City of Sacramento
City Council - 5PM Report
915 I Street Sacramento, CA 95814
www.cityofsacramento.org
File ID: 2025-00352 1/28/2025 Consent Item 5.
Grant Applications for the Valley Vision (We Prosper Together) - Catalyst Pre-Development Projects Program for Advancing a Sustainable Governance Structure for the Sacramento Valley Station District and Pre-development for the 102 Acre City-owned site in Meadowview File ID: 2025-00352
Location: District 4, Represented by Councilmember Pluckebaum; District 8, Represented by Councilmember Vang
Recommendation: Pass a Motion authorizing the City Manager, or City Manager’s designee, to: 1) submit up to two grant applications to Valley Vision (We Prosper Together) for up to $1,200,000 total for two Catalyst Pre-Development projects. The two grant applications will be for pre-development costs for the following: a) Advancing a Sustainable Governance Structure for the Sacramento Valley Station District; and b) Redevelopment of City-owned 102-acre site in Meadowview; 2) accept the grants if awarded in an amount that is less than $250,000, staff will return to the City Council if the awarded amount is more than $250,000; 3) and execute the associated grant agreement and any related grant documents, subject to City Attorney review and approval as to form.
Contact: Marco Gonzalez, Senior Development Project Manager, (916) 808-8506, [email protected], City Manager’s Office of Innovation and Economic Development; Greg Taylor, Supervising Architect, 916-808-5268, [email protected], Department of Public Works; Elizabeth Boyd, Senior Planner, 916-808-3540, [email protected], Community Development Department
Presenter: None
Attachments:
1-Description/Analysis
2-We Prosper Together - Catalyst Pre-Development Projects Application (RFP) 3-Map of Sacramento Valley Station Project Site
4-Map of 102-Acre Site
Description/Analysis
California Jobs First (CJF) was established under Senate Bill 162 (SB 162) in September 2021 to boost long-term economic growth and sustainability across California. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CJF supports recovery efforts by helping communities diversify their economies and grow
File ID: 2025-00352 1/28/2025 Consent Item 5.
sustainable industries that provide high-quality, accessible jobs for all Californians. CJF seeks to create broadly accessible economic opportunities and address historical inequities by investing in local industries, supporting communities in the transition to a carbon-neutral future, and helping build good-paying, accessible jobs for everyone across the state.
The CJF program follows a four-phase grant process designed to encourage inclusive planning and equitable outcomes for underserved communities throughout the state. The phases include the Pre- Planning Phase, the Planning Phase, the Catalyst Phase, and the Implementation Phase. This phased approach ensures intentional planning, community engagement, and effective execution, with a commitment to creating opportunities for populations that have historically been underserved. CJF aims to build strong, inclusive local economies and address long-standing inequities by making economic opportunities widely accessible.
Valley Vision serves as the main organizer and fiscal agent for the eight-county California Jobs First initiative in our region (Colusa, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo, and Yuba), named We Prosper Together. Valley Vision’s role is to make sure that the economic goals of CJF are reached in a way that benefits everyone to advance economic, environmental, and social equity in Northern California.
The Catalyst Phase of the California Jobs First initiative seeks to build long-term economic resilience, workforce inclusivity, and regional competitiveness across California. Through targeted investments, it aims to boost job creation, support high-quality employment, and drive sustainable industry growth.
By directing resources toward advancing high-opportunity industry sectors, the Catalyst phase helps the region create and expand quality jobs in environmentally sustainable, future-focused industries.
Building on the Planning phase, the Catalyst phase turns these strategies into actionable projects, strengthening capacity in the region's most promising sectors and advancing long-term economic goals. Funding of projects in the Catalyst Pre-Development Phase is intended to achieve the following goals: 1. Invest in industries that will advance environmentally sustainable, future focused, high quality job opportunities 2. Fund projects that ensure workers and disinvested communities are the primary beneficiaries 3. Advance projects toward implementation readiness, positioning them to compete effectively for future federal, state, or private funding.
The City has identified two projects which meet the goals and objectives of the grant program: 1.
Advancing a Sustainable Governance Structure for the Sacramento Valley Station District; and 2. Pre -Development Funding for redevelopment of City owned 102-acre site in Meadowview (3100 Meadowview Road).
Advancing Sustainable Sacramento Valley Station District Governance In the mid-2000s, with the historic train depot in disrepair and intercity rail service struggling, the City was able to purchase the historic depot and surrounding property, with regional support, and
File ID: 2025-00352 1/28/2025 Consent Item 5.
dedicated funding through the renewed Measure A countywide transportation sales tax. Since then, the City has served as the lead agency for construction of critical improvements and planning for the Sacramento Valley Station (SVS) and surrounding district. In total, Measure A sales tax and City funding have leveraged more than $160 million in state and federal funds to address critical needs.
These include relocating the heavy rail tracks to address an operational bottleneck; separating passenger rail tracks from freight operations for passenger safety; modernizing station operations with new platforms and systems; and conducting major restoration of the historic depot including installation of seismic retrofits, high efficiency energy systems, fire suppression systems, and preserving historic elements. The City also led adoption of an Area Plan (2021 SVS Area Plan) to guide the planned development of the SVS and surrounding district which the City has successfully secured state funding to initiate implementation of many projects identified in the plan.
