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A New York-based nonprofit is expanding an initiative to help under-resourced small business owners in six additional regions, including South Jersey. 

The Acceleration Project will offer the Economic Development & Growth for Entrepreneurs (EDGE) Program to 500 low- to moderate-income small business owners in South Jersey as well as Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Philadelphia. A grant from the Truist Foundation supports the growth.

The nonprofit unveiled the expansion June 11. A TAP representative told NJBIZ it is not disclosing the funding amount from the foundation. 

What’s included

The two-year program offers free coaching, small-group sessions and one-on-one guidance to help small business owners build a stronger financial foundation, TAP explained. 

The initiative is built on the Financial Health Network’s FinHealth Score framework. It focuses on four key pillars: 

• Spending 
• Saving 
• Borrowing 
• Planning 

Additionally, 25 participants will receive monetary awards at the end of each year of the program to invest in their businesses. 

The award amounts for the expanded program were not available as of publication time. However, the nonprofit’s website noted a $10,000 prize fund for the initial New York-based cohort. Top participants received $250 to $1,000 awards. 

EDGE launched in early 2026 in New York state with support from the Citi Foundation. 

Jane Veron, CEO and co-founder of TAP, said the results from small businesses so far “have been outstanding.” 

“The knowledge and guidance they’re gaining from our consultants teaching in this program are improving their financial confidence and decision-making skills,” Veron added.  

She thanked the Truist Foundation for enabling the program to expand. 

“We’re proud to support The Acceleration Project and its work to equip small business owners with the tools, guidance, and confidence they need to grow and thrive,” said Jeremy Ben-Zev, Truist Philadelphia market president.

How to apply

Applications for the expanded EDGE program will open later this year, TAP said. However, the organization is offering informational sessions this summer. 

Community organizations, chambers of commerce, Community Development Financial Institutions, industry associations, city development agencies, nonprofits and government entities that support small businesses are invited to join:  

• 1 p.m. June 24: Register here
• Noon July 29: Register here