2026-11-10 CJF Investment Playbook 2025

Markdown copy of 2026-11-10 CJF Investment Playbook 2025.pdf, made 2026-11-10. The original is the authority. The Playbook January 2025

Contents Executive Summary 03 Background 05 Building California’s Economic Engine: Key Sectors and Anchors 08 Uniting for Growth: Aligning State and Regional Economic Goals 12 Cross-Regional Collaboration 17 Catalyzing California’s Future: Leveraging State, Federal & Philanthropic Funds 20 Capital Stacking 25 Empowered Communities: The Heart of California’s Economic Vision 29 Translating Vision into Action 34 A Blueprint for Impact: Regional Readiness 38 The Final Play: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Strategic Investment 64 This Playbook helps align regional economic strategies with California’s broader economic goals outlined in the State Economic Blueprint. View the Blueprint at jobsfirst.ca.gov California Jobs First | The Playbook

Executive Summary “California Jobs First embodies the recognition that California’s diverse regions each have their own challenges and opportunities and, as such, require a tailored approach to economic and workforce development. Through this first-of-its-kind state investment, California is empowering regions with the tools and funding to chart their own futures in a manner that is inclusive and equitable.” Stewart Knox Secretary of the California Labor & Workforce Development Agency 03

Executive Summary This Playbook is intended opportunities, attract outside investors, and assist potential funders in identifying to align regional economic opportunities to back regional projects. strategies with California’s When projects leverage public capital to broader economic goals—as attract additional private capital, they outlined in the California Jobs enhance the project’s likelihood of long- First Economic Blueprint— term success while providing a better return on investment for California taxpayers. to help support regions in The Playbook presents potential investors demonstrating their with visibility into investment priorities that investment readiness. are supported by thousands of community members across California and tied to a California’s economic needs exceed what cohesive statewide vision. the state or regions alone can address. Funding California’s economic future will Guiding public and private resources to take a combination of federal, state, private, investment opportunities with community and and philanthropic capital, underscoring the state support helps regional leaders maximize critical role of the Playbook. The Playbook is public-private and public-public contributions designed to help regions identify collaboration for greater impact. ETAD OT SNIW $286 million 10,000+ deployed across CA collaborators The Playbook 04

Background “This announcement signifies a major step forward in economic development, as regional coalitions have come together across California ready to roll up their sleeves and implement regional economic development strategies that will create more inclusive and vibrant economies built on a foundation of equity.” Dee Dee Myers Director of the Governor’s Office of Business & Economic Development 05

Background The Regional Investment Initiative (RII), substantial funding from the state to develop formerly known as the Community Economic and advance their economic goals. The funding Resilience Fund (CERF), was launched helped form Regional Collaboratives made up by Governor Newsom and the California of a broad set of partners - from historically Legislature in 2021 under the California disinvested communities to stakeholders in Jobs First (CJF) banner. The specific aim traditional economic roles - to craft region- of California Jobs First is to create more specific economic plans.3 good-paying jobs, faster. The California Jobs First Council was established in With more funding on the horizon, the state 2024 to help achieve this goal, bringing has made unprecedented commitments to together nine different state agencies to this bottom-up approach.4 Most recently, the streamline economic, business and workforce state has allocated $120 million to help regions development programs, and award state advance projects in their strategic sectors. funding to Regional Collaboratives with a This historic, ongoing funding from the state strategic view that aligns regional and state is strengthening regions’ investment readiness economic goals.1 by enabling capacity building, planning and implementation, and allowing regions to more California Jobs First is a first-of-its-kind effort efficiently leverage resources with each other to engage communities statewide in developing and state agencies.5 California Jobs First is regionally driven, bottom-up strategies to equipping regions with an expansive suite achieve sustainable, inclusive economic growth of tools for regions to catalyze additional and create good-paying jobs.2 Through the RII investments and drive community-centered planning process, California was mapped into economic growth. 13 distinct geographic regions that received October 2022 May 2023 $65M $39M $182M State Funding for Regions $5 fo M r p p l e a r n r n e i g n i g on Pilo a t c P r r o o s j s e cts to deve $ l 1 o 4 p M vi a p b e l r e r e p g ro io je n c ts that the state advance strategic sectors Total Funding To Date: $286M The Playbook 06

BACKGROUND The creation of California’s thirteen economic regions marks a A strategic, data-driven approach B to advancing resilient economic growth across the state. These regions were identified to maximize C the potential for collaboration, E

Building California’s Economic Engine: Key Sectors and Anchors 08

Building California’s Economic Engine: Key Sectors and Anchors As a part of California Jobs Sectors First, each of the 13 Regional Tradable sectors that can drive economic Collaboratives identified the key growth through the production of goods and services that can be exported beyond activities that could drive their regional borders and are essential for bringing economies into the future. The in revenue and wealth from outside a region to state then developed a unified drive new growth. system to map these activities Regional Anchors into a common language to help Non-tradable, local sectors that are critical for guide policy making, funding attracting and supporting sector and industry decisions, and collaboration. activities. These sectors may also provide quality, family-supporting jobs within local communities. The activities that generate new revenue by bringing money into the region are mapped as “tradable” activities. Others focus on serving local needs—circulating money within the community—and are identified as “non-tradable” or “local.”7 The Playbook 09

BUILDING CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE: KEY SECTORS AND ANCHORS California recognizes that each sector and subsector is unique in its growth potential and job quality. To guide targeted investments, sectors are categorized as follows: Strengthen Strengthen

BUILDING CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE: KEY SECTORS AND ANCHORS Using the state’s common language, each View the State Economic Blueprint to learn more about the state’s region has identified its strategic sectors, strategic sectors at jobsfirst.ca.gov which are depicted in the table below. Jobs First Collaboratives have identified priorities for their regions aligned to these strategic sectors Sector category

Uniting for Growth: Aligning State and Regional Economic Goals 12

Uniting for Growth: Aligning State and Regional Economic Goals Manufacturing: The Backbone of Growth Impact on California’s Economy Contributes approximately 12% of the state’s total output Generates $395 billion annually Employs more than 1.3 million Californians with an average hourly wage of $36 Each of the sectors mapped across One key cross-cutting strategy in the accelerate category is advanced/precision the state play an essential role in manufacturing. Comprising nearly 11% of California’s economic landscape, California’s total gross domestic product contributing to both its legacy and employing a workforce of more than 1.33 and future growth. There are, million, manufacturing is central to the state’s however, outsized opportunities economic engine. It generates $397 billion annually and offers an average salary within the Accelerate category of $143,515.8 Advanced/precision that show promise for generating manufacturing can serve as a foundation significant job growth and driving and/or catalyst to the Accelerate sectors economic expansion. Emphasizing and help ensure that California can meet rising demand and drive economic security on a investments here can enhance national and global scale.9 California’s competitiveness on a global scale, while also allowing for The Buy American Act, which raises U.S. a balanced approach that respects content requirements for manufactured goods to 65% by 2024 and 75% by 2029,10 the importance of other sectors. highlights the importance of a strong manufacturing base. The Playbook 13

UNITING FOR GROWTH: ALIGNING STATE AND REGIONAL ECONOMIC GOALS To speed up growth, the state has identified specific subsectors within the Accelerate category to guide targeted investments on a pilot basis. The goal is to use these pilots to establish a model that can be applied to other sectors to achieve statewide economic advancement through regional collaboratives. The pilot subsectors are: Space, Satellites & Defense Economic Impact • The Space, Defense & Satellites sector contributes Semiconductors approximately $190 billion to California’s economy & Microelectronics (around 5%), and accounts for 10% of total U.S. defense spending.11 Economic Impact • California has attracted nearly half of the nation’s • California is central to the $588 billion global space tech investment capital over the last 11 years, semiconductor market, leading the U.S. in and in 2022, brought in more than 85% of the total semiconductor facilities and job creation. capital invested in United States space-related companies.12 Workforce & Education • This sector’s workforce is supported by top Workforce & Education research facilities like Lawrence Livermore • California is home to over 11,000 aerospace engineers, National Laboratory and the San Diego more than any other state13, and ranks number one in Supercomputer Center. the total number of defense personnel.14 • California Community College Partnership with • The state is also home to two of the top three Nvidia connects community colleges with AI universities for aerospace engineering–Stanford and resources and training materials. the California Institute of Technology–as well as over 240 aerospace and defense-related ETPL programs.15 Key Assets California was recently awarded the CHIPS for America Key Assets Design and Collaboration Facility (DCF) under the California is home to three NASA research centers CHIPS Act.19 (Ames Research Center, Armstrong Flight Research Center, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory)16, a Defense • California’s Central Coast specializes in Innovation Unit office17 and one of five Defense microelectronics with Santa Barbara emerging as Advanced Research Projects Agency accelerators. 18 a quantum player, anchored by Google’s Quantum AI campus and strong research universities including Cal Poly-SLO and UCSB. • California’s Bay Area employs ~400K tech workers, more than any other market in the US, offers the largest concentration of semiconductor jobs in the country, and features top research universities including Stanford and UC Berkeley. The Playbook 14

UNITING FOR GROWTH: ALIGNING STATE AND REGIONAL ECONOMIC GOALS AgTech & Farm Equipment Economic Impact • California leads the country in agtech and farm equipment technologies, with agtech startups in California attracting approximately $1.5 billion in venture capital funding in 2023, accounting for 37% of U.S. Life Sciences venture funding.29 Economic Impact Workforce & Education • The state exports $9.3 billion in pharmaceutical and • The workforce is anchored by UC Davis, medicine products, and is the nation’s number one exporter whose Agricultural Science program is of medical equipment and supplies, totalling $6.6 billion ranked third nationally. annually.20 • The State’s Innovative workforce programs • California life sciences companies receive more venture train for occupations in agtech in capital funding than life sciences companies in any other partnership with community colleges state, with approximately $60 billion in private investments and universities.30 in 2023.21 This makes life sciences the third largest sector Key Assets for venture capital funding in the state.22 California also receives the most federal funding from the National California is home to 70,000 farms spanning Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation of any 24 million acres, primarily in the Central state.23 Valley, along with the UC Agriculture & Natural Resources statewide cooperative Workforce & Education extension network. • California has a strong medtech workforce of over 100,000.24 The subsector contributed approximately $32 billion in GDP in 2023. • California is home to two of the top 10 life sciences markets in the US–San Francisco and San Diego25–and around 16,000 life sciences establishments26, including some of the largest biotech and biopharmaceutical companies in the world, such as Genentech, Illumina, Amgen, and Gilead . • California’s biotech research and development workforce is nearly 70,000, with pharma/biotech adding roughly $65 billion in GDP in 2023.27 Key Assets The state hosts 13,600 medtech enterprises, two top- ten life sciences markets, and $60 billion in private life science investment.28 The Playbook 15

UNITING FOR GROWTH: ALIGNING STATE AND REGIONAL ECONOMIC GOALS California will focus on these subsectors over the next two years, making concentrated These subsector pilots are a starting point; investments and taking a whole-of- investments should extend government approach to growth across the beyond them to other state. This targeted focus not only makes it subsectors as the state easier for agencies to collaborate, but also and private investors gain additional insight ensures that they are able to engage the full into needs across regions ecosystem within each sector—including and as the economic workforce development and other critical landscape evolves. supports—to maximize benefits broadly. Pilot Subsectors - Identified Across Regions Agtech & Farm Life Semiconductors & Space, Defense & Advanced & Precision Region Equipment Sciences Microelectronics Satellites Manufacturing A North State B Redwood C Capital D Sierra E Bay Area F North San Joaquin G Central San Joaquin H Central Coast I Kern County J LA County K Orange County L Inland SoCal M Southern Border Source: Working discussions with GO-Biz and LWDA, Lightcast, Moody’s Analytics, Pitchbook, US Cluster Mapping Project, Jobs First Regional Plans Part 2, meetings with Jobs First Regional Collaboratives conveners CALIFORNIA JOBS FIRST 2 The Playbook 16

Cross-Regional Collaboration “Establishing the NSTC headquarters in California will capitalize on our state’s unparalleled assets to grow a highly skilled workforce and develop next-generation advancements. I am confident that this CHIPS Act funding will propel emerging technologies and protect America’s global semiconductor leadership, all while bringing good-paying jobs to our state.” U.S. Senator Alex Padilla 17

