CA Jobs First Implementation Phase RFP Released
California Jobs First Regional Investment Initiative Releases Implementation Phase Request for Proposal (RFP)
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Learn more about grant funding through opportunities from Uplift.
California Jobs First Regional Investment Initiative Releases Implementation Phase Request for Proposal (RFP)
Catalyst Predevelopment funds to drive economic growth across our 6-county region
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Catalyst Predevelopment Phase of work.
This document shares all the information Uplift has to date on the California State Catalyst Predevelopment Phase.
The Catalyst Predevelopment Phase is a part of the California Jobs First program aimed at seeding investment into regional strategies and projects that drive innovation, growth, and community impact. Uplift has awarded $9 million for sector-specific predevelopment activities to 36 entities that support strategic projects and initiatives in the Central Coast region, in alignment with strategies set forth in the Regional Plan Part II.
After developing a detailed analysis of the six-county Central Coast region and specific strategies to uplift our region’s residents. Uplift is now embarking on the next phase of work – the Catalyst Predevelopment Phase – to move these strategies into action and impact. We invite you to join this collective movement for economic prosperity. We are eager for your collaboration, project ideas, and partnership as we seek solutions at the intersection of innovation, growth, and community impact.
These 36 organizations, representing all six counties, span diverse industries and address critical needs in areas such as workforce development, aerospace, education and job training, child care and community development, and climate resilience and sustainable agriculture.
Community-Driven Planning for a Healthy Equity Community Resilience Hub Project
BHCMC plans to develop a network of Health Equity Community Resilience Hubs, beginning with data collection, community meetings, and needs assessments to identify gaps and opportunities. The project will include mapping potential hub sites, conducting feasibility analyses, and learning from other resilience models. Catalyst funding will support hiring a community-driven planner to assess the feasibility of a hub in East Salinas and a network across high-risk communities. Building on past efforts like the VIDA project and the deployment of over 100 Community Health Workers (CHWs), the hubs will provide critical support during health crises and natural disasters, while offering career pathways in healthcare and public health. The feasibility study will guide the development of actionable plans for the hubs, with success measured by alignment with community needs, economic viability, and local capacity for implementation.
AHC/CC High Tech Hubs: Diversifying Careers Through Education
Allan Hancock College (AHC) and Cuesta College (CC) aim to bridge employment gaps in the Central Coast’s aerospace, cybersecurity, and justice sectors through the AHC/CC High Tech Hubs project. The initiative will develop systems and infrastructure to support traditionally underserved populations, focusing on women, low-income, indigenous, first-generation, and BIPOC students. The project includes creating a cybersecurity associate’s degree program, offering stipends for internships and entry-level employment, and building a professional connection between well-paying regional employers and students. Additionally, faculty will receive training in culturally responsive curriculum assessment and modification to ensure equity in course delivery and boost positive academic outcomes.
Resilient Cuyama
The Resilient Cuyama project aims to transform the educational and job landscape of the Cuyama Valley by empowering residents with skills in clean energy, regenerative agriculture, ecological restoration, and creative industries. Led by Blue Sky Center (BSC) and Quail Springs (QS), the initiative leverages multi-year grants to provide workforce development, career pathways, and climate adaptation opportunities. Key activities include bilingual “Earn and Learn” programs in clean energy, expanding the Cuyama Home Energy Retrofit Program, offering certification in heavy machinery operations, and hosting career fairs and educational workshops. The project will also build capacity within local organizations, schools, and businesses, fostering collaboration and creating a sustainable model for rural economic and environmental development.
Cabrillo College’s New Child Care Center for Student Parents
Cabrillo College’s new Affordable Child Care Center project will be co-located within a new 195-unit student housing development on the college’s Aptos campus, benefiting both Cabrillo and UCSC students who are economically disadvantaged. This 5,800 square-foot child care center will serve up to 64 children (ages from infants through five years old). This Catalyst grant will fund the soft costs associated with the design and engineering to plan this new child care center to foster children’s holistic development through a play-based curriculum emphasizing cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. The child care center will support student parents in completing their degrees while offering workforce development for early childhood education teachers and benefiting the broader community with affordable child care.
