Uplift Central Coast

A 6-county coalition contributing to a comprehensive approach to regional economic resilience.

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The six-county Uplift Central Coast Coalition — led by REACH, the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) and Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) — is excited to announce its continued partnership to develop an application and secure our region’s share of California’s new $600 million Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF).

The purpose of CERF is to support new plans and strategies to diversify local economies and develop sustainable industries that create high-quality, broadly accessible jobs for all Californians.

The CERF strategy is based on triple bottom line principles and values — economy, equity and environment — and calls for input from and ultimate benefit to disadvantaged, disproportionately impacted and under-represented communities.

Moving forward, our broadened Uplift Central Coast initiative will identify, prioritize and invest in a wide range of workforce and economic development projects, while contributing to a comprehensive approach to regional economic resilience. Our efforts and partnerships will continue to cover the six-county region: Santa Cruz, San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. Grants of up to $5 million per region will be awarded this fall to support inclusive engagement and planning efforts to inform regional investment opportunities.
Get Involved
If you would like to stay engaged, track progress, or participate with this coalition, join us!

Read and download a one-page backgrounder about the Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF).

Share your comments, ideas, and suggestions with us by filling out this brief form.

Latest Updates

Uplift accepting committee nominations

Nominations for the Uplift Central Coast Coalition Governance Committeeare now open with forms in English and Spanish. Learn more about how these Committees will play an integral part in the success of the Uplift process and how to apply.
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Uplift secures $5 million planning grant for six-county region

A $5 million grant under the state's new Community Economic Resilience Fund will fuel an expansive 2-year process to create an inclusive economic development plan with a focus on equity, sustainability, job quality, economic competitiveness and resilience.
READ MORE >>

Uplift brings on Quinn Brady as Project Director

Brady brings a deep background in community engagement and strategic partnerships as well as a clear passion for uplifting disinvested communities, fostering belonging, and promoting climate equity.
READ MORE >>

Uplift & CERF

A quick look at the regional grant opportunity.

What's CERF?
Who's Involved?
Timeline
CERF vs. CEDS

Uplift Central Coast at a Glance

Accomplishments

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1
Launched Monterey Bay Housing Trust

Funding 500 new affordable homes.

2
Published Housing White Paper

Resulting in 14 + new policies that are improving housing affordability

3
Published Housing + Water "Blue Paper"

To recommend water policies that are increasing housing production

4
Published ADU White Paper

Aiming to educate about new laws, and strengthen policies and practices in Monterey County.

5
Launched Action Center

Resulting in 2,029 new homes

6
Implemented Farmworker Housing Action Plan

Resulting in 2,200 + new beds

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