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Gov. Phil Murphy announced Tuesday the launch of a new Aerospace Innovation Center (AIC) in Atlantic County. The state’s fifth Strategic Innovation Center (SIC) is the first with a focus on aerospace innovation.

The National Aerospace Research & Technology Park (NARTP) in Egg Harbor Township will house the AIC. It will provide aerospace research spaces, high-speed connectivity to the FAA William J. Hughes Center for Advanced Aerospace data systems and laboratories, and coworking and studio spaces aimed at collaboration and innovation. The new center marks the second of seven planned buildings within the aerospace innovation hub.

Under the agreement, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and Atlantic County Improvement Authority (ACIA) signed a non-binding letter to establish a two-member limited liability company that will plan, develop, construct and manage the hub.

Other key terms include:

• ACIA, in partnership with NARTP and Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), will contribute $10.5 million in funding to construct the innovation center;
• The NJEDA will invest $8 million;
• With construction already underway, the project anticipates completion in October 2025;
• The center expects to be fully operational in January 2026;
• ACIA is managing construction of the facility, meanwhile NARTP will manage the AIC’s operations.

“As the state’s fifth Strategic Innovation Center, the Aerospace Innovation Center will give budding students and entrepreneurs access to state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities to collaborate with experts in the field,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “This exciting venture solidifies New Jersey as the place to be when it comes to innovation and research.”

Proud to announce that New Jersey’s fifth Strategic Innovation Center, the Aerospace Innovation Center, is coming to @NARTP_aviation in Atlantic County.

With the help of @NewJerseyEDA, we are continuing to advance research across the state and build up our innovation economy. https://t.co/d3ajYaSapY

— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) June 11, 2024

According to the state, the AIC intends to partner with New Jersey higher education institutions, such as Stockton University, Rowan University and Rutgers School of Engineering. It also aims to work with world-class aeronautical institutions, including Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the National Institute of Aerospace.

Several companies also signed letters of interest to locate in the AIC.

“Powered by NJEDA’s Strategic Innovation Center program, and paired with Atlantic County’s deep roots in aerospace, the Aerospace Innovation Center will drive the creation of new technologies that in turn will create jobs and support long-term, sustainable economic growth across the state,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan.

Another nice innovation win for @GovMurphy with the announcement of a major aviation-focused innovation center at the AC Airport and leveraging the FAA research center. Big tip of the cap to @SenPolistina who has been a champion for this project from early on.

— Tim Sullivan (@timsullivan510) June 11, 2024

“For years, we have talked about the need to diversify our economy in Atlantic County and this initiative finally brings about opportunities in aerospace and aviation which are needed,” said Sen. Vince Polistina, R-2nd District. “I’m excited to continue to work with the administration on these initiatives and I look forward to the increased collaboration and the new jobs immediately being created here – in Atlantic County – following the completion of this agreement.”

‘A transformative moment’

More Atlantic County stakeholders expressed their excitement about the launch.

“ACIA looks forward to partnering with NARTP, ACEA, and NJEDA on establishing an Aerospace Innovation Center,” said Timothy Edmunds, executive director of the Atlantic County Improvement Authority.

“The launch of the Aerospace Innovation Center marks a transformative moment for Atlantic County and the aerospace industry at large,” said Mark Loeben, chairman of NARTP. “We are thrilled to see this vision come to life, offering unparalleled opportunities for research, collaboration, and innovation in aerospace technology, while driving economic growth.”

“We are at the dawn of a new era in aerospace innovation and technology,” said Michael Viscount, chairman, ACEA. “The Aerospace Innovation Center is set to become a beacon for pioneering aerospace advancements and will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this industry.”

NJEDA Chief Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello said the AIC will create new and exciting opportunities both for students and entrepreneurs in Atlantic County and across South Jersey.

“The AIC’s unique proximity to the Atlantic City International Airport and other aerospace industry leaders will unlock opportunities for innovators to pursue their research, testing, and development of aerospace technologies,” said Coviello.