#United States #Sacramento #Employment #CA RISE #Economic Inclusion

California's CA RISE Initiative: A Step Toward Economic Inclusion

This December, the California Regional Initiative for Social Enterprise (CA RISE) took a significant leap forward by distributing its second round of funding aimed at boosting economic inclusion throughout the state. This notable initiative represents the first comprehensive statewide investment in employment social enterprises (ESEs) in the United States, a concept that integrates social responsibility with economic opportunity.

Based in 16 diverse counties across California, 61 employment social enterprises received a share of these funds, empowering them to expand their operations and create more job opportunities. These organizations focus on providing employment to individuals facing hurdles to securing jobs, such as homelessness and previous encounters with the criminal justice system. In fact, nearly half of the employees supported by these enterprises are individuals who have been involved with the justice system, while a significant 24% are dealing with housing instability.

The initiative received a pivotal $25 million investment, greenlit by Governor Gavin Newsom as part of California’s budget for 2022-2023. The funding, administered through the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), is being executed in partnership with nonprofit organizations like REDF and minority-led financing entity Lendistry, which serve as the program’s financial agent.

In addition to financial support, the CA RISE initiative equips each participating enterprise with critical capacity-building resources and access to a collaborative network of peers. The program focuses on enhancing the growth and scalability of these enterprises, assisting them in raising capital, optimizing fundraising strategies, and successfully navigating various public funding avenues. As Greg Ericksen, REDF’s director of government partnerships and policy, expressed, “Employment social enterprises do more than create jobs; they serve as pathways to empowerment, providing opportunities that transform lives, strengthen communities, and drive lasting change.”

A recent celebration marked this funding milestone, where check presentations occurred with 28 ESE grantees statewide. Attendees included local legislators, leaders from CalOSBA, former participants of ESEs, and representatives from the enterprises themselves. Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles), who was present at a presentation for Los Angeles-based ESE grantee PVJobs, emphasized the transformative impact these organizations have on vulnerable communities. “It’s uplifting to know that these employment social enterprises are doing the real work of empowering our community members each and every day,” she stated. She highlighted how these programs are vital in not only providing job training but also fostering a more resilient local economy.

As the CA RISE initiatives continue to roll out funding and support, the potential for community transformation remains substantial. By bridging the gap for individuals who often find themselves sidelined in the job market, such programs not only aid in personal economic stabilization but also contribute meaningfully to local economies and society as a whole. It’s clear from the perspectives of local leaders and the data emerging from these initiatives that the CA RISE program is a groundbreaking effort in California, setting the tone for a more inclusive economic future.

In summary, CA RISE stands as a testament to California's commitment to social responsibility and economic inclusion, providing pathways not only for employment but for a renewed sense of dignity and empowerment within underserved communities.

For more details on the CA RISE grantees, their locations, and the funding amounts received, please check the official announcements.