Economic Development

California manufacturers have been at the forefront of global leadership and innovation. Our member companies look to continue partnering with policymakers to implement pro-growth strategies in California and support creating statewide plans that incentivize investments and employment. 

How AB 52, Manufacturing Tax Credit, Will Expand California Jobs

California manufacturing generates more than $394 billion annually and employs more than 1.3 million people with over 30,000 firms. Our manufacturers are the most significant contributor to the United States manufacturing industry, making up 11% of the manufacturing...

Press Releases

Solano Economic Development Corporation and California Manufacturers & Technology Association Announce Strategic Partnership

Solano Economic Development Corporation and California Manufacturers & Technology Association Announce Strategic Partnership

Sacramento, Calif.The Solano Economic Development Corporation and the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) announced today it is entering a strategic partnership to bridge the gap of state and local resources for advanced manufacturing companies in the region.

Acknowledging Solano County’s decisive role in advancing manufacturers to the region, CMTA aims to support the businesses making California. Solano County employs over 12,000 manufacturing employees across 270 companies in the region, according to the most recent data. As Solano’s manufacturing scene continues to grow, CMTA will also play a pivotal role in supporting Solano County’s Advanced Manufacturing Plan to ensure strong benefits and seamless processes to bring new manufacturers to the region.

“Supporting our state’s local manufacturing ecosystems are imperative to keeping manufacturing jobs in California,” said Lance Hastings, CMTA’s CEO & President. “This collaborative partnership marks a major advancement in our commitment to support Solano and the state’s economic growth.”

Solano County is known as being the Bay Area’s trade corridor for goods and services, and this directly correlates to its strong manufacturing base of advanced materials, biotechnology and biomedical, and food and beverage. Many CMTA members are located in the region, including Anheuser-Busch, Jelly Belly Candy Company, and Valero Energy Corporation.

“We are thrilled to officially finalize our partnership with the CMTA as it marks a major step forward in strengthening Solano County’s manufacturing ecosystem,” said Chris Rico, Solano EDC’s President & CEO. “This collaboration aligns with our advanced manufacturing strategy, a key recommendation from our Moving Solano Forward 3 economic study, and supports our mission to create local jobs that reduce the need for long commutes for our residents. Together with CMTA, we are excited to empower our manufacturers with the resources they need to thrive and succeed.”

In a collaborative effort, all new CMTA members within the Solano region will automatically receive a Solano EDC membership, allowing their companies to gain CMTA membership benefits and Solano EDC support.

CMTA represents over 400 businesses across the state, with benefits including but are not limited to; access to our government relations team advocating manufacturing priorities in Sacramento, money-saving programs for employee training through the Employment Training Panel (ETP), and engagement with local industry leaders through events and networking opportunities.

Solano EDC benefits include but are not limited to; confidential site location assistance to new businesses looking to locate to the region, city and county, access and guidance for permitting and economic development needs, and participation in the Solano EDC Manufacturing Task Force.

By leveraging the organization’s resources, Solano EDC and CMTA are poised to empower manufacturers across the region. CMTA and Solano EDC will be working closely to keep manufacturers informed, provide state and local resources, and provide a unified network for businesses in the region. Learn more about the partnership here.

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.

About Solano Economic Development Corporation

Solano EDC’s mission is to positively impact the economic growth of Solano County by maintaining and enhancing a competitive location for businesses to expand and locate, providing direct service to scale local traded sector industries, attracting new jobs and investment, and connecting businesses with resources to meet their needs. The EDC collaborates with the cities, county, workforce development, utilities, and education to deliver all resources. For more information, visit Solano Economic Development Corporation’s website.

CMTA’S President & CEO Releases Statement on Passage of AB 98 (J. Carrillo)

Sacramento, Calif. – California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) President and CEO, Lance Hastings, released the following statement on the passage of Assembly Bill 98 (J. Carrillo), the statewide mandate on warehouse operations.

“On Sunday evening, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 98, a bill regulating logistics and warehouse facility development, passed by the Legislature without consulting manufacturers. The provisions of AB 98 were revealed in the last few days of the legislative session, receiving very little review prior to passage.