The SVS is one of the busiest Amtrak intercity rail and bus stations in the nation, serving users and accommodating visitors to and from the larger region. Identified as a Northern California hub in the State Rail Plan, the SVS is poised for even more growth in rail, bus, and other services. Its location between the central business district, Old Sacramento waterfront, and emerging downtown Railyard district with its major entertainment, housing, hospital, and soccer facilities make it a prime regional destination. Other regions’ strong city hubs such as Denver and Saint Paul Union Station are great examples of how station districts can become unique and thriving regional destinations.
The City of Sacramento has implemented substantial improvements and planning that have laid the foundation for continued growth and evolution of the SVS. As a municipal entity that is not designated as a transit or rail provider, the City is not the optimal management structure to allow the district to realize its full regional potential. In recognition of these constraints, the City launched an effort in February 2023 to determine what kind of governance structure would be most effective at managing the ongoing operations and guiding expansion of services and development in the SVS district. A dedicated SVS governance structure could include regional participation, operation, and funding of the facility, and expand available resource options.
Over the past year, this study included a comprehensive review of the current station resources and other successful governance models, setting goals and objectives that build upon the 2021 SVS Area Plan, engaging regional partners, and reviewing funding and legal parameters for a new governance structure. To advance implementation, additional steps are needed that are aligned with the proposed grant funding:
1. Thorough economic and market analysis to assess the viability and benefits of a new governance entity to expedite the continued growth and development of the regional transportation services supported and integrated with surrounding development to create a significant regional economic engine;
2. Develop the necessary governance and organizational tools to support the formation of a new governance entity and foster participation with appropriate partner agencies and entities and incorporate critical development considerations; and
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3. Conduct targeted community outreach to residential and business communities and organizations, local and national developers, and other partners that may be affected by or benefit from the emerging Station District.
Redevelopment of 102 Acre Site In Meadowview
In January 2022, the City acquired 102 acres of vacant property (3100 Meadowview Road) from the federal government. Since then, City staff has explored opportunities and constraints for what could be developed at the site. Staff presented findings of this analysis in April 2024 and anticipates coming to Council for preliminary direction in early 2025. Some of the key findings of the analysis concluded that it would be expensive for the City to develop the site without a partner.
The intended outcome of this grant project is the preparation of a solicitation package for development partners with the help of a development consultant. It is anticipated that City staff would need support from a development consultant to augment staff resources, bring in additional expertise for a funding strategy, and craft an appropriate solicitation package to attract the right partners for developing the 102-acre site.
Other Applications With Letters of Support
In addition to the two City applications, staff are working towards the execution of a letter of support for another application from SETA, Capitol Impact, ThermoFischer Scientific, Los Rios Community College District and Aggie Square’s Connect Labs Sacramento/ Wexford Science and Technology.
This application is seeking funding for the Capitol Region Biotech Talent Partnership and Talent Pipeline Management Collaborative which aim to position the Sacramento area as a premier biotechnology hub by planning, co-designing and testing emerging solutions to address employer needs and prepare local talent for opportunities in this high growth sector. By planning to bridge gaps between employers, educators, community-based organizations and underserved communities, the initiative aims to have the biotech field a driver of equitable economic growth in the region.
Other letters of support may be signed if the proposals further the goals and foster economic development of the City.
Policy Considerations: City Council approval is required to apply for, receive, or establish operating grant projects of more than $250,000 (Resolution No. 2024-0193). Applying for and implementing projects funded by Valley Vision (We Prosper Together) is consistent with the 2040 General Plan, effective March 28, 2024.
Policy ED 4.1.5 Regional Transportation Facilities. The City shall work with the Sacramento International Airport, Port of Sacramento, Regional Transit, Caltrans, and railroad companies to market and support continued improvement of major transportation facilities serving Sacramento businesses.
File ID: 2025-00352 1/28/2025 Consent Item 5.
Policy M 3.2.1 Passenger Rail Service. The City shall encourage and promote the enhancement of passenger rail service to and through the Sacramento area, including the development of new infrastructure and services associated with the California High Speed Rail Project.
Policy M 3.2.2 Sacramento Intermodal Transportation Facility. The City shall support the development of the Sacramento Intermodal Transportation Facility.
Policy SA-LUP-2 102-Acre Parcel. The City shall work with the community to develop a vision for future development of the new City-owned vacant parcel at 3100 Meadowview Road, studying a variety of uses such as housing, parks, a regional sports complex, and other community amenities.
Policy LUP-4.15 Vacant Property. The City shall develop regulations, mechanisms, programs, or incentives to facilitate the development or temporary active use of vacant buildings and property.
LUP-9.1 Cultural and Entertainment Centers. The City shall support the equitable development of cultural, art, entertainment, and recreational facilities and events in the city to attract visitors, support a quality of life for residents, celebrate and strengthen Sacramento’s unique identity.
E-2.1 Investments for Inclusive, Equitable Growth. The City should make intentional investments to increase and diversify economic growth in an inclusive and equitable manner that focuses on neighborhoods and their unique needs.
Economic Impacts: None.
Environmental Considerations: The activity to apply for grant funds and execute all agreements and documents of compliance related to the grant is not a project pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines 15378(b)(4). The activity is the creation of a government funding mechanism which does not involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment and is not subject to CEQA.
Sustainability: None.
Commission/Committee Action: Not applicable.
Rationale for Recommendation: This grant funding builds upon, and leverages funding received by
File ID: 2025-00352 1/28/2025 Consent Item 5.
the Sacramento Transportation Authority (STA) for establishing a new governance structure for SVS which requires additional funding to carry the project to completion. The grant funding for the 102- acre site would allow City staff to take the next steps needed towards developing the site.
