Solano Economic Update: February Update 26

CHRIS RICO

President & CEO

Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of the EDC,

As I mentioned last month, because of this renewed interest in shipbuilding that was born out of years of leadership by Congressman John Garamendi, in addition to California Forever’s pursuit of building ships in Collinsville, the state reached out to the Solano EDC to spearhead an application for California Jobs First implementation dollars. In partnership with Cal Poly Maritime, The Working Waterfront Coalition, the East Bay EDA, the Workforce Development Board, The Solano Community College District, WETA, California Forever, and the Bay Area Council, we are pursuing a significant investment to build out this ecosystem, and train folks into thousands of high paying union jobs. A few weeks ago, we submitted what we hope will be a winning proposal to the GoBiz Team. This major regional initiative has the potential to transform Solano County’s economic future and reestablish the Bay Area as a national leader in maritime manufacturing.

One of the three projects proposed will be housed at the Solano EDC. We submitted a $2.5 million proposal to the State of California under the Jobs First Regional Investment Initiative to establish the Bay Area Maritime Industrial Base Ecosystem Backbone Organization. This initiative would create a permanent regional coordination platform to align workforce development, infrastructure investment, supply-chain growth, and federal funding strategies across Solano, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties.

Our region possesses extraordinary maritime assets from Mare Island’s historic graving docks and deep-water access to world-class shipyards, advanced manufacturers, and workforce training institutions. Yet these assets have long operated independently. This proposal is designed to unify them into a single, highperforming ecosystem capable of competing for billions in federal investment now being deployed to modernize domestic shipbuilding, strengthen national security, and accelerate clean maritime technology.

If funded, this initiative will significantly increase our region’s ability to secure federal grants, accelerate job creation, strengthen workforce pipelines, and expand economic opportunity—particularly in communities that have historically been left behind. Conservative projections show the potential to generate $85–140 million in regional economic impact over five years while creating hundreds of familysustaining jobs.

This proposal reflects the strength of regional collaboration. We are proud to partner with Cal Poly Maritime Academy, East Bay Economic Development Alliance, Bay Area Council, California Forever, regional workforce boards, community colleges, labor organizations, and more than 200 maritime businesses to deliver a unified strategy for growth.

We will keep our members informed as this application moves forward. Thank you for your continued support and leadership as we work together to build a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for Solano County and the greater Bay Area.

Wishing you all good health and continued prosperity. Happy Black history month and enjoy the Superbowl.

Chris Rico President/CEO

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Solano College Biotech Program Celebrates

30 Years of Innovation

Solano College’s Industrial Biotechnology program marks its 30th year, preparing students for high-paying careers in biomanufacturing. Launched in response to Genentech’s local expansion, the program remains a national leader, offering degrees and certificates, including the first U.S. Cell and Gene Therapy certificate. Graduates enjoy near 100% job placement.

Solano County Ag Secures $103K to Protect Crops

Solano County Ag Secures

$103K to Protect Crops

Solano County Ag Department received $103,345 in gas tax funds to support its High Risk Pest Exclusion Program. These inspections

—focused on incoming parcels and nursery stock—target invasive pests that threaten local agriculture. The funding enhances Solano’s agricultural defense system, supporting crop health, economic stability, and environmental protection.

S

uisun Fire District Secures Over

Suisun Fire District Secures Over

$346K in Safety Equipment

Grants

$346K in Safety Equipment Grants

The Suisun Fire Protection District has been awarded over $346,000 in grants to upgrade firefighter safety gear. A $321K FEMA grant will fund self-contained breathing apparatuses, aligning with regional standards, while a $25K California Fire Foundation grant provides wildland protection gear—enhancing safety, readiness, and collaboration across Solano’s rural fire districts.

