The COVID-19 pandemic not only exposed social and economic weaknesses throughout California, but highlighted the deficits in infrastructure, housing, and workforce development that have exacerbated inequities over time. A full recovery will require state leaders to mitigate these inequities and recalibrate the state’s economic development framework to promote equity and competitiveness.

Over the past two years, the consequences of the state’s high cost of living have become more pronounced, especially on vulnerable communities and residents looking to achieve upward mobility. Both factors will adversely affect the state’s prospects for growth. Despite these realities and the impact of the pandemic on the state’s economy, California remains a global laboratory for bold ideas and a proving ground for emerging technologies and social trends.

Promoting a post-COVID economic recovery will require improving workforce and housing development, revitalizing the business climate, and enhancing infrastructure resilience. Now is the time to build smart while harnessing innovation in policy and technology to boost California’s economic landscape. A state economic development strategy based on regional competitiveness must be responsive to the needs of rural, suburban, and metropolitan economies. In devising a roadmap toward shaping a more equitable future in California, leaders will need to structure remedies that promote inclusive growth.

During the three sessions convened at the 2021 California Policy Forum on August 18, leaders from various backgrounds were asked to address key challenges related to the main session themes: augmenting workforce development and the future of work, accelerating housing development, and enhancing California’s business climate.

Above is a summary of these challenges, roundtable conversations, and recommended actions from each session.