The NJPRO Foundation

Why Get Involved

There is a current shortage of accessible, relevant and reliable research of interest to and from the perspective of the business community. Vast quantities of data regarding businesses exist but have not been packaged for consumption by policy makers and the general public. Important public policy decisions are often based on faulty or unchallenged data or information.

NJPRO is the only research organization committed to New Jersey businesses, producing research on their behalf and improving the State’s business climate. NJPRO has conducted quality research to build support and understanding for a variety of significant issues of immediate concern to the business community. NJPRO communicates with businesses, institutions of education, the media, government and the general population to improve the formulation, adoption and implementation of pro-business public policy.

Our Vision

In many important issue debates, the business community is placed in a reactive role, trying to stop, slow down or modify “destructive” policy proposals. We often must fight on the policy terrain selected by our opponents. The fundamental goal of NJPRO will be to alter and level the policy platform on which forms the “factual” basis for decision-making. This is an extremely cost effective opportunity to add an important information tool that will help the business community in its struggle to shape the public policy development process in Trenton. We have an opportunity to ratchet up the visibility, credibility and influence of NJPRO to have a meaningful public policy impact in areas such as economic development, taxation, workplace regulations, workforce development and other business issues.

Our Objectives

To improve non-partisan public policy in the State of New Jersey.
To become a primary source of business information and research.
To create a more business-friendly environment in the State of New Jersey.
To counter and challenge the anti-business initiatives and perspectives in Trenton.
To sponsor and support non-partisan public policy research in New Jersey through both public and private public policy research institutes, universities, colleges, not for profit, non-profits or other trade groups and individual researchers in New Jersey.
To make the results of such research widely available, on a non-partisan basis, to policy makers, educators and others involved in research, education and development of public policy.
To support research internship opportunities for students of public policy at institutions of higher education in New Jersey.
To undertake any other actions necessary and proper to accomplish the above, so long as such activities are consistent with status as a charitable educational and research organization pursuant to Section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Our Structure and Background

The NJPRO Foundation is affiliated with the Commerce & Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ). They provide in kind contributions to the Foundation, including staff, office space, record keeping and logistical support. In addition, NJPRO maintains a separation between research and lobby activities, to maintain NJPRO’s nonprofit status.

NJPRO, through its Board, its staff members, and its connection to CIANJ resources, will:

identify the data and research needs required to define the discussion on emerging issues that may significantly affect New Jersey businesses
produce reports and data to help shape public policy
communicate the pro-business perspective
fundraise to accomplish the above

NJPRO has produced:

New Jersey State Stats
Small Business Curriculum for Middle School Use
Sustainability for Business Report
Economic Growth Recommendations
Building Bridges Between Academia and Business
Building Bridges II
Facts For Discussion

What We Expect from Our Board of Trustees

NJPRO’s Board of Trustees is expected to:

Contribute or raise at least $2,500 for the Foundation
Attend meetings as scheduled
Stay in contact through email