TRENTON, NJ – Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill has appointed Evan Weiss as Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, selecting a veteran economic strategist with a history of public and private sector collaboration to drive the state’s growth agenda.
Weiss, who most recently served as President and CEO of the Newark Alliance, will work alongside Sherrill and Lieutenant Governor-elect Dale Caldwell to expand access to capital for small and minority-owned businesses, promote innovation, and strengthen affordability for families and entrepreneurs across the state.
“New Jersey is the best place to live, work, and raise a family – but right now the American dream is unaffordable in our state,” Sherrill said. “Evan Weiss knows how to bring together government, industry, and communities to create opportunity and drive down costs. His leadership will ensure the NJEDA continues to be a strong partner to businesses and families alike.”
Caldwell praised the appointment, calling Weiss “exactly the type of leader we need” to help steer the state through upcoming economic opportunities tied to major events such as the 2026 World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Weiss brings extensive experience in economic development and fiscal management. As a senior advisor for finance and major projects under Governor Phil Murphy, he oversaw more than $10 billion in federal stimulus funding, deploying capital toward renewable energy, housing, transit, and infrastructure priorities, including the Gateway Project.
In his statement, Weiss said he was honored to take on the role and emphasized his focus on growing investment and ensuring economic opportunity reaches every corner of the state.
A graduate of the University of Chicago, Weiss also serves on the boards of NJ Transit, New Jersey City University, and New Jersey Community Capital.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill appointed veteran economic strategist Evan Weiss as CEO of the NJEDA, tasking him with leading New Jersey’s next phase of growth and innovation.