text:
(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that one-time funding appropriated for the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program shall be used to prioritize and expedite services that reduce arrearages for low-income households.

(b) The Department of Community Services and Development shall administer the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program in this state, and shall receive and expend moneys appropriated and allocated to the state for purposes of that program, pursuant to Section 533 of Title V of Division H of the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (Public Law 116-260).

(c) The Department of Community Services and Development may develop and implement a state plan, requirements, guidelines, and subgrantee contract provisions for the program described in subdivision (a) in accordance with federal law, regulations, reporting requirements, and any other federal requirements. Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1, the department may develop the state plan, requirements, guidelines, and subgrantee contract provisions described in this subdivision without taking any further regulatory action.

(d) Pursuant to the requirements of federal law and subject to federal approval of a state plan, the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program State Plan shall include all of the following details regarding program implementation:

(1) Household eligibility.

(2) Prioritization.

(3) Program design and implementation.

(4) Funding allocation.

(5) Financial water assistance payments.

(6) State oversight and program integrity.

(7) Public participation.

(8) Data collection and reporting.

(e) All expenditures of Low Income Household Water Assistance Program funding shall be prioritized for services that reduce the arrearages of eligible households that have past due balances.

(f) Upon the execution of contracts for Low Income Household Water Assistance Program funding with local service providers, the department shall report to the Legislature and shall post to the department’s website the following information by local service provider area:

(1) Total allocation.

(2) Allocation by service category.

(g) Beginning six months after the execution of contracts for Low Income Household Water Assistance Program funding with local service providers, and every six months thereafter until funding is exhausted, the department shall provide a report to the Legislature that includes the following information by local service provider area:

(1) Total allocation.

(2) Allocation by service category.

(3) Total expenditures.

(4) Expenditures by service category.

(5) Households served.

(6) Households served by service category.

(h) Pursuant to the requirements of federal law, the Department of Community Services and Development shall post a draft state plan to the department’s internet website and hold a public meeting prior to submission of the state plan to allow for public comment. The final plan shall be posted to the department’s internet website.

(i) All actions to implement the funding in this item, including entering into contracts for services or equipment, shall be exempt from Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 10290) of Part 2 of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code. The department may award contracts under this section on a noncompetitive bid basis as necessary to implement the purposes of the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program grant funds.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 85, Sec. 6. (AB 135) Effective July 16, 2021.)


kind: section

code: GOV

text:
(a) The department shall develop and administer the Energy Efficiency Low-Income Weatherization Program and expend moneys appropriated by the Legislature for the purposes of the program.

(b) The department may develop requirements, guidelines, and subgrantee contract provisions for the program, including those necessary or desirable to ensure the effective implementation of Sections 12087.9 and 12087.10.

(c) Before a subgrantee contract is executed for the provision of local service, the department shall do both of the following:

(1) No less than 30 days before finalization of the program guidelines, post the draft program guidelines on the department’s internet website.

(2) Hold a public hearing to obtain public input on the draft program guidelines with notice of the hearing published prominently on the department’s internet website no less than 15 days before the hearing.

(d) Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 does not apply to the development and adoption of program requirements, guidelines, and subgrantee contract provisions pursuant to this section.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 754, Sec. 1. (AB 1232) Effective January 1, 2020.)

division: 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT

chapter: 1. Governor

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1. Governor > 8. Department of Community Services and Development


text:
(a) The department, for any appropriation to the department for the Energy Efficiency Low-Income Weatherization Program in the 2017–18 fiscal year, or any fiscal year thereafter, in its contract procurement processes for single-family energy efficiency and renewable energy services, shall develop new program processes and solicitations that do all of the following:

(1) Give weight and priority to applicants that can demonstrate that they have existing ties to the local communities they would be servicing, among the other factors considered. This shall apply to both regional administrators and direct service providers.

(2) Give preference to organizations with demonstrated performance and outcomes related to low-income energy efficiency and renewable energy services.

(3) Take appropriate measures to ensure that all potential applicants are aware of changes in procurement process pursuant to this act.

(b) The department shall consult with community stakeholders, including, but not limited to, legislative staff, in the development, design, and goals of procurements on and after July 1, 2017. This consultation shall occur at least three months prior to the release of a request for applications that would commence the procurement cycle.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2017, Ch. 24, Sec. 5. (SB 89) Effective June 27, 2017.)

title: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

article: 8. Department of Community Services and Development


text:
By January 1, 2021, the Department of Community Services and Development shall coordinate with the California Energy Commission and the State Department of Public Health’s Office of Health Equity to identify best practices from model programs and funding mechanisms, and provide a recommended action plan to do all of the following:

(a) Ensure greater cross-referral between public health agencies, the State Department of Public Health’s Office of Health Equity, and the Low-Income Weatherization Program for comprehensive energy and healthy home improvements for low-income multifamily residents in disadvantaged communities.

(b) Promote projects that include energy improvements that do all of the following:

(1) Provide net financial benefits, inclusive of rent and utility costs.

(2) Provide health benefits to tenants in low-income multifamily properties.

(3) Provide increased indoor air quality and address asthma or respiratory issues triggered by mold and moisture.

(c) Create mechanisms for enforcing state energy upgrade program requirements to maintain the affordability of benefiting units to low-income tenants.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 754, Sec. 2. (AB 1232) Effective January 1, 2020.)


text:
The department, in coordination with relevant agencies, shall provide an assessment of the effectiveness of the program on or before January 1, 2023. The assessment shall contain all of the following:

(a) A compilation of actual rates of rent increases and of tenant long-term relocation or eviction, for any reason, after energy upgrades received with the goal of better enforcing or adjusting affordability contracts and measures.

(b) A summary of the total number of properties that are not regulated by deed restrictions or other legally binding provisions that are below market rate multifamily affordable housing participating in the program, the marketing and outreach efforts of the department or the appropriate administrator pursued for this market segment, and the reasons given for nonparticipation, if any.

(c) In coordination with participating public health programs, a database of conditions found in homes that impact or could impact health negatively encountered when doing energy or health audits to track neighborhood hotspots and provide data for environmental screening and social determinants of health tools.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 754, Sec. 3. (AB 1232) Effective January 1, 2020.)


text: The Department of Economic Opportunity, a separate, independent entity in state government, is hereby transferred to the Health and Welfare Agency, and renamed the Department of Community Services and Development. The functions, authorities, and responsibilities of the Department of Economic Opportunity with respect to the functions of the department are transferred to the Director of Community Services and Development. All functions, authorities, and responsibilities of the Director of the Department of Economic Opportunity with regard to the functions of the Department of Economic Opportunity are transferred to the Department of Community Services and Development.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 187, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1996.)


text:
(a) The Naturalization Services Program is hereby established, to be administered within the Department of Community Services and Development. The department shall administer the Naturalization Services Program to provide funding to community-based organizations to assist legal permanent residents in obtaining citizenship. The department shall seek input from stakeholders in designing the methodology for the distribution of funds appropriated for purposes of this section. The Naturalization Services Program shall be implemented to the extent that funds are appropriated for this purpose in the annual Budget Act.

(b) In order to ensure accountability, effectiveness, and accessibility, the Naturalization Services Program shall emphasize both of the following:

(1) Collaboration among grantees and other providers in their region, including the State Department of Education English as a Second Language and civic grantees.

