Center for Economic and Workforce Development, Social Entrepreneurship & Innovation

The Center for Economic and Workforce Development, Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation (Kean EDA University Center) at Kean University is proudly designated as a United States Economic Development Administration (USEDA) University Center. 

Awarded in late 2021, this distinction recognizes Kean University as a statewide leader in the development of vibrant and resilient economic ecosystems, with a unique focus on New Jersey’s urban communities.

The Center will ensure New Jersey’s urban communities have policies, programs, practices and partnerships leading to resilient businesses, living-wage jobs and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Center's creation is the result of several years of organizing mayors across New Jersey to collectively advocate for the funding and collaborative infrastructure needs of their local economies. 

Our Services and Initiatives

The Kean EDA University Center is:

• Establishing a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program in bio-manufacturing at Kean University
• Creating a proof-of-concept data tool for policymakers, business groups and workforce development organizations to quickly see economic and employment conditions and identify opportunities for policy, program and practice change
• Forming the Consortium of Economic Development Administrators, which will help guide the research activities of the Center and receive updates on policies, programs and practices proven to support resilient businesses, living-wage jobs and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem
• Developing a cohort-based business training and certification program for small businesses across the state
• Strengthening relationships among Center collaborators in the understanding of how Kean’s research capabilities support collaborators