Financial Considerations: CDD and Public Works, in partnership with OIED, intend to apply for grant funds up to $1.2 million. It is currently anticipated that the SVS would seek $700,000 and 102 acres would seek $500,000. There is no match requirement for the grant. Should the City be awarded one or both grants, in an amount greater than $250,000, staff will return to the City Council to accept the grant and create the grant projects.
Local Business Enterprise (LBE): Not applicable.
DRAFT
0 i.ELIGIBILITYCHECKLIST
ThankyouforyourinterestinsubmittinganapplicationfortheWeProsperTogetherCatalystRFP!Priortoworkingonyourapplication,weencourageyoutocompletethefollowingeligibilitychecklisttodeterminewhethertheproposedprojectiseligibleforconsideration.Responding“yes”toallofthequestionsbelowindicatesthattheproposedprojectiseligible.
Question Yes No
Doestheprojectserveoneormoreofthefollowingcounties?ThefollowingcountiescollectivelyformtheCapital Region.● Colusa● ElDorado● Nevada● Placer● Sacramento● Sutter● Yolo● Yuba Istheapplicationtoadvanceoneofthefollowingtypesofpre-developmentprojects?Note: Amoredetailedlistofeligibleprojectsandactivitiescanbefoundonpages6-7oftheRFP. ● “Exploratory”Projects:Theseareintheearly-stageofdevelopment.Exploratoryprojectsfocusonstudyingwhetheranideaisfeasibleandcreatingplansforfuturework.Theseprojectsarenotyetfullydevelopedbutareexploringpossibilities.● “Last-Mile”Projects:Theseprojectshavecompletedinitialplanningorfeasibilitystudiesandrequireafewmoreactionstobereadyforimplementation.
Doestheproposedprojectadvancequalityjobsinanyofthefollowingprioritytradableindustrysectors?Note: Definitionsforeachofthesesectorscanbefoundonpages7-8oftheRFP.● Biotechnology● PrecisionManufacturing● WorkingLands● BusinessServices ORDoestheproposedprojectadvancequalityjobsinanyofthefollowingopportunitysectors?Note: Definitionsofqualityjobsandeachofthesesectorscanbefoundonpages8-9oftheRFP.● Construction● Healthcare● Tourism● CreativeEconomy DoestheproposedprojectdirectlybenefitdisinvestedcommunitiesintheCapitalRegion?NotetheEconomicEquityPrioritiesfoundonpage10oftheRFP. 1of16
ii.TABLEOFCONTENTS
i.ELIGIBILITYCHECKLIST 1ii.TABLEOFCONTENTS 2I.INTRODUCTION 3CALIFORNIAJOBSFIRST(CJF) 3VALLEYVISION 3WEPROSPERTOGETHERCOLLABORATIVE 4LEADERSHIPCOUNCIL 4COMMUNITYANDLABORAMBASSADORS 4WEPROSPERTOGETHERREGIONALPLAN 4II.FUNDINGOPPORTUNITYANDBACKGROUND 5THECATALYSTPHASE 5PURPOSEOFFUNDING 5QUALITYANDPROMISINGJOBS 5ELIGIBLEPROJECTSANDACTIVITIES 6HIGHOPPORTUNITYINDUSTRYSECTORS 7ECONOMICEQUITYPRIORITIES 9INELIGIBLEPROJECTSANDACTIVITIES 10III.ELIGIBILITY&REPORTING 10ELIGIBLEENTITIES 10REPORTINGREQUIREMENTS 11IV.PROJECTTIMELINEANDTOTALAWARDAMOUNTS 11FUNDSAWARDED 11APPLICATIONANDFUNDINGTIMELINE 11PROPOSER’SWEBINAR 12V.APPLICATIONREQUIREMENTS 12APPLICATIONDETAILSANDRATING: 12IDENTIFYINGINFORMATION 12ORGANIZATIONALQUALIFICATIONS 13PROJECTDESCRIPTION 13SECTORALIGNMENT 13WORKPLAN 13PROPOSEDBUDGETANDBUDGETNARRATIVE 14REFERENCES 14APPLICANT/ORGANIZATIONDOCUMENTATIONFORCONTRACTING 14APPENDICES 15VI.INCOMPLETEAPPLICATIONS 15VII.QUESTIONSANDINQUIRIES 15 2of16
I.INTRODUCTION
CALIFORNIAJOBSFIRST(CJF)
CALIFORNIAJOBSFIRST(CJF)wasestablishedunderSenateBill162(SB162)inSeptember2021toboostlong-termeconomicgrowthandsustainabilityacrossCalifornia.Thisprogramisessentialtostrengtheningthestate’seconomicresilienceaswetransitiontoacarbon-neutralfuture.InresponsetotheCOVID-19pandemic,CJFsupportsrecoveryeffortsbyhelpingcommunitiesdiversifytheireconomiesandgrowsustainableindustriesthatprovidehigh-quality,accessiblejobsforallCalifornians.CJFseekstocreatebroadlyaccessibleeconomicopportunitiesandaddresshistoricalinequitiesbyinvestinginlocalindustries,supportingcommunitiesinthetransitiontoacarbon-neutralfuture,andhelpingbuildgood-paying,accessiblejobsforeveryoneacrossthestate.