(2) Development of a referral system in each service area to ensure immigrants are informed about adult education, English literacy, and citizenship services in their region.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2006, Ch. 515, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2007.)


text: The Department of Community Services and Development shall have possession and control of all records, papers, offices, equipment, supplies, land, and other property real or personal held for the benefit or use of the Department of Economic Opportunity.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 187, Sec. 8. Effective January 1, 1996.)


text: All unexpended balances of appropriations and other funds available to the Department of Economic Opportunity shall be transferred to the Department of Community Services and Development. All funds so transferred shall be for the use and for the purpose for which the appropriation or other funds were originally made available.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 187, Sec. 9. Effective January 1, 1996.)


text:
As used in this article, the following terms apply:

(a) “Agricultural employee” has the same meaning as that term is defined in subdivision (b) of Section 1140.4 of the Labor Code.

(b) “Parole” has the same meaning as that term is used in Section 1182(d)(5)(A) of Title 8 of the United States Code, which authorizes the United States Attorney General, on a case-by-case basis, to parole an alien applying for admission to the United States if there is an urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.

(c) “Program” means a program for an agricultural employee to be granted parole.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 636, Sec. 2. (SB 831) Effective January 1, 2024.)

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1. Governor > 9. California Program for Agricultural Employees


text: To address the state’s critical need for labor provided by agricultural employees, and the economic harm California faces from the uncertainty surrounding the immigration status of the state’s agricultural employee workforce, the Governor, on behalf of this state, may enter into an agreement with the United States Attorney General, or the United States Attorney General’s designee, to establish a program for the United States Attorney General, or the United States Attorney General’s designee, to grant an agricultural employee, living in the state, parole.

article: 9. California Program for Agricultural Employees


text:
Subject to the implementation of the program, on the third year of the renewal of the program, the Governor shall prepare a report to the Legislature, in accordance with Section 9795, on the impact of the program on all of the following:

(a) The state’s critical need for labor provided by agricultural employees.

(b) The state’s ability to attract and maintain its agricultural employee workforce.

(c) Other effects on the state’s economy.


text: This chapter shall be known, and may be cited, as the Economic Revitalization Act.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2011, Ch. 475, Sec. 2. (AB 29) Effective January 1, 2012.)

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development


text:
For purposes of this chapter:

(a) “Office” means the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

(b) “Director” means the Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

article: 1. Definitions

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 1. Definitions


text:
(a) The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, also known as “GO-Biz,” is hereby established in state government within the Governor’s office. The office shall be under the direct control of a director, who shall be responsible to the Governor.

(b) The Governor shall appoint the Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development who shall perform all duties, exercise all powers, assume and discharge all responsibilities, and carry out and effect all purposes vested by law in the office, including contracting for professional or consultant services in connection with the work of the office.

(c) The salary of the Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development shall be fixed pursuant to Section 12001.

article: 2. General

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 2. General


text:
The office shall serve the Governor as the lead entity for economic strategy and the marketing of California on issues relating to business development, private sector investment, and economic growth. In this capacity, the office may:

(a) Recommend to the Governor and the Legislature new state policies, programs, and actions, or amendments to existing programs, advance statewide economic goals and respond to emerging economic problems and opportunities, and ensure that all state policies and programs conform to the adopted state economic and business development goals.

(b) Coordinate the development of policies and criteria to ensure that federal grants administered or directly expended by state government advance statewide economic goals and objectives.

(c) Market the business and investment opportunities available in California by working in partnership with local, regional, federal, and other state public and private institutions to encourage business development and investment in the state.

(d) Provide, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(1) Economic and demographic data.

(2) Financial information to help link businesses with state and local public and private programs.

(3) Workforce information, including, but not limited to, labor availability, training, and education programs.

(4) Transportation and infrastructure information.

(5) Assistance in obtaining state and local permits.

(6) Information on tax credits and other incentives.

(7) Permitting, siting, and other regulatory information pertinent to business operations in the state.

(e) Establish a well-advertised telephone number, an interactive internet website, and an administrative structure that effectively supports the facilitation of business development and investment in the state.

(f) Encourage collaboration among research institutions, startup companies, local governments, venture capitalists, and economic development agencies to promote innovation.

(g) In cooperation with the federal government, foster relationships with overseas entities to improve the state’s image as a destination for business investment and expansion.

(h) Conduct research on the state’s business climate, including, but not limited to, research on how the state can remain on the leading edge of innovation and emerging sectors.

(i) Support small businesses by providing information about accessing capital, complying with regulations, and supporting state initiatives that support small business.

(j) Establish the Building and Reinforcing Inclusive, Diverse, Gender-Supportive Equity Project (BRIDGE Project) to promote social equity, civil rights, and antidiscrimination through marketing and advertising campaigns.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 199, Sec. 2. (SB 447) Effective September 13, 2023.)

article: 3. Powers and Duties

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 3. Powers and Duties


text: The office shall coordinate with other relevant state and local agencies and national organizations to explore ways to facilitate streamlining of local land use approvals and construction permit processes for projects related to broadband infrastructure deployment and connectivity.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 671, Sec. 1. (SB 4) Effective October 8, 2021.)

chapter: 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development

article: 3. Powers and Duties


text:
(a) (1) The office, in consultation with the State Air Resources Board, the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission, and the Public Utilities Commission, shall prepare an assessment of the barriers, challenges, and impediments limiting the deployment and development of clean energy projects that support the strategies identified in the scoping plan prepared pursuant to Section 38561 of the Health and Safety Code and that advance the goals established pursuant to Sections 38562.2, 39730.5, and 39730.6 of the Health and Safety Code. The office shall submit the assessment prepared pursuant to this section to the Legislature on or before January 1, 2026, in compliance with Section 9795.

(2) In preparing the assessment, the office shall include, but is not limited to including, the following information:

(A) At least three clean energy project types.

(B) Specific challenges impacting the different stages of clean energy project development.

(C) Different methods for developing and deploying clean energy projects.

(D) Recommended approaches, models, or strategies for addressing the identified barriers, challenges, and impediments to clean energy project delivery.

(3) The office shall consider the most current versions of all of the applicable reports and plans listed in subdivision (a) of Section 38592.1 of the Health and Safety Code in the preparation of the assessment.

(b) The assessment prepared pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be considered and incorporated into the work carried out by the Infrastructure Strike Team established by Executive Order No. N-8-23.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 336, Sec. 2. (AB 585) Effective October 7, 2023.)

article: 3. Powers and Duties


text:
(a) Each member of the Governor’s cabinet shall identify a senior manager within that member’s agency who shall coordinate business support activities with the office.

(b) For the 2012–13 fiscal year and subsequent fiscal years, the office shall develop a budget in coordination with the Department of Finance pursuant to the state budgeting process, including the permanent transfer of associated positions.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 50, Sec. 30. (AB 378) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 3. Powers and Duties


text:
(a) The California Business Investment Services Program is hereby created within the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

(b) The program shall be under the direct authority of the director.

(c) The purpose of the program is to serve employers, corporate executives, business owners, investors, and site location consultants who are considering California for business investment and expansion.

(d) In implementing the program, the director shall establish and implement a process for convening teams on key business development situations, including, but not limited to, attracting new businesses, attracting public and private investors, relocation of large manufacturers, or the closure of a large business employer.

(e) (1) In implementing the program, the director shall work cooperatively with local, regional, federal, and other state public and private marketing institutions, economic developers, workforce training partners, and trade organizations in attracting, retaining, and helping businesses and investments grow and be successful in California.

(2) In undertaking program activities, the director shall encourage activities that support the upward mobility of existing small businesses and residents.

(f) The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development shall work with partners and other stakeholders to moderate the impacts of gentrification that may lead to the displacement of residents and small businesses.

(g) (1) The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development shall track activities, as necessary, to report to the Legislature, as specified in paragraph (2).

(2) Upon request by the Legislature, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development shall report program activities as follows:

(A) The aggregate number of businesses and investors who made inquiries to the program.

(B) The number of businesses and investors who requested assistance from the program.

