East Bay EDA is pleased to share our Resilient East Bay newsletter for Bay Area manufacturers. Explore the latest manufacturing news from the East Bay, including upcoming events and resources available throughout the region. Please contact us at mfg@eastbayeda.org if you have a resource you would like to share.
News & Announcements
Bay Area Manufacturing Conference Recap
On August 27, Bay Area manufacturers and leaders in economic and workforce development, education, and labor convened at San Leandro’s Zero Net Energy Center for the 2026 Bay Area Manufacturing Conference. More than 230 attendees joined this high-energy and forward-looking event showcasing the innovation, talent, and partnerships driving the region’s manufacturing future. The diverse lineup of speakers from the public and private sectors, alongside leaders from manufacturing subsectors and support organizations, underscored the essential role manufacturers play in driving a dynamic, resilient, and inclusive Bay Area economy. Read the recap on the blog.
Get Ready for Manufacturing Month in October!
Manufacturing Month is coming up in October! Manufacturers and education/workforce organizations can participate by opening their doors to students, job seekers, educators, and community members to see what modern manufacturing looks like and learn about the careers behind the products we use every day. For employers, Manufacturing Month is an opportunity to build relationships with schools, workforce organizations, and community partners that can become valuable sources of future talent. Learn more about how you can get help setting up a tour.
Save the Date for the 2nd Annual Golden State Manufacturing Forum on October 13
The second annual California Creates: Golden State Manufacturing Forum, presented by the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority (CAEATFA), will bring together manufacturers, state and local leaders, financing experts, and industry innovators to explore the resources and partnerships available to support growth. The forum will take place on October 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Aggie Square in Sacramento. More information here.
Resources
California Resources
Employer Workshop on September 28: Worker Training Funds for Bay Area Manufacturers
Did you know Bay Area Manufacturers can receive dedicated state funding to train their workers? In this workshop hosted by EASTBAYWorks, employers will learn about California Employment Training Panel (ETP) programs, which offer flexible, employer-driven training funds for both current and new workers. In the last 40 years, ETP has invested over $2 billion to strengthen California’s workforce, supported approximately 100,000 businesses, and provided training for about 1.6 million workers. Register here for the virtual session on September 28 (4-5 pm).
State of California Launches “Made in California” Labeling Program
The State of California launched a new campaign to help consumers identify California-made products. The “Made in California” labeling and marketing program empowers California manufacturers to capitalize on the state’s global reputation for quality. The program, led by the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), is open to eligible manufacturers operating in California whose products are substantially made within the state — from legacy makers and family-owned businesses to high-growth innovators and advanced manufacturing firms. Read the press release.
Applications Now Open for STEP Export Voucher Program
The Export Voucher empowers eligible small businesses to expand into international markets by reimbursing up to 75% of pre-approved export promotion expenses, capped at $10,000 per federal fiscal year. Learn more.
Quantum FAST Challenge
The Quantum FAST (Funding for Accelerated Scale and Transformation) Challenge is a competitive grant opportunity that funds projects to support the growth of California’s quantum industry and strengthen its talent pipeline. The Quantum FAST Challenge will be administered through a partnership between the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), the state’s economic development office, and the California Education Learning Lab. Learn more.
Regional
Funding for Zero Emission Trucks
The Bay Area Air District announced the opening of the Zero Emission Truck Voucher Incentive Program (VIP) for small fleets to replace their heavy-duty trucks with new zero-emission trucks. More than $20 million is now available on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding is available for up to $240,000 for light- and medium-heavy duty trucks and up to $520,000 for heavy-heavy duty trucks based on the engine model year, past usage and the current odometer of the vehicle being replaced.
Upcoming Events
September 10 – AMBayArea Fall Forum (San Jose)
September 10 – Startup World Cup East Bay Regional (Hayward)
September 26 – Richmond Ports Day (Richmond)
September 26 – Sustainable Richmond Expo (Richmond)
October 2 – Roof and Realm Tour (Pittsburg) East Bay EDA Members only
October 8 – Celebrate MFG – San José (San Jose)
October 13 – Golden State Manufacturing Forum (Sacramento)
October 16 – Port of Oakland Harbor Tour with East Bay EDA (Oakland)
October 28 – CMTA Coolest Thing Made in California (Sacramento)