Creating an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economy that creates quality jobs and provides equitable economic access to all in Fresno, Madera, Tulare and Kings Counties. The Valley CERF coalition includes over 100 business, civic, community, academic and worker organizations working together to create a Regional Economic Recovery and Transition Plan. Funded by the State of California, the plan will include strategies for the growth of targeted industries, diversifying the economy, responding to economic shocks, increasing economic equity, and increasing health and environmental equity. Once the Regional Economic Recovery and Transition Plan is finalized, local communities are eligible for state funds to help implement priority projects included in the plan.
The Valley CERF coalition represents all aspects of inclusive economic and community development in California’s Central San Joaquin Valley. The coalition is as diverse as the region, yet we share this vision: “to foster an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economy that creates quality jobs and provides equitable economic access to all across the Central San Joaquin Valley.” The state’s CERF planning process is the opportunity of a lifetime – to add the capacity and resources that will help us build a regional vision while still serving immediate community needs. Through a community-driven process grounded in data that challenges biases and invites diverse viewpoints and experiences, we seek to answer this question, “What will it take to fundamentally transform our region and foster an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economy?” The response to that question will result in an inclusive economic development plan that delivers real, measurable results for the people and communities of the Central San Joaquin Valley.
Recognizing the geographic size, diversity, and complexity of the region and the need to balance power among stakeholders and across multiple jurisdictions, the Valley CERF coalition is committed to a collaborative governance structure and decision-making process that allows for maximum input and inclusion at the local level. It then provides that local tables will collectively build the region’s four-county inclusive economic development plan.
Foundation’s Role
The Foundation serves as both the Regional Convener and Fiscal Sponsor of the Valley CERF planning process and provides support to local conveners and partners to ensure the planning process is completed.
Geographic Focus
Central San Joaquin Valley – Fresno, Madera, Tulare, and Kings Counties
Partners