Paso Robles Spaceport Training and Research Center
The Paso Robles Spaceport Training and Research Center project aims to establish a commercial space education hub on the Central Coast. In its initial phase, supported by $50,000 over six months, the project will focus on securing funding, developing curriculum concepts, and forming partnerships with space companies, educational institutions, and government agencies. The center will provide training in spaceport-related fields and help develop a skilled aerospace workforce.
Key objectives include: Securing funding opportunities, developing curriculum for spaceport-related programs, engaging with the Global Spaceport Alliance, proposing applied short courses and an Astronaut Scholars program, outcomes include creating a funding strategy, curriculum outlines, and establishing partnerships, with success measured by identifying funding, developing programs, and engaging stakeholders.
Project MILPA
From 2022–2024, Project MILPA—a collaboration between CAUSE, MICOP, and Líderes Campesinas—conducted research to explore how farmworkers in Ventura County could transition into cooperative farm ownership. With support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Prevention Institute, the project assessed opportunities and barriers to creating land trusts and worker-owned farms that support climate-resilient, regenerative agriculture.
Guided by a farmworker leadership committee, the team released Healing Land, Collective Power, a report highlighting key findings: strong interest among farmworkers in alternative ownership models, potential partnerships with public and conservancy-owned lands, and a network of technical support ready to assist with training, financing, and policy navigation.
Now moving into the development phase, Project MILPA is launching a farmworker-led demonstration project, creating business and financing plans, and working with public agencies to address permitting and funding. The goal: support at least 10 farmworker leaders in cooperative ownership and build a scalable model for future land acquisition and policy change.
Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE)
Uplift Regionwide Child Care Coalition
With Uplift’s support, First 5 San Luis Obispo County is leading a regional Coalition to address child care as a key economic mobility strategy. Recognizing child care’s central role in the region’s economic future, the Coalition will facilitate shared learning, document best practices, advocate for child care priorities, and promote the scaling of successful innovations.
Key objectives include promoting cross-sector collaboration, showcasing best practices, supporting joint regional advocacy, and identifying effective, scalable solutions across the region.
Expected outcomes include collective mobilization for child care, a portfolio of best practices, ongoing investment in child care innovation, and increased legislative attention. The Coalition aims to improve access to affordable, high-quality child care, crucial for talent retention and regional economic growth.
Central Coast Childcare Workforce Expansion Project (CCWEP)
Through The Childcare Workforce Expansion Project, Children’s Resource and Referrals (CRR) aims to create an impressive 500 new licensed child care openings within Family Child Care homes and Center-Based Programs throughout the Santa Barbara County. This effort will provide a vital boost to families seeking quality, reliable care for their young children. Furthermore, the Santa Barbara Foundation and CRR are extending the impact by joining forces with key grant partners in neighboring counties. Child Development Resources in Ventura County, CAPSLO in San Luis Obispo County, and Early Development Services in Monterey County will each receive crucial financial support to implement their own provider grant systems. This collaborative approach is projected to yield more than 24 new licensed child care spaces in each of those counties over the next 18 months. Taken together, this multi-county project will distribute a total of $287,500 directly to child care providers in the form of grants. The end result will be a transformative increase of 572 new licensed child care spaces along the Central Coast, giving hundreds of families access to the care they need to thrive.
Enhancing Healthcare Workforce Opportunities in Ventura County
This project focuses on workforce development and outreach for various healthcare staff, including Environmental Services, Nurse Techs/CNAs, Community Health Workers, Medical Assistants, Front Office staff, EMTs, and RNs. The goals are to provide training and education for career advancement, address regional healthcare workforce shortages, and ensure sustainable growth by adapting to emerging needs. The expected outcomes include strengthening the workforce pipeline, improving retention, and enhancing the quality of care in the community.
