Policy & Innovation Center

PIC is a co-convener on the CA Jobs First Initiative, which is a state investment from the Southern Border Coalition for California Jobs First. This state investment supports inclusive regional planning and economic development projects that benefit disinvested communities, create high road jobs and transition the region to a net zero emission economy. SDSU Research Foundation, as the Coalition's Fiscal Agent, is seeking innovative projects that promote economic resilience, equitable growth, and workforce development in high-growth industries across San Diego and Imperial counties. Applications are due by Monday, April 28. For more information, visit?bit.ly/CA-Jobs-First

PIC's Chief Economist Daniel Enemark joined forces with Rachel Bereza, Psy.M., President and CEO of the San Diego Workforce Partnership, to highlight how research can improve operations and secure resources for organizations. San Diego’s workforce professionals and experts discussed how to advance economic opportunity through the workforce ecosystem. Dr. Enemark explained how PIC’s research on specific communities can build more effective programs and generate policy reform. Explore PIC’s case studies and reports at ThinkPIC.org/Work.

How will the latest shifts from the new administration impact San Diego’s economy? Our Senior Vice President Alan Berube breaks it down in the new “Pulse on Policy” series. He offers insights from Capitol Hill on how executive orders and cabinet decisions will shape the region’s future, plus what local leaders need to know about planning ahead. ? Read his full analysis here:?ThinkPIC.org/PIC-Intel

PIC's Chief Economist Daniel Enemark joined FOX 5 San Diego (KSWB-TV) and KUSI News to talk about tariffs, trade and the economy. Dr. Enemark analyzes the latest data from California Employment Development Department each month. As the regular "Friendly Economist" with local TV, he breaks down what it could mean for San Diegans. Recently, he explained how tariffs work against U.S. companies and how beer prices could increase as a result. For more information, visit ThinkPIC.org.

PIC maintained momentum throughout its third year, paving the way for new and significant opportunities. In our annual report, we share about partnerships beyond San Diego’s borders to bring best practices to our region. We are thankful to the partners who trust PIC to provide reliable, data-focused solutions for our communities as we support San Diegans and more regions to expand our work. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/g46rK_uy

Our region's behavioral health workforce is getting a massive boost from the County of San Diego. They are investing $75 million to help people start, succeed and stay in the field of behavioral health. This includes students and professionals in counseling, psychology, social work, nursing and other related professions. The program includes several opportunities, from scholarships to 0% interest loans. PIC proudly partners with Trailhead Strategies Inc. and Social Finance to support individuals in behavioral health careers in San Diego County. For more information, join our webinar on Thursday, March 20:?https://lnkd.in/gwyMuVmx

Brookings Metro, one of PIC’s founding partners, reported that apprenticeships can help high school students make more informed choices about higher education and prepare them for their careers. Respondents in PIC’s Latino report mentioned apprenticeships in the study’s focus groups, showing the importance of nontraditional career and education pathways. There are wide gaps in the region’s degree attainment and entrepreneurship rates, and apprenticeships are one step toward equity. Read the State of San Diego Latinos report, commissioned by San Diego Foundation: https://lnkd.in/g3hMUWVx

Our organization’s future is brighter and bigger thanks to new work throughout the United States. We are now "Policy & Innovation Center" (PIC), nodding to our current and future work beyond San Diego County. Why the change? PIC built a solid foundation in bringing resources to the region. Now, we’re expanding our capacity to share our data wherever it’s needed most and to support organizations throughout the United States. We look forward to serving more and collaborating on future projects in the U.S.

PIC’s team is growing — We are looking for a Stormwater Engineer/Project Manager to join our team for the Green Stormwater Infrastructure demonstration program. This experienced individual will lead the design, development and implementation of the program, which is supported by the County of San Diego and other community partners. Learn more about the role: https://lnkd.in/gQF2j3t8

San Diego’s on a new creative path, thanks to research from PIC! The City of San Diego recently adopted the “Creative City” plan, charting new opportunities to grow the region’s vibrant, creative community. Read about Creative City: https://lnkd.in/g4xfgV2Y The City commissioned the “Creative Economy Report” to understand the region’s arts, culture and creativity. PIC’s researchers found that the local creative economy contributes $10.8 billion to the county’s gross regional product, and 80% of businesses are small businesses. Read the report: https://lnkd.in/gGufgsY5