Mercer County Small Business Grant 2026

Program Introduction

The County of Mercer is pleased to present the launch of the Mercer County Small Business Grant 2026 program.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses experienced prolonged periods of reduced revenue, operational disruption, and changes in traffic patterns. In the years following the emergency, additional infrastructure-related access limitations have impacted certain areas of the County.

In particular, the planned closure and reconstruction of the Clarksville Road (CR 638) Bridge over the Amtrak rail line in West Windsor Township has created ongoing access limitations and traffic diversions affecting nearby commercial activity.  

In recognition of the continued economic strain caused by both the pandemic and the closures of direct access associated with the bridge closure, Mercer County is reopening a targeted small business assistance program. Mercer County has approved an allocation of $150,000.00 in ARPA funds for the implementation of this program. This initiative will provide financial support to businesses located within the immediate area most directly affected by the closure in order to help stabilize operations, maintain economic activity, and support the long-term recovery of the local commercial corridor.

Mercer County remains committed to supporting its small business community and recognizes the critical role these businesses play in the local economy. Through this initiative, the County seeks to provide meaningful relief and ensure the continued vitality of the impacted commercial district.

Application Instructions
1. Confirm your business meets all eligibility requirements.
2. Request and obtain a Letter of Impact from West Windsor Township.
3. Complete and review the grant application and agreement in full.
4. Gather all required supporting documentation (tax returns, WR-30, lease or ownership proof, etc.).
5. Sign all required forms, including the W-9 and certifications.
6. Submit the complete application package via email.

Download the application (HERE) and additional information regarding this program can be found (HERE).

Submission Deadline
Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are expended or until the Application Deadline of June 1, 2026.  Applications should be submitted to MercerCountyGrants@grantworks.net

NJEDA Grant Programs:

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority provides small businesses with a number of different grant programs. These programs include the following:

Main Street Recovery Grant Program:

• Small Business Lease Assistance Grant: A $10 million program that will provide grants to businesses entering new or amended leases with at least five-year terms that include at least 250 square feet of street-level space. This grant funding will offset a portion of annual lease payments for two years. Click here for more information.
• Small Business Improvement Grant: A $15 million program that will provide grants up to $50,000 to reimburse businesses for a portion of costs associated with improvements and/or the purchase or installation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment since March 9, 2020. Click here for more information.
• Small Business E-Commerce Support Program: A $4 million program that provides up to $11,400 to the New Jersey small businesses in the restaurant, retail, and personal care industries that operate from a commercial location. For more information, or to ask a specific question, please send an email to eCommerceSupport@njeda.gov and a team member will contact you.

NJEDA Financing Programs:

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority offers multiple different financing programs. These programs include the following:

• Small Business Fund: Funding is up to $500,000 for this this New Jersey based small business revenue generating program. This program can be used for at least one full year with revenue less than or equal to $3 million; nonprofits in operation for at least 3 full years. For more details on eligibility click here.
• Direct Loans: Funding is up to $2 million dollars in this program based around small business in NJ. New Jersey based small businesses in operation for two years, have been reporting a profit, and are committed to job creation and/or retention in New Jersey may be eligible for direct loans through the NJEDA. For more details on eligibility click here.
• Premier Lender Program: With funding up to $2 million this program partners with banks to ensure that New Jersey businesses and communities have the necessary resources for growth and expansion at their disposal. For more details about eligibility click here.
• Main Street Acquisition Support Grant: With reimbursements up to $50,000 the Main Street Acquisition Support Grant reimburses eligible New Jersey small businesses. These reimbursements can be for closing costs related to purchases of commercial property in New Jersey from which a small business will operate. For more details about eligibility click here.
• Bond Financing: Creditworthy New Jersey manufacturing companies have the opportunity to apply for up to $10 million. New Jersey 501(c)(3) nonprofits and exempt facilities can apply for long-term financing with no cap. For more details click here.

NJEDA Flyers

• NJEDA ECommerce Support Flyer: This flyer includes specific grant information and key contact information for anyone interested in more details or specifics about E-Commerce grants. 
• NJEDA Improvement Grant Flyer: This flyer provides more details about the Improvement grants.
• NJEDA Lease Grant Flyer: This flyer provides more details about the Lease grants.

For a full list of all up-to-date programs, financing options, and incentive opportunities please refer to the NJEDA website here. 

 

Trenton Revitalization Investment Fund (T-RIF):

Capital City Redevelopment Corporation (CCRC)

The Capital City Redevelopment Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of a new, targeted investment framework designed to accelerate redevelopment and economic activity exclusively within Trenton’s Capital District.

Beginning, Monday, January 12, 2026, CCRC is accepting proposals through the Trenton Revitalization Investment Fund (T-RIF)—a strategic initiative to catalyze high-impact redevelopment projects that strengthen downtown Trenton and expand the city’s economic base.

Program Overview

Through T-RIF, up to $1.75 million in total investment capital will be made available to support qualified real estate redevelopment projects located strictly within the Capital District. This program is intended for developers, property owners, and business entities with projects that directly contribute to a more vibrant, active, and economically resilient downtown.

Eligible Projects Must Demonstrate Impact In One or More of the Following Areas:

• Increased residential population within the Capital District
• Activation of street-level activity, particularly through the reuse of currently vacant retail or commercial spaces
• Increased demand for local businesses and services
• Growth of the City of Trenton’s tax base

Projects outside the Capital District are not eligible for consideration.

Investment Parameters

• Minimum required private investment: $200,000
• Maximum CCRC investment per project: $600,000
• Total funds available through T-RIF: Up to $1.75 million

Complete investment framework details and proposal procedures are presented in the document on the CCRC website.

Questions about T-RIF should be submitted by email to  CCRC@treas.nj.gov.