Our economy must work for everyone – from the small business owner to the tech startup. Our economic development plan is focused on growth with equity: attracting new investments and jobs while lifting local businesses and workers. Key elements include:
- Good Jobs & Industry Growth: Partner with the Economic Development Board and Chamber of Commerce to aggressively recruit and retain employers in high-growth sectors. We will market District 13 as an ideal destination for businesses, offering tax incentives or expedited permits for companies that bring living-wage jobs. A special focus will be on green industries and startups that align with our climate goals (e.g., solar panel manufacturing, electric vehicle assembly, recycling enterprises). Progress will be tracked via employment statistics and wage growth.
- Small Business Support & Entrepreneurship: District 13 thousands of small businesses are the backbone of its economy. We will work to establish a “Small Business Accelerator” program – providing grants, low-interest loans, and technical assistance to neighborhood businesses and startups, streamlining licensing, permitting, and eliminating unnecessary fees for small enterprises. We’ll expand incubator spaces and mentorship networks. A special emphasis will be placed on BIPOC- and women-owned businesses, to close historical gaps in access. By empowering diverse entrepreneurs, we create jobs and cultivate homegrown innovation. Success looks like higher small business survival rates and growth in new business registrations, particularly in underserved areas of the city.
- Workforce Development & Education: A thriving economy requires a local workforce. We will champion workforce training programs, so District 13 graduates are first in line for new jobs. We’ll collaborate with labor unions, District 13 Schools, Local Community Colleges, and the many Colleges in our area on job training initiatives. Key efforts include vocational training in trades (to supply workers for construction and port industries), coding and IT bootcamps (leveraging the tech expansion in our region), and targeted programs for veterans transitioning from military to civilian careers. With a large population of District 13 being veterans, we will create a pipeline to connect veterans with skilled jobs in the private sector. Additionally, we’ll support youth apprenticeship and internship opportunities so high school and college students can gain work experience with District 13 employers. Our success will be measured by reductions in the unemployment rate
- Inclusive Economic Growth: Economic development must benefit all District 13 residents, not just the wealthy. Today, income inequality is challenging – we are committed to narrowing that gap. We will tie incentives for businesses to local hiring requirements and encourage investment in historically marginalized communities. We understand the importance of educating the public on the importance of financial literacy and understanding that neighborhoods with a 750 credit score are more attractive to families, have more resources and less crime.