San Benito County Workforce Upskill-ing Project
The San Benito County Workforce Development Board is expanding its Workforce Upskilling Internship Project to offer a total of 1,800 hours of paid training in high-demand sectors, such as Wastewater Operators. Through leveraged funding from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), participants will be co-enrolled to maximize available resources. This initiative specifically targets underserved populations, including job seekers, laid-off workers, older youth, and veterans, helping them prepare for living-wage jobs.
Funding will support the predevelopment activities needed to implement the Upskilling Internship Project. These activities include community outreach and recruitment, participant intake, training, and establishing employer partnerships. With partnerships from Veolia Water and Sunnyslope Water District, the program will provide hands-on training, mentorship, and job placement assistance. Success will be measured by the number of participants becoming certified as Wastewater Operators, wage growth, employment rates, and employer satisfaction, ensuring the program’s long-term economic impact.
Ventura County Ecosystem for Innovation: the Experimentation Center
The Ventura County AAM Innovation Center aims to establish the region as a leader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) by developing one of California’s largest public UAS/eVTOL testing sites (500 sq. miles) and a comprehensive innovation center at Camarillo and/or Oxnard Airports. This initiative will drive economic growth, create high-quality jobs, and enhance regional connectivity through cutting-edge aviation technology.
The project will develop a practical and functional Innovation Center to support business attraction and collaboration. This space will provide office facilities for engaged businesses, host networking events, educational programming, industry roundtables, and serve as a venue for speakers and innovation-driven workshops.
LIFT: Launching Infrastructure for Future Training
Cuesta College is advancing a bold vision for aviation maintenance and aerospace training in San Luis Obispo County. The Launching Infrastructure for Future Training (LIFT) Project will lay the groundwork for a cutting-edge facility that meets industry demands while expanding career opportunities for disinvested communities.
Through strategic planning and strong industry partnerships, the project will create an aviation and aerospace training hub, equipping students with the skills needed for high-paying jobs in aviation, unmanned systems, and aerospace operations. Aviation maintenance skills also support careers in wind turbine maintenance and precision manufacturing, as well as multiple other applications. Over the next two years, Cuesta College will engage stakeholders, assess potential sites, and develop a comprehensive facility plan that integrates workforce needs, regulatory compliance, and equitable access.
By ensuring alignment with industry standards and regional economic goals, this initiative will strengthen the Central Coast’s aerospace workforce pipeline. Graduates will step into high-demand careers averaging $93,000 per year, supporting the growing aviation sector while driving long-term economic prosperity for the region.
Rebuilding an equitable food chain on the Central Coast
Rebuilding an Equitable Food Chain on the Central Coast expands Esperanza Community Farms’ Food Hub to support small farmers of color in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. The project aims to:
Expand Sales Channels – Secure 3-5 contracts with new buyers and generate $100K in farmer profits over two years.
Improve Production & Distribution – Invest in equipment and transportation to increase harvest yields, efficiency, and buyer satisfaction.
This initiative strengthens economic opportunities for small organic farmers and builds a more resilient regional food system.
ETMC Tribal Capacity Building and Organizational Development
The Esselen Tribe of Monterey County (ETMC) is reclaiming and restoring its ancestral lands with a deep commitment to cultural values, environmental stewardship, and intergenerational healing. Supported by an Uplift Catalyst grant, this project centers on the sacred responsibility to care for creation and pass on a thriving legacy to future generations.
ETMC will create up to six new jobs within its tribal nonprofit, offering Tribal members and community meaningful work in land stewardship. Training rooted in traditional knowledge and modern techniques will equip citizens, leaders, and board members to manage the land in alignment with cultural practices.
The project will also support critical restoration efforts—reviving forests, watersheds, and native ecosystems, while protecting sacred cultural sites. These efforts not only restore ecological health but strengthen cultural identity and connection to place.