TheCJFprogramfollowsafour-phasegrantprocessdesignedtoencourageinclusiveplanningandequitableoutcomesforunderservedcommunitiesthroughoutthestate.ThephasesincludethePre-PlanningPhase,thePlanningPhase,theCatalystPhase,andtheImplementationPhase.Thisphasedapproachensuresintentionalplanning,communityengagement,andeffectiveexecution,withacommitmenttocreatingopportunitiesforpopulationsthathavehistoricallybeenunderserved.CJFaimstobuildstrong,inclusivelocaleconomiesandaddresslong-standinginequitiesbymakingeconomicopportunitieswidelyaccessible.
VALLEYVISION
VALLEYVISIONservesasthemainorganizerandfiscalagentfortheeight-countyCaliforniaJobsFirstinitiativeinourregion,namedWeProsperTogether.ValleyVisionhasguidedthiseffortfromitsearlieststages.ValleyVision’sroleistomakesurethattheeconomicgoalsofCJFarereachedinawaythatbenefitseveryone,especiallycommunitiesthathavebeensystematicallyoverlookedinthepast.
Asaregionalleadershiporganization,ValleyVisionisdedicatedtoadvancingeconomic,environmental,andsocialequityinNorthernCalifornia.Focusedonupliftingcommunitiesthroughinnovativesolutions,ValleyVisionleadseffortsthatenhancequalityoflife,environmentalhealth,andeconomicresilience.Knownasatrustedpartner,ValleyVisionbringstogetherdiversegroups–includinglocalgovernments,businesses,andcommunity-basedorganizations–tocollaborateonkeyprioritieslikeworkforcedevelopment,cleanairandclimate,andhealthycommunities.Together,theseeffortsarebuildingastrongerandmoreinclusivefutureforourregion. 3of16
WEPROSPERTOGETHERCOLLABORATIVE
WEPROSPERTOGETHERCOLLABORATIVEisapartnershipofeight-counties:Colusa,ElDorado,Nevada,Placer,Sacramento,Sutter,Yolo,andYuba.ThisCollaborativeisfocusedoncreatingequitableopportunitiesandupliftingcommunitiesacrossNorthernCaliforniathathavehistoricallybeenunderserved.Withastrongbeliefthateconomicsuccessshouldbenefiteveryone,theCollaborativebringstogetherresources,partnerships,andstrategiestosupportinclusivegrowth. WeProsperTogetherworkstodismantlesystemicbarriersandopenpathwaystoqualityjobs,educationaladvancement,andcommunityempowermentforpopulationsthathaveoftenbeenleftoutofeconomicprogress.
TheCollaborative’smissionistoensurethatallcommunities,especiallythosethathavebeendisproportionatelyaffectedbyeconomicchallenges,playavitalroleintheregion’sfuturegrowth.Bycenteringequityindecision-makingprocesses, WeProsperTogetherisbuildingaresilientandinclusiveeconomythatworksforeveryone.
LEADERSHIPCOUNCIL
LEADERSHIPCOUNCIListhemaindecision-makingbodyoftheCollaborative.ItsroleincludesconsideringrecommendationsfromthelargerCollaborative,meaningfullyengagingwithcommunitiesacrosstheregion,upholdingthecorevaluesofWeProsperTogether,andprovidingguidanceonregionalstrategicplanning.
COMMUNITYANDLABORAMBASSADORS
COMMUNITYANDLABORAMBASSADORSplayavitalroleinconnectingthebroaderinitiativetothespecificneedsofdisinvestedcommunities. Ineachcounty,communityambassadorsbringpeopletogethertoadvisetheLeadershipCouncilonkeyprioritiesanddecisions.Youcanfindalistofourregion’sCommunityandLaborAmbassadorshere.
WEPROSPERTOGETHERREGIONALPLAN
WEPROSPERTOGETHER’SREGIONALPLAN, StrategiesforaThrivingandInclusiveEconomy,isdesignedtoguidetheCapitalRegiontowardastrongandequitableeconomy.Shapedbythoroughresearchandbroadcommunityengagement,theplan’sstrategiesfocusoncreatinghigh-qualityjobs,connectingdisinvestedcommunitiestonewopportunities,andensuringequitableoutcomesacrosstheregion.Allapplicantsareencouragedtoreadthefull Regional PlanandExecutiveSummary. 4of16
II.FUNDINGOPPORTUNITYANDBACKGROUND
THECATALYSTPHASE
THECATALYSTPHASE isakeypartoftheCaliforniaJobsFirstinitiative,whichseekstobuildlong-termeconomicresilience,workforceinclusivity,andregionalcompetitivenessacrossCalifornia.TheCatalystphaseisdesignedtospeeduptheimplementationofstrategiesidentifiedintheWeProsperTogetherPlanningphase.Throughtargetedinvestments,itaimstoboostjobcreation,supporthigh-qualityemployment,anddrivesustainableindustrygrowth.Bydirectingresourcestowardadvancinghigh-opportunityindustrysectors,theCatalystphasehelpstheregioncreateandexpandqualityjobsinenvironmentallysustainable,future-focusedindustries.BuildingonthePlanningphase,theCatalystphaseturnsthesestrategiesintoactionableprojects,strengtheningcapacityintheregion'smostpromisingsectorsandadvancinglong-termeconomicgoals.