Cross-Regional Collaboration California’s pathway to growth to the Department of Commerce, “will play an important role in advancing semiconductor extends beyond the boundaries design research, workforce development, of its 13 individual regions. It investment, and collaboration across the entire relies on the interconnectedness semiconductor value chain.” Sunnyvale in the of local economies and Bay Area region is the expected home of this aligning efforts across regions. facility.31 By collaborating on shared To capitalize on this sector, other regions priorities, regions can leverage that have prioritized Semiconductors & each other’s strengths to Microelectronics–such as Capital, Central San Joaquin, Central Coast, Orange, and Inland maximize impact and ultimately SoCal–can collaborate through the California succeed together. In doing so, Jobs First initiative. With a strong existing asset they can advance their own like DCF in the state, these regions can build goals, while also driving broader complementary investments and collectively economic progress. pursue federal funding opportunities like the CHIPS National Advanced Packaging A closer look at one real-world example Manufacturing Program (NAPMP)32 and the from the Semiconductor & Microelectronics Artificial Intelligence-powered Autonomous subsector helps illustrate how California Jobs Experimentation (AI/AE) for Sustainable First can bring regions together over the Semiconductor Materials initiative.33 These next decade to promote growth in priority programs offer over $150 million in funding, sectors. The federal government recently and are structured to support projects that chose California as one of three headquarters bring together a diversity of partners, such as for the CHIPS for America Design and universities, workforce, and industry. Collaboration Facility (DCF), which according The Playbook 18

CROSS-REGIONAL COLLABORATION Semiconductors & Microelectronics Across the state’s thirteen Jobs First Collaboratives, six regions identified semiconductors and microelectronics as priority subsectors. Bay Area Employs ~400K tech workers, more than any other market in the US; key player in semiconductor and microelectronics Central Coast manufacturing with the largest concentration of semiconductor jobs in the United States and top research universities including Specializes in microelectronics, Stanford and UC Berkeley including Santa Barbara emerging as a quantum player, anchored by Google’s Quantum AI campus and strong research universities including Cal Poly-SLO and Capital UC Santa Barbara (Nanotech The Capital region has 26x more concentrated Lab, Materials Research Lab, semiconductor growth capital than the U.S. and Quantum Foundry) average, anchored by solid-state memory applications and products R&D, with leading chip manufacturers including Intel, Solidigm, and Bosch Orange County History of chip manufacturing though anchor companies including Central San Joaquin Broadcom, Tower Semiconductor Working to attract circular and Skyworks Solutions and strong manufacturers in computer and research universities, such as UC electronic product manufacturing, Irvine; highly skilled labor pool, with planning to reskill and upskill ~40% of population under 25 with its existing base of ~50K a Bachelor’s degree or higher manufacturing jobs Inland SoCal Hub for cybersecurity services, anchored by the Cybersecurity Center at Cal State San Bernardino, which has received multiple high profile federal training excellence designations and initiated a first-in-the-state cybersecurity apprenticeship program Finding opportunities for cross-regional collaboration allows resources and expertise to be pooled, and positions regions to secure significant investments. In doing so, it can help advance sector and regional growth, while at the same time, strengthening the state’s overall economic resilience and competitiveness. The Playbook 19

Catalyzing California’s Future: Leveraging State, Federal & Philanthropic Funds “When philanthropy shows up alongside public-private partnerships, especially in areas facing deep-rooted challenges, we unlock opportunities to build resilience, tackle climate goals, and generate economic growth that uplifts local workers and communities.” Elena Chavez Quezada Senior Advisor for Social Innovation, Office of Governor Gavin Newsom Development 20

Catalyzing California’s Future: Leveraging State, Federal & Philanthropic Funds There are several state, As a part of this effort, California has provided regions with a list of current state funding federal, and philanthropic opportunities. funding opportunities that can be pursued in the near Federal Funding Opportunities -term to advance regional Over the past four years, the federal economic goals, as well as government has made historic investments those of the state as a whole. in areas that are essential to California’s Funding secured through these economic future—including infrastructure, opportunities will build upon climate resilience, technological advancements, and clean energy— a strong foundation laid by prior through major legislative packages like the Jobs First investments, including American Rescue Plan (2021), the Bipartisan the $286 million already Infrastructure Law (2021), the CHIPS and administered by the state.34 Science Act (2022), and the Inflation Reduction Act (2022). State Funding Opportunities Combined, these federal investments have The Jobs First Council united nine California amounted to more than $5 trillion distributed agencies and charged them with accelerating nationally. Yet to date, California has only the state’s economic and workforce received a low share of those dollars relative development programs, and ensuring these to the size of California’s economy.36 programs meet regional needs.35 Through the Council, California is creating a structure to help guide investments from various state In FY24-25, Jobs First Agencies will distribute agencies and programs toward regional efforts. $12.8 billion in funding This type of strategic coordination can help that advances the state’s the state and its regions maximize impact and strategic sectors. advance shared priorities. The Playbook 21

CATALYZING CALIFORNIA’S FUTURE: LEVERAGING STATE, FEDERAL & PHILANTHROPIC FUNDS A deep-dive into recent grant opportunities redundancy from other would-be applicants sheds some light on ways in which California and strengthened its position.38 This applicants might become more effective at coalition of diverse partners also enabled a winning federal funds. A variety of California multi-layered funding strategy. The state of entities—cities, regions, government California made a pivotal initial investment agencies, and so on—submitted a total of 58 by providing matching funds, which helped applications to the U.S. Economic Development F3 meet the required 20% match to qualify Administration’s Build Back Better Regional for federal dollars. This foundational support Challenge and Tech Hub competition. However, unlocked additional funding layers, paving the only one was ultimately awarded a grant. way for long-term sustainability and ongoing Analysis of all 58 applications suggests that investment in the initiative. a lack of regional or statewide coordination drove California’s low grant awards. Without it, Funding Sources for the F3 many applications overlapped—for example, (Farms Food Future) Initiative multiple proposals sought funding for similar projects37—which may have diluted their Funding Sources for the F3 $1M (Farms Food Future) Initiative Philanthropic appeal and created needless competition. TOTAL: $20M $116M Proposition 98 $30M The winning application, Central Valley’s +WIOA CA Dept. of Food & Ag Septembe$r 21002M1 Fresno-Merced Future of Food (F3) Initiative, County was different. It took a regional, multi- $30M Venture Capital $65M $11.2M stakeholder approach, and aligned regional Federal Award Philanthropic October 2021 interests with state and federal priorities. By bringing in partners from the outset and presenting a unified front, F3 minimized Total To-Date | $116M The Playbook 22

CATALYZING CALIFORNIA’S FUTURE: LEVERAGING STATE, FEDERAL & PHILANTHROPIC FUNDS Recent federal investments offer valuable The State recognizes the opportunity to secure insight into best practices for securing more federal investments and drive more federal dollars. They also paint a picture as public-public partnerships. There is potential to where the federal government is prioritizing to do so through the Jobs First infrastructure, its investment. which will allow regions and the state to team up to identify areas of alignment with federal The chart below shows how funding through agencies, eliminate redundant applications, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and secure interagency buy-in that can be an Act, and Inflation Reduction Act was important consideration in federal applications. distributed across California’s regions and helps identify where strategic federal To this end, the state has provided regions support has been directed. with an overview of near-term federal funding opportunities. Regional Collaborative Total Discretionary Funding Philanthropic Funding A Redwood $94,839,787 Opportunities B North State $570,406,356 Philanthropy has the potential to infuse equity C Capital $672,503,098 into regional economic initiatives and respond D Bay Area $1,942,005,589 to regional needs, particularly when traditional E North San Joaquin $333,241,610 funding models fall short.39 F Sierra $137,697,797 G Central San Joaquin $292,308,723 For example, one of the key issues identified H Central Coast $1,471,711,819 during the planning of the Regional Investment I Kern County $567,415,539 Initiative was the financial strain regions J Los Angeles County $2,684,495,067 experienced when trying to manage the K Inland SoCal $537,046,078 $14 million provided to them by the state. L Orange County $111,582,709 While this funding has been critical to M Southern Border $1,352,293,248 regions’ success, regulations, reimbursement requirements, and the challenge of fronting A full list of projects and programs that substantial funds have created delays and received funding can be downloaded here. barriers to deploying capital.40 This list helps identify established areas of federal interest. By building upon them, regions may be able to better position themselves to attract investments. The Playbook 23

CATALYZING CALIFORNIA’S FUTURE: LEVERAGING STATE, FEDERAL & PHILANTHROPIC FUNDS Instances like this, which highlight the has established a number of successful constraints that can accompany public philanthropic partnerships as outlined in dollars, help illustrate the complementary role the State of California’s Social Innovation philanthropy can play in supporting regional Impact Report. economic initiatives. To maximize impact, philanthropy can step in early to provide the Looking ahead, Jobs First following: 1) Matching or supplemental funds has significant potential that leverage public funding; 2) Flexible to open new doors for dollars that allow regions to front capital without straining their operational resources; philanthropy. and 3) Capital for pilots and demonstration projects that help prove out promising new The initiative is intended to help regions ideas and pave the way for larger-scale more easily capitalize upon philanthropic investment by inherently more risk-averse opportunities, as they have already gone government agencies. through a comprehensive process to outline their economic priorities and Philanthropic organizations could also consider have started establishing plans for cross- re-imagining their approach to funding, from sector partnerships. These strategic plans one in which they set parameters inside which provide regions with a ready-made case partners must fit, to one in which they come for funding and eliminate the need to start to the table seeking to learn first and then align from scratch with each new interested their investments with what partners need. funder or grant application. By the same token, partners might consider engaging philanthropies not just as funders, but The Jobs First structure generates high- as active collaborators and co-investors. This impact opportunities to advance pre-vetted, can help ensure that each party’s distinctive large-scale projects that come with strong strengths are mobilized for success. support networks and strategic governance structures. This infrastructure may encourage California has taken concerted steps to philanthropies to eliminate or minimize create an environment in which philanthropic additional applicant vetting, allowing them organizations can thrive and serve as deeply to streamline their own due diligence impactful partners in game-changing processes, while at the same time, easing public-private initiatives. As evidence of the burden on regions. this commitment, the Governor employs a full-time senior advisor whose role is to provide philanthropy with a clear conduit to the state.41 Through this position, California The Playbook 24

Capital Stacking 25

Capital Stacking In recent years, California this state, capital stacking takes the form of federal, state, regional, private, and has enjoyed unprecedented philanthropic dollars coming together to create capital influxes, which have a cohesive financing structure. created a rare opportunity to reshape regions.42 Yet, Combining funding mechanisms in this way can help bring in the right money at programs established through the right time, and sets the stage for long- one-time funds carry the term economic growth and investment. risk of disappearing when By integrating contributions from diverse funding dries up, raising serious stakeholders, capital stacking can assist concerns about sustainability. California in maximizing both public and private resources to drive sustainable Rather than viewing these cash infusions growth and innovation in emerging markets. as long-term solutions, seed capital can be viewed as opportunities to ignite broader economic development by breaking down silos, co-creating, and building pathways for cross-sector funding. Capital stacking is key to this strategy. Capital stacking is a term used to describe layering different funding types and sources to finance projects.43 For large-scale investments such as those proposed across The Playbook 26

