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Through Governor Newsom’s Regional Investment Initiative, we are thrilled to announce the launch of an unprecedented funding opportunity designed to propel Orange County into a future of greater economic equity, sustainability, and prosperity. This first-of-its-kind program is your opportunity to secure funding that supports the development of innovative projects to life, fosters good-paying jobs, and ensures disinvested communities are at the forefront of California’s economic growth.
Funding Details
In this first round, $3 million is available to support essential pre-development activities for impactful ideas. This funding is only meant for projects that are not yet implementation ready. All pre-development activities must be completed by September 30, 2026.
Application Details and Rating
With $3 million in funding available in this round, projects are classified into two categories: Job Creating Projects and Community Enhancing Projects.
Job Creating Projects
Job Creating Projects are eligible for funding from a $2.1 million allocation and focus on creating good-paying jobs and/or fostering business development and growth. Eligible projects will advance the industries of tourism and outdoor recreation, medtech, high-tech hardware, semiconductors and microelectronics, advanced manufacturing, precision manufacturing, healthcare, childcare, education, and construction. All projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to Orange County’s disinvested communities. Stronger submissions will also have a positive impact on the climate.
Community Enhancing Projects
Community Enhancing Projects address any topic(s) outlined in the Regional Plan Part 2 and/or industries not mentioned in the Job Creating Projects, such as housing, healthcare access, green technologies, childcare, and climate adaptation. These projects are eligible for funding from a $900,000 allocation. While proposals do not need to be climate-focused, stronger submissions show a positive impact on the climate. Proposals are further strengthened by hiring locally, supporting workers with barriers to employment, funding alternative models of ownership for land, and leveraging regional assets with additional funding attached.
What We’re Looking For
Proposals should focus on projects that will create jobs for disinvested communities, align with the Regional Plan Part 2, leverage additional funding, and promote climate resilience and sustainability when they are implementation ready.
Key Dates to Remember
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NOFO Launch Date: January 31, 2025
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Proposers Webinars:
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February 7, 2025, 10:00 AM (Regional Investment Initiative Informational Webinar)
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February 19, 2025, 11:30 AM (Job Creating Projects)
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February 21, 2025, 9:00 AM (Community Enhancing Projects)
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Application Deadline: March 14, 2025, by 11:59 PM
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Tip: Submit early to ensure a smooth submission process!
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Award Announcements: April 11, 2025
*Key Dates could change at the discretion of the Regional Convener, Orange County Business Council.
Support for Applicants
Not a grant-writing pro? Don’t worry! California Jobs First Mentorship is here to help you put your best foot forward. Request up to five hours of mentorship by emailing jobsfirst@ocbc.org.
Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
Email your inquiries to jobsfirst@ocbc.org with the subject line “NOFO Questions.” Our team will respond and post FAQs weekly on the CJF website.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make history in Orange County!
Submit your application, join the movement, and help shape a brighter, more equitable future for all. For the full NOFO, application, budget narrative, budget template, and NOFO FAQ check out our website at https://ocbc.org/cjf/.
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