(C) The type of assistance requested by businesses and investors, as reported by described categories.

(D) The aggregate number of requests for information that were sent by the program at the request of businesses and investors, and reported by region.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 599, Sec. 1. (AB 2972) Effective January 1, 2023.)

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 4. California Business Investment Services Program


text:
For purposes of this article, all of the following definitions apply:

(a) “Applicant” means any taxpayer, including, but not limited to, an individual, corporation, or partnership, submitting a California Competes Grant Program application to GO-Biz that is a person or entity legally authorized to do business in California or that will incorporate, qualify, or register with the Secretary of State to do business in California prior to the execution of an agreement under this article.

(b) “California Competes Grant Program” means the program that authorizes the grants allowed under this article.

(c) “Committee” means the California Competes Tax Credit Committee established in Section 18410.2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

(d) “GO-Biz” means the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

(e) “Qualified grantee” means an applicant for grants under this article that satisfies the requirements of subdivision (b) of Section 12096.6.1.

(f) “Recaptured grant amount” shall mean the amount identified in any recommendation for recapture of a grant approved, in whole or in part, by the committee pursuant to this article and Section 18410.2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 74, Sec. 1. (SB 151) Effective July 12, 2021. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, pursuant to Section 12096.6.6.)

article: 4.4. California Competes Grant Program

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 4.4. California Competes Grant Program


text:
(a) Upon appropriation by the Legislature, GO-Biz shall establish the California Competes Grant Program pursuant to this article.

(b) Upon appropriation by the Legislature, GO-Biz is authorized to provide grants pursuant to this article. GO-Biz shall provide grants only to an applicant that meets at least one of the following criteria:

(1) The applicant will create at least 500 new, full-time jobs in this state, determined on the basis of an annual full-time equivalent, as defined in Section 8000 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2021.

(2) The applicant will make a significant infrastructure investment, defined as a project requiring construction or renovation expenditures of at least ten million dollars ($10,000,000) over no more than five years, in this state.

(3) The applicant will create jobs or make the investments in a high-poverty area or high-unemployment area, as those terms are defined in Section 8000 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2021, in this state.

(c) The committee shall approve or reject grants pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 18410.2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

(d) (1) The amount of a grant shall be set forth in a written agreement between GO-Biz and the qualified grantee, and shall be based on the factors as described in subparagraphs (A) to (L), inclusive, of paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Sections 17059.2 and 23689 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, and considerations described in paragraph (2).

(2) When determining whether to enter into a written agreement with a qualified grantee pursuant to this section, GO-Biz shall consider the extent to which the grant will influence the qualified grantee’s ability, willingness, or both, to create jobs in this state that might not otherwise be created in the state by the qualified grantee or any other California business. GO-Biz may also consider other factors, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(A) The financial solvency of the qualified grantee and the qualified grantee’s ability to finance its proposed expansion.

(B) The qualified grantee’s current and prior compliance with federal and state laws.

(C) Current and prior litigation involving the qualified grantee.

(D) The reasonableness of the fee arrangement between the qualified grantee and any third party providing any services related to the grant allowed pursuant to this section.

(E) Any other factors GO-Biz deems necessary to ensure that the administration of the California Competes Grant Program allowed pursuant to this article is a model of accountability and transparency and that the effective use of the limited amount of grant funds is maximized.

(F) For determinations made under this paragraph during the 2023–24 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, the grantee’s willingness to relocate jobs into California from a state that has enacted a law that does any of the following:

(i) Voids or repeals, or has the effect of voiding or repealing, existing state protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

(ii) Authorizes or requires discrimination against same-sex couples or their families, or discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

(iii) Creates an exemption to antidiscrimination laws in order to permit discrimination against same-sex couples or their families, or permits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

(iv) Denies or interferes with, or has the effect of denying or interfering with, a woman’s right to choose to bear a child or to choose and obtain an abortion, as provided by Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 123460) of Chapter 2 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code.

(G) For determinations made under this paragraph during the 2023–24 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, the grantee’s commitment to treating their workforce fairly and creating quality, full-time, wage and salary jobs in the state. Evidence to demonstrate the grantee’s commitment may include, but not be, limited to, the following:

(i) Training, career ladder, apprenticeship, or pre-apprenticeship programs for nonsupervisorial employees.

(ii) Joint labor-management letter of support.

(iii) A high percentage of full-time wage and salary employees compared to part-time, temporary, and independent contractors.

(iv) Little to no history of a bad safety record, or resolved or pending litigation, violations, citations, fines, or penalties relating to any state or federal environmental and labor laws within the last 10 years.

(H) (i) No more than 30 percent of the aggregate amount of grants appropriated in any fiscal year shall be allocated to any one grantee.

(ii) For fiscal years beginning on or after the 2023–24 fiscal year, clause (i) shall not apply if the grant will be used as a state match for a business applying for or obtaining federal incentives to conduct semiconductor research and development or manufacturing.

(e) A qualified grantee shall receive a grant pursuant to this article only if the qualified grantee has not received a tax credit, pursuant to Sections 17059.2 or 23689 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, for the same jobs or investment on which the grant is sought.

(f) The written agreement described in subdivision (d) shall include both of the following:

(1) Provisions indicating whether the grant is to be allocated in full upon approval, or in increments based on mutually agreed-upon milestones, when satisfactorily met by the qualified grantee.

(2) Provisions that allow the committee to recapture the grant, in whole or in part, if the qualified grantee fails to fulfill the terms and conditions of the written agreement.

(g) (1) Implementation of subparagraphs (F) and (G) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of this section for the 2022–23 fiscal year is deemed an emergency and necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, or general welfare and, therefore, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development is hereby authorized to adopt emergency regulations to implement subparagraphs (F) and (G) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of this section during the 2022–23 fiscal year in accordance with the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).

(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to require the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to approve emergency regulations adopted pursuant to this subdivision.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 5. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, pursuant to Section 12096.6.6.)

article: 4.4. California Competes Grant Program


text:
(a) A grant may be recaptured, in whole or in part, if the qualified grantee fails to fulfill the terms and conditions of the written agreement entered into pursuant to Section 12096.6.1.

(b) Any recapture, in whole or in part, of a grant approved by the committee pursuant to Section 18410.2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall be collected by the Franchise Tax Board pursuant to Article 9 (commencing with Section 19296) of Chapter 5 of Part 10.2 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

(c) Amounts recaptured pursuant to Article 9 (commencing with Section 19296) of Chapter 5 of Part 10.2 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall be transmitted to the General Fund, and, if necessary, transferred to the fund from which the appropriation was made, if not the General Fund.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 256, Sec. 1. (AB 176) Effective September 23, 2021. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, pursuant to Section 12096.6.6.)

article: 4.4. California Competes Grant Program


text:
(a) GO-Biz shall do all of the following:

(1) Negotiate with a qualified grantee the terms and conditions of proposed written agreements that provide the grant allowed pursuant to this article to a qualified grantee.

(2) Provide the negotiated written agreement to the committee for its approval pursuant to Section 18410.2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

(3) Post on its internet website all of the following:

(A) The name of each qualified grantee allocated a grant.

(B) The estimated amount of the investment by each qualified grantee.

(C) The estimated number of jobs created or retained.

(D) The amount of the grant approved for the qualified grantee.

(E) The amount of the grant recaptured from the qualified grantee, if applicable.

(F) The primary location where the grantee has committed to increasing the net number of jobs or making investments. The primary location shall be listed by city or, in the case of unincorporated areas, by county.

(b) The Franchise Tax Board shall do both of the following:

(1) Review the books and records of all qualified grantees allocated a grant pursuant to this section to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the written agreement between the qualified grantee and GO-Biz.

