Program Description
Implements Which
Policy(ies)?
Responsible
Departments
Supporting
Departments/Partners
Implementation
Timeframe Status 2024 Update Strategic Priority
ED-1: Economic Development
Strategic Plan Annual Report
1. Economic Development
Strategic Plan Annual Report.
The City shall submit an annual
report to the City Council that
evaluates the implementation of
the Economic Development
Strategic Plan. [Source: New
Program; City Staff] (PSR) ED-1.2 City Manager Development Services Annual (Complete) Ongoing In 2024, the Economic Development Division focused on completing the implementation of the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan. By the end of the year, the full $2 million allocated for recovery programs had been utilized, and all 13 projects were either completed or nearing completion, with only minimal data tracking required moving forward. Throughout the year, staff provided regular updates to the City Council and the Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC), emphasizing the success and impact of these programs, including increased business engagement, grant allocations, and overall local economic recovery.
A comprehensive update on all programs was provided to the CEDC in December 2024. It is important to note that the COVID-19 recovery programs were closely aligned with the goals outlined in the Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP), ensuring continuity in our strategic objectives. By reporting back to the Council's Economic Development Committee regularly, we effectively met the goals of this item, demonstrating our commitment to the EDSP’s implementation and its alignment with the recovery efforts.
Grow the Economy EP1, EP3, EP8,
EP10
ED-2: Branding and Marketing
Program
2. Branding and Marketing
Program. The City shall develop
and maintain a branding and
marketing strategy and materials
to promote Hayward and
maximize the effectiveness of the
City’s communication materials
and website. [Source: New
Program; EDSP] (MPSP/CSO) ED-5.1, ED-5.6 City Manager
Development Services,
Chamber of Commerce,
California State University East
Bay
2014-2016 (Complete) Ongoing
The branding and marketing strategy was completed and launched in 2016, successfully meeting the goals set forth in the Economic Development Strategic Plan. Updates to the strategy and content have been ongoing, with materials regularly refreshed to align with the latest market and business trends. In 2020, staff further enhanced the Branding and Marketing Plan by incorporating new tasks aimed at promoting Hayward to targeted industries.
As part of the COVID-19 Economic Recovery efforts, the City launched the “Hayward Open for Business” campaign to encourage customers to return to local restaurants and retail stores. Additionally, the Inaugural Restaurant Month in January 2024 was introduced to further promote and support Hayward eateries.
In 2024, the City expanded its marketing initiatives with the Hashtag Hayward program. This innovative effort was designed to elevate the perception of Hayward's small businesses, fostering organic placemaking by creating a sense of community around local establishments. The program increased business visibility through social media engagement and influencer partnerships.
Marketing efforts also included a focus on promoting Hayward’s growing Biotech industry, which launched in 2024. Collectively, these initiatives have strengthened Hayward’s branding, positioning the city as an attractive destination for residents, visitors, and businesses. With these accomplishments, the goals of the Branding and Marketing Program have been fully realized, and the City continues to build upon this foundation with ongoing efforts.
ED-3: Energy and Sustainability
Businesses Program
3. Energy and Sustainability
Businesses Program. The City
shall coordinate with the
Chamber of Commerce and the
East Bay Economic Development
Alliance to develop a program
that supports and attracts
businesses in the renewable and
energy-efficiency sector to
Hayward.
[Source: Climate Action
Plan] (MPSP/JP/IGC) ED-1.7, ED-6.11 City Manager
Development Services,
Chamber of Commerce, East
Bay Economic Development
Alliance, Public Works &
Utilities
2017-2019 (Complete) Ongoing
The City of Hayward has coordinated and collaborated with the East Bay Economic Development Alliance (EDA) on the Forward document, which outlines strategies for attracting emerging industries, including green tech businesses. Utilizing the findings and strategies from this collaboration, we have integrated these goals into our Business Concierge Program.
This proactive approach has already led to the successful attraction of several major green tech businesses to Hayward, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and economic growth. Moving forward, the City will continue to work closely with the Chamber of Commerce and East Bay EDA to build partnerships and further establish Hayward as a hub for energy and sustainability businesses.ED-4: Business Resource Center and Website
4. Business Resource Center
and Website. The City shall
develop and maintain a business
resource center and website.