PURPOSEOFFUNDING
PURPOSEOFFUNDING ThegoalsoffundingCatalystPre-DevelopmentPhaseprojectsareto:
● Investinindustriesthatwilladvanceenvironmentallysustainable,futurefocused,highqualityjobopportunities.● Fundprojectsthatensureworkersanddisinvestedcommunitiesaretheprimarybeneficiaries.● Advanceprojectstowardimplementationreadiness,positioningthemtocompeteeffectivelyforfuturefederal,state,orprivatefunding.
QUALITYANDPROMISINGJOBSQUALITYJOBSareoccupationsthatofferalivingwageandemployer-sponsoredbenefits.Promisingjobs,ontheotherhand,maynotyetpayalivingwageorincludebenefits,buttheyprovidepathwaystoqualityjobswithinthenext10years.Together,thesetypesofjobscreateopportunitiesforworkerstoearnalivablewage.
WAGETHRESHOLDFORQUALITYJOBSINTHECAPITALREGION,BYSUBREGION County HourlyWage AnnualEarnings
PlacerandElDorado $34.30 $69,972
Nevada $33.50 $68,340
SacramentoandYolo $30.70 $62,628
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Colusa $29.50 $60,180
YubaandSutter $29.20 $59,568
ELIGIBLEPROJECTSANDACTIVITIES
ELIGIBLEPROJECTSANDACTIVITIESfundedthroughthisRFPmustadvanceeconomicdevelopmentthatcontributestobuildingacarbon-neutral,climate-resilienteconomy. Thisincludesbuildingcapacityforqualityjobcreationinthefourpriorityindustryareasoutlinedbelow. EligibleprojectsmustalsomeettheCaliforniaJobsFirstinitiativedefinitionsof“Exploratory”or“LastMile.” ● “Exploratory”Projects:Theseareintheearly-stageofdevelopment.Exploratoryprojectsfocusonstudyingwhetheranideaisfeasibleandcreatingplansforfuturework.Theseprojectsarenotyetfullydevelopedbutareexploringpossibilities.● “Last-Mile”Projects:Theseprojectshavecompletedinitialplanningorfeasibilitystudiesandrequireafewmoreactionstobereadyforimplementation.
Catalystfundingsupportsspecificpre-developmentactivitiestohelpprojectsgetclosertobeingimplementationready.SeebelowforexamplesofwhatCatalystfundingcancover:
● PlanningandFeasibility:Planningactivitiestoexploreaproject’sviability.Examplesofpotentialactivitiesinclude,butarenotlimitedto:○ Feasibilitystudies○ Marketanalysis○ Environmentalimpactassessments,surveys,andremediation○ Siteplans,projectdesigns,andnecessarypermits ● FinancialandLegalFrameworks:Expensesrelatedtosettingupfinancialorlegalframeworksfortheproject.Examplesofpotentialactivitiesinclude,butarenotlimitedto:○ Legalcostsforsettinguppartnershipsorpublic-privatearrangements○ Planningcoststoestablishfinancialtools,suchasaregionaltaxfinancingdistrict○ Creatingagreementsthatbenefitthecommunity(CommunityBenefitsAgreements) ● CapacityBuilding:Investmentstostrengthentheprojectteam’sabilitytoplanandexecutetheprojecteffectively.Examplesofpotentialactivitiesinclude,butarenotlimitedto:○ Staffingandtrainingcostsforprojectleadership○ Developmentofsustainableinfrastructureplansforessentialslikewaterorwastesystems○ Professionaldevelopmentforkeyteammembersorpartners.○ Financialplanningassociatedwithacapitalproject(e.g.,preliminarybudgetandconstructionfinancing) 6of16
● PilotProjects:PilotprojectsareeligibleforCatalystfundingiftheyserveasascalabletestforbroaderimplementation.○ Developmentofnewpilotordemonstrationprojectsandprogramsthatcreateinnovativeworkforcepathwaysinpriorityindustrysectorsleadingtohigh-qualityjobsfordisinvestedcommunities. Pilotsmustalsodemonstratethepotentialforexpansionacrosstheregionorintomultipleregions.
HIGHOPPORTUNITYINDUSTRYSECTORS:
PRIORITYTRADABLEINDUSTRYSECTORS:
Applicationsareexpectedtoadvancequalityjobsinoneormoreofthefollowingsectors.Whilealloccupationsmeetingqualityjobthresholdareencouraged,middle-skilloccupationsarehighlightedwithineachcategory. ● Biotechnology-Thissectorisconcentratedonfoodandlifescienceinnovations,includingbiotechnology,biopharma,agriculture,andfoodtechnology.Withcoredriversofresearchandinnovationintheregion,thissectorofferspromisefortheexpansionoffuturehigh-qualityjobopportunities.
Examplesofmiddleskill occupationsconsistoftechnicians, includinglab, draftingengineering,andmappingtechnicians; informationandrecordsorganizationspecialists; mathematicalscienceoccupations, managementandsupervisorypositions, installation, maintenance, andrepairworkers, andadministrativeroles. ● PrecisionManufacturing -This sector includesmanufacturinghigh-value-addedproductscontaininginstrumentationandmicroelectronicsmanufacturing,includingmedicaldevicemanufacturing,next-generationtransportation,machinerymanufacturing,robotics,aerospace,anddefense.Theregionhasthecapacitytoproduceintricate,highlyaccuratecomponentstomeetstringentspecificationsandtolerances.Inlightofmajornewinvestments,thissectorpresentsemergingopportunitiesinmicroelectronicsandsemiconductors,batteryproduction,cleantech,instrumentation,andadvancedagriculturalequipment. Focusingonthissectorcouldpreserveandgrowactivitiesthatgeneratemiddle-skill,middle-incomejobs.
