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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 investment in industries that will advance good-paying job opportunities in high opportunity industries and/or significantly improve job quality in specific industries, and ensures disinvested communities are significant beneficiaries of California’s economic growth.
Funding Details
In this third round, the Regional Investment Initiative Regional Sector Activation plans provide up to $1 million in funding available to advance the tasks mentioned in either of the five activation plans (Healthcare, Medical Technology, Childcare, Tourism and Outdoor Activities, and Semiconductors). The goals are to advance projects physically located in Orange County or that have significant participation from Orange County residents. Applications are due by 5:00 pm PST on October 17, 2025. All activities must be fully expensed by September 30, 2026.
Application Eligibility
Eligible entities are only those that are listed as a “Responsible Party” within the Tactical Workplan or parties that can reasonably classify themselves as associated with the classification/definition of a responsible party. Please see the “Identify regional partners for implementation tactics” section of each activation plan to determine which group you could define yourself under. If you are an eligible party, your proposal must be in accordance with the task that the “responsible party” is listed under. As you develop your proposal, and you are unsure whether you are an eligible applicant, please contact jobsfirst@ocbc.org with the Activation Plan(s) and Task(s) that you are interested in proposing.
Key Dates to Remember
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NOFO Launch Date: September 22, 2025
- Proposers’ Webinar, click to register:
- October 3, 2025, 10:00 AM
- Regional Investment Initiative Informational Webinar
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An earlier webinar provided background on California Jobs First and key milestones leading up to the Catalyst NOFO; it did not cover the NOFO itself. You can access the recording here.
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Application Deadline: October 17, 2025, by 5:00 PM
- Tip: Submit early to ensure a smooth submission process!
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Approximate Award Notifications: By November 5, 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. Mentors will provide advice on preparing a complete and compelling proposal and will review and offer suggestions to your draft. Mentors will not write the grant proposal for you, provide consultation on the design of your project, or provide guidance on the scoring criteria. Request up to five hours of mentorship at no cost 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 Q&A’s 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 and FAQ, check out our website at https://ocbc.org/cjf/. To access the application materials including the budget narrative and budget template, visit the designated grant web portal by clicking here.
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