ECONOMIC RESILIENCE IN THE EASTERN SIERRA
The Eastern Sierra Council of Governments (ESCOG) is advancing a regional approach to economic resilience that strengthens local industries, supports workforce opportunity, and builds long-term prosperity across Inyo and Mono Counties. Through the State of California’s California Jobs First initiative (formerly California Economic Resiliency Fund) and in partnership with the Sierra Business Council, the Eastern Sierra region developed a collaborative framework for inclusive, sustainable economic development. That planning phase laid the groundwork for a focused implementation strategy tailored to the unique geography, industries, and communities of the Eastern Sierra. As the Eastern Sierra regional convener, ESCOG works with local governments, Tribal partners, nonprofits, industry leaders, workforce organizations, and educational institutions to align investments with the Eastern Sierra’s long-term economic priorities.
SIERRA JOBS FIRST INITIATIVE
The Eastern Sierra Council of Governments (ESCOG) is a regional partner in the Sierra Jobs First initiative, supporting the Sierra Business Council in its role as the region’s designated convener by coordinating local governments and regional stakeholders to advance inclusive economic development priorities. California Jobs First is the State’s place-based economic development initiative designed to support sustainable, equitable regional economies through locally driven planning and investment.
CURRENT CATALYST PROJECTS
EASTERN SIERRA
BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER
The Business Resource Center Catalyst Project is designed to expand and formalize technical assistance for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and emerging industries. This initiative will improve access to capital readiness support, business advising, and workforce training, supporting small business retention and expansion across the region.
EASTERN SIERRA
COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVE
The Collaborative Initiative strengthens regional coordination across jurisdictions and industry sectors. This effort builds shared governance structures, improves communication, and aligns funding strategies to ensure that economic development investments are coordinated, data-informed, and regionally supported.
CHIPMUNK CANYON
EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS
This project will establish a comprehensive baseline analysis of infrastructure, environmental conditions, economic potential, and development constraints within the Chipmunk Canyon area. The analysis will clarify feasible pathways for responsible economic activity and infrastructure investment while protecting natural resources and community values.
EASTERN SIERRA
AGRICULTURAL ACTIVATION STUDY
The Eastern Sierra Agriculture Activation Plan will provide local government, agricultural producers and project partners with actionable, regionally informed strategies and resources. Our goal is to address challenges facing farmers and ranchers, enhance economic opportunities, support environmental stewardship, strengthen local food systems, and raise community resilience.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
Interested in partnering, participating, or learning more?
Contact ESCOG to engage in ongoing regional economic resilience efforts.