By blending Traditional Ecological Knowledge with modern conservation, the Tribe aims to empower its people, foster resilient partnerships, and nurture a future where land, culture, and community thrive in harmony. Ultimately, this work is a pathway to healing—of the land, the people, and the relationship between them.
Education and Training for Black/African American Youth in Lompoc for higher education and high quality jobs
Gateway Educational Services (GES) is launching a program to help Black/African American youth in Lompoc excel in math and explore STEM careers. With 80% testing below grade level, many miss out on opportunities despite living near Vandenberg Space Force Base, where STEM jobs are growing.
GES will provide targeted tutoring, career exposure, and family engagement to build a clear path from high school to college and careers. By starting in 7th grade, this initiative will equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue high-paying STEM opportunities, creating a pipeline of local talent for the future.
Roots of Resilience: Empowering Communities Through AgTech Innovation
Salinas Valley has the opportunity to lead the future of agriculture by integrating technology, workforce development, and equity-driven job creation. Hartnell College, in collaboration with Reservoir Ventures, Reservoir Farms, and key industry partners, is building an inclusive AgTech hub that fosters innovation, supports startups, and creates high-quality, year-round jobs.
At the heart of this effort is Reservoir Farms, an incubator providing cutting-edge research, workforce training, and industry collaboration. In the next 18 months, the project will launch training programs, internship pathways, and startup support, laying the foundation for long-term economic growth. Over five years, it aims to support 50+ startups, generate $100M in investment, and create 500+ jobs, ensuring sustainable, equitable prosperity for the region.
Advancing Central Coast AAM Ecosystem: Jobs and Infrastructure
Advancing the Central Coast AAM Ecosystem is a regional initiative supporting California’s Jobs First goals by building a more inclusive and sustainable economy through Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The project combines workforce training, infrastructure planning, and community engagement to position the Central Coast as a leader in electric aviation.
Key to this effort is the Aircraft Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship (AMTA), developed with Joby Aviation. This paid program trains apprentices—especially from underrepresented communities—in electric aircraft systems, creating pathways to high-wage jobs.
The project also supports AAM infrastructure planning through a regional working group and feasibility studies for vertiports, while events like the LIFT Summits ensure community involvement.
Overall, the project promotes job creation, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability by advancing clean transportation and equitable workforce development.
Building a Workforce Development Intermediary with Strategic Partners and the Workers of the Pajaro and Salinas Valleys to Ensure Access to High-Road Jobs in Precision Manufacturing, Advanced Business Services and Healthcare
A community-driven Workforce Development Intermediary (WFDI) is being designed to lift workers out of poverty by connecting them to high-road jobs in precision manufacturing, healthcare, climate resilience, and ag tech. This initiative will create a coordinated system of education, training, and wraparound support, ensuring that workers—both those with limited formal education and undocumented entrepreneurs—can access economic opportunities.
The WFDI will rely on strong partnerships between employers, educators, and community organizations to train, support, and place workers into sustainable careers or business ventures. Over the next 18 months, the project will assess the feasibility of launching this model by securing long-term funding and a diverse board of directors. Success will be measured by the number of BIPOC workers placed in quality jobs, increased earnings, and long-term economic impact, ensuring a future where families thrive and workers have dignity and stability.
Downtown Center for the Arts: Making Oxnard the Center for Equitable Creative Development
For 25 years, OPAC has been a vital part of Oxnard’s creative economy, hosting events and supporting local artists. This project aims to establish the Downtown Center for the Arts (DCA), a hub for BIPOC, immigrant, and vulnerable communities to access creative jobs and opportunities. The DCA will provide artist studios, performance spaces, educational programs, and exhibitions, helping to revitalize Downtown Oxnard and promote cultural equity. The project comes at a crucial time, as local arts nonprofits, including OPAC, face displacement and crisis. With the DCA, OPAC will help stabilize the arts scene and nurture future generations of creatives. Early funding will allow OPAC to leverage additional support, furthering the vision for a vibrant and inclusive arts community.
