Economy, housing, drones, and the 2026 election aftermath top the agenda at MBEP's State of the Region on November 6 at CSUMB. SCW Partners and Members save $30 with code SCWM26.
What does 2027 hold for the Monterey Bay region? The Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) will tackle that question at its 2026 State of the Region, a full-day convening on Friday, November 6, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM at the CSU Monterey Bay University Center in Marina.
The event brings together business, government, education, and community leaders from Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. MBEP will also share updates on collaborative initiatives such as Regions Rise Together and Uplift Central Coast, which focus on economic opportunity, workforce development, and inclusive growth.
It's also a homecoming of sorts. Kate Roberts, a longtime champion of the tri-county economy, is back at MBEP as Interim CEO, and this is her first State of the Region in the role.
The Agenda
The program covers the forces shaping the region's next twelve months:
The economy. Inflation, jobs, housing costs, and uncertainty, and what the latest trends signal for California and the Central Coast in 2027.
Post-election policy. With votes counted, speakers will examine what shifting priorities in Sacramento and Washington mean for local businesses and communities.
Housing and healthcare. Two of the region's biggest challenges face new pressures. Panelists will explore what policy changes mean for affordability and access.
Drones that save lives. A look at how emerging aviation technologies could transform wildfire response, search and rescue, and environmental protection on the Central Coast.
The creative economy. How California is rethinking imagination as a driver of new businesses and jobs.
Inclusive prosperity. New research on food insecurity, disaster preparedness, and regional prosperity, including what's working and where gaps remain.
Jobs of tomorrow. Broadband expansion, AgTech, robotics, and precision manufacturing, and how to connect more residents to these opportunities.
Why It Matters to Santa Cruz Works
Several of these sessions line up directly with SCW's priorities. The drone and emerging aviation discussion connects to our advanced air mobility vertical, where Joby, DART, and CAAMCI are building a regional cluster. The robotics, AgTech, and precision manufacturing conversation speaks to the startups and talent pipeline we support every month at New Tech Meetup and through SCW Launchpad Accelerates.
Housing deserves its own mention. Founders and employers across Santa Cruz County cite housing costs as a top barrier to hiring and retaining talent. Any policy shift from Sacramento will affect whether the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs can afford to stay here.
State of the Region is also a rare chance to connect with tri-county leaders in one room. For startups looking for public-sector partners, pilot sites, or regional allies, that's worth the drive to Marina.
Register and Save
Continental breakfast and lunch are included. Santa Cruz Works Partners and Members receive $30 off general admission with promo code SCWM26.
Registration is open now, and seats are limited with the event less than a week away.
Register for State of the Region →
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