less; ask your lender about other closing costs. (sba.gov)
Table 6 — Women‑Focused Grants (non‑government, established)
| Grant | Typical Amount | Who It’s For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amber Grants (WomensNet) | Monthly 10,000∗∗(threeawards);year‑end∗∗10,000** (three awards); year‑end **25,000 (three awards) | Women‑owned US/Canada businesses (≥50% owned) | One application makes you eligible for monthly and year‑end awards; read rules carefully. |
| IFundWomen | Varies; periodic small grants (2,500–2,500–5,000 ranges common) | Broad founder base nationwide | Apply once to be considered for future partner grants. |
Note: These are competitive and not guaranteed; never pay third parties to “get you a grant.”
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Document first: Most NJEDA products reimburse or require documentation (leases, invoices, photos). Start a receipts folder.
- Mind “first‑floor” rules: Lease incentives require first‑floor space and market‑rate terms.
- Childcare funding is tight: Build a backup plan (relative care, free preschool, Head Start) to avoid canceling client work. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov)
- Interest rate math matters: Microloans (e.g., 5–7.75% UCEDC, 5.99% GNEC) can be cheaper than credit cards and faster than bank loans; compare APR to your card rate. (ucedc.com, gnec.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from the New Jersey Department of State (NJBAC), New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), New Jersey Department of the Treasury, New Jersey Department of Human Services/DCF, NJ Department of Labor, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and established nonprofits (NJSBDC, WCEC, Rising Tide Capital, UCEDC, GNEC). It follows our Editorial Standards for source verification, change tracking, and timely corrections. This site is independent and not a government agency.
Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.
Corrections or updates: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Program details change frequently: Always verify current eligibility, amounts, and deadlines with the agency or lender before applying. This guide is for general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Links go to official or established nonprofit resources; we do not control third‑party sites.
Keep your devices and accounts secure: When applying for aid or loans, use strong passwords, enable multi‑factor authentication on email and banking, and avoid public Wi‑Fi for forms and uploads.
Source notes and selected citations
- NJBAC Helpline and live chat: Business.NJ.gov; 1-800-537-7397. (nj.gov)
- NJEDA program amounts/status (Improvement, Lease, Acquisition, E‑commerce, Microloan): Official NJEDA pages. (njeda.gov)
- NJ Capital Access Fund rates/terms and approvals: Program site and NJEDA release. (njcapitalaccessfund.com, njeda.gov)
- SBA NJ District Office contact: Address/phone. (sba.gov)
- SBA Microloan (amounts/uses/interest range): sba.gov. (sba.gov)
- SBA 7(a), 504 (maximums/uses): sba.gov. (sba.gov)
- FY25 SBA fee relief: sba.gov press. (sba.gov)
- UEZ reduced rate 3.3125% and rules: NJ Division of Taxation/DCA. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- Certifications and fee waiver: Business.NJ.gov and UCS portal. (business.nj.gov)
- Child Care Assistance Program status and 2025–2026 income limits: ChildCareNJ.gov. (childcarenj.gov)
- Preschool expansion: Governor/NJDOE announcements and DCF news. (nj.gov)
- NJSBDC/WCEC/RTC/LAEDA contacts: Official pages. (njsbdc.com, wcecnj.org, risingtidecapital.org, laeda.com)
- UCEDC/GNEC loan terms: Official lender pages. (ucedc.com, gnec.org)
- NJMVP, NJ CELs, NJ COOL, utility direct install: NJEDA and utility program pages. (njeda.gov, savegreen.com)
- One‑Stop Career Centers directory: NJDOL. (nj.gov)
- Amber/IFundWomen grants: Official program pages. (ambergrantsforwomen.com, ifundwomen.com)
If you need a 10‑minute triage call, start with NJBAC at 1-800-537-7397 — they can route you to live help the same day. (nj.gov)
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
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- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
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- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
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- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