Yocha Dehe Funds Fire Safety Upgrade in Suisun City Yocha Dehe Funds Fire Safety Upgrade in Suisun City

Suisun City received a $209,712 grant from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation to upgrade its fire station alerting system. The modern technology will enhance emergency response times, reduce stress for firefighters, and improve overall safety. The investment supports the city’s commitment to public safety and firefighter wellness.

CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS

MIKE SILVA MIKE SILVA

C I T Y O F

V A C A V I L L E

C I T Y O F V A C A V I L L E

VICE MAYOR VICE MAYOR

Vacaville Councilman Mike Silva has been elected vice mayor in a 4-3 vote. As a senior council member, Silva was praised for his dedication to residents and community impact. The one-year role rotates annually. Silva accepted the position, reaffirming his commitment to serving the city he grew up in.

Vacaville Unifies Economic & Community Development Under New Leadership Vacaville Unifies Economic & Community Development Under New Leadership

Vacaville has merged its Economic and Community Development departments to form the Community & Economic Development Department, led by Erin Morris. The move enhances service delivery and aligns planning with economic goals. With new leadership and a renewed focus, the city aims to drive smart growth and business success into 2026. Vacaville has merged its Economic and Community Development departments to form the Community & Economic Development Department, led by Erin Morris. The move enhances service delivery and aligns planning with economic goals. With new leadership and a renewed focus, the city aims to drive smart growth and business success into 2026.

Business of the Year for Community Leadership and Growth Winters’ Am amed 2025 Business of the Year for Community Leadership and Growth

Winters’ Am amed 2025

Ample Electric was named the 2025 Business of the Year by the Winters Chamber of Commerce for its commitment to community, youth development, and local hiring. From humble beginnings to 120 employees, the company continues to support Winters through charity, education partnerships, and civic pride—while expanding safely across Northern California.

NorthBay

Health

Expands Access

with New Urgent Care Clinic in Rio Vista

NorthBay Health Expands Access with New Urgent Care Clinic in Rio Vista

NorthBay Health has opened a new Urgent Care and Primary Care clinic in Rio Vista, enhancing local healthcare access as part of its $250 million ambulatory expansion. The clinic, supported by California Forever and approved by the Solano County Board of Supervisors, offers same-day care to reduce strain on ER services.

Vallejo Nears

Completion of Smart Water Meter Upgrades

Vallejo has completed 98% of a 38,000meter upgrade, modernizing its water system with smart meters that send usage data every 15 minutes. The EyeOnWater app lets residents track real-time usage and detect leaks, promoting water conservation. The project is funded by a 2021 revenue bond and a federal grant.

S

olano EDC and Maritime Academy Launch Bold Maritime Industry Plan

Solano EDC and Maritime Academy Launch Bold Maritime Industry Plan

Solano EDC and Cal Poly Maritime Academy are pursuing $8.5 million in state grants to boost shipbuilding and maritime innovation across Solano, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties. Their threepart initiative includes a new maritime innovation campus, advanced workforce training, and regional coordination to modernize shipyards and grow high-paying maritime careers.

TO COURT? NEED HELP GETTING

Free & Subsidized Rides Available for Eligible Solano Residents

JURORS

COLLABORATIVE COURT PARTICIPANTS

If getting to court is a barrier — Solano Mobility here to help make justice more accessible for all.

Come hear about Benicia's next chapter at the State of the City event on Tuesday, February 10 at 6:00 p.m. at the Benicia Community Center.

The Solano-Napa SBDC has a team of over 30 expert advisors here to guide you every step of the way, from idea to grand opening. Learn more and get connected with a business advisor today.

Want to grow a profitable small business? It all starts with knowing your numbers! From cash flow and budgeting to credit and financial strategy, Solano-Napa SBDC advisors are here to help - at no cost to you!

A free 7-part Ecommerce Accelerator Series is available for Solano County residents through the NorCal SBDC. From startup essentials to advanced selling strategies on websites, social media, Amazon, Etsy and more—this nocost training helps entrepreneurs build, grow, and succeed in online business.