Rancho Cielo Vocational Training and Certification Expansion for Economic Mobility
This project aims to expand Rancho Cielo’s vocational training for underserved youth (ages 16-24), focusing on tech-centered industries like Ag Technology, Manufacturing, and Transportation. By partnering with John Muir Charter Schools and Hartnell College, students will access college-level courses, earn industry certifications, and gain hands-on experience through internships. The program also provides wraparound support such as career guidance, housing assistance, and mental health support. Key goals include increasing industry certifications, dual enrollment, and internship opportunities, with the aim of boosting employment and green economy participation by 50%.
Building the Pipeline of Visual and Performing Arts Teachers in the Tri-County Region
In November 2022, California voters passed Proposition 28, which set aside 1% of Prop 98 funds (about $1 billion annually) for arts education in public schools. While this was a significant win for arts advocates, it did not fully address the shortage of qualified Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) teachers. Local education agencies (LEAs) are struggling to fill positions, leaving some funds unspent. A report estimates that California needs over 5,000 additional VAPA teachers, with 285 needed in the tri-county region of San Benito, Santa Cruz, and Monterey alone.
This project, led by the three county arts agencies, aims to address the regional teacher shortage by developing a qualified, culturally representative workforce in the VAPA sector. The initiative will include a comprehensive assessment of local needs, community engagement, and a sustainable plan to train and retain VAPA teachers. Key outcomes include creating a Regional Arts Education Workforce Collaborative, increasing engagement with underserved communities, and developing a regional plan to build a pipeline for credentialed VAPA teachers.
K12 Regional Skills Lab
The iINNOVATE Regional Skills Lab aims to expand hands-on STEM education across Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara counties, helping to build a diverse and equitable talent pipeline. Currently serving 3,500 K-6 students, the program focuses on industries like clean energy, manufacturing, and technology. Through monthly thematic lessons and local career spotlight videos, it connects students to local employers and promotes careers in high-demand fields. The expanded program will serve over 13,500 students annually and support workforce development by integrating hands-on STEM lessons to equip underserved communities with the skills needed for specialized training, higher education, and certifications, ultimately strengthening the region’s economy.
Building An Inclusive and Prosperous Central Coast Regional Food System
Launched in November 2022, the Central Coast Resilient Food Systems Community of Practice (CoP) unites over 130 members across six counties to strengthen the regional food system. The project focuses on community resilience, economic mobility, and equity, with industry clusters like community kitchens and food hubs. In 2024, the CoP began supporting individual projects through planning, resource sharing, and market studies.
By fostering collaboration, sharing data, and avoiding duplication, the CoP will enhance the food system, attract resources, and create job opportunities. Success will be measured by expanded membership, increased collaboration, and improved infrastructure for a sustainable food economy.
Santa Barbara County Food Action Network
Precision Manufacturing Career Pathways for All
This project strengthens career pathways into regional Precision Manufacturing by integrating industry mentors into K-12 CTE classrooms, focusing on sub-baccalaureate roles to address workforce shortages and expand opportunities for underrepresented communities.
Partnering with local education and industry organizations, the initiative recruits mentors to engage students early, providing hands-on exposure and industry-recognized certifications and industry internships hosted in CTE classrooms. Success will be measured by mentor participation, student certifications and internships, and job placements in precision manufacturing.
Stewardship Corps: a low-income youth economic and career development pilot
SCMTS plans to expand its Summer Youth Trail Program into the Stewardship Corps, a six-month workforce development program for low-income youth (18-27) from Watsonville and surrounding communities. Participants will gain paid training in trail building, natural resource management, and outdoor recreation, earning certifications in chainsaw operation, CPR, and wilderness first aid. They will work on environmental projects, gaining hands-on experience while earning income. The program aims to increase economic opportunity, equity, and community resilience by providing career skills, education, and professional connections, with participants completing approximately 10,000 hours of service annually.