 

Despite its aim to address environmental concerns, AB 98 imposes strict and ambiguous restrictions on facility locations, posing significant challenges to California’s 30,000 manufacturers, who often operate as temporary warehouses by moving and storing products on-site. Most business organizations opposed the bill due to its broad and detrimental impact on an already costly regulatory landscape. The rigid mandates will adversely affect industries beyond warehousing and may lead to job losses, ultimately harming the economy.

 

In their joint statement, the California Chamber of Commerce, California Retailers Association, California Restaurant Association, and California Apartment Association praised the bill as a sensible compromise. However, this perspective overlooks the reality that AB 98 imposes severe constraints that could stifle economic growth and innovation. The claim that it avoids negative impacts is misguided; the bill will instead exacerbate the challenges faced by our manufacturers.

 

The Governor has now vetoed manufacturing’s top priority (AB 52) and signed manufacturing’s biggest threat (AB 98). The California Manufacturers & Technology Association advocates for a more strategic approach to achieving the state’s environmental goals while supporting economic growth. We will propose legislation next year to minimize the impact of AB 98 on manufacturers across the state. We need leaders who backs manufacturing with more than just words—too much is at stake for California’s economy.”

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.

CMTA’s CEO & President Releases Statement on Gov. Gavin Newsom Vetoing Manufacturing Tax Credit, AB 52 (Grayson)

CMTA’s CEO & President Releases Statement on Gov. Gavin Newsom Vetoing Manufacturing Tax Credit, AB 52 (Grayson)

Sacramento, Calif. – Late Friday evening, California Governor Gavin Newsom returned AB 52 (Grayson) to the Legislature without his signature. This bill would have provided an investment tax credit for the purchase of manufacturing equipment.

In his veto message, Governor Newsom stated this bill would have a significant impact on the state general fund and should be considered in the annual budget process.

California Manufacturers & Technology Association CEO and President Lance Hastings released this statement in response to the veto:

“On behalf of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, the 30,000 manufacturers and 1.3 million workers in the sector, we are extremely disappointed in Governor Newsom for not supporting this much-needed legislation after it was passed unanimously by both houses of the Legislature. This is the second time he has vetoed a manufacturer’s investment tax credit within the last two years and over that time we have sought to work with the Administration to highlight, promote, and expand manufacturing in California. His veto sends a strong and daunting signal to the rest of the country – and world – that manufacturing is not an economic priority in California.

 

By not aligning with 38 other states that already provide similar investment credits for manufacturers, California faces the real possibility of losing our top ranking in manufacturing, which would lead us slipping from the 5th largest economy in the world and falling behind in global competitiveness. We urge the Governor and Legislature to join us in a constructive dialogue about modernizing our tax framework to recognize that manufacturing and strong support of research and development, are essential to foster a robust manufacturing sector that drives job creation and economic growth. Let’s work together to cultivate an environment where California can thrive as a leader in manufacturing – starting immediately.”

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.

How AB 52, Manufacturing Tax Credit, Will Expand California Jobs

California manufacturing generates more than $394 billion annually and employs more than 1.3 million people with over 30,000 firms. Our manufacturers are the most significant contributor to the United States manufacturing industry, making up 11% of the manufacturing jobs in the nation and accounting for 14.5% of the national manufacturing GDP.

California can strengthen its leadership in innovation and manufacturing by investing in a manufacturing tax credit.

AB 52 (Grayson) transforms the current incentive landscape, making manufacturing investment in California far more competitive and bringing us in line with 38 other states that already cover the taxes on qualified manufacturing purchases.

Let’s end the trend of “Invent Here, Build There.”

Watch more about how AB 52 will benefit California’s manufacturing workforce here.

CMTA Government Relations Update: California Assembly Bill Would Create Tax Credit for Manufacturers

This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector.
This proposed legislation, which aims to introduce a manufacturing tax credit for qualified manufacturing equipment and research and development (R&D) purchases, has recently cleared a critical hurdle, passing the Senate and Assembly Floors with unanimous support. It now moves to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for a final signature. 

California is the nation’s leading state in manufacturing, boasting over 30,000 manufacturers who collectively employ more than 1.3 million people. However, the current economic conditions have not been favorable to the state’s manufacturers, particularly small to medium-sized ones. These businesses, which make up more than 70% of California’s manufacturing landscape, have faced increasing challenges due to the state’s high tax rates at the state and local levels.  