(2) Notwithstanding Section 19542 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, notify GO-Biz of a possible breach of the written agreement by a qualified grantee and provide detailed information regarding the basis for that determination.

article: 4.4. California Competes Grant Program


text:
(a) The Franchise Tax Board and GO-Biz may prescribe regulations as necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article.

(b) The Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1) shall not apply to any regulation, standard, criterion, procedure, determination, rule, notice, guideline, or any other guidance established or issued by the Franchise Tax Board or GO-Biz pursuant to this article.

(c) Except as provided in this article, Section 19542 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall apply to all information obtained by the Franchise Tax Board and GO-Biz for the purpose of administering the California Competes Grant Program.

(d) Notwithstanding Section 19542 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, the Franchise Tax Board may disclose information to GO-Biz and GO-Biz may disclose information to the Franchise Tax Board for administration of the California Competes Grant Program.

article: 4.4. California Competes Grant Program


text: This article shall be repealed on January 1, 2030.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 74, Sec. 1. (SB 151) Effective July 12, 2021. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, by its own provisions. Note: Repeal affects Article 4.4, commencing with Section 12096.6.)

article: 4.4. California Competes Grant Program


text:
(a) The Permit Assistance Program is hereby created within the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

(b) The program shall do all of the following:

(1) Provide permitting and regulatory compliance assistance to businesses.

(2) Assist businesses in accessing information and resources related to permitting and regulatory compliance.

(3) Provide mediation and third-party neutral facilitation to resolve conflicts between applicants and permitting and regulatory entities.

(4) Work with federal, state, regional, and local permitting and regulatory entities to exchange best practices and implement improvements to modernize permitting processes.

(5) Manage and regularly update the office’s Internet Web site pursuant to Section 12097.1.

(c) The program shall work cooperatively with local, regional, federal, and other state public agencies and private sector business and economic development organizations.

(d) Notwithstanding Section 10231.5, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development shall report to the Governor and the Legislature annually on the activities and outcomes of the program.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2016, Ch. 78, Sec. 1. (AB 2605) Effective January 1, 2017.)

article: 4.5. California Permit Assistance

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 4.5. California Permit Assistance


text:
(a) The director shall ensure that the office’s Internet Web site contains information on the licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, and shall include, but not be limited to, information that does all of the following:

(1) Assists individuals with identifying the type of applications, forms, or other similar documents an applicant may need.

(2) Provides a direct link to a digital copy of all state licensing, permitting, and registration applications, forms, or other similar documents where made available for download.

(3) Instructs individuals on how and where to submit applications, forms, or other similar documents.

(b) The director shall ensure that the office’s Internet Web site contains information on the fee requirements and fee schedules of state agencies, and shall include, but not be limited to, information that does all of the following:

(1) Assists individuals with identifying the types of fees and their due dates.

(2) Provides direct links to the fee requirements and fee schedules for all state agencies, where made available for download.

(3) Instructs individuals on how and where to submit payments.

(c) The office shall ensure that the Internet Web site is user-friendly and provides accurate, updated information.

(d) (1) Each state agency that has licensing, permitting, or registration authority shall provide direct links to information about its licensing, permitting, and registration requirements and fee schedule to the office.

(2) A state agency shall not use the Internet Web site established under this section as the exclusive source of information for the public to access licensing requirements and fees for that agency.

(e) The office may impose a reasonable fee, not to exceed the actual cost to provide the service, as a condition of accessing information on the Internet Web site established under subdivisions (a) and (b).

history: (History: Added by renumbering Section 12019.5 by Stats. 2016, Ch. 78, Sec. 2. (AB 2605) Effective January 1, 2017.)

article: 4.5. California Permit Assistance


text:
(a) (1) The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development is hereby authorized to develop content on its Internet Web site or through other mediums to be used for public dissemination, through outreach activities, in order to provide information and resources to inform the general public about place-based and other geographically targeted economic development programs, including, but not limited to, federal Promise Zones within California that are designated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development; and Opportunity Zones designated by the United States Treasury, pursuant to Sections 1400Z-1 and 1400Z-2 of the Internal Revenue Code.

(2) The information and resources shall include, but not be limited to, how the local jurisdictions or census tracts were created, where locals and investors may get additional information, and updates regarding federal programs as that information becomes available.

(b) The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development shall convene, at least annually, representatives from various programs and agencies across the state and from various federal programs and agencies for the purpose of discussing how California can leverage Promise Zones and Opportunity Zones to meet state and local community and economic development needs. The convention topics shall include, but not be limited to, discussions on enhanced engagement opportunities and targeted outreach to assist designated areas in their efforts to access state resources and services.

(c) As used in this section:

(1) “California Opportunity Zone” means a census tract in this state that has been designated by the United States Treasury as an Opportunity Zone, pursuant to Sections 1400Z-1 and 1400Z-2 of the Internal Revenue Code.

(2) “California Promise Zone” means a community in this state that has been designated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development as a Promise Zone.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 888, Sec. 2. (SB 635) Effective January 1, 2019.)

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 4.6. Local Economic Development Liaison Services


text:
For purposes of this article, notwithstanding Section 12096.1, the following definitions shall apply:

(a) “GO-Biz” means the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

(b) “Office” means the Office of Regional Economic Development Initiatives established pursuant to Section 12097.7.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2026, Ch. 84, Sec. 14. (SB 172) Effective July 13, 2026.)

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 4.7. Office of Regional Economic Development Initiatives


text:
(a) The Office of Regional Economic Development Initiatives is hereby created within the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. The office shall be overseen by the Director of GO-Biz and administered by a deputy director appointed by, and serving at the pleasure of, the Governor.

(b) The office shall do all of the following:

(1) Maintain, update, and implement, in coordination with the Labor and Workforce Development Agency, the California Jobs First State Economic Blueprint, which is a statewide economic development strategy built on the priorities of California’s distinct regions.

(2) Coordinate interagency activities to promote job creation, attraction, and access in alignment with the statewide economic development strategy and with feedback from employers and industry, as appropriate.

(3) Support regional partners in developing, maintaining, and implementing their regional economic development strategies.

(4) Provide technical assistance to local governments and economic development partners, including, but not limited to, project financing, utilizing place-based and other geographically targeted economic development programs, and conducting site development and certification activities.

(5) Collaborate with the Office of Emergency Services to support disaster preparedness and response activities, as well as recovery efforts, with regard to regional economic impact.

article: 4.7. Office of Regional Economic Development Initiatives


text:
(a) The Legislature finds and declares that:

(1) Small businesses serve as economic engines to the California economy by being the most effective net new job generators, supporting California’s access to global markets, serving as a key tool for supporting upward mobility, and helping to distribute economic benefits throughout the state.

(2) It is in the public interest to aid, counsel, assist, and protect, insofar as is possible, the interests of small business concerns in order to preserve free competitive enterprise and maintain a healthy state economy.

(b) In order to advocate the causes of small business and to provide small businesses with the information they need to survive in the marketplace, there is created within the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development the Office of Small Business Advocate, which shall be led by the Small Business Advocate.

(c) The Small Business Advocate shall be considered an advisor on key issues before the state, and the inclusion of the Small Business Advocate in cabinet- and department-level discussions that potentially impact small businesses is encouraged.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 266, Sec. 1. (AB 2687) Effective January 1, 2019.)

article: 5. Small Business Advocate

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 5. Small Business Advocate


text:
The following definitions apply to this article, unless otherwise indicated:

(a) “Advocate” means the Small Business Advocate who is also the Director of the Office of Small Business Advocate.

(b) “Director” means the Director of the Office of Small Business Advocate.

(c) “Office” means the Office of Small Business Advocate.

article: 5. Small Business Advocate


text:
(a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.