CAPITAL STACKING Case Study: Government funding often fluctuates in the Wichita’s Success in Aerospace aerospace industry, but Wichita’s emphasis on through Industry Partnership industry partnerships helps maintain steady financial support. In 2022, Wichita State Wichita, Kansas, shows how leveraging multiple University secured $115 million in industry- funding sources and industry partnerships financed R&D, ensuring continued growth and can effectively grow a key sector. Wichita stability, even during economic downturns.45 State University leads the region’s efforts in aerospace innovation by coordinating Wichita stands out as the highest-funded employers, researchers, and the state. This aerospace region without relying on sole- approach makes it easier to secure funding and source federal contracts.46 Instead, its focus organize projects.44 on industry-funded research and strong partnerships with local businesses has allowed it to remain stable, even when government R&D Funding in Aerospace funding or political priorities shift. The state AcrosRs&D L Fuendaindg ini nAegro sIpnacse Atcirotsus Lteaidoinng Isnstitutions R&D Funding in Aerospace Across Leading Institutions has also backed Wichita State University as $ $ 3 3 0 0 0 0 ,0 , 0 0 0 0 ,0 0 0 ,0 0 00 $28 $ 2M 282M Federal the convener for aerospace, helping to prevent $250,000,000 $230M Industry F d ed u er p al lication across Kansas.47 $220M $250,000,000 $230M Industry $200,000,000 $220M Other $165M $200,000,000 OWtheirchita’s model shows how pooling funds from $150,000,000 $165M $115M various sources can provide stability in sectors $$110500,0,0000,000,0000 $115M prone to ups and downs, an approach that can $$15000,0,0000,000,0000 also reduce reliance on federal investment. $50,000 $ ,0 0 00Georgia Institute Utah State Wichita State John Hopkins University of The timeline below showcases a significant of Technology University University University Colorado Boulder and steady increase in funding through both $0 G o e f o T rg ec ia h n In o s l t o it g u y te U U t n a i h v e S r t s a it t y e W U ic n h i i v t e a r S si t t a y te Jo U h n n i v H e o r p si k ty ins Co U lo n r i a v d e o rs B it o y u o ld f er grants and paid applied learning after Wichita doubled down on industry partnerships. Wichita Funding Timeline 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 $35.6M $28M $27M $26M $24M $23M $19M $20M $20M $20M $21M Paid Applied Learning Earnings (Earn & Learn) $402M $270M $180M $165M $137M $105M $90M $54M $50M $54M $74M Total Grant Awards The Playbook 27

CAPITAL STACKING Case Study: The Collaborative was initially awarded $1 Building the Bioeconomy million from the National Science Foundation in California’s Northern (NSF) under its Regional Innovation Engines San Joaquin Valley program to kickstart planning and establish a regional innovation campus. In October 2024, Capital stacking is also a useful tool for risk the Collaborative was invited to submit a full sharing. By spreading the financial risk across proposal to NSF’s Engines program, making different stakeholders, projects may become it one of just 71 applicants nationwide.49 This more appealing to investors. As such, capital program has the potential to infuse up to $160 stacking is especially valuable in sectors and million dollars in recipients’ projects.50 subsectors that are less tested, such as the bioeconomy. Stanislaus County, through American Rescue Plan Act funding51 and the California Jobs First California’s bioeconomy subsector holds Economic Development Pilot Grant,52 made immense promise to drive sustainable an additional $10 million investment in one of economic development while addressing CBIO’s partners, BEAM Circular. This brought critical environmental challenges.48 The CBIO’s total secured funding to $55 million-plus Northern San Joaquin Valley is emerging in just 18 months. This capital has supported as a bio-industrial hub by capitalizing on infrastructure and workforce development, as local strengths and attracting substantial well as technological advancement. multi-source funding. The Circular Bioeconomy Innovation Collaborative (CBIO Collaborative)—led by Lawrence Berkeley Funding Sources for BioEconomy, National Laboratory, University of California- Agriculture, & Manufacturing (BEAM) Merced, and BEAM Circular—is a strategic Circular Funding Sources for BioEconomy, partnership working to develop an ecosystAegmric ulture, & Manufacturing $3.6M (BEAM) Circular Jobs First Pilot (State) $1M around biomanufacturing in the Northern San NSF Type-1 Engine Award (Federal) TOTAL: $55.8M Joaquin Valley. CBIO has been successful $10M in capital stacking: Funding from federal, County (Local) state, local, and private sources has been $30M Venture Capital thoughtfully layered to tackle investment $11.2M Philanthropic barriers and advance regional growth. Total | $55.8M The Playbook 28

Empowered Communities: The Heart of California’s Economic Vision “The dismantling of gatekeeping and the acknowledgment of where previous approaches fell short—pursuing funding individually rather than collaboratively—is, in my opinion, a major step forward. Embracing a more unified approach has the potential to reshape our impact.” Kaina Pereira Executive Director of California Workforce Development Board 29

Empowered Communities: The Heart of California’s Economic Vision California’s economic strength Recognizing this, the state has woven community voice into the fabric of the Jobs and cultural richness have long First framework. Through this framework, been built on the hard work and regions have an additional set of tools with contributions of its diverse, which to coordinate with investors and local communities. The state employers to drive growth that benefits has adopted a community-led everyone. For example, Regional Plans, developed as a part of the Regional Investment approach that brings historically Initiative, highlight unique community disinvested groups to the table, attributes and challenges that may not be ensuring their voices shape widely known outside the area, but that are strategies for sustainable and essential to a particular region’s success in supporting sectors and guaranteeing sectors inclusive growth. By actively benefit them in turn. involving these communities in economic planning and For instance, the Sierra region faces unique decision-making, California housing obstacles, as 90% of its land is federally owned, which limits local control and aims to build a future that development.54 Without adequate housing, reflects and supports the needs the region struggles to attract and sustain of all of its residents. the workforce needed to support its current economy, let alone new sectors.55 This dynamic Feedback from regions has made clear deeply impacts the way the region makes that when communities feel like economic decisions. development is a zero-sum game—pitting sector growth against the community—they lose trust, making collaboration more challenging.53 The Playbook 30

EMPOWERED COMMUNITIES: THE HEART OF CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMIC VISION More broadly, during one-on-one interviews Understanding community nuances and about their economic landscapes, regions incorporating them into regional and statewide identified distinctive strategies that are economic plans is imperative: It ensures that incredibly important to them when considering strategies are not only more effective, but also

1. Regional innovation ecosystem | North San | Small business/ | | | | Placemaking | | | | | -------------- | ---------------- | --- | --- | --- | ----------- | ------------ | --- | --- | | Joaquin Valley | entrepreneurship | | | | | 2. Regional | | | coordination and alignment | | Tribal economic | Environmental | | | | | | | | ------------ | ------------------- | -------------- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ----- | | North State | development | justice | | | | | | Labor | | Los Angeles | Small Business and | Green economy | | | | | | | | County | entrepreneurship | | | | | | | |
2. Green and | | Small business, | emerging | | | | | | | | ------------- | --------------------- | --------------- | ----------------- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | | technology and | Community voices | | | | | | | Orange County | worker ownership | | and cultural | | | | | | | | and entrepreneurship | innovation | | | | | | | engagement | | support | 2. Climate resilient | | | | | | | | --- | ------- | --------------------- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | environment
3. Economic mobility and wealth building strategies | | 2. Entrepreneurial | | Building social and | | | | | | | ------------ | ------------------- | --- | -------------------- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Inland SoCal | | | cultural capital | | | | | | ecosystem for high growth startups and main street businesses | | The small business, | | Community | | | | | | | --------------- | -------------------- | ------------------ | --------------- | --- | --- | --- | --------------- | --- | | | cooperative, and | | Ownership | | | | | | | Southern Border | | Climate resilience | | | | | | | | | entrepreneurship | | and respectful | | | | | | | | ecosystem | | engagement | | | | | | | | Entrepreneurship | | | | | | Representative | | | Kern County | | | | | | | government | | Outreach and Capital awareness 31 The Playbook

EMPOWERED COMMUNITIES: THE HEART OF CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMIC VISION Best Practices for Partnering with Most regions identified these as critical starting Communities points and emphasized that it’s not just about “the what,” but “the how.” For example, simply One of the greatest successes of Jobs First offering participation stipends is not enough if thus far has been bringing hundreds of the process creates barriers, such as requiring community members to the table to share documentation that some participants may the difficulties they face along with their not have or issuing checks to people without aspirations for a brighter economic future.56 bank accounts.62 It is often as important This was not easy, particularly in light of the for the method of providing support to be trade-offs and traumas that disinvested as thoughtful and inclusive as the populations often confront when engaging in support itself. participatory planning.57 However, the process generated best practices for collaborating with Trust Building Takes Time communities around economic development. Regions across California emphasize that In their plans, regions emphasize how important building trust with disinvested communities is it is for conveners to provide material essential—and it can’t be rushed to fit short- support when seeking to foster meaningful term funding cycles.63 The idea that “we move engagement. Across the board, regions at the rate of trust” will set California apart identified the following practices as critical as the state prioritizes long-term, consistent to their success when engaging historically engagement over quick, transactional efforts. excluded communities: This approach helps regions avoid the pitfall • Providing transportation or rideshare of sacrificing trust for speed, ensuring deeper, services to and from meetings58 more meaningful collaboration. With this in mind, the state has funded the Regional • Offering childcare and enrichment Collaboratives for four years—two years opportunities for children (i.e., ongoing beyond the planning phase—so that they classes that children can attend)59 can build strategies and capacity.64 • Ensuring translation and language access60 • Supplying culturally-responsive food at events61 The Playbook 32

EMPOWERED COMMUNITIES: THE HEART OF CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMIC VISION To strengthen trust and build lasting California has distinguished itself by prioritizing relationships, regions emphasize the value of communities—building trust with them, ongoing support for local partners, particularly understanding them at a deeper level, and those in historically disinvested communities. engaging them meaningfully over a sustained Rather than relying solely on one-time period of time. In doing so, the state has funding, support can take many forms, such constructed a powerful model, centered on as partnering with the state to co-create pilot community voice, for driving effective, lasting, programs, offering technical assistance for equitable growth. navigating grant opportunities, or fostering collaboration on shared initiatives. This approach isn’t about soliciting feedback once and moving on; instead, it’s about creating sustainable, long-term partnerships where community voices actively shape their future alongside the state. The Playbook 33

Translating Vision into Action “Our work on the four-county initiative was more than just a project; it’s a commitment to building a future where everyone in the Sierra San Joaquin region has the opportunity to thrive. With California Jobs First funding, the region has been enabled to create a strong, dynamic regional investment plan that will empower our communities and drive equitable economic growth for years to come.” Nora Zaragoza Centro La Familia 34

Translating Vision into Action Over the next 18 months, These plans break down regional visions into targeted, manageable actions that are each of California’s Jobs First intended to yield results quickly while aligning Collaboratives will be launching with long-term goals. Each Activation Plan is Activation Plans designed to designed to be implemented over an 18-month drive growth within timeframe to ensure focus and momentum, their regions.65 but is also part of a broader five-to-ten-year strategy for sustained economic advancement. These plans, unique to each region, provide a By connecting with regions directly, investors roadmap of clear opportunities for investment have the opportunity to explore these tailored and partnership, offering investors insight into plans, partner on priority projects, and promising projects and growth strategies. contribute to California’s growth. While the specific Activation Plans will be held Investors are encouraged to reach out to internally by each region, they are structured individual regions to learn more about these around common elements—strategy, tactics, Activation Plans and ways to align their goals and actionable steps—that outline the pathway with California’s dynamic economic landscape. to economic progress. Strategy Tactic Tasks The region’s specific sector The steps the Collaborative The actions that individuals or play (e.g., spearhead and its partners take over the organizations are responsible offshore wind within the next 12-18 months to achieve for, and by when (e.g., clean economy), and how the the region’s sector strategy [organization] will conduct Collaborative will organize, (e.g., create workforce and outreach to 5 community resource, and track progress educational partnerships to colleges and workforce towards this play build the talent pipeline). training programs by [date]) Tasks may include new projects or refocusing existing programs, as well as day- to-day activities of different organizations. The Playbook 35

A Blueprint for Impact: Regional Readiness “California Jobs First has provided a foundation for us to reimagine the economy for our communities, by our communities. We know this is hard work but we are focused on advancing our shared vision to create jobs, design inclusive pathways, and grow a climate-resilient, equitable, and prosperous regional economy.” Evan Schmidt Valley Vision CEO 36

A Blueprint for Impact: Regional Readiness With clearly defined strategies, targeted actions, and a focus on inclusive growth, regions are ready to move forward. The following snapshots showcase each region’s key sectors and highlight how they are working to secure funding and build partnerships to achieve their goals. These snapshots can be examined alongside regions’ Activation Plans, which detail specific projects and investment opportunities that will bring their strategies to life. The Playbook 37

