Real Change Starts with Collaboration
At the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP), we work at the intersection of business, government, and community—creating a space where everyone has a voice in shaping our region’s economic future. Together, we turn bold ideas into action that drives inclusive, sustainable growth across Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties.
Join MBEP and be part of a dynamic network of regional leaders and changemakers committed to building a thriving and resilient Monterey Bay region for all.
SNAPSHOT OF THE TRICOUNTY REGION OF
MONTEREY, SAN BENITO, AND SANTA CRUZ COUNTIES
3
Counties
750K+
Combined Population
18+
Incorporated Cities
$90K
Median Income
Our Mission
MBEP is dedicated to improving the economic health and quality of life across Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties. As a nonprofit founded in 2015, we serve as a regional catalyst—convening leaders from government, business, education, and community sectors to address the most pressing challenges facing our region.
We focus on what matters most: housing affordability, broadband access, inclusive economic development, and workforce opportunity. Through cross-sector collaboration and data-informed strategies, MBEP is building a more resilient region.
With a deep commitment to regional leadership and a growing network of partners, MBEP is driving lasting change for the communities we serve—today and into the future.
MBEP’s Strategic Priorities
ECONOMIC & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Driving Inclusive Economic Growth
MBEP leads regional strategies that strengthen industries, expand workforce opportunities, and attract investment. We’re building an economy that works for everyone-across all three counties.
INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Accelerating Regional Innovation
MBEP advances cutting-edge solutions that strengthen our economy-from emerging tech and digital equity to industry innovation and workforce readiness. We connect public and private leaders to unlock the region’s full potential.
BROADBAND & DIGITAL ACCESS
Expanding Access, Bridging the Digital Divide
MBEP is leading regional efforts to bring reliable, high-speed internet to every community. Through strategic partnerships and infrastructure planning, we’re closing the broadband gap and unlocking opportunity for all.
HOUSING FOR ALL
MBEP is advancing housing solutions that meet the needs of our region’s workforce and most vulnerable residents. Through policy advocacy, technical assistance, and strategic Investment, we’re unlocking new opportunities for affordable, accessible housing across the Monterey Bay region.
Meet Our Members
MBEP’s members are forward-thinking businesses, academic institutions, nonprofits, and civic leaders committed to building a stronger, more inclusive Monterey Bay region. Their support powers bold solutions in housing, broadband, workforce, and economic development.
Zach Friend
Former Santa Cruz County Supervisor
“MBEP is a name that’s known. It’s a name that’s known in Sacramento, it’s a name that’s known across the State. It brings in a lot of disparate ideas and a lot of brilliant minds…it’s a really innovative approach that follows up with a call to action.”
Mariam Alao
Director of Development, Senior Network Services
“MBEP is instrumental in ensuring that all of our voices come together and collaborate. We’re not in silos — we’re part of a community that supports one another.”
Bud Colligan
Founder & CEO South Swell Ventures; MBEP Co-Founder
“Every region needs a convener…we need the collaboration and information that is engendered by a convener…MBEP is that convener for the Monterey Bay region.”
Angela Curro
San Benito County Supervisor
Faris Sabbah
Superintendent of Schools, Santa Cruz County Office of Education
“The benefits of being part of MBEP are powerful — the relationships, the information, the events, and the resources that help organizations reach their goals while contributing to something bigger than themselves.”
Rosa Vivian Fernandez
President & CEO, San Benito Health Foundation
“MBEP connects us to the region in ways we wouldn’t experience otherwise. Our expertise is healthcare, but through MBEP we’re able to engage with leaders in hospitality, banking, and education — sectors we don’t normally intersect with. It’s been incredibly beneficial.”