California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced $48.5 million in funding through the California Jobs First Regional Investment Initiative, targeting 18 projects across eight economic regions and 33 counties. This investment is projected to create 20,000 direct and indirect jobs, bolstering key sectors and advancing regional economic priorities throughout the state.
The awards represent the final tranche of implementation funding for the initiative, focusing on seven project clusters. Significant allocations include $17.75 million for advanced manufacturing in the Central San Joaquin and Capital Regions, $9.742 million for quantum sector development across Southern California, and $8.236 million to strengthen shipbuilding in the Bay Area. Other sectors receiving funding are aerospace & defense ($3.95 million), high-tech ($1.94 million), and space, defense & satellites ($6.846 million) in Kern County.
Governor Newsom emphasized the state's economic strength, saying, “California’s economy remains a global powerhouse thanks to the strength of the state’s diverse regions — each boasting unique local assets, specialized talent pipelines, and tailored industry sectors that help our state compete globally. Today’s investments support the growth of industries defining the next generation of our economy, creating good-paying jobs, strengthening innovation and ensuring the Golden State continues to lead the world in the sectors shaping the future.”
This initiative builds on years of strategic planning, including the development of 13 regional roadmaps, each receiving $5 million, which identified future industry sectors and investment opportunities. These plans were formally designated as Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS) by the U.S. Economic Development Administration in April 2025, providing a federally recognized strategy for all California communities.
Previous phases of the initiative saw nearly $40 million awarded in May 2023 for pilot projects, such as a new ice facility in Fort Bragg and a business innovation hub in Yreka. Additionally, $14 million in Catalyst funding was announced in March 2024 for regional collaboratives, supporting projects like career pathways in Ridgecrest and community land trusts in Santa Ana. The program also invested $15 million in June 2025 to support 14 California Native American tribes and organizations in advancing economic growth and workforce training.
Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Governor Newsom and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, said, “Through years of planning and collaboration, California Jobs First has turned investments into real opportunities, positioning regions for long-term economic growth.” Stewart Knox, Secretary of the California Labor & Workforce Development Agency, added, “Together, we’re building a durable foundation for economic resilience while expanding pathways to quality jobs in the industries that are shaping California’s future.” These ongoing investments aim to translate regional priorities into projects that create good-paying jobs, strengthen critical industries, and build long-term economic resilience across California.