Examplesofmiddleskill occupationsconsistofassemblersandfabricators, metal andplasticworkers, productionworkers, installation, maintenance, andrepairworkers, operators, draftingandmappingengineertechnicians, administrativeroles, andmanagersandsupervisors. ● WorkingLands -This sector includesfood,agriculture,andwoodeconomyproductmanufacturing.Manufacturinganddownstreamactivitiesconnectedtotheregion’sexceptionalnaturalresourcesandworkinglandsshowpromise.Thissectorhighlightstheregion’semerging 7of16
opportunityintheproductionofrenewableenergyproductsthroughtheutilizationofbiomassandcarbonmanagement.
Examplesofmiddle-skill occupationsconsistofagricultural workers, dispatchinganddistributionpositions, material recordingandscheduling, material movingworkers, productionoccupations,wholesaleandmanufacturingsalesrepresentatives, engineers, technicians, installation,maintenanceandrepairincludingvehicleandmobileequipment, managementoccupations,administrativeroles, forest, conservationandloggingworkers, firefightingandpreventionworkers, wood, metal andplasticworkers, rail transportationworkers. ● BusinessServices- Akeydriveroftheregion’seconomy,this sector includestechnicalservices,businessadministration,legalservices,managementconsultingservices,advertising,andmarketing,amongothers.Acceleratedbythepresenceofstategovernment,connectionstotheBayArea,andnationalandglobalheadquarters,businessservicesareamajordriverfortheregion. Thissectoristhelargesttopasstheselectionscreensoftradability,feasibility,opportunity,andsustainabilityacrosstheregion.Additionally,this sector hasthecapacitytosupportadispersedworkforceduetotheprevalenceofremotework,providingopportunitiestodiversify areas oftheregionwithlimitedsourceeconomies.
Examplesofmiddle-skill occupationsconsistofbusinessoperationsspecialists, computeroccupations, informationrecordspecialists, salesrepresentatives, supervisorsandmanagers,legal supportworkers, financial specialists, advertising, salesandpublicrelations, andadministrativeroles.
OPPORTUNITYINDUSTRYSECTORS:
Whilegrowingtradablesectorsandincreasingthenumberofjobsinthosesectorsiskeytogrowingaprosperous,resilient,andsustainableeconomy,itcantaketimeforinvestmenttargetedtowardssectorgrowthtocreatethesenewjobs.Therefore,itisequallyimportanttoinvestinstrategiestoconnectcommunitiestocurrentlyavailablequalityjobs,manyofwhichareinlocal-servingsectors.Projectapplicationswillalsobeeligibleforfundingiftheyadvancequalityjobsinanyofthefollowing:
● Construction-Theregionalconstructionindustrygrewsteadilybetween2012and2022,withjobgrowthinthesectoraccountingformorethan20%ofalljobscreatedintheregionduringthatperiod.Demandforskilledconstructionworkerscontinuestorise,pushedhigherbytheneedtobackfillpositionsheldbyretiringworkers.Federalandstateinvestmentsininfrastructureandclimateadaptationcreateadditionalopportunitiesforindustrygrowth.Theseinvestmentscanbeleveragedformaximumeffectifdeliberateactionsaretakentodiversifycontractorpoolsandexpandaccesstopathwaysintothesecareers. ● Healthcare-Thehealthcaresectorisaverylargeemployerintheregion,withmanymajormedicalsystems.Healthcareconcentratesareasonablyhighproportionofopportunityjobs.Severalsub-sectorslikehospitalsandoutpatientcarecentersfeatureevengreatersharesofoccupationalroleswithhigherwages,includingwell-establishedprofessionalandcredentialingladdersthatcreateaclearpathwayforworkerstonavigatetowardeconomicmobility. 8of16
● Tourism-Thislocal-servingsectorhashistoricallybeenanimportantcontributortoourregionaleconomy,particularlyintheTahoesubregion.Businessesinthisindustryrunthegamutfromsmallandmicrobusinessestocasinos,outdoorexpeditionproviders,boutiquehotels,conventionvenues,majorresorts,andtribalcasinos.Wineriesandagritourismoperationsattractpeopletoagriculturalareasandprovidemuch-neededrevenueforruralcommunities.OutdoorrecreationprovidesamajordrawforvisitorsfromthroughoutCaliforniaandbeyond. ● CreativeEconomy-Outreachandengagementacrossthedifferentsubregionsrevealedthedesirefortheartsandthecreativeeconomytobebetterrepresentedacrosstheindustryclusters,giventhattheyplayacrucialroleinalmosteveryindustry(e.g.,throughdesign,marketing,etc.).Ourregionrecognizestheneedtoincludethecreativeeconomywithinthebroaderjobmarketbyintegratingitintovarioussectors,promotingjobopportunities,andfosteringaculturethatappreciatesandutilizescreativeskills.
