So Collaborative
: So Future
Opening Session : Addressing Challenges and Opportunities Post Covid in California
In this strategic conversation, we addressed the impact of Covid-19 on California’s economy. A key element of the discussion was the State’s ability to maintain its position as a place of innovation and economic opportunity. The pandemic has challenged the State’s ability to manage the many trends emerging – some of which could have serious impacts on California’s future economic competitiveness and quality of life if not addressed. This discussion provided a broad overview of the challenges – and opportunities – confronting the state, and set the stage for the series of conference sessions which follow.
In his opening remarks, Senate Majority Leader Hertzberg drew our attention to the context of the moment, but also suggested that we look to the past for inspiration. The narrative that California is falling off the cliff is nothing new. We must take the long view and not be deterred by short term barriers. Governor Newsom and GO-Biz Director Dee Dee Myers emphasized growth, equity, and inclusion. The recovery should be shaped by a growth mindset driven by data, science, and compassion. The panel addressed four areas of transformation accelerating in California—the digital transformation, innovation and entrepreneurship, regional economic cooperation, and investment in public goods.
Watch Governor Newsom's remarks and the full program below.
Watch Governor Gavin Newsom’s Message.
Watch the entire Opening Session
Welcoming Remarks
Darlene Chiu Bryant - Executive Director of GlobalSF
Introductory Remarks
Robert M. Hertzberg - Majority Leader of the California State Senate
Opening Remarks
Governor Gavin Newsom - Governor of California
Keynote Panel
Michael Spence - Nobel Laureate in Economics, Dean Emeritus, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University
Jonathan Woetzel - Director, McKinsey Global Institute
Paul Granillo - President & CEO, Inland Empire Economic Partnership
Moderated By
N. Bruce Pickering, Ph.D. - Senior Policy Advisor for GlobalSF
Working Group Leaders
Micah Weinberg - President and CEO, California Forward
David Kaufman - Director of Global Strategies, Nixon Peabody
We will be addressing:
What are the long term economic impacts of Covid-19? How should the State of California and local governments respond to these changes?How do we staunch the flow of marquee companies leaving California for Texas and other states – or overseas?What policies would help mitigate the greatest challenges while supporting more positive trends?How do housing and other costs affect the region’s economic competitiveness?How do we cope with rising income inequality?Given the dysfunctionality in Washington, what can California do remain competitive?Listen To Our Podcast
Micah Weinberg - CEO of California Forward
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