Sacramento, CA, January 24, 2026
The newly established CalCEO Council is on a mission to fortify California’s economy by bringing together influential business leaders to develop actionable public policies. This initiative highlights the potential collaboration between the private sector and government at a time when innovation and economic resilience are crucial. By addressing issues like affordability, infrastructure, and community development, the council seeks to support small businesses and stimulate regional economic growth through data-driven policymaking.
New CalCEO Council Aims to Strengthen California’s Economy
Sacramento, CA – A Fresh Initiative for Economic Growth
The newly established CalCEO Council, created by the California Foundation for Commerce & Education, has emerged with a clear mission: to fortify California’s economy. By assembling an advisory group of influential business leaders across various sectors, the council seeks to develop and implement actionable public policy proposals aimed at enhancing the state’s economic vitality.
In a time when innovation and economic resilience are paramount, this initiative highlights the potential of collaboration between the private sector and government. It comes at a critical moment for California’s economy, as local entrepreneurs continue to show determination and creativity even amid challenges. The council’s efforts could help streamline policies that foster a supportive environment for small businesses and entrepreneurs, potentially driving economic growth in the region.
Council’s Mission and Structure
The CalCEO Council is committed to crafting pragmatic public policy that addresses pressing economic issues while promoting growth. The composition of the council includes CEOs from a diverse range of industries, including technology, healthcare, and energy, reinforcing its broad perspective on California’s economic landscape. The inaugural meeting in San Francisco underscores the council’s dedication to fostering collaboration and sharing insights among business leaders and policymakers.
Executive Committee Leadership
The council is led by an Executive Committee comprising four notable figures in the business realm:
- Patti Poppe, CEO of PG&E Corporation
- Richard Dickson, CEO of Gap, Inc.
- Evan Spiegel, Co-Founder & CEO of Snap Inc.
- Jed York, CEO of San Francisco 49ers
With their combined expertise, this leadership team is well-equipped to address California’s multifaceted economic challenges and identify opportunities for progressive policy initiatives.
Council’s Objectives
The objectives outlined by the council are crucial for enhancing California’s economic landscape. The council aims to:
- Enhance affordability for Californians
- Strengthen the state’s infrastructure
- Support community development
By utilizing a proprietary “dashboard” to monitor economic indicators and fostering data-driven discussions, the council intends to provide evidence-based insights that can lead to effective policymaking. Quarterly meetings will ensure ongoing engagement and responsive strategies to the ever-evolving economic environment.
Background on the California Foundation for Commerce & Education
The California Foundation for Commerce & Education serves as a nonpartisan, nonprofit research organization closely affiliated with the California Chamber of Commerce. This organization is dedicated to producing objective research that informs critical policy decisions while promoting economic advancement throughout the state.
Recent Economic Developments in California
California maintains its position as a global economic powerhouse, being ranked as the fifth-largest economy worldwide. With a nominal GDP nearing $3.9 trillion in 2023, the state’s diverse sectors—including technology, entertainment, and agriculture—illustrate its robust economic growth. The ongoing initiatives by the CalCEO Council align well with California’s economic trajectory, promising to bolster this growth even further.
Conclusion
The launch of the CalCEO Council marks a strategic move toward harnessing the collective expertise of California’s business leaders to confront the state’s economic challenges. By fostering collaboration and developing innovative policies, the council aims to enhance California’s economic prosperity, ensuring sustained growth for all residents. As this initiative progresses, supporting local businesses and engaging in community dialogue will be critical for San Diego and beyond.
FAQ
What is the CalCEO Council?
The CalCEO Council is an advisory group established by the California Foundation for Commerce & Education, comprising CEOs from various sectors, dedicated to developing public policy proposals to strengthen California’s economy.
Who are the members of the Executive Committee?
The Executive Committee includes Patti Poppe (CEO of PG&E Corporation), Richard Dickson (CEO of Gap, Inc.), Evan Spiegel (Co-Founder & CEO of Snap Inc.), and Jed York (CEO of San Francisco 49ers).
What are the council’s main objectives?
The council aims to enhance affordability for Californians, strengthen the state’s infrastructure, and support community development through data-driven policy recommendations.
How often does the council meet?
The council meets quarterly to discuss and develop strategies for economic growth and policy innovation in California.
What is the role of the California Foundation for Commerce & Education?
The California Foundation for Commerce & Education is a nonpartisan, nonprofit research organization affiliated with the California Chamber of Commerce, focusing on providing objective research to inform policy decisions and promote economic progress in the state.
Key Features of the CalCEO Council
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Formation Date | January 23, 2026 |
| Purpose | Develop public policy proposals to strengthen California’s economy |
| Executive Committee Members | Patti Poppe, Richard Dickson, Evan Spiegel, Jed York |
| Meeting Frequency | Quarterly |
| Affiliated Organization | California Foundation for Commerce & Education |
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