(TRENTON, NJ) -- In January, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the Cultural and Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program, which will help bolster New Jersey’s arts sector by supporting the development and rehabilitation of cultural arts facilities, such as performing arts centers and museums. The program aims to increase cultural arts activities across the state, attract visitors, boost engagement with the arts in underserved communities, and revitalize downtowns.
“Arts and culture serve as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s economy, contributing billions of dollars in economic activity each year while showcasing the incredible diversity, creativity, and talent of our residents,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey continues to provide innovative tools and resources to further position arts and culture as a key driver of economic growth. The CAFE Program will help address the economic challenges the industry has faced since the pandemic by fostering new cultural hubs and bringing dynamic arts experiences to communities across the state.”
New Jersey’s arts and culture sector was a $27.3 billion industry in 2022, representing over 138,000 jobs. The combined impact of arts and culture industries account for 3.62 percent of New Jersey’s gross domestic product, as well as 3.2 percent of the state’s workforce. In 2022, the impact of New Jersey’s non-profit arts industry resulted in $116.9 million in total tax revenue to federal, state, and local governments.
The CAFE Program will provide tax credits through a competitive process to cultural arts institutions to build or renovate facilities, including aquariums, historical societies, libraries, galleries, museums, performing arts centers, or other eligible cultural or arts facilities. Eligible awardees receive tax credits covering 100 percent of eligible project costs, up to $75 million.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to building strong communities and laying the foundation for residents and families to truly thrive,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “By fostering these environments, we are reviving spaces where arts and culture can inspire and unite all who call this state home. The arts and culture sector is a vital part of New Jersey’s identity, and our support ensures these community anchors can continue to flourish, generating local jobs and drawing new visitors to our state in the process.”
Eligible applicants include government entities and not-for-profits whose primary mission is arts and culture, or a for-profit business receiving a federal or state historic preservation rehabilitation tax credit. Applicants are required to contribute 10 percent or 20 percent equity to the project, depending on the project location.
A qualifying project must have a minimum of $5 million in eligible project costs. The requirements for a cultural arts facility vary based on its type. It must either be open to the public for an average of at least 20 hours per week or host an average of at least four events or educational offerings per month. Facilities primarily used for athletics, recreation, and non-arts based community centers are not eligible for the program.
Applications for the first round of the CAFE Program are expected to open in Spring 2025. For more information and a complete list of eligibility requirements, click here.
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.