[
Source: New Program; City Staff]
(CSO)
ED-1.10, ED-1.17, ED-
1.18, ED-2.1, ED-2.2,
ED-2.3, ED-2.4, ED-2.7,
ED-2.8, ED-3.4, ED-3.5,
ED-5.1
City Manager
Development Services,
Information Technology,
Library and Community
Services, Chamber of
Commerce
2014-2016 (Complete) Ongoing
The Business Resource Center and Website was updated in 2024. A key initiative to support the local business community. Whether you're a Fortune 500 company or an entrepreneur with a payroll of one, the Business Resource Center is designed to help businesses thrive by providing essential tools, information, and direct access to City staff. The website serves as a central hub for resources, offering guidance on site selection, and other critical information to ensure businesses have what they need to succeed. It also includes a comprehensive list of contact numbers and helpful weblinks tailored for business owners. With this updated resource, the City reinforces its commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and helping businesses achieve their goals.
Economic Development Element
Attachment V
1 ED-5: International Business
Program
5. International Business
Program. T
he City shall develop
and promote an international
business program to expand and
diversify the economic base of
Hayward and to promote
businesses that reflect the
cultural diversity of the Hayward
community.
[Source: New
Program; City Staff]
(MPSP/CSO/JP) ED-1.8, ED-1.9, ED-2.1 City Manager Development Services 2020-2040 (Complete) Ongoing The City’s Business Concierge Program has played a pivotal role in achieving the objectives of the International Business Program by attracting, supporting, and retaining a diverse range of international businesses. This strategic focus has not only enriched Hayward’s economic landscape but has also positioned the city as a global destination for business. Through personalized services, streamlined processes, and dedicated support, the Concierge Program has fostered an environment where international businesses can thrive and integrate seamlessly into the local economy.
One of the key reasons Hayward has demonstrated exceptional resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic is its diversified economic base. The presence of varied industries and international businesses provided the city with a robust foundation, enabling it to withstand economic disruptions and maintain steady growth. This diversity has been essential in fostering economic stability and flexibility, allowing Hayward to adapt quickly to changing conditions and emerge stronger.
The success of the Concierge Program in cultivating a diverse economic ecosystem reflects Hayward’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation.
By continually attracting new international businesses and supporting existing ones, the city ensures sustained economic vitality and positions itself as a leader in fostering global business relationships. This ongoing effort not only enhances the city’s economic base but also enriches its cultural fabric, making Hayward a vibrant and resilient community.
ED-6: Industrial Technology and
Innovation Corridor Marketing
Strategy
6. Industrial Technology and
Innovation Corridor Marketing
Strategy.
The City shall develop
and maintain a branding and
marketing strategy to promote
economic investment and
business and development
opportunities within the
Industrial Technology and
Innovation Corridor. [Source:
New Program; City Staff] (MPSP) ED-1.16 City Manager
Development Services, Public
Works – Engineering and
Transportation, Public Works
& Utilities, Police, Fire, City
Attorney
2020-2040 (Complete) Ongoing
The City has successfully completed the development of the Industrial Technology and Innovation Corridor Marketing Strategy, beginning with the creation of the Industrial Technology and Innovation Corridor Baseline Profile Report in 2015. This report continues to provide valuable insights into the corridor and is regularly utilized by the Economic Development Division. The report has laid the groundwork for attracting economic investment and business development opportunities within the corridor.
Moving forward, staff will focus on updating the data and identifying emerging trends to ensure the strategy remains relevant and effective in promoting business and development opportunities. With the baseline profile in place, the strategy has already been established, and the primary task ahead will be to enhance it with updated information to reflect current market conditions and opportunities.
ED-7: Local Hire Incentives
7. Local Hire Incentives. The
City shall develop a package of
business incentives (e.g., reduced
business license fees) to
encourage Hayward businesses to
hire local residents. [Source: New
Program; GPUTF, PC/CC]
(MPSP/RDR) ED-1.19 Finance
City Manager, Development
Services, City Attorney, Public
Works & Utilities,
2014-2016 (Complete) Ongoing
As part of the City’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery programs, the Hire Hayward program was implemented to incentivize Hayward industrial and advanced manufacturing businesses to hire and train local residents.
This program provides funding to offset costs associated with initial training and onboarding for eligible employees. To qualify for reimbursement, businesses must certify that the employee will be employed for at least six months. Additionally, the Tuition Assistance Program encourages local hiring by supporting Hayward residents in pursuing education and training opportunities through tuition assistance grants, particularly for skilled trades and manufacturing-related courses.
Both programs have played a crucial role in connecting qualified Hayward residents to local jobs, including hosting job fairs that bring together ready-to-work residents and ready-to-hire employers. Together, these initiatives strengthen the local workforce and promote economic recovery by fostering meaningful partnerships between Hayward residents and businesses.
Grow the Economy EP8, EP9
2 ED-8: Business Incubator Study
8. Business Incubator Study.
The City shall partner with the
Hayward Chamber of Commerce,
local business organizations, and
college business programs to
explore the feasibility of
establishing a business incubator.