STEM Career Pathways in Agriculture Initiative
The STEM Career Pathways in Agriculture (STEM CPA) Initiative aims to inspire high school students to pursue careers in local agricultural sectors focused on sustainability and innovation. In collaboration with AgTech companies, farmers, colleges, and industry leaders, the program will develop curriculum, bilingual lesson plans, digital materials, and hands-on STEM labs to enhance students’ practical skills and economic mobility. The initiative also focuses on increasing participation from underserved communities, aiming to raise the Title 1 student percentage from 60% to 70%.
Starting with a pilot in 2025 involving 1,000 students, the program will offer STEM labs, career guidance workshops, and field trips to agricultural sites. Success will be measured through pre- and post-program surveys and feedback from industry partners. The initiative will also develop an alumni platform to maintain connections between students and industry leaders, offering mentorship, job shadowing, and career opportunities. Ultimately, the STEM CPA Initiative seeks to strengthen the local agricultural workforce by providing students with the skills needed for success in the evolving industry.
Land + Sky Incubator
The Land + Sky Incubator supports early-stage creative professionals in agro-tourism, land management, and the creative industries, focusing on low-income communities. It provides mentorship, resources, and market access to help individuals turn creative ideas into viable businesses. The incubator offers a web platform, educational programs, and targeted support for emerging artists, including residencies on rural ranches to develop business concepts. It also facilitates networking with industry professionals from Los Angeles and Santa Barbara to expand market access. The project emphasizes environmental protection and sustainable economic growth, fostering a vibrant rural economy.
The Ocean Collective: A Consortium to Develop a Diverse and Climate-Resilient Blue Economy for the Central Coast
The Ocean Collective project aims to create a training and business-support facility at SBCC to boost the region’s Blue Economy. It will expand SBCC’s Marine Diving Technology program and provide training in marine operations, welding, and gear fabrication. The project will support small businesses, create a skills pipeline, and develop infrastructure for Blue Tech start-ups. The planning phase will assess industry needs, design a training pipeline, and recruit diverse communities. The goal is to build a skilled workforce, modernized facilities, and a thriving small business ecosystem, positioning the region as a Blue Economy leader.
OASIS: Open Access and Scalable Initiative for Semiconductors
The UCSB College of Engineering is developing an open-access advanced semiconductor prototyping facility to address a critical gap in the region’s precision manufacturing ecosystem. Building on the success of the UCSB Nanofabrication Facility, this new facility will expand capabilities to include semiconductor packaging and systems, enabling full prototypes. It will house $15M worth of advanced equipment and provide workforce training, especially for the underrepresented Hispanic community. The project aims to support semiconductor businesses, accelerate commercialization, create high-quality jobs, and foster regional growth in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo Counties. Success will be measured by new business formation, job creation, and workforce development.
Future Makers Central Coast
The Future Makers program aims to inspire young minds, especially 3rd to 8th grade students from disinvested communities, by introducing them to fabrication tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and soldering irons through hands-on workshops. These workshops, hosted at UCSB’s Innovation Workshop, will allow students to create personalized items like keychains and bookmarks, fostering a sense of agency and encouraging them to consider maker-oriented careers. The program also includes tours of UCSB facilities, showcasing career opportunities and inspiring students to think about higher education. With 9 planned field trips serving 200-300 students, the program will emphasize diverse pathways in STEAM fields and highlight the importance of college access, particularly for first-generation students. Initial success will be measured by workshop participation and student engagement, with future plans to track long-term impact.
