New Jersey was the first state in the country to fund human embryonic stem cell research. The state awarded $5 million in research grants to 17 research teams in November 2005, including hESCR proposals. This was followed in June 2007 by awards totaling $10,470,000 for 16 individual research projects and 2 larger core facilities projects. Its program is multifaceted and administered by the New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology's Stem Cell Research Program (the Commission). The Commission on Science and Technology will begin accepting proposals in January of 2008 for the $10.7 million Stem Cell Research Program in fiscal year 2008.
New Jersey has also approved the expenditure of $150 million for the construction of the Stem Cell Institute of New Jersey at a cost of $150 million, which will be administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. The Stem Cell Institute of New Jersey was created by a memorandum of understanding between Rutgers University and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in response to the state's need and desire to make significant advancements in stem cell research. The Institute will provide the facilities, equipment and resources for research that will result in cures for devastating diseases and injuries.