Impact & Success Stories
Building a stronger innovation economy in Santa Cruz County through startup support, workforce development, community connection, and regional collaboration.
Why this matters
Santa Cruz Works is more than an event brand. It is a connector across startups, employers, talent, investors, mentors, and community institutions. From accelerator programming and executive networks to job fairs and ecosystem storytelling, SCW helps make Santa Cruz County a stronger place to build and grow.
Recognition & Milestones
UC Santa Cruz Community Recognition
Santa Cruz Works was recognized with the UC Santa Cruz 2023 Community Changemaker Partner Award, reflecting its role in strengthening innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional connection.
Santa Cruz Works Day
The organization’s role in the local innovation economy was celebrated through an official Santa Cruz Works Day proclamation, recognizing its impact across founders, employers, and the broader community.
Regional Manufacturing Support
Santa Cruz Works has also supported manufacturers through repeated CMTC-backed programming, helping extend its impact beyond startups into the broader local economy.
Startup & Accelerator Success Stories
Santa Cruz Works has helped support and spotlight startups that have gone on to raise capital, win grants, grow their teams, and build meaningful traction.
Cruz Foam
A standout Santa Cruz company developing compostable alternatives to polystyrene foam.
View featured launches →Jane Technologies
A major software success story with strong Santa Cruz ties and national growth.
See portfolio highlights →Immergo Labs
An innovative company using immersive technology in healthcare and remote care experiences.
Explore startup stories →Climatize
A climate-focused fintech company helping open access to renewable energy investment.
Read more →Workforce & Community Impact
Connecting employers and talent
Santa Cruz Works helps bridge local employers, students, and job seekers through events, hiring support, visibility, and community programming designed to strengthen the regional talent pipeline.
Launchpad and job opportunity programs
Programs like Launchpad bring together emerging founders, employers, and job seekers in one place, creating a stronger pipeline from local education and innovation into real careers and startup growth.
A platform for ongoing value
Through One Valley Passport, members gain access to a wide range of discounts, credits, and practical perks that help founders and businesses lower costs and move faster.
Part of a bigger Santa Cruz story
Santa Cruz Works helps tell and strengthen the story of a region filled with ambitious builders, respected companies, creative talent, and community-minded leaders. By bringing visibility to the startups, employers, and people shaping the county’s future, SCW helps Santa Cruz stand out as a serious place to build.
Learn more about Santa Cruz Works, explore the accelerator, or browse recent news and stories.
Be part of the next success story
Whether you are building a startup, hiring local talent, mentoring founders, or looking to plug into the innovation community, Santa Cruz Works offers a place to connect and grow.