The City shall submit a feasibility
report to the City Council and
additional actions shall be
determined based on direction
from the City Council.
[Source:
New Program; City Staff] (JP/
IGC/PSR) ED, 2-1, ED-2.2, ED-2.6 City Manager
Finance, Development
Services, Library and
Community Services, Chamber
of Commerce, Chabot College,
California State University East
Bay,
2017-2019 (Complete) Ongoing
Research on business incubators, including best practices and common funding mechanisms, began in 2020 but was placed on hold as the City prioritized COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. In recent years, efforts have resumed to foster entrepreneurship in Hayward through partnerships with California State University East Bay (CSUEB) and local businesses. Notably, CSUEB completed its CORE building, a Hub for Entrepreneurship, which serves as a center for students and faculty to explore innovative ideas and contribute to the creative economy.
In 2024, the City of Hayward Economic Development Division partnered with CSUEB’s College of Business and Economics to host the inaugural Innovation Festival, the largest start-up tech event ever held in Hayward.
This event brought together over 300 attendees, including innovative companies, investors, venture capitalists, job seekers, and students, to create opportunities for collaboration, investment, and professional development. The festival featured start-up pitches, technology panels, exhibitions, and a job fair.
The event highlighted the entrepreneurial potential in Hayward, with 10 student innovators presenting elevator pitches and larger student teams competing in a start-up idea competition. Winning teams secured $10,000 in funding and up to $50,000 in additional prizes, including access to startup bootcamps. The City continues to work collaboratively with CSUEB to support innovation and entrepreneurship, leveraging events like the Innovation Festival to foster connections and create opportunities for local talent and businesses.
Grow the Economy EP8
ED-9: Business Attraction,
Expansion, and Retention Program
9. Business Attraction,
Expansion, and Retention
Program.
The City shall develop
a comprehensive business
attraction, expansion, and
retention program.
[Source:
Modified Program; GPUTF, PC/CC]
(CSO/MPSP)
ED-1.4, ED-1.5, ED-1.6,
ED-1.7, ED-1.8, ED-1.9,
ED-2.6, ED-3.1, ED-3.2,
ED-3.4, ED-3.5, ED-3.6,
ED-6.7, ED-6.8, ED-
6.12 City Manager, Finance
Development Services, Library
and Community Services
2014-2016 (Complete) Ongoing
The City of Hayward's Business Concierge Program serves as a cornerstone of the City's commitment to business attraction, expansion, and retention program. This "white glove" service is designed to assist new and existing businesses at every step of their journey. The program supports business owners with site selection, technical permitting assistance, and navigating the City's permit and entitlement processes.
Additionally, it provides critical coordination with utility providers and other regulatory agencies, ensuring a seamless experience for businesses looking to establish or expand operations in Hayward. Through personalized assistance and a proactive approach, the Economic Development team acts as a direct liaison between business owners and city departments, addressing concerns quickly and fostering a business- friendly environment. By delivering real-time answers and resolving issues efficiently, the Business Concierge Program plays a vital role in retaining businesses, attracting new investments, and promoting economic growth across the city.
Grow the Economy EP5, EP6
ED-10: Town-Gown Economic
Partnership
10. Town-Gown Economic
Partnership.
The City shall
coordinate with Chabot College
and California State University,
East Bay to develop a formalized
Town-Gown Economic
Partnership.
[Source: New
Program; Public, GPUTF]
(MPSP/IGC) ED-4.1 City Manager
Development Services, Chabot
College, California State
University East Bay
2014-2016 (Complete) Ongoing
As part of the COVID Recovery programs launched by Economic Development, the City partnered with CSUEB to create 12 videos showcasing various businesses throughout the community. Produced by students and focused on businesses identified by them, these videos are featured on the City’s YouTube channel and website. Additionally, the ARPA-funded Tuition Assistance Program was launched in partnership with Cal State East Bay, Chabot College, and Eden ROP, allocating $400,000 to support residents pursuing education programs to improve skills for higher-paying jobs in the community.
To date, over 560 students have benefitted from the Tuition Assistance Program, job fairs, and the Hire Hayward initiative. The partnership between the City and its higher education institutions continues to expand, including City-funded, job-targeted fairs that will continue for another two years. These collaborative efforts underscore the City’s commitment to fostering a robust relationship with local academic institutions, providing residents with opportunities to gain new skills and connect with high-quality employment opportunities.
Grow the Economy EP9
ED-11: Town-Gown Economic
Strategic Plan and Annual Report
11. Town-Gown Economic
Strategic Plan and Annual
Report.
