Hopeworks has officially opened its new Newark location. The move marks the next phase of the nonprofit’s expansion into the state’s largest city as it ramps up workforce development programming focused on technology and other high-growth careers.
Located at 550 Broad St., the site is now fully operational. The hub offers young adults technical training, career readiness support and real-world work experience. The programming is designed to connect them with sustainable, living-wage careers.
The Newark expansion builds on Hopeworks‘ established workforce model in Camden and Philadelphia. In the South Jersey region, the organization combines technical instruction, paid work experience and wraparound support services. As NJBIZ previously reported, the move into Newark was supported in part by a $650,000 investment from The Hg Foundation.
The new outpost intends to strengthen career pathways in technology, logistics and healthcare operations while also tapping into Newark’s growing innovation economy.
“Newark represents exactly the kind of opportunity-rich environment where our model has immediate impact,” said Hopeworks CEO Dan Rhoton. “Young adults in this region deserve direct access to the tools, training, and support that lead to real careers.
Newark represents exactly the kind of opportunity-rich environment where our model has immediate impact.
—Dan Rhoton, CEO, Hopeworks
“Now that the space is open, we’re already seeing participants engage with programming that prepares them for jobs that are in demand today — not someday.”
Connecting skills and confidence
A key element of the Newark hub is an expanded partnership with Dell Technologies. The multinational technology company has worked with Hopeworks since 2023 to support AI-focused workforce training in Camden and Philadelphia.
High praise
Philadelphia Fed President and CEO Anna Paulson recently visited Hopeworks in Camden, which she described as “totally impressive.” Read more here.
Dell has equipped the Essex County facility with devices, monitors and workstation technology. The equipment gives participants access to AI-powered career readiness tools, including a generative AI mock interview platform with digital assistants. Users also will engage with AI-enabled learning platforms, digital productivity software for writing and communication, and other technology designed to build workplace skills.
“The future of opportunity depends on access to technology, skills and real pathways into meaningful work,” said Carly Tatum, head of giving & impact at Dell Technologies. “Expanding our partnership with Hopeworks into Newark transforms that belief into action. Newark has extraordinary talent and a strong employer base. We’re here to help connect more young people to the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”
Hopeworks’ goal is to create stronger pipelines into technology and other in-demand careers. The group said it will continue building partnerships with Newark employers and community organizations as programming expands.
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