Building a Vibrant OC Innovation Ecosystem through Talent & Capital: We’re investing where we believe there will be the greatest impact. Through initiatives focused on talent and capital, we will close critical skill and talent gaps and attract new investment – to connect more of our residents with well-paid jobs that provide a living wage here in OC and to fuel economic growth and greater prosperity for all OC residents for years to come. Many of the largest employers in the county are facing an under-supply of local talent – especially for innovation jobs. At the same time, most OC workers don’t have in-demand skills or degrees they need. Talent is a fundamental driver for economic growth in any innovation hub. When there is a highly skilled talent pipeline, particularly in technology and STEM, it attracts companies to come to OC and build their presence in OC. This leads to a rise in innovation, social well-being, access, equality, and increased productivity – creating a thriving OC for all. OC leaders are among the first in the nation to bring public and private sector organizations together in innovative ways to re-imagine workforce development. This solves employers’ critical talent needs and creates clear pathways for local talent to tech industry jobs.