North State NORTH STATE JOBS FIRST Why Invest in the North State? Investment in the North State is an investment in all of California. The ten county North State region of California is characterized by forested land and water resources. The North State region supplies water to over 25 million Californians. The health of North State forests and watersheds are essential to California’s economic future. REGIONAL SECTORS The Coalition High Road Transition Collaborative Region represents over 113 institutions and 120 community members. Working Lands & Water Clean Economy Agricultural Production Carbon Management Bioeconomy Hydrogen Vision (Wood Products) A thriving and resilient North State economy that produces climate- adaptive forests and watersheds, healthy and financially-secure communities, and growing and innovative local businesses Manufacturing Tourism & Outdoor Advanced Recreation linked to regional markets. Population Population: 452,478 Percentage of people under 25: 33% FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Percentage of people over 65: 20% Counties Modoc Siskiyou Tehama Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare Lassen Trinity Glenn Broadband & Skilled Transportation Workforce Plumas Shasta Water Sierra Butte U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates (Accessed Oct. 2024) The Playbook 38

North State NORTH STATE JOBS FIRST VIEW REGIONAL PLAN sierrainstitute.us Priority Sectors North State Vital Infrastructure The North State has identified the following sectors as driving regional growth: • Forests and watersheds • Natural Resources • Diverse communities and people • Agriculture • Tourism • Health Key Drivers of North North State • Forest Sector activities are a key Rural Economic and Community Success: Forest and Water growth area for the North State. Development Strategies: How management will advance North we’re driving additional enablers of In response to wildfire events and State economy with impact on all economic growth. Californians drought, ongoing investment in • Rural capacity development and healthy forest management is • The forests and watersheds of the investment will mobilize North state expected to continue. Expansion of North State encompass the Northern communities toward expansion of fire management and fire training Sierra and Cascade provinces, small businesses and locally driven centers is also expected. providing unique aesthetic and entrepreneurship. cultural values to residents and • Forest product businesses, such • Elevating Tribal Leadership visitors. These provinces support as biomass energy and innovative in Community and Economic diverse habitats, a vibrant recreation wood products, are expected to Development will improve small and tourist economy, an essential increase as a result of forest health community economies across wood products industry, and work and provide areas of growth the north state, as North State diverse ecosystem services that for the region. The North State is tribes lead efforts in business are vital to all Californians. The a key region for renewable and development, entrepreneurship and Upper Sacramento, McCloud, Pit, clean energy generation, including land stewardship. and Feather watersheds are critical biomass energy, solar energy, water sources for California’s multi- geothermal, and more, which build • Additional development strategies billion-dollar agricultural sector and on the region’s space, infrastructure, include education, workforce provide water to a major portion of and natural resources while striving development, housing, health, youth California’s population. North State toward the State’s climate goals. opportunity, physical infrastructure streams host some of the last of the Innovations in carbon capture and and more. free-running salmon populations in energy storage technologies are also California. well suited to the region and can be further explored. • Eight national forests lie in the region. The impact of forest health here will have widespread effect across California. The Playbook 39

Redwood REDWOOD REGION RISE Why Invest in the Redwood Region? The Redwood Region, home to California’s longest coastline and some of the last remaining stands of old-growth redwood forests, is uniquely positioned to lead the state’s transition to a clean energy, carbon-neutral economy. Redwood Region RISE is embracing a new approach to economic development that centers disadvantaged communities while fostering climate resilience and adaptation. Guided by collaborative governance and a roadmap driven by participatory design and research, the region is creating good-paying jobs and prosperous communities for all. With its unparalleled natural assets and commitment to equity, The Coalition the Redwood Region is charting a path toward a sustainable and Redwood Region RISE, is a coalition inclusive future for California. of over 150 organizations. REGIONAL SECTORS Vision We envision the Redwood Region as a healing place where everyone belongs, with stable jobs, accessible healthcare, Clean Economy Tourism & Creative Economy and a flourishing natural environment. Offshore Wind Outdoor Recreation Film, TV, & the Arts Together, we work towards a future Solar where anyone can thrive. Population Working Lands & Water Percentage of people under 5: 5% Agricultural Production Percentage of people of under 18: 20.5% Agtech & Farm Equipment Bioeconomy (Wood Products & Forestry) Percentage of people 65 and over: 23% Blue Economy / Tech Food Processing Counties Del Norte Lake FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Humboldt Mendocino 33 Federally and Non-Federally Recognized Tribal Nations Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare Broadband & Skilled U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates Transportation Workforce (Accessed Oct. 2024) The Playbook 40

Redwood REDWOOD REGION RISE VIEW REGIONAL PLAN ccrp.humboldt.edu Priority Sectors The region has identified the following The Redwood Region is poised for transformative economic growth, leveraging its key key sectors driving regional growth: sectors to drive innovation and resilience. Clean energy, including offshore wind and solar, positions the region as a leader in California’s transition to a carbon-neutral economy, • Working Lands supported by institutions like Cal Poly Humboldt and the Schatz Energy Center. The • Blue Economy working lands and blue economy sectors capitalize on the region’s natural resources, with • Clean Energy investments in sustainable forestry, aquaculture, and market expansion to support long- • Creative Economy term ecological and economic health. Arts, culture, and tourism enhance the region’s • Outdoor Recreation and Tourism creative economy, attracting visitors while preserving local identities through film, TV, and community-centered initiatives. Outdoor recreation flourishes with iconic redwood parks, rivers, and vineyards, creating unparalleled opportunities for eco- and agritourism. With robust support for workforce development, housing, and transportation infrastructure, the Redwood Region is aligning its assets to create sustainable, inclusive growth across these thriving sectors. Key Drivers of Regional Success Economic Mobility Strategies: What we’re doing to make sure the growth How we’re driving additional enablers in our region benefits everyone • Innovation and Workforce Development: of economic growth The recently designated Cal Poly • Housing: Employer-led housing Humboldt campus and partnering • Entrepreneurship: New business initiatives, particularly for the healthcare community colleges, College of the incubator at Cal Poly Humboldt, robust sector, are underway. The RISE Redwoods and Mendocino College, programming through Small Business Collaborative advocates for a Regional form a robust rural workforce training Development Centers across the region Housing Study to better understand the and innovation environment. Initiatives including several specifically serving rural-specific constraints to housing and centers like the Cal Poly Center Latinx entrepreneurs, active Chambers development and affordability. for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Commerce and Chamber Foundations • Transportation: Creating better and the Schatz Energy Center, coupled helping employers connect to resources. connectivity, walkability, and safety with historic strengths in forestry • Health and Caregiving: The region in town centers across the region as and aquaculture, help the region lead continues to build on decades of work well as improving the accessibility and particularly on natural resource and clean creating health career pathways that sustainability of public transit. The energy related fields. begin in K12 education and now bridge all region is investing in improving resilience • Leveraging rich and diverse landscapes: the way to UC Davis medical school. The of roadways to climate risk (extreme the region possesses the longest stretch region is also investing in the creation of weather, fire). of coastline in the state, the remaining new childcare businesses. • Broadband: Expanded middle and last stands of globally important old- mile connectivity efforts underway. growth redwood forest, world renowned “Dig once” policy- coupling grid and winelands, and miles of rivers and lakes- transmission upgrades with broadband creating endless opportunities for eco has potential to accelerate efforts. and agritourism, and outdoor recreation. • Diversity, Representation, and The Redwoods State and National Parks Leadership: Expanding diversity among draw millions of visitors to the region nonprofit leaders and offering capacity- each year. building grants and training for new organizations and leaders. The Playbook 41

Capital WE PROSPER TOGETHER Why Invest in the Capital Region? The Brookings Institution 2024 Metro Monitor Report rated the Sacramento Metropolitan Area the second in the nation for the largest decrease in relative poverty rate and fourth for economic inclusion. Our region is a microcosm of California, with a mix of urban, foothill, and agricultural landscapes, varied industries and communities positioning us for incredible growth. Growth in manufacturing, food innovation, and clean energy are creating new jobs, and bringing together efforts by educational institutions and community-based organizations to expand training and access opportunities for all of our residents. Today, as the epicenter of the fifth largest economy in the world and of The Coalition some of the country’s most innovative policymaking, our region is poised We Prosper Together represents to spark a new era — one that is resilient and inclusive for all. over 214 institutions and 163 community members. REGIONAL SECTORS Vision We Prosper Together is focused on creating the next generation of quality jobs, through clear and well-supported pathways, to enable an equitable and Clean Economy Working Lands & Water Life Sciences Batteries Agricultural Production Medtech sustainable economy across our eight- ZEVs Agtech & Farm Equipment Pharma / Biotech county region. Bioeconomy Food Processing Counties & Populations Colusa ~22,000 El Dorado ~194,000 High Tech Manufacturing Financial & Nevada ~105,000 Semiconductors & Advanced / Precision Professional Services Microelectronics Placer ~420,000 FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Sacramento ~1,608,000 Sutter ~100,000 Yolo ~217,000 Yuba ~86,00 Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare Broadband & Skilled U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates Transportation Workforce (Accessed Oct. 2024) The Playbook 42

Capital WE PROSPER TOGETHER VIEW REGIONAL PLAN weprospertogether.org Priority Sectors The Capital Region hones in on four high-potential tradable intricate, highly accurate components to meet stringent sectors that, due to existing assets like talent, innovation, specifications and tolerances. In light of major new and infrastructure, present distinct opportunities for investments, this sector presents emerging opportunities in the local economy and workforce of diverse skills and microelectronics and semiconductors, battery production, education. These sectors were prioritized based on instrumentation, and advanced agricultural equipment. extensive community input and factors including job Working Lands quality and access, job growth potential, talent demand, This sector includes food, agriculture, wood economy sustainability, and climate impact. product manufacturing, mining and extraction, among Biotechnology others. Manufacturing and downstream activities connected to the region’s exceptional natural resources and This sector is concentrated in food and life science working lands show promise. The region has an emerging innovations including biotechnology, biopharma, agriculture opportunity in the production of renewable energy products and food technology. With core drivers of research and through utilization of biomass and carbon management. innovation in the region, this sector offers promise for the expansion of future high-quality job opportunities. Business Services A key driver of the region’s economy, this sector includes Precision Manufacturing technical services, business administration, legal services, This sector includes the manufacturing of high value added management consulting services, advertising and products containing instrumentation and microelectronics marketing, among others. Accelerated by the presence of manufacturing (including medical device manufacturing), state government, connections to the Bay Area, and the next generation transportation, machinery manufacturing, presence of national and global headquarters, business aerospace and defense, clean technology, and robotics, services are a major driver for the region. among others. The region has the capacity to produce Key Drivers of Regional Success • Addressing and improving access to Community Strategies: high-quality childcare to engage What we’re doing to make sure the • Innovation disinvested populations, and growth in our region benefits everyone • Entrepreneurship • Small Business addressing the low-quality nature • Expanding outreach and of most positions within childcare awareness and ensuring culturally Economic Mobility Strategies: careers (public investment/ and linguistically relevant How we’re driving additional enablers incentive, legislation). communications. of economic growth • Expanding and refining effective, • Addressing the high cost of housing • Expanding/enhancing transportation employer driven, aligned workforce and the extreme shortage of to and from core components of development efforts, including affordable and subsidized housing. economic mobility including jobs, training and upskilling. education and training. Enhanced cross-sector planning with the lens of economic mobility can improve connectedness leading to high quality job attainment outcomes. The Playbook 43

Sierra SIERRA JOBS FIRST COLLABORATIVE Why Invest in the Sierra Region? Home to the highest peak in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney, and the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin in Death Valley, the contrasts of the region’s geography define it visually and shape its economy, climate, and way of life. The Sierra region is home to 2 National Parks (Yosemite and Death Valley), 6 National Forests, 8 State Historic Parks, Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, and the John Muir Trail. Our region is characterized by our close-knit vibrant communities and small businesses, engaged citizens, passionate leaders, and world renowned landscapes sought out by people all around the world. The Coalition The Sierra Jobs First Region represents over 20 institutions and over 200 community members. REGIONAL SECTORS Vision Sierra Jobs First offers the geographically and culturally distinct communities in two unique subregions of the Sierra an unprecedented opportunity to build new working relationships, Working Lands Tourism & Clean Economy share resources, strategies, and capacity, and & Water Outdoor Recreation Hydrogen advocate as a unified voice at the state level. Bioeconomy Population 192,233 People under 25: 23.2% People of 25-44: 23.2% FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS People over 44: 53.6% Counties Alpine Mariposa Amador Mono Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare Land Use Broadband & Skilled Calaveras Tuolumne Tenure Transportation Workforce Inyo Water U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates (Accessed Oct. 2024) The Playbook 44

