New Jersey’s Liberty Science Center Wins World Economic Forum 2025 Public-Private Collaboration Honor
October 23, 2025, JERSEY CITY, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The World Economic Forum (WEF) has awarded its prestigious 2025 Public-Private Collaboration Award to the Healthcare Innovation Engine, a flagship initiative of SciTech Scity, Liberty Science Center’s 30-acre innovation campus currently under development in Jersey City.
The award was presented on October 21 in San Francisco’s storied City Hall at WEF’s Annual Urban Transformation Summit. The event convened over 300 participants from 25+ countries focused on sustainable redevelopment, mobility transformation, innovation ecosystems, nature-positive infrastructure, technology governance, and more.
“We award cities that show what’s possible when public purpose, private innovation, and community vision work as one,” noted Vivian Brady-Phillips, WEF’s Head of Strategic Initiatives for Urban Transformation, at the event. “Each of these cities faced a profound challenge, and in every case this challenge became a catalyst for collaboration. Their journeys did not begin with technologies or a top-down solution. Instead, they were forged with sheer commitment rooted in trust, transparency, and inclusion. Their achievements remind us that this is how cities truly transform – not through isolated breakthroughs but through purpose-led collaboration.”
“For more than thirty years, Liberty Science Center has stood as a proud symbol of New Jersey’s pioneering legacy in science and innovation. Its work through SciTech Scity’s Healthcare Innovation Engine embodies the innovative spirit of our state, and this recognition by the World Economic Forum is a testament to its importance in promoting science innovation,” said NJ Governor Phil Murphy. “The Healthcare Innovation Engine team is doing a tremendous job bringing together cross-sector partners, using science and technology to advance healthcare access for our residents.”
SciTech Scity’s Healthcare Innovation Engine was the only entity based in the United States to be recognized this year for convening world-leading public-private collaborations. “We created SciTech Scity to position Jersey City at the forefront of innovation, and this recognition from the World Economic Forum affirms that vision. Being the only U.S.-based recipient highlights not just the strength of our partnerships, but also the global relevance of the work being done right here in Jersey City to expand access to equitable healthcare through technology and collaboration,” said Mayor Steven M. Fulop, City of Jersey City.
“We are inspired by what the Engine is building: pilots that address chronic disease, maternal health, and post-hospital care,” said Sarah Adelman, New Jersey Department of Human Services Commissioner. “These are not theoretical models. They are real solutions making a real difference. They demonstrate what’s possible when government, science, and industry align around a shared purpose.”
“New Jersey has always been a place of firsts – of discovery, invention, and progress. The Healthcare Innovation Engine continues that legacy, proving that when we center people and partnerships, innovation can truly serve the public good,” she added.
The Healthcare Innovation Engine is the first statewide initiative for digital health adoption in the United States, bringing together public, private, and academic stakeholders to accelerate the use of innovative, digital-first approaches to healthcare, particularly in underserved communities. Its members include RWJBarnabas Health, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, EY, Bristol Myers Squibb, Nokia Bell Labs, Tech Council Ventures, Princeton University, New Jersey Innovation Institute, New Jersey Departments of Health and Human Services, Sheba Medical Center (Israel), and Jersey City Department of Health and Human Services.
Operating as a multi-stakeholder ecosystem, the Engine supports healthcare startups and clinical and operational pilots, and connects innovators with healthcare providers, payers, and policymakers. Its goal is to advance digital health solutions that improve patient outcomes, reduce hospitalizations, and promote health equity across New Jersey.
Since its launch in 2024, the Engine has initiated two patient pilots. They are:
- A 50-patient program with BioBeat, the first FDA-approved cuffless blood pressure patch. The patch, developed by the Israeli company of the same name, is worn on the chest for 24 hours and transmits comprehensive blood pressure data to physicians via a smartphone app, allowing clinicians to respond proactively and potentially prevent complications.