Expanded Apprenticeship Facilities and Opportunities
The Local 403 Apprenticeship Training Center in San Luis Obispo is expanding to accommodate the growing demand for plumbing, pipefitting, and HVACR apprenticeships. With the facility currently too small for the increasing number of apprentices, the planned expansion will add 4,000 square feet of space, including a new metal building, and optimize current classrooms and weld bays. This will allow Local 403 to accommodate a 20% increase in apprentices over the next four years. The expansion aims to enhance visibility for the center, attracting local high school students and prospective apprentices. The project’s objectives include providing greater access to middle-class careers, increasing local enrollment in the apprenticeship program, and creating a stronger local workforce. The expanded facility will lead to more skilled workers, stabilize the construction industry, and offer local residents better career advancement opportunities with good wages, health, and retirement benefits.
United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry Local 403
Drones Uplifting the Central Coast
DUCC is expanding access to drone pilot training across the TCR and Central Coast, equipping individuals with FAA 107 certification for careers in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure inspection, and public safety. With a projected $50 billion industry and high-paying job opportunities, DUCC provides no-cost training through UCSC’s CIDER-developed curriculum, distributed to public and nonprofit educational institutions.
Key goals include establishing training programs in all California Community Colleges and K-12 schools within the TCR, certifying at least 750 students, and developing specialized training in agriculture and infrastructure inspections. DUCC will collaborate with industry leaders like Driscoll’s and PG&E to enhance workforce development.
A recent CITRIS and MBDART workforce study highlights strong regional demand for drone skills. DUCC is building a coordinated training ecosystem, creating clear pathways from education to employment, fostering innovation, and driving economic mobility in the growing AAM industry.
Futuro
Futuro is a rural worker-owned cooperative incubator focused on transforming low-wage industries, including food, agriculture, care, and climate, through shared ownership. It supports immigrant, women, and POC workers by providing resources like procurement pathways, business services, and workforce development. Futuro helps launch cooperatives like the Central Coast Food Hub, Home Care Cooperative, and Promotora Cooperative, aiming to create quality jobs and economic independence. With Uplift funding, Futuro will facilitate market access, grow worker cooperatives, and build a Central Coast ownership network to strengthen rural communities and promote shared prosperity.
The Promotores Institute: Inspiring Individual and Community Transformation
VyC’s Instituto de Promotores is an 18-month program designed to empower promotoras as community leaders. Launched in 2021, the program offers three phases: 1) foundational training in advocacy and social justice, 2) practical community project implementation, and 3) optional internships for specialization. By 2026, the program aims to train 20-25 promotoras to drive systems change, advocate for economic equity, and strengthen their communities. Outcomes include increased skills, economic security, and collective power for promotoras, with VyC expanding its capacity to promote community-driven transformation on the Central Coast.
Full Employment
Our project is designed to empower individuals with disabilities by providing opportunities to upskill, enter the workforce, or advance in their careers.
In Phase One, we are partnering with Allan Hancock College to offer free GED preparatory classes for individuals who completed high school without earning a diploma. The classes will take place at VTC in Santa Maria.
In Phase Two, we will partner again with Allan Hancock College to offer ESL classes to VTC employees who face barriers to moving into higher-paying roles due to limited English proficiency.
EmpowerPath: Economic Mobility for Single Parents
EmpowerPath: Economic Mobility for Single Parents aims to break the cycle of poverty for single mothers by providing resources for economic stability. The initiative will focus on five objectives:
The project will establish an advisory council to guide the program and ensure long-term success for single mothers.
Many funded initiatives span multiple counties across the region.
These charts demonstrate funding allocations for project impact in each county.
Thank you to everyone who submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI) to apply for funding from the Catalyst Predevelopment Grant. Check out this spreadsheet with a list of everyone who submitted an LOI—a great resource for exploring potential partnerships and collaboration. Thank you once again for your participation and commitment to advancing our shared vision of an equitable, sustainable economy for the Central Coast.
The Catalyst Predevelopment Phase is a crucial step in transforming Uplift’s regional strategies into actionable projects. Uplift’s goal is to see all funds successfully invested by the summer of 2026. We look forward to working alongside grantees every step of the way, fostering collaboration, supporting implementation, and celebrating milestones as the vision for a brighter future becomes reality.
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