Trade, Jobs and the Economy
California-Mexico Business Trade and Investment Summit in the North State
RCRC has partnered with GO-Biz, the California Center for International Trade Development, ProMexico and others to host the California-Mexico Business Trade and Investment Summit in the North State. The summit will highlight the North State’s distinct assets which offer trade and investment opportunities for businesses in both California and Mexico. Read more
GO-Biz and Community Colleges Announce $844,000 Federal Grant for Trade and Export Initiative
On October 7, 2016, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the California Community College Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) announced that California received an $844,214 grant from the federal government to help small businesses boost trade and exports abroad. GO-Biz and the CCCCO will use the funds to help small businesses participate in activities like foreign trade missions and access foreign markets through trade promotion initiatives. Read more
Statement by Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on How Agricultural Export Surge Boosted GDP Growth
America's agriculture sector remains a shining star in our nation's ability to seize export opportunities. Economic growth has increased 2.9 percent in the third quarter of 2016, a direct result of the gains made in export sales. Exports reached 10 percent growth in the quarter, the highest since 2013, with agricultural exports contributing disproportionately to the gains. Read more
Water, Energy and Infrastructure Funding
EPA Environment Justice Report
Lead pollution and clean drinking water are two of four significant national environmental justice challenges, according to the EPA’s four-year plan for addressing the health of poor communities. The agency’s goal is that all municipal water systems deliver water that meets federal standards. Currently 26.9 million people get water from systems with at least one violation.
Federal Green Bank Legislation
In September, the Senate companion legislation to the National Green Bank Act of 2016 was introduced by Senator Richard Blumenthal (CT), Senator Chris Murphy (CT), and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (RI). A few days after introduction, the Yale Center for Business and the Environment hosted a roundtable discussion on the bill with Senators Blumenthal and Murphy. Connecticut Green Bank President and CEO, Bryan Garcia and CGC Executive Director, Jeff Schub, joined the Senators to lead the discussion. Read more