- An initiative with Dimer Health, a New Jersey-based startup providing daily remote support for uninsured patients discharged from Jersey City Medical Center’s emergency room. By delivering consistent follow-up, guidance, and early intervention, the program aims to reduce preventable readmissions and improve patient outcomes for high-risk populations.
Future pilots are planned in adolescent mental health, opioid addiction, oncology, cardiology, and maternal health, further expanding the Engine’s impact.
“This recognition by the World Economic Forum highlights the power of collaboration between public institutions, healthcare providers, and innovative startups,” said Paul Hoffman, President and CEO of Liberty Science Center. “The Healthcare Innovation Engine is demonstrating how technology and partnership can transform healthcare delivery for communities that need it most.”
Alex Richter, Executive Director and Head of SciTech Scity Innovation Hub, added: “Our approach goes beyond technology. It’s about building an ecosystem where innovators, clinicians, and policymakers work together to scale solutions that are both effective and equitable. This award reflects the real-world impact our Engine is already having on patients in New Jersey.”
“There’s a myriad of opportunities ahead—from expanding the scope of industries and challenges we tackle, to deepening our regional collaboration with neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania, to continuously improving how we bring the most effective technologies to patients,” Richter added. “We’re excited for what’s next, and 2026 promises to be a year of major growth and impact.”
To explore opportunities for collaboration, interested parties should reach out to arichter@lsc.org.
The award comes as Liberty Science Center continues to advance construction on SciTech Scity, a $440 million regional innovation campus designed to bring together scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, and students to solve society’s biggest challenges, from healthcare deficiencies to climate change, with the goal of creating a better future for all people. Anchors of the campus include:
- Liberty Science Center High School, a public countywide STEM magnet academy for grades 9–12, designed to treat being a scientist as a vocation. The school will focus on programs in Earth (Sustainable Engineering and Climate Science), Life (Biological Sciences), and Space (Astrophysics), serving 400 students starting in 2027.
- Edge Works, an eight-story business creation center that will house startups and provide resources for entrepreneurs developing science and technology solutions for public good.
- Scholars Village, residential housing for tech-forward families and individuals, aimed at fostering a vibrant innovation community.
- Public Commons, a three-acre space for community programming and engagement, connecting local residents with SciTech Scity’s mission and resources.
ABOUT THE SCITECH HEALTHCARE INNOVATION ENGINE
The SciTech Healthcare Innovation Engine, launched in February 2024, is a first-of-its-kind public-private partnership dedicated to transforming healthcare by accelerating the adoption, reimbursement, and scaling of digital-first care solutions. Unlike traditional innovation hubs, the Engine ensures that cutting-edge technologies move beyond pilots to full clinical integration, providing a structured, real-world pathway to improve patient outcomes. By bringing together health systems, payers, policymakers, and innovators from day one, the Engine eliminates silos that typically slow healthcare adoption. At its core, the Engine is focused on helping the people of New Jersey—particularly the communities that need it most. By prioritizing vulnerable and underserved populations, the Engine is ensuring that digital health innovations expand access to care, reduce disparities, and create more equitable healthcare solutions. This effort is made possible through a multistakeholder coalition including RWJBarnabas Health, Bristol Myers Squibb, EY, Nokia Bell Labs, Princeton University, New Jersey Innovation Institute, Israel’s Sheba Medical Center, and key government agencies such as the NJ Economic Development Authority, NJ Department of Health, NJ Department of Human Services, and Jersey City Department of Health and Human Services. Through this unique collaboration, the Engine is positioning New Jersey as the nation’s testbed for scaling digital-first care, creating scalable, evidence-based models that can be replicated nationwide to improve healthcare access, quality, and affordability—ensuring that all patients, regardless of income or background, receive the care they deserve.
