The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has selected SOSA USA LLC to operate the new New Jersey Business Acceleration and Softlanding Ecosystem (NJ BASE) in downtown Jersey City. This facility will be the state’s first landing pad designed to attract foreign companies in sectors such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, fintech, and other innovative technologies.
According to NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan, “The NJEDA is excited to partner with SOSA on launching NJ BASE and welcoming foreign companies to the Garden State. Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has made impactful investments to diversify our economy and create new jobs. NJ BASE will strengthen our state’s position on the global stage by helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses, foster innovation, and build lasting international partnerships.”
The NJEDA Board selected SOSA after a competitive review process. SOSA will manage the NJEDA’s leased office space and oversee daily operations at NJ BASE. The contract will run for three years, with options for two additional one-year extensions.
SOSA CEO Uzi Scheffer stated, “SOSA is proud to partner with the NJEDA to launch and operate NJ BASE, New Jersey’s first landing pad for innovative, technology-driven international companies. Building on over a decade of experience running landing pad programs around the world, we’ll help international companies land, forge commercial relationships, and scale in New Jersey. NJ BASE will collaborate with leading international companies and key players across the state’s economy to create lasting commercial success, strengthening New Jersey’s position as a global hub for innovation.”
SOSA brings experience from operating over 40 international accelerator and landing programs in partnership with governments and corporations worldwide. Their efforts have helped startups from 12 countries expand and grow.
Wes Mathews, President & CEO of Choose New Jersey, commented, “New Jersey continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier destination for international companies seeking to enter the U.S. market. NJ BASE will provide foreign businesses with the tools, connections, and resources they need to thrive here, while further deepening New Jersey’s global partnerships and driving long-term economic growth across our state.”
NJEDA Director of International Innovation Andrew H Gross added, “International companies have their eye on New Jersey because of our commitment to spurring innovation, world-class educational institutions, talent pool, and proximity to major cities. With support from SOSA, NJ BASE will keep our state competitive and bolster our economic relationships with governments around the world.”
The NJ BASE facility will be located at 3 Second Street in Jersey City. The center will house an initial cohort of about 15-20 companies in a Class A space of more than 7,200 square feet. The location offers conference facilities, event space, and access to public transit. NJ BASE is expected to open in the coming months.
