FOR  IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Sierra Jobs First Governing Council Approves $9M in Catalyst Funding to 40 Planning-Phase Projects that Create Inclusive, Climate-Forward Jobs in the Sierra 

 

March 24, 2025 – (TRUCKEE, Calif.) The 21-member Governing Council of Sierra Jobs First, a regional collaborative representing seven counties in the eastern and central Sierra in the statewide California Jobs First initiative, voted on Friday to award a total of $9M to 40 projects meeting the pre-implementation, planning-phase criteria for Catalyst funding under the initiative, and with the most potential to align with regional strategies to grow climate-resilient, equitable jobs in Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, Inyo, Mariposa, Mono and Tuolumne Counties.

 

“The overwhelming response to the Catalyst RFP was truly inspiring, showcasing the innovation, determination, and dedication of our region in advancing an inclusive and climate-forward future,” said Alex Bloom, non-voting chair of the Sierra Jobs First Governing Council. “Recognizing the strength and diversity of the submitted projects, the Council reached a clear consensus to fund as many eligible initiatives as possible, ensuring broad regional impact and support for transformative solutions.”

 

“As regional conveners, our team is proud to have worked collaboratively with the diverse communities of the Sierra through months of engagement and hundreds of hours of thoughtful dialogue to create a funding slate that reflects our region’s unique needs and aspirations,” said Erika Harvey, director of economic empowerment, Sierra Business Council. “We look forward to continuing to nurture the connections forged through this process as we bring the Sierra Jobs First vision to life, whether through California Jobs First funding or other opportunities.”

 

Pending completed contracting, a list of projects (and lead applicant) receiving at least partial funding in Friday’s vote are available here.

 

The projects awarded Catalyst funding were selected from a total of 47 projects that responded to the Catalyst RFP, which was open for submissions from October 15 – December 15, 2024. The scoring process incorporated state guidelines regarding allowable Catalyst expenses, along with metrics ensuring alignment with the Sierra Jobs First regional Strategic Plan, which was developed through a 16-month process of engagement with hundreds of local government and tribal representatives, industry experts, community benefit organizations and involved community members under the guidance of the Sierra Jobs First fiscal agent and regional convener, Sierra Business Council.

 

To receive updates or to get involved in Sierra Jobs First, sign up for the newsletter at sierrajobsfirst.org/get-involved.

 

About Sierra Jobs First: Sierra Jobs First is a regional initiative working towards high-quality job growth, climate resilience, and economic prosperity in Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, Inyo, Mariposa, Mono and Tuolumne counties. This region is one of 13 collaboratives across the state that was formed through California Jobs First (formerly the Community Economic Resilience Fund), a $600 million fund that will create high-quality, broadly accessible jobs for all Californians. This project is facilitated by staff at Sierra Business Council, a 501c3 nonprofit that serves the region.

 

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