Sierra SIERRA JOBS FIRST COLLABORATIVE VIEW REGIONAL PLAN sierrajobsfirst.org Priority Sectors The Sierra Jobs First Collaborative has identified Tourism and Outdoor Recreation and Bioeconomy as the leading sectors that could drive regional growth. While Tourism and Outdoor Recreation has been the leading regional driver and backbone of the Sierra Jobs First Region, the most potential found by our collaborative for a new emerging sector is Bioeconomy. These industries will drive economic diversification to bolster the region’s resilience by supporting regional enablers, value-added woody feedstock manufacturing, and tourism- support businesses. Focusing on natural and working lands can increase the region’s biodiversity and economic opportunities while reducing wildfire risks and improving ecosystems. Key Drivers of Regional Success Economic Mobility Strategies: • Federal land agreements support How we’re driving additional enablers specific land uses to benefit tribes, • Natural ecosystems are restored and of economic growth local priority sectors, and improve protected. • All community members have quality of life. f Removing excess biomass from equitable access to the education What we’re doing to make sure the region’s forests and other they need to support themselves and the growth in our region benefits natural and working lands their families and contribute to the everyone restores forest and watershed region’s economy and well-being. • Improving population health through ecological function and improves • Integrated, reliable, high-speed, increased access to high-quality air, soil, and water quality. last-mile broadband connections healthcare jobs and resources Resilient landscapes improve provide equitable access for ensures quality healthcare for the climate resilience, support a residents, businesses, and visitors region’s diverse population and can productive economy, and create throughout the region. strengthen the local economy. high-quality jobs in the region and surrounding regions. • Increase the impact of small • Expanding housing opportunities business development and technical and promoting creative housing • Sierra employees, especially assistance providers to grow models. those in the food service and entrepreneurial opportunities. accommodations, can access high- • Enhancing public transportation quality jobs in the recreation and f Main street and disinvested infrastructure and promoting tourism sector. community small business equitable transit fares. development • Significant regional public and private investments support • Improving access to affordable child new opportunities and ongoing care to lower barriers to quality maintenance needs in the employment. arts, history, and recreational opportunities. The Playbook 45

Bay Area BAY AREA JOBS FIRST Why Invest in the Bay Area? The Bay Area offers a rare combination of talent, infrastructure, innovation and natural resources, making it an ideal location for investments that further lead the State toward a carbon-neutral economy. With some of the nation’s leading post-secondary instruction, research institutions and labor organizations, the Bay Area boasts a highly skilled and diverse workforce, supporting thriving industries such as clean energy, biotechnology and healthcare. Proximity to venture capital and strong innovation ecosystems further amplify opportunities for scaling businesses. With its economic resilience, commitment to equity and sustainability, the Bay Area offers unmatched potential for industries looking for long-term, transformative growth. The Coalition

North San Joaquin North Valley Thrive Why Invest in North San Joaquin? The North San Joaquin Valley (NSJV) is a dynamic region with a rich history and a bright future. It is a place where agriculture meets innovation, and tradition meets technology. The NSJV is home to a diverse population, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to sustainability. The region is well-positioned to become a leader in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, carbon management, and the circular bioeconomy. With its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and growing university ecosystem, the NSJV offers a wealth of opportunities The Coalition for businesses and investors. By investing in the NSJV, you can North Valley Thrive represents over 200 help to create a more prosperous and sustainable future for the institutions and 300 community members. region and its people. Vision The North San Joaquin Valley is a region with REGIONAL SECTORS equitable access to high-quality jobs, where natural resources are protected and negative environmental impact is addressed, where local industries actively compete in the global economy and sustain high-road jobs, Clean Economy Working Lands & Water and where the quality of life is centered on Carbon Management Agricultural Production the prosperity of vulnerable and historically Hydrogen Agtech & Farm Equipment Solar Bioeconomy disinvested communities ZEVs Population 1,644,315 People under 25: 29.9% Manufacturing People of 25-44: 46.1% Advanced People over 44: 24% Counties FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Merced San Joaquin Stanislaus Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates Transportation & Skilled (Accessed Oct. 2024) (Passenger Rail) Workforce Water The Playbook 48

North San Joaquin North Valley Thrive VIEW REGIONAL PLAN northvalleythrive.org Priority Sectors The North San Joaquin Valley has identified Advanced Manufacturing, the Clean Economy, and the Biocircular Economy as the leading sectors driving regional growth. These sectors are poised to revolutionize industries, from agriculture and energy to manufacturing and technology. Key Drivers of Regional Success green hydrogen, and biofuels. ecosystem by leveraging anchor The NSJV is also poised to lead in institutions and removing barriers to • The North San Joaquin Valley (NSJV) carbon management, leveraging business growth. is strategically positioning itself its geological features for carbon as a hub for translation innovation • Catalytic Skills/Talent Development: capture, utilization, and storage and sustainable growth across the Align regional training and skills (CCUS). Northern California Megaregion. development with industry needs, particularly in disinvested • The Biocircular Economy is a • Advanced Manufacturing is communities. transformative sector that leverages a cornerstone of the region’s the region’s agricultural and forestry • Climate-Smart Infrastructure: Invest economic evolution, building resources. By transforming waste in climate-smart infrastructure to upon its strong foundation in food streams into valuable bioproducts, strengthen the region’s resilience processing and logistics. The the NSJV can create new industries, and create jobs. NSJV is expanding into higher- reduce environmental impact, and value activities, such as building • Placemaking and Amenities: enhance economic resilience. The materials, mobility technologies, Enhance the region’s quality of region is focused on developing a and measurement and testing life through the development of robust talent pipeline, supporting products. By fostering a cluster of culturally relevant amenities, events, innovation, and fostering advanced manufacturing industries, and programs. partnerships to drive the growth of the region aims to leverage shared the biocircular economy. • Generational Well-being: Provide talent pools, localized supply chains, care and support services across and knowledge spillovers to drive Economic Mobility Strategies: all ages, with a focus on health, innovation and competitiveness. How we’re driving additional enablers behavioral health, and childcare/ of economic growth eldercare. • The Clean Economy is a key driver of the NSJV’s future. The region’s • Regional Innovation Ecosystem: • Regional Coordination and abundant sunlight, available land, Create a hub for collaboration and Alignment: Improve the coordination and existing infrastructure make translate research into economic and alignment of regional systems it an ideal location for large- opportunities. to leverage the region’s role as a scale renewable energy projects, gateway to diverse activities across • Small Business/Entrepreneurship: 1 particularly in solar energy, Northern California. Strengthen the entrepreneurial The Playbook 49

Central San Joaquin SIERRA SAN JOAQUIN JOBS (S2J2) INITIATIVE Why Invest in Central San Joaquin? A thriving Sierra San Joaquin Region is critical to California’s future. Our region has long played an outsized role in providing high-quality, low-cost food, contributing 25% of the nation’s food, 60% of its fruits and nuts, 30% of its vegetables, and an annual agricultural economy output of $70B.1 The region is now positioned to be equally essential in achieving California’s clean energy and emission reduction targets. Representing just 8% of the state’s population and 15% of its land mass, our region is expected to generate over 25% of California’s renewable energy by 2040. The S2J2 region faces persistent economic and environmental challenges, with high poverty rates, unemployment, and a significant portion of the area designated as disinvested. Historical practices have led to severe pollution and health disparities, while limited public and private capital investment has hindered growth. Despite these obstacles, the region’s communities are poised for change, ready to support the state’s clean energy and climate goals and uplift local opportunities. With a young, entrepreneurial population and strong civic engagement, S2J2 is prepared to build local supply chains, The Coalition drive economic growth, and improve residents’ quality of life. S2J2 engaged over 300 cross-sector partners and received input from over REGIONAL SECTORS 4,300 community members throughout the planning process. Vision To foster an inclusive, resilient, and Working Lands Clean Economy sustainable economy that creates quality & Water Batteries Agricultural Production Carbon Management jobs and provides equitable economic access Agtech & Farm Equipment Hydrogen to all across the Sierra San Joaquin region. Bioeconomy Solar Food Processing ZEVs Quantum Population 1.78 million People under 18: 31% People between 18-34: 10% Manufacturing High Tech Tourism & Outdoor Advanced / Precision Hardware Recreation People between 34-54: 25% Semiconductors & Microelectronics People over 55: 22% Counties FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Fresno Madera Kings Tulare Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare Broadband & Skilled Water Workforce U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates (Accessed Oct. 2024) Transmission & Distribution Transportation The Playbook 50

Central San Joaquin SIERRA SAN JOAQUIN JOBS (S2J2) INITIATIVE Key Drivers of Regional Success • Higher Education and the Emerging Community Strategies: Innovation Ecosystem – More than What we’re doing to make sure the • Clean Energy Powerhouse – The S2J2 125,000 people are pursuing post- growth in our region benefits everyone Region is positioned to be a clean energy powerhouse, with ample land secondary education every year in the • Community Benefits Planning will suited for development of solar with region. Assets include: shape how new businesses and battery storage and an abundance f Strong research and innovation industries impact our communities. of bio-feedstock (e.g., agricultural, partners – Fresno State (one of The framework creates certainty animal, and forest and lumber the largest CSU campuses), UC for new businesses by providing a waste); a network of 1,200 regionally Merced (fastest growing student framework for how to engage with our headquartered manufacturers population in the UC system and communities, the types of benefits organized through the San Joaquin fastest expanding research capacity residents desire, and guidelines to Valley Manufacturers Association among U.S. universities), and three be adapted on a project-by-project poised to fulfill supply chain needs; and community college districts across 8 basis. the talent and university infrastructure campuses • Small Business/Microenterprise needed to support clean energy R&D f Robust small business support Development: supporting small functions and the development of a ecosystem; and businesses with technical assistance, clean energy economic ecosystem. patient capital, and networking f Established manufacturers’ alliances • Agricultural Technology Hub – 6,000 opportunities; advocating for that engage thousands of industry establishments in the food and ag procurement policies that level the partners across the region. sector, 215,000 existing jobs, and playing field. Economic Mobility Strategies: the greatest deposit of Class I soil • Community-Based Health Workforce: How we’re driving additional enablers in the world make this region the Addressing health inequities and lack of economic growth major agricultural production hub in of healthcare access by supporting the nation and the prime location to • Education & Skill Building: By aligning a community-based healthcare support the new food and agricultural workforce development with the workforce of promotoras, community technology needed to create resilient needs of our priority sectors, we aim health workers, and doulas with good and sustainable food systems. to ensure our residents have the skills jobs that provide a living wage. to thrive in emerging job opportunities. • Working Lands and Nature-Based • Zero Emission Vehicle Transition: Compared to the rest of the state, the Climate Solutions – With our vast and reducing CO2 and improving air quality region has a younger population and diverse natural resources and working through the adoption of ZEVs/fleets. workforce; and surveys of over 4,000 lands, the region can apply nature- residents revealed strong interest in • Continuous community engagement: based solutions across more than upskilling to meet new job demands. Ensuring an inclusive process that 140,000 acres and sequester/draw centers disinvested community and down ~5M metric tons of CO2e5. • Broadband: Implementing seven key nontraditional voices is key to the investment strategies that support • Strategic Location – As California’s S2J2 process – and a requirement for reliable, affordable broadband, more exact midpoint, the S2J2 region an economic development plan that devices, newly trained residents who is equidistant to the population, centers equity. can access new, quality jobs. innovation, and financial centers of the Bay Area and Southern California, while avoiding the costs, congestion, VIEW REGIONAL PLAN and seismic instability of the s2j2initiative.org megaregions. The Playbook 51

Central Coast UPLIFT CENTRAL COAST Why Invest in the Central Coast? The Central Coast stands at the forefront of California’s next generation of innovation. Our region is home to globally recognized strengths in precision manufacturing and advanced business services, driven by robust partnerships between research institutions, key industry players, and community leaders. These sectors are shaping future technologies across aerospace/ advanced air mobility, biotech, ag tech, microelectronics, and other specialized areas with applications that will redefine human health, climate resilience, transportation, and more. Through intentional investments in STEM education and workforce pipelines, we’re preparing our residents for well-paying jobs, ensuring that The Coalition the region’s economic growth benefits all communities. Uplift Central Coast represents over 230 institutions and 4,000 community REGIONAL SECTORS members. Vision To create an inclusive economic resilience plan for the region through High Tech Manufacturing Life Sciences Clean Economy Semiconductors & Advanced / Precision Medtech Offshore Wind creative, community-led efforts Microelectronics Pharma / Biotech Software & Services Quantum Population 2,312,931 People under 25: 33% Working Lands Aerospace & Defense Tourism & People of 25-44: 25% & Water Aircraft (Advanced Air Mobility) Outdoor Recreation Agricultural Production Space, Defense & Satellites People over 44: 42% Agtech & Farm Equipment Blue Economy / Tech Counties Monterey San Benito FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Santa Barbara Santa Cruz San Luis Obispo Ventura Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates Broadband & Skilled (Accessed Oct. 2024) Transportation Workforce The Playbook 52

