TRENTON, NJ — November 8, 2026 — New Jersey is expanding opportunities for young people to gain paid work experience, announcing a $9 million investment in a statewide summer employment program that will now accept participants as young as 14.
The Summer Youth Work Experience Program (SYWEP), administered by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, will serve residents ages 14 to 24, including students and young adults who are no longer attending school.
The investment represents a $1 million increase from last year’s funding and is part of Governor Mikie Sherrill’s first state budget.
Young People Can Earn Up to $3,400
Participants will have the opportunity to complete between 160 and 200 hours of paid work experience with local employers, receiving stipends of up to $3,400.
The program also offers job readiness training in financial literacy, résumé writing, entrepreneurship, workplace communication, and other professional skills.
Depending on individual circumstances, participants may also receive support with transportation, childcare, and disability accommodations.
Expanded Opportunities for Younger Teenagers
One of the most significant changes is the reduction of the minimum participation age from 16 to 14.
The state is also expanding partnerships with organizations serving communities affected by violence, with special attention to young people who face barriers to employment.
Priority enrollment will be given to eligible youth receiving SNAP or TANF benefits.
Since the program began in 2019, it has served 11,779 young people, partnered with more than 500 worksites, and invested over $39 million in youth employment opportunities across New Jersey.
Upcoming Application Deadlines
The state has announced several deadlines for municipalities, workforce development boards, and eligible organizations seeking program funding.
An information session for potential community partners is scheduled for November 23.
Letters of intent are due December 7, followed by a mandatory technical assistance workshop on December 8. Completed grant applications must be submitted by December 21.
These deadlines apply to organizations seeking funding, not to individual young people interested in summer jobs.
The expanded program is intended to help young residents build professional experience, earn income, and explore potential career paths while strengthening community partnerships throughout New Jersey.
Sources: New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, November 5, 2026; WRNJ Radio, November 7, 2026.
By NJ RADAR Team