ABOUT SCITECH SCITY
Liberty Science Center is developing a “Science City of Tomorrow” in Jersey City—a 30-acre innovation campus devoted to using science and technology to address humanity’s greatest challenges, from healthcare deficiencies to climate change, and create a better future for all of us. The new campus, including the existing Liberty Science Center, home of the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, will be officially named the Frank J. Guarini Innovation Campus and start to open in 2026. SciTech Scity will include $450 million of new construction: Liberty Science Center High School, a new public magnet STEM high school built by the Hudson County Improvement Authority and operated by the Hudson County Schools of Technology; Edge Works, an eight-story business creation center with laboratories, R&D spaces, office suites, co-working spaces, a tech exhibition gallery, and a state-of-the-art conference center; Scholars Village residential housing built and operated by Alpine Residential for tech-forward individuals and families; and Public Commons, three acres of community outdoor space for art installations, food trucks, performances, farmers markets, science festivals, and maker fairs. Learn more at SciTechScity.com.
ABOUT LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER
Liberty Science Center (LSC.org) is a 300,000-square-foot, not-for-profit learning center located in Liberty State Park on the Jersey City bank of the Hudson near the Statue of Liberty. Dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers and bringing the power, promise, and pure fun of science and technology to learners of all ages, Liberty Science Center houses the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, 11 museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, giant aquariums, a 3D theater, live simulcast surgeries, a tornado-force wind simulator, K-12 classrooms and labs, and teacher-development programs. More than 280,000 students visit the Science Center each year, and tens of thousands more participate in the Center’s off-site and online programs. Welcoming more than 800,000 visitors annually, LSC is the largest cultural institution in New Jersey and the largest interactive science center in the NYC-NJ metropolitan area.
Contacts
Media Contact
Mary Meluso, mmeluso@lsc.org
Tech Council Ventures Proud to Mentor the Next Wave at Endless Frontier Labs
Tech Council Ventures’ Steve Socolof and Mark Kolb are mentors at NYU Stern’s Endless Frontier Labs.
Endless Frontier Labs Mentors are successful entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, and scientific technical experts. EFL Mentors work hand in hand with founders over the course of the nine month program. Mentors provide customized advice on go to market strategies, product strategy, technology development, fundraising strategy, and other aspects related to scaling your business. Mentors also provide industry and investor connections.
Learn more at https://endlessfrontierlabs.com
Venture Forward spotlights Tech Council Ventures' Jossy R. Harrington for Hispanic Heritage Month
Tech Council Ventures is proud to see Jossy R. Harrington highlighted by Venture Forward. Jossy’s path—from first-generation professional with no built-in networks to emerging leader—embodies why inclusion in venture matters: it broadens access, perspectives, and outcomes. Tech Council Ventures is grateful to have her on the team.
Read the article spotlighting Jossy below.
By: Maryam Haque, Executive Director, Venture Forward
This is part of a five-part series highlighting Hispanic Heritage Month.
What problem or gap in VC are you focused on solving with your investing?
I’m focused on increasing representation in venture capital, both at the decision-making table and in who receives funding. Through my work with VC Unleashed, I prioritize bringing more women and minority investors into the industry and creating pathways for underrepresented talent to thrive. I believe prioritizing representation not only drives equity but also unlocks meaningful market opportunities and stronger returns.
In my current role at Tech Council Ventures, I focus on fintech. Coming from a fintech background, I also look for opportunities to democratize investing. My experience has highlighted the lack of access for underrepresented investors who don’t meet traditional capital requirements or lack the education to participate in funds. I aspire to support companies building innovative mechanisms—such as securitization structures or financial platforms—that make alternative investing more accessible. I’m also interested in solutions that embed financial literacy, ensuring responsible investing and empowering more people with lasting financial knowledge.
One practical tip for someone one step behind you (raising, sourcing, or breaking in)
Seek out programs and communities that give you both skills and relationships. Venture Forward was transformative for me—I gained technical skills, access to leaders in the field, and my incredible mentor Jeremy Liew through the program. Communities like VC Unleashed (shout out to Tanvi Lai, Michelle Dhansinghani Limón, and Ana Bonamassa!) have also been invaluable for finding professionals on the same journey and building lasting networks of support.