Central Coast UPLIFT CENTRAL COAST VIEW REGIONAL PLAN upliftcentralcoast.org Priority Sectors The Central Coast has identified Precision Manufacturing and Advanced Business Services as the leading sectors driving regional growth. These industries form the backbone of the “Autonomous Systems” value chain, producing advanced, high-precision products that operate independently in complex environments. This convergence enables innovation in sectors like aerospace / Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), ag tech, biotech, and microelectronics. Key Drivers of Regional Success Economic Mobility Strategies: What we’re doing to make sure How we’re driving additional enablers the growth in our region benefits • A dynamic ecosystem of global of economic growth everyone market leaders like Joby Aviation, • Main Street and BIPOC Small • Housing: Expanding employer- Amgen, Google Quantum, and Business Development: Bolstering sponsored housing and promoting SpaceX complemented by small supports that enable the start-up creative housing models. and mid-size firms specializing in and scale-up of small businesses, complex, high-value products. • Transportation: Enhancing public strengthening pathways for wealth- transportation infrastructure and • Distinctive infrastructure assets building and promoting community promoting equitable transit fares. supporting target sectors, such as vitality. Vandenberg Space Force Base, • Immigration: Establishing immigrant • Training, Upskilling, and Learning Naval Base Ventura County, and welcome centers and investing in Development: Expanding the network of Monterey Bay general financial and educational support availability of education and aviation airports for AAM testing. programs training opportunities crafted to • Arts & Culture: Supporting local • Innovation anchors like UC Santa meet the needs of priority industries arts funding and revitalizing cultural Cruz, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and facilitate access to quality engagement across the region. UC Santa Barbara, and jobs, particularly for disinvested FATHOMWERX and FLEETWERX communities. • Nonprofit Leadership: Expanding NavalX Tech Bridges. diversity among nonprofit leaders • Child Care: Improving access to and offering capacity-building affordable child care to lower • Formalized collaboratives among grants and training. barriers to quality employment. regional, state, and/or federal partners in aerospace and defense, ag tech, and other industries. The Playbook 53

Kern County THE KERN COALITION Why Invest in Kern County? Kern County – located within 2 hours of all major commercial markets in California – has the human capital, natural resources, and public sector commitment to support significant industry investment. Additionally, Kern County offers vast open land, fertile soil, and abundant sunlight, along with strong support from a diverse group of community and public stakeholders. These resources make it an ideal location for high-quality job creators in sectors such as clean energy, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and outdoor recreation, transportation and logistics, and aerospace and defense. Kern County stands out for its long-standing commitment to its people, rooted in the region’s strong labor movement legacy. With nearly 40% of the population under 25, the region has The Coalition developed a robust workforce development ecosystem to prepare the The Kern Coalition represents next generation for the jobs of the future. over 50 institutions and 1,000 community members. REGIONAL SECTORS Vision To eliminate generational poverty and promote equitable, economic mobility for all in Kern County by ensuring investments dismantle systemic barriers. Working Lands Clean Economy Aerospace & Defense & Water Carbon Management Aircraft Population Agricultural Production Onshore Wind Space, Defense & Satellites Agtech & Farm Equipment Solar Kern County’s young, diverse, and rapidly Bioeconomy growing population offers a strong Food Processing foundation for business investment and workforce development, positioning Kern County as a forward-looking region primed for growth and innovation. Tourism & Manufacturing Transport & Logistics Total population: 909,235 Outdoor Recreation Advanced People under 25: 38.2% Percentage of people of 25-44: 28.7% FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Percentage of people over 44: 33.1% Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare U (A .S c . c C e e ss n e s d us O B c u t r . e 2 a 0 u 2 , 4 A ) CS 1-Year Estimates Broadband & Skilled Transportation Workforce The Playbook 54

Kern County THE KERN COALITION VIEW REGIONAL PLAN kccd.edu/kern-coalition Priority Sectors After extensive consultation with community stakeholders and leaders, Kern County identified clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture as the leading sectors driving regional growth. Kern’s open land, legacy oil & gas industry, and abundant sunlight – combined with friendly state and federal sustainability policies – are powering the growth of the clean energy sector. Kern’s strategic positioning along the arteries of California’s freeways and proximity to coastal ports, its workforce development ecosystem, and its well-developed infrastructure for testing aerospace & defense products, is already attracting advanced manufacturing investors. Finally, Kern’s fertile soil and agricultural history are drawing further elements of the agricultural value chain into the County. Through these efforts, the region is positioning itself as a leader in environmentally sustainable growth. Key Drivers of Regional Success • Strong community support for Community Strategies: incoming investments, given that What we’re doing to make sure the • A strategic location with proximity growth in our region benefits everyone Kern’s regional economic plan was to major highways and harbors, developed through careful listening • Housing: Focusing on affordable making it an ideal logistics to a wide range of community housing development with and transportation hub, and a stakeholders. community services designed manufacturing and testing center for to attract and retain workers, clean energy and aerospace, where Economic Mobility Strategies: leveraging local, state, and federal products can be efficiently built, How we’re driving additional enablers of economic growth resources. tested, and exported. • Entrepreneurship: Building an • Childcare: Expanding affordable, • A robust workforce development inclusive and accessible ecosystem high-quality childcare services by and training ecosystem, including to community members to achieve increasing the number of facilities the Kern Community College District financial independence. and accessing state and federal and Taft College, provides essential funding through partners. • Workforce Development: skill development tailored to the Strengthening and expanding the • Digital Infrastructure: Working to region’s growing industries. region’s education system to ensure bridge the digital divide through • Abundant natural resources, it is accessible to all residents. targeted initiatives. including significant oil reserves, • Health: Closing gaps in the region’s • Water: Modernizing water vast open land ideal for agriculture, healthcare system and expanding infrastructure to address climate and the development of solar and access to mental and behavioral change, collaborating on projects energy storage farms. health services. with relevant agencies. The Playbook 55

Los Angeles County LA COUNTY JOBS FIRST COLLABORATIVE Why Invest in Los Angeles County? Los Angeles County offers unparalleled business opportunities as a global gateway to international trade, entertainment capital, technology markets, and a competitive startup ecosystem. The region boasts diverse talent pools from top universities like USC, UCLA, and Caltech. Its Mediterranean climate, 75 miles of coastline, and year-round outdoor lifestyle attract skilled workers across the socioeconomic spectrum. The county’s cultural diversity drives innovation and provides access to international markets. Major infrastructure investments, including the LAX Modernization project and various LA Metro initiatives, enhance connectivity. The Coalition The region’s massive consumer market of 9.7 million residents creates multiple paths for business growth and investment returns. LA County Region represents over 630 organizations and 61 individual

Los Angeles County LA COUNTY JOBS FIRST COLLABORATIVE VIEW REGIONAL PLAN lacerf.org Priority Sectors The LA County Region has identified Video Production & Distribution, Aerospace Manufacturing, and Transportation & Logistics as the leading sectors driving regional growth. The LA County Region possesses high regional concentrations in terms of employment in all three of these well-paying industries. All three industries utilize their local, extensive base of existing infrastructure to drive growth and innovation. Key Drivers of Regional Success the San Pedro Bay Port Complex, made development providers, educational up of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long institutions, and industry. Conducting • As for the Video Production & Distribution Beach, which is the busiest container outreach in disinvested communities to sector, LA County is home to seven of port complex in the Western Hemisphere increase awareness of opportunities. the top 25 film schools in the country, and one of the top ten busiest in the Providing additional support services for major studios such as NBC Universal, world. According to CBRE, in the first people to overcome barriers to gaining Paramount, Fox, Warner Bros and Sony quarter of 2024, the San Pedro Bay Port and maintaining employment. Pictures, and boasts the largest inventory Complex accounted for over 30% of the of indoor filmable sound stages in the • Transition Industries into the Carbon- Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in United States at 389 stages for a total of neutral Economy: Supporting businesses the United States. In addition, “Silicon 5.4 million square feet. by investing in green infrastructure and Beach”, a name given to a sub-region on energy sources. Building awareness and • The Aerospace Manufacturing sector the Westside home to hundreds of tech engagement with local communities encompasses virtually all of LA County’s companies, is a hub for tech startups and to ensure climate-forward initiatives geographical regions. From Antelope companies focusing on transportation are designed and led by them. Growing Valley where major primes such as innovation including autonomous vehicles environmentally responsible business Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman and electric vehicle technology. and industries dedicated to community house manufacturing facilities, to the Economic Mobility Strategies: resilience. San Gabriel Valley where NASA’s world- How we’re driving additional enablers of renowned Jet Propulsion Laboratory and economic growth Community Strategies: What we’re doing the California Institute of Technology to make sure the growth in our region • Enhance the Small Business and produce groundbreaking research, all benefits everyone: Entrepreneurship Ecosystem: Exploring the way to the South Bay which includes community ownership models and • Housing: Includes repurposing El Segundo, the “Aerospace Capital of partnerships to engage local businesses the World”, home to the Los Angeles underutilized office spaces, hotels and communities. Supporting Air Force Base and major primes like and motels for housing & identifying business modernization to increase Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Raytheon and implementing best practices to competitiveness through investments. and Lockheed Martin. increase affordable, mixed-use housing Reducing barriers to entrepreneurship by complexes proximate to job centers, • The Transportation & Logistics sector increasing capital. public transit, and other amenities such relies on a vast array of infrastructure to • Build and Align Career Pathways: as commercial centers and green spaces. move goods throughout the county, state Improving education and workforce and country. LA County is home to the • Transportation: Continue enhancing training opportunities that support Los Angeles International Airport, one public transit to increase accessibility for pathways to high-road careers. of the busiest airports in the world for LA County residents. Creating synergies between workforce domestic and international travel, and The Playbook 57

Orange County ORANGE COUNTY JOBS FIRST COLLABORATIVE Why Invest in Orange County? Orange County is home to several world-class, highly specialized industry clusters such as MedTech/Medical Device Manufacturing. These clusters boost the rest of the regional economy through their high multiplier effects, directly and indirectly create significant amounts of high-paying jobs, attract venture capital investment, and fuel entrepreneurship and innovation. REGIONAL SECTORS The Coalition Manufacturing High Tech Life Sciences Tourism & Outdoor Advanced / Precision Hardware Medtech Recreation Orange County Jobs First Semiconductors & Microelectronics Collaborative represents over 63 institutions and 9 community FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS representatives. Vision To create an inclusive, equitable, & sustainable Orange County Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare (Construction) (Construction) & Skilled economy that creates high-road Broadband Workforce jobs & provides a path towards an Transportation Transmission & equitable transition to a carbon- Distribution Water neutral powered economy. Priority Sectors Population 3.2 million Orange County has identified precision manufacturing, life sciences, high tech, and tourism & outdoor recreation as the leading sectors People under 25: 30% driving regional growth. Orange County is not only fortunate to People of 25-44: 27% have major investments in tourism and outdoor recreation currently underway, positioning the region to lead in this sector for decades People over 44: 43% to come, but it is also a leader in high-skilled, high-paying, and high-value-add industries such as computer and electronic product development, semiconductor development, and Medtech, which are U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates (Accessed Oct. 2024) primed for growth to meet the demands of the 21st century. The Playbook 58