(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.

(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:

(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.

(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.

(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.

(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.

(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts. The advocate shall fulfill this duty by, among other activities, maintaining, publicizing, and distributing an annual list of persons serving as small business liaisons throughout the state.

(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.

(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.

(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as a small business advocate, designated pursuant to Section 14846, throughout state government.

(9) Collaborate with the California Disabled Veteran Enterprise Program Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 999.11 of the Military and Veterans Code, regarding the implementation of the California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program (Article 6 (commencing with Section 999) of Chapter 6 of Division 4 of the Military and Veterans Code), including, but not limited to, promoting disabled veteran business enterprise certification to veteran entrepreneurs and veteran-owned small businesses and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business and disabled business enterprise procurement participation. The advocate shall fulfill this duty by, among other activities, publicizing the annual list of persons serving as a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program Advocate, designated pursuant to Section 999.12 of the Military and Veterans Code, throughout the state.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 756, Sec. 8. (AB 1574) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 5. Small Business Advocate


text:
(a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocate’s functions under this chapter.

(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.

(2) The annual report prepared by the advocate shall also include details regarding the office’s activities to support procurement participation by small businesses, microbusinesses, disabled veteran business enterprises, and businesses owned by women, minorities, or members of the LGBTQ community that also qualify as a small business, microbusiness, or disabled veteran business enterprise. The report shall also include information on state agency compliance and implementation of “economic equity first” action plans and policies, developed pursuant to Section 11148.5, by state agency liaisons and advocates. Each state agency shall provide information regarding its activities to the advocate upon request.

(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.

(2) The advocate shall establish on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocate’s internet website an internet web portal that includes, at a minimum, all of the following:

(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the state’s regulatory requirements. This information shall include:

(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.

(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1.

(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business or disabled veteran business enterprise, and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities shall be easily accessible from the home page of the GO-Biz internet website. This information shall include:

(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.

(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.

(iii) A link to the procurement web page required by Section 14842.1.

(iv) Links to interactive web pages, where known, that support small businesses in identifying current and upcoming procurement opportunities offered through state government and any public utility, as defined by Section 216 of the Public Utilities Code.

(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.

(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.

(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.

(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership. Beginning on or before February 15, 2024, this information shall also include a list with links to current awardees of the California Small Business Development Technical Assistance Act of 2022 (Article 7 (commencing with Section 12100.60) of Chapter 1.6 of Part 2).

(G) Information on and links to financial resources and business incentives offered by the state to small businesses. In addition to other methods for displaying this information, as funding is available, the advocate shall make the information searchable through an interactive web-based tool to assist small businesses in identifying available resources and incentives for which those small businesses may be eligible. There shall also be a link to the internet web portal maintained by the California State Library, as described in Section 8333.1.

(d) The office shall ensure that the internet web portal required by subdivision (c) is accessible and provides helpful information to a diverse set of small businesses, including women-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses in disadvantaged or low-income communities.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 423, Sec. 3. (AB 258) Effective January 1, 2024.)

article: 5. Small Business Advocate


text:
In addition to other responsibilities under this article, the advocate shall do the following:

(a) Be prepared for designation by the Office of Emergency Services to serve as an official liaison between small businesses impacted by a state-declared state of emergency and other government and nonprofit service providers.

(b) Assist in the state emergency recovery, response, and preparedness efforts related to small businesses, including microenterprises. The advocate’s efforts shall be coordinated and consistent with the Office of Emergency Services, the California Emergency Services Act, and the State of California Emergency Plan.

(c) Conduct at least one public meeting every year, in coordination with the appropriate state agencies, to share best practices for small business disaster preparedness. The meetings shall be held in consultation with regional and statewide small business organizations and shall take place in different locations throughout the state.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 50, Sec. 32. (AB 378) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 5. Small Business Advocate


text:
(a) The office shall post information on its Internet Web site to assist an individual to start a nonprofit corporation in this state and to assist a nonprofit corporation to achieve compliance with the state’s statutory and regulatory requirements. The Internet Web site shall contain direct links to information on the incorporation, registration, and renewal requirements of all of the following agencies:

(1) The Employment Development Department.

(2) The Franchise Tax Board.

(3) The Internal Revenue Service.

(4) The office of the Attorney General.

(5) The office of the Secretary of the State.

(6) The State Board of Equalization.

(b) The Internet Web site shall include, but not be limited to, direct links to each agency under subdivision (a) that provides information that does all of the following:

(1) Assists individuals with identifying all state forms or documents they may need.

(2) Provides direct links to an electronic copy of all state forms and documents available for download.

(3) Instructs individuals on how and where to submit all state forms and documents.

(4) Assists nonprofit corporations with identifying the state’s statutory and regulatory requirements they must comply with to maintain their status as a nonprofit corporation in this state.

(5) Informs individuals to contact local agencies regarding local requirements.

(c) The office shall ensure that the Internet Web site is user-friendly and provides accurate and updated information.

(d) (1) Each state agency under subdivision (a) shall provide the office with the direct links to the information described in subdivision (b). The office may refer individuals to the California Tax Service Center Internet Web site.

(2) A state agency shall not use the Internet Web site established under this section as the exclusive source of information that it provides to the public on its requirements for nonprofit corporations.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2012, Ch. 418, Sec. 1. (AB 2641) Effective January 1, 2013.)

article: 5. Small Business Advocate


text: Notwithstanding any other law, effective June 30, 2014, the Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant funded through the United States Economic Development Administration under Title IX of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (Grant No. 07-19-02709 and 07-19-2709.01) shall be transferred to the Valley Economic Development Center, Inc. The State of California is the dismissed grantee and the Valley Economic Development Center, Inc., shall be the successor grantee. All responsibilities and authorities associated with these funds shall be transferred from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to the Valley Economic Development Center, Inc., pursuant to the terms and conditions agreed to by all parties, including the United States Economic Development Administration, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, and the Valley Economic Development Center, Inc., pursuant to the Offer and Acceptance of Award Amendment For Transfer of Award entered into by the parties on June 17, 2014.

history: (History: Repealed and added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 383, Sec. 2. (AB 1533) Effective January 1, 2016.)

article: 5. Small Business Advocate


text:
(a) The Made in California Program, a public and private collaboration, is hereby created within the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. The purposes of the program are to encourage consumer product awareness and to foster purchases of high-quality products made in this state.

(b) (1) The office shall develop a program that permits a company to represent that a product is made in this state. To be eligible under the program, a company shall establish that the product is substantially made by an individual located in the state.

(2) For purposes of this section, “substantially made” means completing an act that adds at least 51 percent of a final product’s wholesale value by manufacture, assembly, fabrication, or production to create a final, recognizable product. “Substantially made” does not include the act of packaging a product.

(c) The program shall not apply to those agricultural products subject to the Buy California Program described in Section 58750 of the Food and Agricultural Code.

(d) In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 58601) of Part 2 of Division 21 of the Food and Agricultural Code, the office may issue and make effective a marketing agreement, including, but not limited to, issuance of a Made in California label, and be advised by those California businesses willing to participate in the program on a voluntary basis via funding or in-kind contributions in a manner defined under the agreement.

(e) (1) As part of the Made in California Program, the office shall require each company to register with the office for use of the Made in California label.

(2) The company filing the registration shall submit a certification at least once every three years that the product is made in accordance with this section.

(3) The office may require a fee to accompany the registration. The fee shall be determined by the office, and shall not exceed the reasonable costs to the office in providing the services for which it is charged, including, but not limited to, the costs to implement the marketing program. Proceeds from the fee shall be deposited in the Made in California Fund established in subdivision (h).