A recent “small win” you’re proud of (public/shareable)
I recently helped lead diligence on an early-stage startup that received strong interest from one of our Japanese partners. What’s been most rewarding is seeing how the relationships I’ve built allow me to introduce founders to potential customers, even before they’re in our portfolio. Watching startups get that kind of access during diligence has been incredible, and it reinforces why relationship-building is one of the most powerful parts of this job.
Who opened a door for you—and how do you pay it forward today?
Having other Latina women pave the way can be life-changing. For me, that was Ashley Ryder. I would see her on panels and tell myself, I want to follow in her footsteps. Later, my current bosses, Jim Gunton and Steve Socolof, opened another pivotal door by giving me my MBA summer internship, an opportunity that led directly to my first full-time role as a VC investor. I’ve also been fortunate to have the guidance of my Toigo coach, Kristy Posocco, who has supported me throughout my journey.
It truly takes a village! As a first-generation professional, I started out with no networks, so leaning into community was essential. Programs like Venture Forward and Toigo, and communities like VC Unleashed, gave me the support system to grow in this industry. Today, I pay it forward by mentoring students, making introductions, and sharing my journey with underrepresented talent to help open doors for the next generation.
One resource you recommend
VC Unleashed — a nonprofit I co-lead that’s dedicated to increasing minority investors in venture capital; it’s built a nationwide community that provides mentorship, education, and real opportunities for those breaking into the industry. I also want to shout out Colectivo NYC and VC Familia, two communities truly helping the Latinx community in VC grow.
About Jossy
Jossy R. Harrington graduated from the Wharton School and is a proud graduate of Rutgers University, where she earned a B.A. in Economics. She is driven by a strong interest in venture capital and the alternative investments market, and her career spans impactful roles across top financial institutions, high-growth VC-backed fintech startups, and a mission to support entrepreneurs in overlooked markets.
Currently, Jossy focuses on fintech investments at Tech Council Ventures. Previously, at Addepar—a Forbes Fintech 50 company and leader in investment management software—she led Compliance and Operations, contributing to the launch of Marketplace, a secondary market platform for private investments. Before that, she spent six years at J.P. Morgan Private Banking, advising ultra-high-net-worth clients and leading marketing efforts for private market securities.
Named an emerging leader by Forbes Ecuador, Jossy brings a mission-driven approach to investing, with a particular interest in backing founders based in New Jersey and those building in emerging tech sectors—entrepreneurs who represent the next wave of market leaders.
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BioNJ Announces Strategic Collaboration with Tech Council Ventures to Boost Life Sciences Innovation
BioNJ Announces Strategic Collaboration with Tech Council Ventures to Boost Life Sciences Innovation
Trenton, NJ – July 9, 2024– BioNJ, the membership trade association dedicated to fostering the life sciences ecosystem in New Jersey, is excited to announce a strategic collaboration with Tech Council Ventures. This collaboration aims to accelerate and facilitate life sciences deals, leveraging the strengths and connections of the BioNJ community and ecosystem members.
Founded in 2000 and based in Summit, New Jersey, Tech Council Ventures is a renowned venture capital firm that invests in early-stage, high-growth technology companies within the Mid-Atlantic region. Tech Council Ventures’ portfolio companies benefit from the Fund’s collaboration with one of the nation’s largest and most active technology councils, providing valuable introductions to customers, recruits, resellers, distributors, board directors, investors and quality service providers.
Through this collaboration, BioNJ and Tech Council Ventures will work together to support and drive innovation in the life sciences sector, including digital health, biotech, medical devices and therapeutics companies. By combining BioNJ’s deep-rooted network and commitment to patient access with Tech Council Ventures’ investment expertise, the collaboration will create robust opportunities for early-stage companies to thrive and expand in New Jersey.
“We are thrilled to join forces with Tech Council Ventures,” said Debbie Hart, President and CEO of BioNJ. “This collaboration will enable us to further our mission of building a dynamic life sciences ecosystem in New Jersey, ensuring that innovation flourishes and patients gain access to groundbreaking advancements.”
