On April 22nd, the New Jersey Regional Innovation Cluster ( NJRIC ) will launch its free, five-month accelerator program for eligible small businesses in New Jersey’s artificial intelligence ( AI), cybersecurity, information technology ( IT ), and other tech-related sectors.
Tailored to accommodate the hectic schedules of entrepreneurs, this innovative software will attach participants with business leaders for coaching and mentoring, training, sales pitch feedback, and special networking opportunities. The program site will start on March 1st to celebrate NJ STEM Month and near on April 15th.
Funded in part by the U. S. Small Business Administration’s Regional Innovation Cluster program, NJRIC is a collaborative effort between BCT Partners, N-Touch Strategies, Covenant Business Concepts, and Kean University’s Center for Cybersecurity ( an NSA-designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education ) — all business professionals dedicated to helping New Jersey businesses grow while fostering technology and protecting private business and customer data.
” This accelerator was created to support local engineering businesses size and grow through personal tutoring and special connections”, said Randal D. Pinkett, Managing Partner at BCT Partners. ” These smaller companies play a vital role in both local and national security, and our system enhances their ability to grow and protect these interests”.
In order to be eligible for the accelerator program, companies must be in the AI, security, IT, or other tech-related area, registered and operating in New Jersey, have a minimum of two people, and generate more than$ 500, 000 in annual revenue. Those looking to apply for the company accelerator program can do so via the program website below.
” I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the NJRIC Business Accelerator. The information, resources, and support I received during this software have been transformational for both me and my business”, said Yana Bartek, President of Prestware Inc. and a graduate of the annual 2024 group. ” The insights I’ve gained about RFPs—how to approach them and increase visibility with issuing companies —have already had a positive impact, helping me land a new contract. Additionally, creating and presenting investor pitch decks has inspired me to seek investment for our upcoming projects”.
Small businesses and nonprofits that do not meet these requirements can instead apply for the free cybersecurity and business resilience risk assessments and planning program, which will help them protect their financial and confidential data by identifying potential risks and mitigating any security threats. In addition, an introduction and use case examples of Generative Artificial Intelligence ( GenAI ) will be delivered as part of the assessment. Applications for the cybersecurity assessments and planning program are accepted on the website on a first-come, first-served basis.
For additional information on the NJRIC, its programs, and the list of recent graduates, visit the .
About NJRIC
The New Jersey Regional Innovation Cluster ( NJRIC ) is a free program, funded by the SBA Regional Innovation Cluster ( RIC ) initiative, offering expert training, mentorship, exclusive networking, and cybersecurity risk assessments to help tech businesses secure contracts, scale operations, and successfully expand. To learn more, visit www. njric.com.