Orange County ORANGE COUNTY JOBS FIRST COLLABORATIVE Key Drivers of Regional Success aerospace industry. Many of the companies in American Indians, minority owned businesses, that sector commercialized their technology manufacturing industry and many others. • A dynamic ecosystem of global market leaders and innovation into new sectors such as medical We also have nonprofits with a mission of in Medtech like Edwards Lifesciences, Applied device/medtech and semiconductors, which supporting BIPOC microbusiness such as Medical, Medtronic, B Braun, Johnson & Johnson remain growth drivers. Our very diverse, highly Cielo and Cooperacion. Medtech, and Alcon complemented by small educated, and highly skilled workforce, as well and mid-size firms. Community Strategies: What we’re doing to make as robust R&D capabilities, are what keeps our sure the growth in our region benefits everyone: • 42 Miles of pristine coastline with an abundance county on the cutting edge of many new tech of hotels and recreational activities, Disneyland, trends such as autonomous vehicles, drones, etc. • Cultural Humility and respectful cultural Premier Retail Destinations such as South Coast engagement: Institutions such as schools, Economic Mobility Strategies: How we’re driving Plaza and Fashion Island, that attract 50 million colleges, and government agencies are doing additional enablers of economic growth visitors annually. a much better job providing more information • Career Pathways and Apprenticeships: With in a variety of languages, and promoting and • Proximity to the two largest ports in strong collaboration between the community celebrating cultures and traditions of many of North America. colleges, K12 system, and workforce boards Orange County’s diverse communities. However, • Robust Interstate Highway and Toll Road there’s better alignment of resources to more can be done. For example, the region could systems to move people and goods. support students and residents to find gainful still encourage local governments, foundations, employment. This is supplemental with very and other funders in the region to use • High K12 educational attainment. Separate from effective workforce centered non-profits such participatory budgeting approaches to ensure having an educated workforce, as business as Goodwill Orange County, United Way, Hope that community-determined priorities are leaders make location decisions, they need to Builders, Chrysalis, Orange County Conservation being met, set a best practice for community pick a location where they and their employees Corps, and Working Wardrobes that are engagement through proactive written outreach want to live, so having quality primary and especially focused in supporting disinvested strategies that specifically include historically secondary schools for those employees with communities. With significant investment from excluded groups and geographic areas of the families is a contributing factor. the Federal and State Government over the region, and eliminate barriers for disinvested last few years to increase apprenticeships, it communities and historically excluded voices • Over 40% of residents hold a bachelor’s has become a primary focus of the community to access economic development opportunities degree or higher. colleges, K12 system, and workforce board to and resources. • Two very large and highly ranked state drive that conversation with stakeholders to • Accessible and Affordable Childcare: schools (UC Irvine and CSU Fullerton) for a demystify apprenticeships and gain greater Established partners like First 5 Orange County steady supply of strong talent. They are then acceptance for them. have equity as a core pillar and have done complemented by other universities such as • Economic Aid Fund: When the pandemic began, the research at the local level on where the Chapman, Concordia, nine community colleges, the OC Region’s Fiscal Agent, Charitable biggest childcare gaps are. They even created a and over 30 other accredited colleges and Ventures worked with both public and private program in partnership with the local SBDC and universities in the region. partners to strategically distribute funding to Cielo to have future child care providers spend • 30% of residents are foreign born and 47% are those most in need. Since March 2020, they two months building their knowledge of business bilingual, which allows for a workforce that have distributed more than $30 million in relief basics, early child development, and how to global companies can tap into, have business and disaster funding helping individuals directly operate a child care program. It is estimated leaders who are more open to international in the aftermath of both COVID and other that this program will create an additional 400 trade via their home country, and be more natural disasters, supporting small businesses, child care slots. attractive to Foreign Direct Investment. and regranting to community organizations. This • Culturally Sensitive and Affordable Healthcare: economic aid was also a response to support • One of the safest metropolitan counties in Orange County is fortunate that its major those who weren’t able to receive financial aid America. Not only does this support a quality healthcare providers recognize this need for from the federal and state government due to a of life that business owners, executives, and cultural sensitivity. It is also fortunate to have variety of reasons. top talent want to live, but also protects local nonprofit partners who partner with these business’ bottomline by not having to deal with • Small Business, Worker Ownership, and providers who can assist with executing it. business disruptions related to criminal activity. Entrepreneurship: The Octane and UCI Beall These nonprofits include latino health access, Center of Applied Innovation are great local community health initiative of Orange County, • Sits at the geographic center of Southern resources to support business in cutting The Cambodian Family, and Access California. California which is home to a major consumer industries. However, Orange County is also Lastly, through the Orange County Health market of over 20 million people. fortunate to have Small Business Development Care Agency, there is an Equity in OC initiative • One of the most diverse economic regions in the Centers and other agencies at the state and meant to partner with the community to deliver country which allows it to be more resilient than federal level that support local business (Orange sustainable and responsive services that other regions to withstand economic shocks County Women’s Business Center, SoCal promote population health and equity. and hold a lower unemployment rate than any Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), neighboring region. Apex Accelerators, ethnic chambers and other businesses centers serving the unique needs of • A diverse High Tech sector which was born women, veterans, VIEW REGIONAL PLAN alongside and fueled by Orange County’s ocbc.org traditional leading sector – the defense and The Playbook 59

Inland SoCal Thrive Inland SoCal Why Invest in Inland SoCal? Originally an agricultural powerhouse known for citrus and vineyards, the region has evolved into a logistics and manufacturing hub due to its strategic location and access to major transportation routes. Over the decades, it has been a center for aerospace manufacturing, goods movement, and even pioneering environmental research. Today, the Inland Empire is again at the forefront of change, driven by advances in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and Cybersecurity. With investments in infrastructure, education, and sustainability, this The Coalition fast-growing region is positioned to become a leader in innovation, Inland SoCal Thrive Region represents setting the stage for a new era of growth and quality jobs that can over 140 institutions and 500 give workers and families mortgage-sustaining wages. community members. REGIONAL SECTORS Vision To create an Inland SoCal where every community prospers in a sustainable and innovative economy, and every Working Lands & Water High Tech Clean Economy individual has the opportunity to live a Blue Economy / Tech Artificial Intelligence Batteries Robotics Critical Minerals healthy, quality life. Semiconductors & Hydrogen Microelectronics ZEVs Software & Services Population (Cybersecurity) 4,701,730 People under 29: 1,944,144 Financial & Professional Manufacturing Services Advanced / Precision People of 30-49: 1,33,2049 People over 44: 42% FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS Counties Riverside Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare San Bernardino (Construction) (Construction) & Skilled Broadband Workforce Transportation U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates (Accessed Oct. 2024) Transmission & Distribution Water The Playbook 60

Inland SoCal Thrive Inland SoCal VIEW REGIONAL PLAN thriveinlandsocal.org Priority Sectors Inland SoCal is fast becoming a key hub for national security, bringing together clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity. As one of California’s largest and fastest-growing regions, it connects the state’s ports to the rest of the country, making it a center for innovation. The region is positioned to lead in clean energy, testing new green building technologies that can be scaled and exported worldwide. Inland SoCal also offers top-tier cybersecurity training, ready to safeguard digital systems, but remains untapped by major companies. With a strong background in manufacturing and solid infrastructure, Inland SoCal has everything needed to drive growth, exports, and economic security. Key Drivers of Regional Success located at California Steel Industries, • Fostering Entrepreneurship: Supporting which upskills workers for high- entrepreneurial ecosystems through • Anchored by global leaders such as demand jobs. programs like the InSoCal Accelerate Hub California Steel Industries, General and UCR OASIS Accelerator, providing Atomics, MP Materials, and Exquadrum • The K-16 Collaborative strengthens mentorship, technical assistance, and Inc., with a network of small and mid- educational pathways between K-12 capital while strengthening Main Street sized firms specializing in advanced schools, community colleges, and businesses and underrepresented manufacturing and sustainable supply universities, aligning workforce training entrepreneurs. chains. with high-demand sectors like advanced manufacturing, technology, and • Building Pathways to Quality Jobs: • Strategically positioned near the Ports of cybersecurity. Developing apprenticeships, pre- Los Angeles and Long Beach, supported apprenticeships, and certificate • CSU San Bernardino houses the Center by extensive logistics infrastructure programs aligned with high-demand for Cyber and AI (CyAI), a nationally (highways, railroads, and Ontario sectors while fostering continuous recognized leader in cybersecurity International Airport), renewable energy learning through stackable credentials education, with prestigious NSA and DHS projects (solar, wind, EV infrastructure), and employer partnerships. designations. and innovation-driven educational • Addressing Housing Affordability: institutions like UC Riverside, CSU San • CSUSB leads national programs like the Aligning public and private investments, Bernardino, and a robust community INSuRE initiative (sponsored by NSA) and streamlining housing approvals, and college network. the Community College Cybersecurity exploring community land trusts and Pilot (C3P), building a talent pipeline in • Emerging as a cybersecurity hub with cybersecurity. employer-led housing incentives to partnerships between local universities create affordable options near job like CSU San Bernardino’s CyAI and UCR, • Partnerships with the NSA, NSF, centers. Google, IBM, Booz Allen Hamilton, and alongside industry leaders like ESRI, • Increasing Access to Childcare: others connect students to industry fostering innovation in cybersecurity Expanding affordable childcare options opportunities and align academic solutions and workforce development for through employer partnerships and programs with workforce needs. high-demand roles. integrating facilities into housing and Community Strategies workplaces while supporting childcare Economic Mobility Strategies: • Expanding Transportation and professionals with better wages and How we’re driving additional enablers of Broadband Connectivity: Enhancing career pathways. economic growth infrastructure with emission-free • Population of current workforce: public transit, EV charging stations, 2,184,300 and expanded broadband to connect • Fourteen community colleges serve underserved communities with as workforce training hubs, including education, jobs, and remote work Chaffey College’s InTech Center, co- opportunities. The Playbook 61

Southern Border SOUTHERN BORDER COALITION Why Invest in the Southern Border? The Southern Border Region is home to a diverse range of economic sectors from agriculture to biotechnology to arts and tourism. The region has substantial innovation and research capabilities with renowned academic institutions and a strong community college network, which creates the foundation of a significant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The unique position of the region at the U.S.-Mexico border offers distinct economic and cultural advantages, fostering cross-border trade and cultural exchange. The region has a strategic geopolitical position in the pacific and is home to the largest concentration of Department of Defense assets on the west coast, which drives economic activity and stability. The Southern Border is a leader in sustainability and renewable energy production demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. The Coalition The Southern Border Region represents REGIONAL SECTORS more than 700 coalition members. Vision Our vision is to foster inclusive and Aerospace & Life Sciences Clean Economy Working Lands sustainable economic development Defense Medtech Batteries & Water Aircraft Pharma / Biotech Critical Minerals Agricultural Production in the Southern Border Region by Space, Defense, Hydrogen Farm Equipment & Agtech empowering and uplifting disinvested & Satellites Solar Food Processing Wind (Onshore & Offshore) Bioeconomy communities and ensuring equitable Blue Economy / Tech access to opportunities, resources, and growth. Population Creative Economy High Tech Transport & Tourism & Manufacturing Film, TV, & the Arts Robotics Logistics Outdoor Advanced / Precision 3.5 Million Recreation Population by County FOUNDATIONAL ANCHORS San Diego County: 3,298,634 Imperial County: 179,057 Housing Infrastructure Education Healthcare Childcare (Construction) Broadband & Skilled Transportation Workforce U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-Year Estimates Transmission & (Accessed Oct. 2024) Distribution Water The Playbook 62

