The key to building vibrant communities lies in cross-sector collaboration that creates new opportunities and solves persistent challenges. We convene the right people, the right business practices and the right resources to help make that happen.
We face important challenges in creating and sustaining jobs that enable people to live a quality life in an expensive region like Orange County while improving their health, longevity and overall well-being. In addition, better jobs can help address social problems.
A strategy was needed with a ripple effect and a focus on innovation. Each innovation job can generate five additional jobs. Moreover, an innovation economy can attract dollars from around the country and the world.
CLA-OC represents diverse business sectors with guidance from talented leadership who are passionate about our community. We seek to be a catalyst and collaborator to move the county forward around a common vision.
Our four-part strategy is designed to create a multiplier effect as a flywheel that spins and builds momentum. Those workstreams reinforce each other as key leverage points to build compounding impact over time.
Over 50 of the leading CEOs in OC engaged as members to collaborate and cultivate OC into a premier, inclusive, innovation talent hub.
Raised $65 million of new venture capital for regional investments through the SoCal Master Fund.
Over 25 leading companies made commitments to retain and hire more talent from OC; meeting quarterly with HR leaders to implement plans.
Led initiative by Chapman and UCI to create the Innovation Index, a semi-annual part of the Chapman Economic Forecast that tracks the growth of innovation jobs in OC.
Collected never-before available data to measure the development, retention, and attraction of talent to OC and established community-wide talent success metrics.
Successfully launched 4 experiential learning pilots with 12 CLA member companies benefiting over 200 high school and community college students (expanding to 500 in 2022) and created a business-led, employer coalition around work-based learning in OC designed for systems change.
Launched first-ever website (envisionoc.org) to brand OC more effectively as a distinct innovation region to retain and attract talent, while also supporting an aligned SoCal regional innovation campaign.
Formed Talent Leadership Advisory Board (T-LAB) to foster collaboration between the business community and the three major universities, plus four community college districts and the K-12 public school system.
Designed and completed a strategic plan for an AI Talent Development Center of Excellence. Leading a local effort to gain federal funding for the CoE.