The New Jersey House of Representatives convened on October 21, 2024, for a meeting focused on Assembly Science, Innovation, and Technology. The session highlighted the significant contributions of the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) to the state's research and development landscape.

The meeting began with an overview of the Research with New Jersey platform, which currently features 5,200 researcher profiles, 331 outputs, and 630 research centers. This platform serves as a model for showcasing the impact of investments in science and technology, drawing parallels to similar initiatives by the National Science Foundation.

A key discussion point was the collaboration between CSIT and the New Jersey Small Business Development Centers (SBDC). This partnership aims to assist entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of federal SBIR/STTR grants. Recent SBDC sessions have attracted over 100 attendees, demonstrating a strong interest in federal funding opportunities.

CSIT reported positive economic outcomes from its programs, noting that companies supported through its funding have created 558 new jobs and raised nearly $99 million in additional funding after receiving $6.4 million in grants. The total tax revenue generated from these companies amounted to $6.8 million, surpassing the initial investment.

The committee was informed that CSIT has made over 400 awards totaling close to $20 million since its reestablishment in 2020. The organization has adapted its programs based on feedback and has focused on leveraging federal funding opportunities, particularly in response to the CHIPS and Infrastructure Act.

The meeting also featured testimony from Steve Parent, co-founder of Copara Bioscience, a biotech startup focused on developing treatments for life-threatening fungal infections. Parent emphasized the critical role of CSIT and NIH funding in supporting their research and development efforts.

As the meeting concluded, committee members were encouraged to consider the leveraging potential of CSIT's funding in future budget allocations, underscoring the importance of continued support for innovation and economic growth in New Jersey.