Southern Border SOUTHERN BORDER COALITION VIEW REGIONAL PLAN cajobsfirst.sdsu.edu Priority Sectors The Southern Border Region has identified Agriculture, Energy, and Manufacturing as the leading sectors driving and anchoring regional growth. Imperial County has identified Transportation and Warehousing and San Diego County has identified Life Sciences and Arts, Culture, Heritage, & Tourism as sectors driving subregional, county specific growth. With the goal of improving the region’s economy and wellbeing of all its residents of the Southern Border Region, the Coalition has also identified community health, water, and workforce development as locally serving industries and community infrastructure, digital infrastructure, non-profits and community-based organizations, and housing as foundational industries that will collectively uplift the region’s historically disinvested communities while supporting the state’s transition to a carbon-neutral economy. Key Drivers of Regional Success • Imperial County’s proximity to the border with Community Strategies: Mexico and major US urban centers, access to What we’re doing to make sure the growth • Agriculture is a foundational pillar of economic in our region benefits everyone transportation infrastructure and lower cost stability in the region. Imperial County’s of land, power and water compared to nearby • Community Infrastructure - The region agriculture industry ranks in the top 10 counties, positions the region as a strategic possesses diverse transport infrastructure, agricultural counties in California and is the logistics hub ready for growth and investment. including ocean, road, and rail systems, as well county’s largest industry, while San Diego has as sewer, water, and electrical resources, but the largest combined farm and fishing sales of Economic Mobility Strategies: requires investment in infrastructure projects any county in the US. How we’re driving additional enablers that foster better connected communities and • San Diego County’s clean technology of economic growth public transportation. ecosystem is one of the most advanced in • Community Health - Strategic investments • Digital Infrastructure – Despite collaborative the nation, with over 925 companies driving in healthcare, workforce, and innovative efforts like the Southern Border Broadband cleantech innovation, and Imperial County’s services can boost economic diversification Consortium, rural and remote areas still lack solar and geothermal capacity provides an and address urgent public health needs. adequate broadband due to challenging desert opportunity for significant energy production, Holistic care, including mental health, physical and mountain topography. Investments are manufacturing, and job creation. activity, and nutrition, is vital to tackling social needed to improve access, affordability, and • Mexico is California’s largest combined determinants of health. digital literacy. import / export market, which reflects a • Water – The Southern Border region benefits • Housing – The region faces a critical shortage strong demand for parts and semi-assembly from a range of water resources management of affordable housing, especially for essential products, highlighting regional opportunities assets, but natural scarcity and climate workers caught in the “missing middle.” This for manufacturing growth with nearshoring and pressures threaten supply stability. Investing in supply-demand gap fuels housing insecurity supply chain resilience initiatives. the regions research facilities, water-focused and homelessness. Tackling these challenges • San Diego County’s identity is deeply community organizations, specialized water could alleviate poverty, reduce unemployment, intertwined with its arts and culture scene, infrastructure, and local talent will provide the and create a more equitable, thriving showcasing a diversity of traditions across foundation for a more resilient water sector. community. three officially designated cultural districts, • Training & Workforce Development – The • Non-profits & CBOs - The Center for and artistic-based goods, services, and region’s high cost of living hinders attracting a Community Energy and Environmental Justice experiences are integrated into tourism and technical workforce, making local training and (CCEEJ), one of 16 centers in the EPA’s cultural attractions, driving an ecosystem retraining essential. Investments must address Environmental Justice Thriving Communities of educators, entrepreneurs, vendors, barriers to high-quality jobs, especially in Technical Assistance Center (EJ TCTAC) policymakers, and funders. disinvested communities. Program, is led by SDSU and powered by a • San Diego County is recognized globally for network of collaborative institutions and its innovation in life sciences, housing one organizations across the region. Access to of the largest life sciences clusters in the capacity-building resources of CCEEJ will United States, driven by world class research unlock the potential of both established and institutions, which fuel innovation and attract new organizations, enabling them to diversify top-tier talent, and home to large industrial their funding sources and expand the services partners. they provide. The Playbook 63

The Final Play: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Strategic Investment “California has created more opportunities, more jobs, and more businesses than any other state, but we need to ensure that we’re all moving forward together. Through this new council and these investments, we’re aligning all of our economic resources to create more jobs, faster for Californians in every community.” Governor Gavin Newsom 64

The Final Play: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Strategic Investment The California Jobs First California Jobs First offers the foundation for economic growth, but its true impact depends on Playbook represents a moving quickly from strategy to action. With this groundbreaking approach to Playbook as a guide, regional leaders, industries, uniting regions, driving job and policymakers are positioned to collaborate like never before, ensuring success resonates creation, and building impactful, deeply in the communities that define our state fundable investment strategies. and inspire our future. The thirteen regions across the state, thoughtfully mapped through data-driven analysis, serve as the backbone of this Playbook. While the regional grouping was designed to maximize economic diversity, collaboration, and resilience, it is the regions themselves that brought this vision to life. Local leaders, deeply familiar with their communities’ needs and assets, worked tirelessly to craft plans tailored to their unique challenges and opportunities. As a result of this process, leaders from every region have emerged better connected and prepared to advocate for their communities at the state and national levels. These connections— bridging both counties and industries—laid the foundation for unprecedented collaboration. This Playbook synthesizes the state’s assets across each region, weaving together cross- sector strategies to illuminate pathways for further collaboration and investment. It provides a roadmap for aligning resources, highlights opportunities to build partnerships that transcend geographic boundaries, and amplifies the impact of collective efforts. Paired with the Economic Blueprint, the Playbook empowers regions to attract the funding needed to bring transformative projects to fruition. The Playbook 65

Endnotes 1 Governor Gavin Newsom, “California Jobs First: State Launches 18 Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, “DARPA First-of-its-Kind Council to Create Thousands of More Jobs Launches Regional Commercial Accelerators,” August 22, Across All Regions,” accessed December 8, 2024. 2024. 2 California Department of Labor, “California Jobs First: Regional 19 U.S. Department of Commerce, “Biden-Harris Administration Investment Initiative,” accessed December 8, 2024. Announces Sunnyvale, CA as Expected Location for Second CHIPS for America R&D Flagship Facility,” November 1, 2024. 3 Employment Development Department, “Community Economic Resilience Fund Program: Program Year 2022-24 - Solicitation 20 Biocom California, “2024 Life Science Economic Impact for Proposals,” May 2022. Also based on the 13 regional plans Report” submitted by the California Jobs First Collaboratives. 21 Ibid. 4 California State Assembly Floor Report, June 22, 2024 22 Pitchbook, Moody’s Analytics 5 California Department of Labor, “Regional Investment 23 Biocom California, “2024 Life Science Economic Impact Initiative,” March 1, 2024. Report” 6 Community Economic Resilience Fund, Proposed Economic 24 Lightcast Regions for High Road Transition Planning Grants: Released for Public Comment. 25 CBRE, “CBRE Report Identifies Top US Markets Across Three Subsectors of Life Sciences Industry,” June 5, 2024. 7 Hélène Donnat, “Understanding tradable and non-tradable sectors,” October 19, 2023. 26 Biocom California, “2024 Life Science Economic Impact Report” 8 Lightcast. 27 Lightcast 9 Astosh Padhi, “Want to drive inclusive economic growth? Start with manufacturing,” January 20, 2022. 28 Lightcast 10 U.S. General Services Administration, “Buy American (BAA) or 29 Pitchbook, Moody’s Analytics Buy America,” November 7, 2024. 30 Stephanie Metzinger, “WG Goes All in for Agtech Workforce 11 Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, “Defense Development,” September 23, 2021. Spending by State, FY 2022.” 31 U.S. Department of Commerce, “Biden-Harris Administration 12 Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, Announces Sunnyvale, CA as Expected Location for Second “California’s New Space Industry Task Force to be led by the CHIPS for America R&D Flagship Facility,” November 1, 2024. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development,” 32 U.S. Department of Commerce, NIST, “National Advanced August 31, 2022. Packaging Manufacturing Program (NAPMP) Advanced 13 Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Occupational Employment and Packaging Research and Development (R&D) 2025-NIST- Wage Statistics, May 2023 17-2011 Aerospace Engineers,” CHIPS-NAMP-01,” accessed November 8, 2024. May 2023. 33 U.S. Department of Commerce, “Artificial Intelligence- 14 O ffice of Local Defense Community Cooperation, “Defense powered Autonomous Experimentation (AI/AE) for Sustainable Spending by State, FY 2022.” Semiconductor Materials,” accessed November 8, 2024. 15 Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) shared by CA Labor and 34 Funding for these initiatives builds on previous Jobs First Workforce Development Agency, top occupations determined investments, including $286 million allocated across by share of aerospace and defense employment (Lightcast, three phases: the Planning Phase ($65 million), Economic Bureau of Labor Statistics) Development Pilot Projects ($39 million), and the Catalyst Program ($182 million). For more details, see the CA Jobs First 16 National Aeronautics and Space Administration,, “NASA Regional Investment Initiative Fact Sheet. Centers and Facilities,” accessed November 8, 2024. 35 Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, “California Jobs First: State 17 Defense Innovation Unit, “Defense Innovation Unit ,” accessed Launches First-of-its-Kind Council to Create Thousands of November 8, 2024. More Jobs Across All Regions,” March 8, 2024. The Playbook 66

36 Bureau of Economic Analysis, “Gross Domestic Product by 52 Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, State and Personal Income by State, 2nd Quarter 2024,” “California Awards Nearly $40 million for Communities to Build September 27, 2024. Industries of the Future,” May 24, 2023. 37 For example, the Southern Border region submitted two 53 Thrive Inland SoCal, “California Jobs First (CJF) Regional Plan applications for advanced manufacturing of batteries, and the Part II,” September 26, 2024, 15. County of Kern and the Central Coast (neighboring regions) 54 Sierra Jobs First Collaborative, “2024 Strategic Plan, Regional both submitted applications around aerospace. Plan: Part II,” August 23, 2024, 16. 38 Hannah Love, “Fostering inclusive and sustainable agricultural 55 Arken meeting with Sierra Jobs First convenors innovation in California’s Central Valley,” May 21, 2024. 56 See Regional Snapshots compiled by Arken 39 Erica Poethig, “Philanthropy is addressing Fresno’s severe economic inequities,” November 16, 2018. 57 Interview with Binational of Central California - member of the Sierra San Joaquin Jobs (S2J2) HRTC. October 28, 2024. 40 September 2024 Communities of Practice meeting hosted by Go-Biz 58 Valley Vision, “Capital Region Economic Assessment Part 2,” August, 30, 2024, 84; North Valley Thrive, “North San Joaquin 41 Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, “Governor Newsom Valley Strategic Plan,” August 30, 2024, 84; Uplift Central Announces Appointments 7.1.22,” July 1, 2022. Coast, “Regional Plan Part II Report,” August 31, 2024, 112; Kern 42 Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, “California Roars Back: Coalition, “Kern County Regional Plan Part 2,” August 2024, Governor Newsom Signs $100 Billion California Comeback 119; “Los Angeles County Regional Plan Part 2,” 59; Inland Plan to Accelerate State’s Recovery and Tackle Persistent SoCal Regional Plan, 90; “California Jobs First Orange County Challenges,” July 12, 2024. Regional Plan Part 2,” July, 2024, 86. 43 NADO Research Foundation, “Investing in Rural Downtowns: 59 Bay Area Jobs First Collaborative, “Nine-County San Francisco What role are EDDs playing?,” January 2024. Bay Area Bay Jobs First Collaborative Regional Plan Part 2,” August 12,2024, 47; Sierra Regional Plan, 56; Central Coast 44 Interview with Debbie Franklin, Vice President of Strategic Regional Plan, 142; Inland SoCal Regional Plan, 95. Initiatives and Industry Engagement, Wichita State University 60 Redwood Region Rose, “Regional Plan Part 2,” September 45 National Science Foundation, “Higher Education Research and 2024, 146; Capital Regional Plan, 81 and 84; Bay Area Regional Development Survey (HERD) 2022,” accessed September 21, Plan, 31; North San Joaquin Regional Plan, 58; Sierra Regional, 2024, 56; Central Coast Regional Plan, 75; Kern County Regional 46 National Science Foundation, “Higher Education Research and Plan, 64; LA County Regional Plan, 138; Inland SoCal Regional Development Survey (HERD) 2022,” accessed September 21, Plan, 110; Orange County Regional Plan, 60; Southern Border 2024, Coalition “Regional Plan Part 2,” August 31, 2024, 15. 47 Interview with Debbie Franklin, Vice President of Strategic 61 Southern Border Regional Plan, 32 Initiatives and Industry Engagement- Wichita State University 62 Interview with Uplift Central Coast coalition, October 2024 (year over year growth in funding chart provided by her) 63 Inland Empire Community Foundation, “Diversity, Equity and 48 California Air Resources Board, “California Bioresources Inclusion,” accessed November 8, 2024. Economy Summit,” accessed November 10, 2024. 64 California Labor & Workforce Development Agency, “Charting 49 National Science Foundation, “NSF advances 71 teams California’s Economic Future in Partnership with Communities,” spanning nearly every U.S. state and territory in the second accessed November 10, 2024. Regional Innovation Engines competition,” October 24, 2024. 65 Go-Biz communities of practice directive to the regions 50 National Science Foundation, “NSF Regional Innovation Engines October 2024 (NSF Engines),” accessed November 8, 2024. 51 Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors, “The Board of Supervisors of the County of Stanislaus Board Action Summary,” January 31, 2023. The Playbook 67