New State ESOP Program Helps New Jersey Business Owners Plan for the Future Through Employee Ownership 

We are pleased to share that the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey successfully hosted its first Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) webinar in partnership with the Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). 

Held virtually earlier this week, the session drew 60 participants, reflecting strong interest among New Jersey business owners in employee ownership and the resources now available through the state. 

The webinar is part of a new statewide effort to help business owners better understand succession planning and explore employee ownership as a strategy to preserve business legacy, strengthen employee engagement, and create long-term financial benefits for both owners and employees. 

Through this initiative, the Chamber will receive $10,000 in grant support, distributed in two installments, to expand outreach, education, and programming around employee ownership models. 

This first webinar represents an important step in the Chamber’s commitment to supporting New Jersey businesses with practical tools and forward-looking strategies. As part of its 2026 programming, the Chamber plans to host a second ESOP webinar later this year, with the potential for an in-person session. 

For the first time, New Jersey business owners can access both expert guidance and financial assistance through the NJEDA’s ESOP Assistance Program, a limited pilot initiative designed to make employee ownership more accessible. 

In partnership with the NJEDA and the Rutgers Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing, this campaign will continue to provide resources and programming to help business owners evaluate whether an ESOP is the right fit.  

To learn more, visit: ownership.rutgers.edu