Any nonprofit corporation, organization or association which is engaged in economic development programs to expand, locate or relocate industry and improve commerce or trade in its area of responsibility may make application to the commissioner for a grant in accordance with the provisions of this act. Upon a determination of eligibility of said nonprofit corporation, organization or association by the commissioner, the commissioner may make a grant to said applicant for the purposes specified in this act. The commissioner may reject an application which substantially duplicates or overlaps another economic development program for the county, municipality or region and recommend a joint application and undertaking if appropriate.
N.J.S. § 13:16-4