(f) The office may accept monetary donations or other donations from businesses, nonprofit organizations, or individuals for the purpose of implementing the Made in California Program. These donations shall be deposited in the Made in California Fund established in subdivision (h).

(g) (1) Notwithstanding Section 10231.5, the office shall report to the Legislature on January 1, 2015, and each successive February 15, regarding all of the following:

(A) Program expenditures.

(B) Program progress.

(C) The number of companies registered for the Made in California label.

(D) The number of products registered for the Made in California label.

(E) The program fees collected.

(F) Ongoing priorities with the program.

(G) Any other information about the program that the office deems appropriate.

(2) The plan submitted to the Legislature pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted pursuant to Section 9795.

(h) The Made in California Fund is hereby created as a fund within the State Treasury. Notwithstanding Section 13340, funds deposited and maintained in the Made in California Fund that were donated pursuant to subdivision (f) are continuously appropriated, without regard to fiscal years, to the director, for the purposes of implementing the Made in California Program. Any other funds deposited and maintained in the Made in California Fund are available, subject to appropriation by the Legislature, for purposes of implementing the program.

(i) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

(1) If successful, the Made in California Program should be nearly or completely financially self-sustaining in the long term.

(2) It may take several years for the Made in California Program to demonstrate its value to businesses that make products in California.

(3) If the number of companies and products registered for the Made in California Program does not significantly increase by 2028, the state should strongly consider ending the program.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 45, Sec. 21. (AB 127) Effective July 10, 2023.)

article: 6. The Made in California Program

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 6. The Made in California Program


text: The provisions of this article shall be enforced pursuant to the Consumers Legal Remedies Act, pursuant to Title 1.5 (commencing with Section 1750) of Part 4 of Division 3 of the Civil Code, and do not impose any requirement upon the office to enforce, audit, or investigate a company that participates in the Made in California Program.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 541, Sec. 2. (SB 12) Effective January 1, 2014.)

article: 6. The Made in California Program


text:
(a) The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub Program is hereby created within the office, within the California Office of the Small Business Advocate.

(b) The office shall designate Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub within the state to accelerate the startup and growth of technology and science-based firms in key industry areas with a focus on diverse founders, including women and people of color, and on underserved geographies and regions. Accelerate California shall offer diverse entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop and grow their innovative ideas by bridging the connection to local networks and communities and increasing access to critical advising and training services.

(c) The office shall oversee, coordinate, and provide assistance to each Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 6. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
For purposes of this article, the following terms shall be defined as follows:

(a) “Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub” is a network of interrelated firms, local governments, economic development organizations, educational entities, and industry professionals that collectively drive economic growth within a defined geographic area and for defined underserved business owners and underserved markets that are selected by the office and is responsible for all of the following:

(1) Carrying out the state’s objectives of the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub Program.

(2) Serving as the primary agent responsible for coordinating services and resources and maintaining the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub agreement with the office.

(3) Serving as the primary liaison to the state and the office.

(b) “Accelerate California Entrepreneurship Fund” means the program administered by the office to award acceleration grants to entrepreneurs and small businesses participating in the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hubs.

(c) “Applicant” means one or more entities that submit an application to the office. Eligible applicants shall be one or more of the following:

(1) A fully accredited institution of higher education.

(2) A private nonprofit corporation engaged in economic development activities.

(3) A county or municipality in this state that has a preexisting economic development department or program or both.

(4) A public economic development institution such as a workforce investment board or an economic development corporation.

(5) A Community Economic Resilience Fund regional stakeholder.

(d) “Community Economic Resilience Fund Region” means a region established pursuant to Section 14531 of the Unemployment Insurance Code.

(e) “GO-Biz” means the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

(f) “Office” means the California Office of the Small Business Advocate within GO-Biz.

(g) “Underserved” means, with respect to geographic areas and business owners, currently or have historically experienced relatively limited access to resources, such as early-state investment capital, technical assistance, mentorship, financial services, community engagement, and investment.

(1) Underserved geographic areas shall include low-wealth or rural regions, or regions designated or otherwise termed as disadvantaged by a federal entity.

(2) Underserved business owners shall include entrepreneurs and the owners of startup businesses that are women, minority, formerly incarcerated, disabled, or veterans. For purposes of this paragraph, “startup” means a company in the first stages of operations, such as prerevenue and proof of concept. “Startups” may be founded by one or more entrepreneurs who want to develop a product or service for which they believe there is demand. “Startups” generally start with high costs and limited revenue and typically look for capital from a variety of sources, such as angel or venture capitalists.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 7. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
(a) The office shall issue a request for proposals for the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub Program.

(b) An applicant’s proposal shall include, but shall not be limited to, all of the following information:

(1) A statement of purpose.

(2) A signed statement of cooperation and a description of the roles and relationships of each entity involved in the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub.

(3) A designated Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub director who will be responsible for statewide program oversight and coordination of statewide activities, convening of statewide partners, and engagement of regional Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub designees.

(4) Identification of one Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub per Community Economic Resilience Fund region, where applicable.

(5) A clearly stated regional Accelerate California Hub designee to coordinate Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub activities within its respective service area.

(6) A clearly identified location with an explanation as to how the location is central to the potential client base.

(7) Clearly identified benchmarks or milestones with approximate dates as to when they will be achieved.

(8) A complete budget including a description of secured funds with proof, pending funds, and potential future funding sources.

(9) A list and brief description of local and regional incentives and support programming that aligns with the objectives of the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub program and the applicant’s proposal and focus area.

(10) A clearly articulated commercial market focus and plan.

(11) A clearly articulated Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub management structure and plan that may include a description of the capabilities, qualifications, and experience of the proposed management team, team leaders, or key personnel who are critical to achieving the proposed objectives.

(12) A list of Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub assets and resources.

(13) A clearly articulated focus area of the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub including underserved geographic areas, industry sectors, and business owners, or other targeted areas for development and growth that will be served by grant funds.

(14) A list of specific resources available to support and guide startup companies in Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub industry sectors.

(15) A clearly articulated list of goals to be achieved with the certification of the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub.

(16) Expectations for job development and business creation, growth, and expansion.

(17) Defined performance standards agreed upon by the partners involved in the development of the application for an Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub. This shall include how the hub will identify and support the selected underserved geographic areas and underserved business owners.

(18) Evaluation procedures that will be used to measure the level of achievement for each stated goal.

(19) A plan for sustainability that includes an extension of the program beyond the initial four years.

(20) Organizational experience including capabilities, related experience, facilities, techniques, unusual resources, or unique combinations of these that are integral factors for achieving the proposed objectives.

(21) Demonstrated experience in developing innovation programming, such as technology transfer and commercialization programs in partnership with industry, university, or federal partners.

(22) Demonstrated experience with intellectual property management and licensing.

(23) Evidence of community engagement and established partnerships in the proposed region.

(24) A clearly articulated plan to outreach to the designated underserved geographic regions and underserved business owners.

(25) A list of small business technical assistance grantees, as described in Article 7 (commencing with Section 12100.60) who serve the designated regions.

(26) A detailed program design and implementation plan describing how the hub will develop and implement the program, including specifics on attracting entrepreneurs and small business to the program, any application and selection processes, and program components.

(c) The office may waive any of the requirements listed in subdivision (b) for purposes of waiving requirements that disadvantage a rural community that applies and does not have all of the required components.

(d) The office may designate an Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub for a term of not more than four years. An Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub may reapply for a designation without limitation on the number of times.

(e) (1) The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub designation shall not be official until a grant agreement is entered into by the applicant and the office. The grant agreement shall include the goals and performance standards identified in the application and other related requirements as determined by the office.

