[2][3] NJBIA was founded as the Manufacturers Association of the State of New Jersey in January 1910 by a group of 8 mill owners who wanted to share ideas about workplace safety.

In 1911, the association formed the New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Liability Co., with the goal of providing for the medical care of injured workers, as well as giving employers steady rates and incentives to keep their workplaces safe.

In the years following the Great Depression, the association began to focus its efforts on advisory services in addition to advocacy for businesses in government.

[9][10] The association's annual New Good Neighbor Awards recognize industrial development projects, such as office buildings and shopping centers, in New Jersey.

[11] NJBIA's Awards for Excellence, presented since 1984, honor member companies for achievements in four areas; environmental quality, business success, outstanding employer, and public service.