The City shall coordinate
with Chabot College and
California State University, East
Bay to develop a Town-Gown
Economic Strategic Plan that
focuses on enhancing the college-
town economy and culture of
Hayward.
The City shall submit
an annual report to the City
Council that evaluates the
implementation of the Strategic
Plan.
[Source: New Program; City
Staff] (MPSP/IGC/ PSR)
ED-3.3, ED-3.6, ED-4.1,
ED-4.2, ED-4.3, ED-4.4,
ED-4.5, ED-4.6, ED-4.7,
ED-5.6
City Manager
Development Services, Library
and Community Services,
Chabot College, California
State University East Bay
2017-2019 (Complete) Ongoing
The City has made significant progress toward the goals of the Town- Gown Economic Strategic Plan through its COVID-19 recovery efforts.
While formal work on the plan was initially delayed due to shifting priorities, the City has made meaningful strides in fostering the college- town economy and culture of Hayward. Throughout 2024, the Economic Development Division successfully implemented the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan, which closely aligned with the goals of the Town-Gown Strategic Plan. As part of these efforts, staff regularly provided updates to the City Council and the Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC), highlighting the impact of initiatives such as business engagement, grant allocations, and economic recovery. A key component of this progress has been the development of the Tuition Assistance Program, as described above.
A comprehensive update on all programs was presented to the CEDC in December 2024, reinforcing the connection between recovery initiatives and the objectives of the Town-Gown Strategic Plan.
Grow the Economy EP9
3 ED-12: Customer Service Survey
12. Customer Service Survey
The City shall develop and
maintain a customer service
survey to evaluate and identify
opportunities to improve permit
procedures and the customer
service of the Development
Services Department and Finance
Department (business license
permitting).
The survey will be
sent to applicants after permits
for the project are approved or
denied. [Source: New Program;
City Staff] (MPSP)
ED-6.1, ED-6.3, ED-6.4,
ED-6.6
Development Services City Manager, Finance 2014-2016 (Ongoing) Ongoing Surveys are regularly sent to customers and available at City Hall for an evaluation of the City’s customer service. Development Services and Permit Center surveys were released in Spring 2019 and will continue to solicit customer feedback on ways to improve and expand customer service delivery in response to the ongoing COVID pandemic.
ED-13: Permit Processing
Software
13. Permit Processing Software.
The City shall upgrade its
Development Services permit
processing software to streamline
review, allow the submission of
electronic applications, reduce
costs, and monitor processing
time. [Source: New Program; City
Staff] (CSO/FB) ED-6.4, ED-6.5
Development Services,
Information
Technology
City Manager 2014-2016 (Ongoing) Complete
In 2023, the City launched the ePermit system to streamline entitlement and permit processing. The ePermit system allows for the electronic submittal and review of Planning, Building, Engineering and Fire-related permits and applications. These efforts meet the intent of this program.
ED-14: Ombudsperson Service
14. Ombudsperson Service. The
City shall develop an
ombudsperson service to assist
commercial and industrial
business and new development
applicants with the City’s permit
and entitlement process, and to
provide coordination assistance
with utility providers and other
regulatory and permitting
agencies.
[Source: New Program;
City Staff] (CSO) ED-6.3 City Manager
Development Services, City
Attorney, City Clerk
2014-2016 (Complete) Ongoing
The City of Hayward's Business Concierge Program, formerly known as the Ombudsman Program, offers a "white glove" service designed to assist new and existing businesses. This program provides comprehensive support throughout the business journey, including site selection, technical permitting assistance, and facilitating smoother interactions with city departments. The Economic Development team serves as an intermediary between business owners and city staff, promptly addressing concerns and ensuring real-time or faster responses than external parties typically receive. This proactive approach fosters a business-friendly environment and helps streamline processes. As part of this initiative, the City is committed to providing service that assists commercial and industrial businesses, as well as new development applicants, with the City's permit and entitlement processes. Additionally, this service coordinates with utility providers and other regulatory and permitting agencies to provide seamless support for businesses.
ED-15: Cultural Commission
15. Cultural Commission. The
City shall establish a Cultural
Commission to coordinate the
efforts of various arts, culture,
and historical groups within
Hayward and to assist with
cultural event planning reflective
of Hayward’s diversity. The
Commission shall also evaluate
funding mechanisms for public art
and performance projects.
[Source: New Program;
Community Outreach] (MPSP) ED-5.2 City Manager Development Services 2020-2040 Not started.
Economic Development staff continue to explore potential opportunities to showcase and partner with various arts, culture and historical groups within Hayward.
4