Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a comprehensive economic plan aimed at fostering growth and job creation across California. The initiative, titled the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, is designed to drive sustainable economic development over the next decade. This statewide strategy is supported by $245 million in investments, with specific allocations for various projects and regions.

The plan includes $125 million earmarked for new projects aligned with strategic sectors, $15 million for economic initiatives involving California Native American tribes, and $13 million to aid Los Angeles' recovery from recent wildfires. Additionally, $92 million will be directed towards apprenticeship and job programs.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of local contributions to California's economy: "California’s economic dominance and success are grown locally, with the contributions of each diverse region of our state." He praised the collaborative efforts behind the Economic Blueprint and expressed confidence in its potential to advance Los Angeles' recovery.

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom highlighted the inclusivity of the plan: "The California Jobs First Economic Blueprint launch is a bold step toward building an economy that uplifts every worker, every family, and every community."

The funding also includes significant support for workforce development. This encompasses $52 million for new apprenticeships in high-demand sectors like finance and healthcare, as well as $16 million through the California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship program for young people aged 16-24.

Los Angeles will receive additional support through a regional plan accepted by Governor Newsom. The plan involves a $10 million investment in the LA Region Small Business Relief Fund to assist fire-impacted communities. Furthermore, $3 million will be allocated to promote small business support and bolster regional recovery efforts.

The California Jobs First initiative builds on previous efforts under different names since 2021. It aims to create accessible jobs and foster sustainable growth across thirteen regions in the state. Each region developed its own economic plans through collaborations involving various community stakeholders.

Since 2022, California has invested significantly in these regional plans. In March 2024, Governor Newsom established the California Jobs First Council to streamline economic development programs statewide.

As part of this broader strategy, workforce training dollars aim to meet a target of creating 500,000 new training slots by 2029. These efforts focus on high-growth sectors such as healthcare and advanced manufacturing.

California remains a global economic leader with diverse industries contributing to its status as the world's fifth-largest economy. The state's commitment to innovation continues with initiatives like this Economic Blueprint designed to ensure future prosperity.