“Partnering with BioNJ aligns perfectly with our mission to invest in and support the most promising early-stage companies in the life sciences sector,” said Jim Gunton, Managing Partner at Tech Council Ventures. “This collaboration will provide unparalleled opportunities for innovative companies to grow and succeed, benefiting from the combined strengths of our organizations.” 1
Media Contact:
Randi Bromberg
Sr. Vice President, Communications & Marketing
RBromberg@BioNJ.org
609-890-3158 (O)
609-955-1067 (C)
About BioNJ: www.BioNJ.org
BioNJ is the life sciences trade association for New Jersey, representing nearly 400 research-based life sciences organizations across the healthcare ecosystem from the largest biopharmaceutical companies to early-stage start-ups for more than 30 years. Because Patients Can’t Wait®, BioNJ is dedicated to ensuring a vibrant ecosystem where Science is Supported, Companies are Created, Drugs are Developed and Patients Have Access to Lifesaving Medicines.
Recognized as a respected thought leader, an influential advocate and as a sought-after convener of the life sciences industry, BioNJ works directly with legislative leaders in both Trenton and Washington D.C. to advance the life sciences industry, foster medical innovation and ensure health equity and healthcare affordability. With innovation as the driving force behind medical breakthroughs, BioNJ’s mission is to help our Members help Patients by providing transformative resources, including access to government and industry leaders, capital and State incentives, timely educational programs, skilled talent and a value-driven purchasing program.
BioNJ is inspired by and privileged to work with those committed to improving the lives of Patients and their families around the world.
About Tech Council Ventures: www.TechCouncilVentures.com
Tech Council Ventures invests in the most promising early-stage, rapid-growth technology companies in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Fund typically initially invests $500,000 to $3M, with up to $4-5M to support the company’s growth. The general partners are active investors, typically (but not always) a Board Director and lead investor.
1 BioNJ is not making any investment decisions or making or recommending any investment decisions on behalf of Tech Council Ventures or any of its affiliated entities or other investors. You should seek the advice of independent legal, tax and financial advisors concerning any offers, contracts or other matters of concern relating to any investment opportunity.
Pitching for Funding, Princeton Faculty Showcase their Discoveries to Investors
In classic “old school” classrooms, Princeton University faculty members and fellow researchers presented their discoveries to more than two dozen venture capitalists.
The presentations, on April 18th, gave the venture capitalists visions of products and services that within a few years or decades could propel spacecraft, fight cancer, clean up the environment and even help aging dogs. Invited investors were selected on their ability to lead a pre-seed to Series A round of funding, and because they have experience licensing from academic institutions.
The presenters hoped their presentations would lead to further discussions, that might eventually result in investments into startup companies that would have an impact on the world. To make the event valuable to investors, presenters either had a startup already formed or were in active consideration of doing so. The innovations were all based on intellectual property owned by Princeton University and disclosed to the Office of Technology Licensing.
Seated in desks with curved wooden writing tops, the venture capitalists heard 16 faculty members present their innovations in two rooms of McCosh Hall. Faculty members presented their innovations in fields ranging from engineering and fusion energy to computer science and life sciences.
Professor Yibin Kang’s research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of breast cancer metastasis.
The pitch sessions for invited faculty and VC representatives were held in conjunction with the Tiger Entrepreneurs Conference, in which the brought together Princeton’s growing entrepreneurial community of alumni, undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and guests.
“It’s inspiring to see Princeton promote its faculty’s research,” said Jim Gunton, managing partner and founder of Tech Council Ventures. “The University is doing a terrific job helping them find ways to launch start-up companies that contribute to the state’s economic development. Today’s presentations are further proof of that commitment.”
“I have been waiting for such an event, and the opportunity to meet with local investors,” said Fatima Ebrahimi, a principal research physicist at the (PPPL) Theory Department and an affiliated research scholar at Princeton’s department of .
“It was great to present my Magnetic Reconnection Drive (MRD) plasma-propulsion invention,” Ebrahimi said, who described a system designed for spacecraft travel. “There was promising interest in this technology and in the potential market opportunities. It was important to connect with these investors and to start building partnerships to develop a full-scale prototype. It was also exciting to meet other entrepreneurs from across the campus, and to learn about their paths.”