ECONOMICEQUITYPRIORITIES
ForWeProsperTogether,economicequityisconsideredthejustandfairinclusionofdisinvestedcommunitiesintotheeconomicfabricoftheCapitalRegiontoensuretheyadvanceeconomicallyandreachtheirfullpotential.Projectsshouldprioritizeeconomicequitybycreatingpathwaysforempowermentandsocialmobilityforouruniquedisinvestedpopulations.Inadditiontomeetingthedefinitionof“exploratory”or“lastmile”indicatedprior,andadvancingoneofthepriorityoropportunityindustrysectorsidentifiedbytheWeProsperTogetherinitiative,proposedprojectplansshouldintentionallyincorporateinclusionarystrategiestoensuredirectbenefittoourdisinvestedcommunities.TheCapitalRegion’seconomicequityprioritiesareintroducedbelow,withthefulldetailsavailablehere:
● Community-CenteredInclusionaryPractices-Focusoncommunity-centered,inclusionarypracticesthatprioritizetheuniqueandholisticneeds,strengths,andperspectivesofdisinvestedpopulations.● EconomicInclusionaryApproaches-Advanceeconomicmobilityforresidentsofdisinvestedcommunitiesthroughparticipationasworkersandbusinessowners.● DataInformedandTransparentAlignmentandCoordination-Includetransparentprogrammaticproceduresandcommunity-involveddecision-making. 9of16
INELIGIBLEPROJECTSANDACTIVITIES
Thisfundingopportunityisfocusedonearly-stageplanninganddevelopment.Thissectionoutlinesthetypesofprojectsthatarenoteligibleforthisfundinground.1. ConstructionProjects–AnyprojectthatisreadytobeginconstructionorinvolvesbuildingnewfacilitiesisnoteligibleforCatalystfunding.ThistypeofprojectmayqualifyforImplementationPhasefundinginstead,whichwillopenafterJanuary1,2025.2. “Ready-to-Go”Projects–Projectsthatarefullypreparedtostartimmediately(i.e.,thosethathavecompletedallplanning,permits,andpre-developmentwork)arealsonoteligibleforCatalystfunding.TheseprojectscanapplyforImplementationfunding.
III.ELIGIBILITY&REPORTING
ELIGIBLEENTITIES
Thefollowingisalistofentitieseligibletoapplyforfunding:
● Nonprofitorganizations● Nongovernmentalorganizations(NGOs)● Academicinstitutions● Localgovernments● Communityfoundations● Labororganizations 10of16
Note:Whileprivatebusinessescannotleadanapplication,theyareencouragedtoparticipateaspartners.
Applicantsmaysubmitmultipleprojectproposals. Eachproposalmustbesubmittedseparately. Entitiesareallowedtoactasfiscalagentsformultipleorganizations.
REPORTINGREQUIREMENTS
Granteesmustsubmitregularprogressreportsincludingthefollowing:
● QuarterlyProgressReports:Summarizetheproject’sprogressaccordingtotheworkplanincludingkeymilestonesachieved,measurableobjectivesandperformanceindicators,challengesencountered,adherencetothebudget,andfiscalreporting.Reportsshouldincludephotosoftheproject'sadvancementswheneveravailablealongwithimpactstoriesand/ortestimonials.● FinalProjectReport:Acomprehensivefinalreportsummarizingthecurrentandanticipatedimpactoftheprojectoneconomicconditions,disinvestedcommunities,andclimateimpacts.Includethefulltimelineofactivitieshighlightingprojectsuccesses,measurableoutcomes,challengesencountered,finalbudgetsummation.Thisreportshouldalsoincludeanticipatednextstepsand/oractionablerecommendationsfortransitioningtothenextstageofdevelopment.Projectproposalsinvolvingthedevelopmentofapilotprogramshouldindicatenextstepsinprogramexpansion.
IV.PROJECTTIMELINEANDTOTALAWARDAMOUNTS
FUNDSAWARDED
FUNDSAWARDEDwillsupportactivitiesfromthedateofawardthroughSeptember30,2026. Whilethereisnospecifiedminimumormaximumaward,awardsarerecommendedtobeupto$1,000,000.Atotalof$9millioninfundingisavailable,withtheexpectationthatnotallfundswillbeallocatedinthisfirstroundoffunding. AsecondfundingopportunityisplannedfortheSpringorSummerof2025.
APPLICATIONANDFUNDINGTIMELINE
RFPRelease November26,2024
Proposers’Webinar December4,2024,9amto10:30amor
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December10,2024,9amto10:30am
ApplicationsDue February2,2025,by11:59pm
ApproximateAwardNotifications February28,2025
ApproximateStartDate March1,2025
EndDate ProjectsmustbecompletedbySeptember30,2026
PROPOSER’SWEBINAR
PROPOSER’SWEBINAR:Potentialapplicantsareencouragedtoattendoneoftwooptionalproposers’webinarsregardingthisfundingopportunity.ThesewillbeheldviaZoomonDecember4,2024,from9AMto10:30AMandDecember10,2024,from9AMto10:30AM. ToregisterpleasefollowthisLink.TheWebinarswillreviewtheapplicationandfieldquestions.Attendanceatoneofthewebinarsisnotrequired,however,itisstronglyrecommended.Pleasereviewtheapplicationmaterialsbeforeattending.
V.APPLICATIONREQUIREMENTS
Applicationsareduenolaterthan11:59PMPacificTimeonFebruary2,2025,andmustbesubmittedthroughtheSubmittableplatform.Incompleteapplicationswillnotbeeligible,andproposalsreceivedafter11:59PMPacificTimeonFebruary2,2025,willnotbereviewed.
PleasesubmitquestionsregardingthisRFPtoinfo@weprospertogether.orgby5PMonDecember9,2024,inadvanceoftheDecember10thProposer’sWebinar. QuestionsandanswerswillbepostedontheWeProsperTogetherwebsite.
