Regions across California have increasingly understood that engaging the community fully in the creation of economic development strategies is essential.

CA FWD’s report, “Empowering Communities through Inclusive, Regional Economic Development,” provides a framework for understanding the landscape of regional economic development ecosystems in California. It includes key on-the-ground observations—including challenges and promising practices—to inform regional economic mobility strategies grounded in equity and inclusivity.

This report was designed to prompt a renewed commitment to multi-sector collaboration on building economic development that truly delivers for residents, particularly historically marginalized communities.