(2) For an iHub previously designated by GO-Biz or an iHub2 previously designated by the office to be designated as an Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub by the office, the designation is required to be newly awarded under the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub Program.

(f) One Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub may be awarded per applicable Community Economic Resilience Fund region.

(g) The office shall set guidelines for approval, designation, operation, reporting, redesignation, and dedesignation of Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hubs. The guidelines shall include all of the following:

(1) A protest and appeal process relative to the designation of a hub.

(2) A dispute resolution process

(3) All relevant information for applying for a grant.

(h) (1) An Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub shall quarterly and annually report to the office on its progress in meeting the goals and performance standards as described in the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub application and implementing grant agreement with the office.

(2) The office shall annually prepare a report that summarizes the information collected from paragraph (1). This reporting requirement may be met by providing the same information in the annual report of the office. This report shall include for each Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub the following information:

(A) A description of the service area or areas as articulated in the application and implementing grant agreement, including how its services were made and equitably available to underserved geographic areas and underserved business owners.

(B) The goals and performance standards identified in the application and implementing grant agreement.

(C) Descriptive information about the educational, research, governmental, business, nonprofit, philanthropic, financial, or investor entities involved in the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub.

(D) A financial statement showing total revenues, including the sources of revenue, expenditures, and assets. The financial statements should be presented in a consistent manner across the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hubs.

(E) The number of participating entrepreneurs and startup businesses and the change in the number and composition of participating startup businesses.

(F) Descriptive information about the participating startup businesses that may include, but are not limited to, geographic location, industry sectors, business legal structure, owners’ demographics, financing acquired, equity capital raised during the year, revenues, profits, and number of employees.

(G) A description of the progress in meeting the goals and performance standards identified in the application and implementing grant agreement.

(H) A description of the services provided by the office throughout the year to support the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hubs.

(3) The office shall post the report described in paragraph (2) on its internet website and provide notice to the Governor, the relevant policy committees of the Legislature, and the Legislative Analyst’s Office that the information is available on the internet website.

(i) The office shall evaluate, on or before January 1, 2026, the effectiveness of the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub program to submit a written report to the Director of Finance, the relevant policy committees of the Legislature, and the Joint Legislative Budget Committee. This report shall do all of the following:

(1) Evaluate the extent to which each Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub achieved the goals and performance standards identified in their applications and implementing grant agreements.

(2) Evaluate the level of accessibility and availability of services to underserved geographic areas, industry sectors, and underserved business owners.

(3) Evaluate the sustainability of each Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub.

(4) Identify specific actions that could be taken to improve program outcomes in future years.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 8. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
A designated Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub shall include at least one major university or research center or institute, one economic development organization, and consist of at least four of the following, in any combination:

(a) A business support organization including a workforce development or training organization, incubator or business accelerator, business technical assistance providers, chamber of commerce, and networking organization that supports innovation.

(b) An angel or venture capital network.

(c) A business foundation, innovation foundation, science foundation, laboratory research institution, federal laboratory, university laboratory, or research and development facility.

(d) A municipal economic development division or department.

(e) A federal government partner such as a national laboratory.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 9. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
Before an official designation as an Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub the applicant shall self-certify both of the following:

(a) That the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub will comply with the state’s nondiscrimination policy.

(b) That the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub and its principals are current in payment of all state and local taxes owed unless they have entered into an agreement that was deemed satisfactory by the respective taxing authority and are in full compliance with the agreement.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 10. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
(a) An Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub may do all of, but shall not be limited to, the following:

(1) Provide free or low-cost advisory services and technical assistance to entrepreneurs and startups. An Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub shall make every effort to ensure services are accessible and equally available to underserved geographic areas and underserved business owners.

(2) Facilitate community programming and engagement with local partners, including, but not limited to, state universities and research institutes, state community colleges, local governments, state and federal service providers, private industry, workforce investment boards and agencies, small business and microenterprise development organizations, economic development organizations, and chambers of commerce.

(3) Facilitate partnerships between innovative startup businesses, research institutions, and venture capitalists or financial institutions.

(b) The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub shall, to the extent feasible, work in close collaboration with the activities of the office as its primary statewide partner.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 11. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text: The Inclusive Innovation Accelerator Account is hereby created within the California Economic Development Fund in the State Treasury. Subject to the approval of the Department of Finance, all moneys collected and received by the office or the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development on the office’s behalf for California Inclusive Innovation Initiatives from gifts, bequests, or donations shall be deposited in the Inclusive Innovation Accelerator Account. Notwithstanding Section 13340, the moneys in the account are continuously appropriated to the office to be used for Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Initiatives pursuant to the terms of the gift, bequest, or donation.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 12. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
(a) Upon appropriation by the Legislature, the office shall administer the Accelerate California Entrepreneurship Fund to provide acceleration grants to small businesses and entrepreneurs that participate in the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hubs. The purpose of the acceleration grants is to spur high-growth industries and startups and build a pipeline of scalable firms and well-paid jobs, and increase access to private investment for diverse founders as well as those in geographically isolated and underserved regions. The office shall develop guidance for priority areas of funding and process for the funding and selection of grantees. Funding disbursements shall begin in the second year of the program after a hub has achieved satisfactory reporting for the first year of performance.

(b) (1) To receive an acceleration grant, small businesses and entrepreneurs shall satisfy all of the following:

(A) Be located in the geographic region of the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub.

(B) Have an existing relationship with the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub and have been incubated or accelerated at the hub.

(C) Complete a grant application with a letter of support included in the application from its regional Accelerate California: Innovation Hub and provide the Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub with a description of its innovation model and provide an equity and sustainability statement.

(D) Have not received a previous grant from the Accelerate California Entrepreneurship Fund.

(2) Applications shall be evaluated based on breadth and quality of service and demonstrated ability to reach target populations.

(c) Applications from underserved business groups, including women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses, and businesses in low-wealth, rural, or disaster-impacted communities included in a state or federal emergency declaration or proclamation, shall be given preference if the applicants are eligible and have met program requirements to receive a grant.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 68, Sec. 13. (SB 193) Effective June 30, 2022.)

article: 6.2. California Innovation Initiatives


text:
(a) The office shall develop industry strategies for the strategic sectors identified in the California Jobs First State Economic Blueprint to ensure an industry-specific approach that builds on the strategies outlined in the blueprint and outlines the activities and investments necessary to ensure that these sectors continue to grow in California.

(b) The industry strategies shall build upon California’s comparative advantage, including its concentration of academic, scientific, and technological assets, coupled with a highly skilled workforce. The industry strategies shall include prioritizing access to tax incentives, grants, loan programs, and workforce training programs to catalyze private sector investment in the respective sector.

(c) Each industry strategy shall contain all of the following elements:

(1) An industry overview outlining the current state of the industry, why it is critical to California, and the specific strategies that would lead to increased jobs and capital investments.

(2) Identification of the key dependencies and risks associated with implementing the strategies.

(3) Identification of projects and programs that will most quickly improve the economic vitality of the industry, and the types of public-private partnerships between government, academia, and private investors that will be critical to access the funding necessary to accelerate the industry.

(4) An analysis of relevant state policies and regulations to identify opportunities to grow the industry and determine whether alternative approaches may accomplish goals in less costly ways.

(5) A summary of sector-level outcomes expected with the implementation of the strategies.

(6) A dedicated section on the State of California’s internet website that is managed and updated with industry-specific information.

(d) (1) The office shall also develop an industry strategy for the quantum technology subsector identified in the blueprint and may develop industry strategies for the other subsectors identified in the blueprint.

(2) The office shall prioritize the industry strategy for quantum technology and submit a copy of the completed industry strategy to the Legislature on or before July 1, 2026. The industry strategy shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795.

