To improve the economic health and quality of life in the tri-county region of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz.
MBEP is seeking support for a groundbreaking initiative that connects local youth to careers in clean technology—including AgTech and advanced air mobility—right here at home. Through programs like the Monterey Bay Tech Hub— a regional initiative driving clean technology innovation and workforce development co-founded by MBEP, UC Santa Cruz, and DART— and the California Advanced Air Mobility Corridors Initiative (CAAMCI), we’re building a training-to-employment pipeline that equips students from historically underserved communities with skills for high-wage, future-focused jobs that don’t require a four-year degree. In a region where housing is among the least affordable in the nation, this initiative offers youth a real path to economic stability—so they can thrive and stay in the communities they love. Your support helps us expand this opportunity and build a more inclusive, innovation-driven economy across Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties.
MBEP benefits all of Monterey County and the broader tri-county region of Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito by advancing regional solutions that create inclusive economic opportunity, support workforce development and career pathways, and address critical issues like housing, broadband, and job access. We serve as a regional convener, uniting government, education, business, and community partners to tackle challenges holding our region back. Our collaborative workforce development initiatives, such as CAAMCI, focus on building pathways for local youth into good-paying jobs in innovative and rapidly accelerating sectors, while supporting families facing displacement. We also lead efforts to expand affordable housing, connect rural communities to high-speed internet, and attract climate-smart industries that create high-quality jobs. Our work centers on underserved and historically disinvested communities to ensure every resident can access a thriving future. MBEP’s approach is regional, people-centered, and focused on long-term impact.
Like anywhere, Central Coast workers yearn for quality jobs that can support a family. But not every place invests in opportunities for its younger workforce. MBEP’s work expands the credible pathways to career employment and the equitable workforce growth that’s needed for our economy to truly thrive.
- Kevin Heuer, Santa Cruz