APPLICATIONDETAILSANDRATING:
Toensureacompleteandreviewableapplication,applicantsmustsubmitthefollowinginformation,excludingbudgetinformationandreferences.Applicationswillberatedaccordingtothefollowingcriteria:
IDENTIFYINGINFORMATION● Organizationname
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● OrganizationFederalEmployerIdentificationNumber(FEIN)● Organizationaddress● Primarycontactinformation(name,position,email,andphonenumber)● Projectname● CountieswithintheWeProsperTogetherregiontheproposedprojectwillserve● Totalfundingrequested ORGANIZATIONALQUALIFICATIONS(12points)● Describetheleadapplicantorganization,includingmission,history,relevantexperience,andcapacitytomanagetheproject● Describetheorganization’scapacitytoexecutesimilarprojects,outliningspecificpastprojectsandoutcomes● Describetheorganization’sprocessandmethodstoensureeffectivereportingandcompliancewiththisproject.● Statenamesandrolesofkeypersonnelandpartnersinvolvedintheproject.
PROJECTDESCRIPTION(20points)
● Provideaconciseoverviewoftheproject,includingitsprimarypurposeandintendedoutcomes.● Describehowtheprojectcontributestothegrowthanddevelopmentofqualityjobs.● Describehowtheprojectcontributestomitigatingclimateimpacts.● Describehowdisinvestedcommunitymemberswillbeengagedintheprojectplanninganddesign.● Describehowtheprojectoutcomeswillbenefitdisinvestedcommunities.
SECTORALIGNMENT (8pointsmaximum)Projectmustalignwithoneoftheprioritytradableoropportunitysectors. Projectsalignedwithprioritytradableindustrysectorswill beawardedeightpoints; projectsalignedwithopportunitysectorswill beawardedfourpoints● Describehowyourprojectalignswithoneoftheprioritytradableindustrysectors.● Describehowyourprojectalignswithoneoftheopportunityindustrysectors.
WORKPLAN(12points)● Provideatimelinewithspecificdatesforprojectmilestones,keyactivities,anddeliverablesincludingassignedrolesforkeystaffandprojectpartners.● Detailexistingcommunityengagementand/orplanstoconductoutreachandinclusionactivitieswithhistoricallymarginalizedanddisinvestedpopulationswithintheprojectarea. 13of16
● Providemeasurableobjectivesandperformanceindicatorstoevaluatetheproject’spre-developmentactivities.Thefollowingareprovidedasexamplesandarenotanexhaustivelist.■ CompletionofKeyPre-DevelopmentMilestones:Examplesincludesecuringnecessarypermitsorapprovals,completingsiteassessments,feasibilitystudies,orenvironmentalreviews.■ StakeholderEngagementandBuy-In:Examplesincludeconductingcommunityengagementsessionswithmeasurableparticipationrates,establishingformalagreementsorpartnershipswithkeystakeholders.■ DetailedProjectPlanning:Examplesincludefinalizingarchitecturalorengineeringdesigns,preparingacomprehensiveprojecttimelineandriskassessment.■ ProjectAdvancementandDevelopment:Examplesincludesubmittinggrantapplicationsorotherfundingproposals,receivingfundingcommitmentsfromexternalsources.■ DataCollectionandAnalysis:Examplesincludegatheringandanalyzingbaselinedatatoinformprojectplanning,completingdemographic,market,orenvironmentalanalyses.
PROPOSEDBUDGETANDBUDGETNARRATIVE(8points)● Provideadetailedbudgetthatitemizescostsbycategory(e.g.,personnel,materials,travel,subcontractors)● Provideabudgetnarrativethatprovidesjustificationforeachlineitem,explaininghowcostswerecalculatedandhowtheyarenecessaryforprojectcompletion.● Fiscalcontactnameandcontactinformation REFERENCESIncludethefollowingdetailsfortwofundingorganizations:● Name,email,andphonenumberoftheprimarycontact.● Abriefsummary(oneparagraph)oftheprojectassociatedwitheachreference.Referencesshouldbeabletospeakto:● Yourcapacitytodeliverthetypeofworkoutlinedinyourproposal● Yourabilitytomeetreportingrequirementsandadheretotheapprovedbudget.
APPLICANT/ORGANIZATIONDOCUMENTATIONFORCONTRACTINGThefollowingdocumentationdoesnotneedtobesubmittedwiththeproposalpackage,butwillbenecessarytofinalizeacontract:● EvidenceofeligibilitytoconductbusinessinCalifornia● ListofBoardofDirectorsorgoverningbody● Mostrecentauditedfinancialstatementsorfinancialstatementscoveringtheprevioustwelvemonths 14of16
● InsuranceCertificates(demonstratingcoverageforgeneralliability,workers’compensation,etc.)● OtherinformationordocumentationasrequiredorrequestedbythestateofCalifornia APPENDICES(OPTIONAL)● LettersofSupport● Additionalsupportingdocuments,suchasresumesofkeystaff,casestudies,orpastprojectsummaries,ifrelevanttotheapplication.
VI.INCOMPLETEAPPLICATIONS
Applicationsthatdonotincludeallrequireddocumentsorfailtofollowsubmissioninstructionswillbeconsideredincompleteandwillnotbereviewed.
VII.QUESTIONSANDINQUIRIES
Forquestionsrelatedtothisfundingopportunity,[email protected]:“WeProsperTogetherCatalystRFPInquiry.” 15of16
102-Acre Site Vicinity