(3) The office shall develop the industry strategy for quantum technology with engagement from key stakeholders in the regions that have identified quantum technology as a priority.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 333, Sec. 2. (AB 940) Effective January 1, 2026.)

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 6.3. Industry Strategies for Strategic Sectors


text:
(a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

(1) California’s economic development organizations and corporations are an integral component of the state job creation effort because they are a critical link between state economic development activities and the statewide business community, providing an excellent opportunity to leverage state resources.

(2) Economic development corporations and organizations provide broad public benefits to the residents of this state by alleviating unemployment, encouraging private investment, and diversifying local economies.

(3) Economic development corporations engage in a wide range of programs and strategies to attract, retain, and expand businesses, including marketing the community, small business lending, and other financial services, a wide range of technical assistance to small business, preparation of economic data, and business advocacy.

(4) By using public sector resources and powers to reduce the risks and costs that could prohibit investment, the public sector often sets the stage for employment-generating investment by the private sector.

(b) For purposes of this chapter, all of the following definitions apply:

(1) “Local economic development organization” means a public or public-private job creation activity recognized by cities and counties as the lead agency within that city or county for planning and implementation of job creation involving business expansion, business retention, and new business development.

(2) “Regional economic development organization” means an organization comprised of any of the following:

(A) A single county.

(B) More than one county.

(C) A subregion within a county established by the cities and county within that subregion.

(D) An economic development corporation.

(3) “Economic development corporation” means a local or regional nonprofit public-private economic development organization recognized in a defined region by the public and private sector as the lead agency for the planning and implementation of job creation involving business retention and new business development.

(4) “Regional economic development corporation” means a corporation comprised of any of the following:

(A) A single county.

(B) More than one county.

(C) A subregion within a single county established by a group of cities and counties.

(5) “Economic development” means any activity that enhances the factors of productive capacity, such as land, labor, capital, and technology, of a national, state, or local economy. “Economic development” includes policies and programs expressly directed at improving the business climate in business finance, marketing, neighborhood development, small business development, business retention and expansion, technology transfer, and real estate redevelopment. “Economic development” is an investment program designed to leverage private sector capital in such a way as to induce actions that have a positive effect on the level of business activity, employment, income distribution, and fiscal solvency of the community.

(6) “Local economic development” is a process of deliberate intervention in the normal economic process of a particular locality to stimulate economic growth of the locality by making it more attractive, resulting in more jobs, wealth, better quality of life, and fiscal solvency. Prime examples of economic development include business attraction, business expansion and retention, and business creation.

(7) “Emerging domestic market” means people, places, or business enterprises with growth potential that face capital constraints due to systemic undervaluations as a result of imperfect market information. These markets include, but are not limited to, ethnic-owned and women-owned firms, urban and rural communities, companies that serve low-income or moderate-income populations, and other small- and medium-sized businesses.

(8) “Financial intermediary” means an institution, firm, organization, or individual who performs intermediation between two or more parties in a financial context, such as connecting sources of funds with users of funds. A financial intermediary is typically an entity that facilitates the channeling of funds between lenders, investors, foundations, or other entities that have money and are interested in connecting with businesses or communities where their money can be deployed. Financial intermediaries include, but are not limited to, banks, financial development corporations, economic developers, microbusiness lenders, and community development organizations.

(9) “Community development intermediary” means an institution, firm, organization, or individual that performs intermediation between two or more parties in a community development context, such as connecting people and organizations that have a stake in the future well-being of communities and individuals who may not easily have access to these stakeholders. A community development intermediary is typically an entity that channels financial and nonfinancial resources between government and foundations and other nonprofit organizations that have resources and are interested in connecting with small- and medium-size businesses and low- and moderate-income households and communities. Community development intermediaries include, but are not limited to, community development corporations, microbusiness lenders, and community development financial institutions.

(10) “Triple bottom line” means the economic, environmental, and social benefits arising from a project, investment, or community and economic development activity.

(11) “Small businesses” means a business with less than 100 employees and with a gross revenue of less than five million dollars ($5,000,000), or a business that is otherwise targeted by or participating in a federal or state program engaged in programs or services for small businesses. Application of this definition may only be used pursuant to a direct reference.

(12) “Community development” means a process designed to create conditions of economic and social prosperity for the whole community, or a targeted subset of the whole community, with the fullest possible reliance on the community’s initiative and active participation.

(13) “Financial institution capital” means resources of a financial institution, including, but not limited to, a bank or credit union, that are legally available to be used to generate wealth for the financial institution.

(14) “California Council on Science and Technology” means the council established by California academic research institutions, including the University of California, the University of Southern California, the California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, and the California State University, in support of Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 162 (Res. Ch. 148, Stats. 1988).

(15) “Microbusiness lender” means a nonprofit or nonbank lender that serves very small businesses in low- and moderate-income communities that experience barriers in accessing capital. These businesses are often owned by minorities, immigrants, women, and persons with disabilities. Microbusiness lenders generally provide loans under fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) and offer business technical assistance, both preloan and postloan, to improve an applicant’s ability to qualify and successfully repay a loan.

history: (History: Added by renumbering Section 13997.2 by Stats. 2014, Ch. 132, Sec. 3. (AB 2749) Effective January 1, 2015.)

article: 6.5. Local Economic Development

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 6.5. Local Economic Development


text: This article shall be known, and may be cited, as the California Employee Ownership Act.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 733, Sec. 1. (SB 1407) Effective January 1, 2023.)

article: 6.6. California Employee Ownership Act

path: 2. GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA > 3. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT > 1.6. Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development > 6.6. California Employee Ownership Act


text:
The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

(a) California’s small businesses continue to contend with the pressures of the aging baby boomer business owners who are at or near retirement and desperately looking for an exit. According to national surveys, 79 percent of business owners want to retire within 10 years, 60 percent in less than 5 years, and 33 percent in less than 3 years. However, only 15 percent of businesses successfully transition to the next generation in the family, and only 20 percent of commercial listings actually sell. Nearly 360,000 California businesses, employing 3.9 million workers, are at risk because their owners are nearing retirement.

(b) Rather than closing for good or selling to large, out-of-state buyers, small business owners can find willing buyers in the people who work alongside them every day: their employees. Doing so would anchor essential production and services in communities, protect livelihoods, avert layoffs, and save the state money.

(c) Employees becoming owners would create opportunities for wealth-building and community stability. It would also help California create a more inclusive, equitable, and stable economy, supported by the studies of employee-owned businesses and their success and resiliency during the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic.

(d) Fairness to employees is critical for the success of employee ownership transactions. Employee ownership should supplement, not supplant, fair wages, health insurance, retirement benefits, and the freedom to join a union. Employee ownership transactions through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) should be structured to provide employees with a fair valuation of their ownership stake with an independent trustee as a best practice for the transaction. Professional feasibility assessments are a best practice for transitions to all broad-based employee ownership forms.

(e) While the benefits of employee ownership are well documented, many stakeholders in the business and workforce ecosystems are unaware of broad-based employee ownership forms and their benefits, best practices for their implementation, or opportunities for their widespread expansion. In partnership with leaders in the field of employee ownership, the State of California can play a catalytic role in raising awareness of all forms of broad-based employee ownership, increasing access to capital for employee-owned enterprises, encouraging best practices, and ensuring that workers who are most burdened by income and wealth inequality and the racial wealth gap gain access to wealth, quality jobs, and workplace voice through employee ownership.

(f) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish a dedicated hub within the Office of Small Business Advocate that will increase awareness and understanding of employee ownership among stakeholders, assist business owners and employees in navigating available resources, and streamline and reduce barriers to employee ownership.

article: 6.6. California Employee Ownership Act