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Sean Sepsey, Economic Director of Salem County, has been in his role for only a short time but is already making a significant impact. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with Sean on several occasions about various topics. He prioritizes important conversations, shares resources, and actively facilitates networking to achieve great outcomes for Salem County.

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Sean Sepsey brings to his role as Economic Director over 14 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the South Jersey Economic Development District, an advisor to the NJ Delaware Bayshore Council, a liaison to the Salem City BDA Steering Committee, and is a member of the Salem County Chamber of Commerce Government Relations and Economic Development Committee. Sean also serves as an elected board member for Clearview Regional High School District and holds a B.S. in Business Management from Rowan University.

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Sean has an admiration for Salem County that motivates him to dedicate himself to creating a thriving economic future for our county. He explained that one of his favorite things about our community is “Salem County’s history in manufacturing and agriculture. In Trenton, there’s a sign that says “Trenton Makes, The World Takes” – the same can be said about Salem County. Our county has a long history of producing goods and exporting around the country and world. On a recent family trip to West Virginia, we stopped in a small country store in the middle of nowhere. We purchased a candle and noticed on the bottom of the candle it proudly stated, “Made in Elmer, NJ.” There’s just something rewarding to know that products people purchase or food that people eat was produced right here in Salem County.”

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While there is much to admire about our county, Sean remains pragmatic and objective in identifying areas for growth, noting, “One thing I would like to change is that Salem County doesn’t have access to most of our waterfront along the Delaware River (The State of Delaware owns up to the shoreline due to a grant issued from King Charles II in 1681). If we had access to our waterfront, it could open many economic opportunities along our coastal communities. While this is something I would love to change, a case as been brough to the Supreme Court twice and in both instances the court has sided with Delaware. In my opinion, it would take a Governor who made it their mission to negotiate with the state of Delaware, and even then, it would be an uphill battle.”

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Sean continues to develop strategies to spread the word that Salem County is a place where new businesses are not only welcomed—they’re actively supported from the ground up. Through the Salem County Department of Economic Development, entrepreneurs and investors gain access to a wide range of services designed to simplify the start-up process, foster growth and create lasting success.

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At the core of Salem County’s business-friendly approach is personalized guidance. Whether you’re opening a small retail shop in one of our downtown shopping districts, launching a new farm-based enterprise or expanding your manufacturing operation into one of the county’s industrial sites, the Economic Development Office provides one-on-one assistance tailored to your goals. This begins with site selection support, helping businesses find the right location based on zoning, infrastructure, access to transportation and workforce availability.

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The Salem County Economic Development office also serves as a liaison to local municipalities, streamlining communication between business owners and local officials. From permitting and licensing to navigating land use approvals, the office ensures a smoother process, reducing red tape and helping entrepreneurs avoid costly delays.

To help new and growing businesses access funding, the office connects applicants to local, state and federal financing programs, including grants, low-interest loans, and tax incentives. Businesses may also benefit from guidance on accessing workforce training funds and employment subsidies through partnerships with agencies like the Cumberland - Salem - Cape May Workforce Development Board.

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For those in agriculture, manufacturing and logistics, Salem County’s strategic location—with direct access to Route i295, the Delaware Memorial Bridge and nearby port and rail networks—makes it an ideal place to grow. Combined with low overhead costs and a close-knit, supportive community, it’s no surprise that more entrepreneurs are choosing Salem to launch and expand.

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In addition, Salem County Economic Development is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through strategic and community-focused initiatives. From securing funding for the county’s SCOOT micro-transit service to improve local mobility, to investing in county park upgrades that expand recreational access, the county is actively working to create a more livable and connected community. Efforts also include developing bike path networks that link key commerce sectors and promote tourism, further supporting economic vitality and healthier lifestyles.

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The Salem County Economic Development office is dedicated to supporting local businesses, fostering sustainable growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our residents. Through collaboration and by making investments in infrastructure and services, we are here to help our communities thrive, today and into the future.

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By investing in infrastructure, supporting businesses, and fostering sustainable progress, Salem County is building a future where communities don’t just survive, they thrive. Do you want to know what the Salem County Economic Development team can do for your business?  Contact them today to learn how they can help your business grow.

 

Contact Information:

Sean Sepsey 

Director of Economic Development 

Salem County

174 East Broadway 

Salem, NJ

(856) 935-7510 x 8385

Email: sean.sepsey@salemcountynj.gov

Website: https://choosesalem.com

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