Peter Jaffé, the William L. Knapp ’47 Professor of Civil Engineering and professor of , and José Avalos, associate professor of and the , each gave sessions that featured their research into ways to rid toxic from soil and water.
“It was the first time I did something like this, so it was a great learning experience for me,” Avalos said. “I made four or five interesting connections and I hope they materialize into more detailed conversations in the future. Time will tell. I also enjoyed hearing about the ideas of my colleagues on campus. I hope Princeton does this regularly.”
John Ritter, executive director of the at Princeton, said: “We hope and expect that this will become a regular event. The frequency will depend on the faculty, and whether they want to start companies.”
Joshua Rabinowitz, director of the and a professor in Princeton’s and the , explained cellular metabolism research he has developed, and which has been the basis for two spinout ventures. The work he showcased has the potential to fight cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Justin Silpe, a postdoctoral researcher in the lab of Bonnie Bassler, the Squibb Professor in , discussed technology they are developing to extend the shelf life of breast milk. In their case they also included an experienced co-founder who has taken the CEO role of the startup. The nutritional value of breast milk deteriorates quite quickly when frozen, which has an impact on it becoming rancid, and no longer being viable.
Professor of astrophysical science, head of the Theory Department of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, and director of the , Amitava Bhattarcharjee, described how investments will help the company he co-founded, , bring fusion energy to the power grid in a decade or so.
Professor Cameron Myhrvold is a leading authority on CRISPR-based technologies for studying viral and cellular RNA.
Cameron Myhrvold, assistant professor of molecular biology, explained how the gene-editing techniques that he is developing could form an alternative to surgery for dogs suffering from hip dysplasia and many other problems that purebred dogs often suffer.
The presentations impressed the venture capitalists who attended the sessions and later attended a dinner hosted by Craig Arnold, the University’s vice dean for innovation and the Susan Dod Brown Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
“As scholars at a place like Princeton, we’re constantly talking about how to translate our ideas into impact”, Arnold said. “The faculty members we heard from today are actively doing that – moving their innovations to impact. They serve as excellent resources for our entire Princeton community.”
Thanking the venture capitalists for coming to campus, he described Princeton’s involvement in the innovation ecosystem as building bridges across campus and beyond and breaking down barriers to ensure research discoveries flourish for the betterment of society.
Harry Won, life science associate at Osage University Partners in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, said it was exciting to learn about so many research developments in their early stages. “This is like a window into the future that could be,” Won said. “You push the boundaries of human knowledge a little bit at a time.”
(Photos from Sameer Khan – Photobuddy. Article by Daniel Day, for Princeton Research)
2024 NJFC Trade Relations Conference
On April 9, 2024, Tech Council Ventures had the privilege of attending the New Jersey Food Council Trade Relations Conference, and what an enlightening experience it was! Jim Gunton was joined by fellow impressive panel speakers Gonca Esendemir and Dr. Juan Salinas, moderated by the remarkable Lawrence Inserra III, PriceRite Supermarkets, titled “Entrepreneur’s Perspective – Breaking into the Food Industry.”
During the panel, the speakers shed light on entrepreneurs’ hurdles when entering the competitive food world. From securing funding to mastering distribution channels, all articulated the multifaceted nature of building a successful venture. What truly resonated was the unwavering passion and determination, reminding us all that with perseverance, anything is possible.
Jim emphasized the importance of staying adaptable and constantly learning from experiences.
The Fireside Chat featuring Mike Stigers, president and COO of Wakefern Food Corp., and Andrew Kent, executive vice president of Glass Gardens ShopRites, left attendees thoroughly inspired and garnered enthusiastic acclaim.
Thank you to Linda Doherty and the amazing NJFC team for an outstanding event!
We eagerly anticipate applying these newfound insights to our endeavors and look forward to future collaborations within the vibrant food community.
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