AB 52 represents a potential game-changer for these manufacturers. If signed into law by Gov. Newsom, this bill will provide much-needed financial relief to manufacturers by offering tax credits for crucial investments in manufacturing equipment and R&D. This could significantly reduce operational costs, making it a more attractive option for businesses to remain and expand their operations within the Golden State.  

AB 52 is projected to have a broader impact on California’s economy. The bill is expected to create approximately 163,000 new manufacturing jobs and generate up to $3.5 billion in new economic activity. The potential growth will benefit the manufacturing sector and contribute to the state’s overall economic vitality.  

Moreover, AB 52 aligns with California’s environmental goals. By making it more affordable for manufacturers to invest in carbon-neutralizing products and equipment, the bill supports the state’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. AB 52 has the potential to help the state meet both its economic and environmental objectives, fostering a more sustainable industrial ecosystem.  

One of the most promising aspects of AB 52 is its potential to reverse the trend of “Invent Here, Build There,” a situation where innovations developed in California are manufactured elsewhere due to cost concerns. By reducing these financial burdens, the bill encourages manufacturers to keep their operations within the state, allowing them to excel and contribute to California’s long-standing tradition of innovation.

Do you want to get exclusive government relations insights from CMTA?  📲 Reach out to members@cmta.net.

Manufacturing Minute: Northrop Grumman’s Historic Launch of its Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission in California

Manufacturing Minute: Northrop Grumman’s Historic Launch of its Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission in California

In this week’s Manufacturing Minute, we highlight three significant developments in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Watch the latest episode in the video player above. 

 

Northrop Grumman ASBM Constellation Launch 

Photo Courtesy of Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman successfully launched Space Norway’s Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM) constellation onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. The launch happened on Sunday, August 11, 2024. 

This mission represents a historic collaboration between Space Norway and the U.S. Space Force, marking the first time an operational U.S. military payload has been hosted on an international commercial space mission. The ASBM constellation, consisting of two satellites in a highly elliptical orbit, will provide secure and reliable communications in the critical Arctic region, serving both commercial and military needs. This milestone reinforces Northrop Grumman’s leadership in satellite communications, with the ASBM being their 48th mission using GEOStar space vehicles.

 

Nikon’s California Manufacturing Center Supporting Aerospace Industries

 

Photo Courtesy of Nikon | Nikon AM Technology Center in Long Beach, California

Next, Nikon has made a notable advancement with the launch of its Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center in Long Beach, California. This 90,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to design and metal additive manufacturing services, catering to aviation, aerospace, and defense clients, as well as contract manufacturers. The center, which employs 52 staff members, also serves as the global headquarters for Nikon’s advanced manufacturing subsidiary.  

Established in April 2023, this subsidiary oversees the scaling and management of Nikon’s additive manufacturing business. Later this year, Nikon SLM Solutions AG will open the Nikon SLM Solutions Studios at the center, integrating laser powder bed fusion technology and Nikon-developed 3D printing solutions to enhance metallurgy and metrology capabilities.

 

Coolest Thing Made in California” Contest: Popular Round 

 

CoolestThingCalifornia.com | Popular Round 8/19 – 8/22

Lastly, CMTA has kicked off its second annual “Coolest Thing Made in California” contest, featuring over 135 California-made products. This competition highlights the significant role of manufacturing in California’s economy, which employs 1.3 million people and contributes $310 billion to the state’s annual GDP.  

The public voting phase, known as the “Popular Round,” will take place from Monday, August 19 to Thursday, August 22. During this period, members of the public can vote up to five times per day, per device, by visiting CoolestThingCalifornia.com. The Popular Round votes will determine the Top 16 products that will advance in the competition. Stay tuned!  

💡To learn more about CMTA’s Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, click here.

 

 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as First State for Hydrogen Energy Hub Federal Funding

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as First State for Hydrogen Energy Hub Federal Funding

This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings three exciting updates in the world of manufacturing and technology. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. 

Watch the latest episode in the video player above. 

 

California Picked as the First State to Receive Funds For a Hydrogen Hub 

 

A 2021 Toyota Prius that runs on a hydrogen fuel cell. | Photo Courtesy of David Zalubowski

California is set to become the first state to receive federal funds under a new program aimed at creating regional networks, or “hubs,” for hydrogen production. The U.S. Department of Energy announced that the California Hydrogen Hub will receive an initial $30 million for its planning and design phase, with up to $1.2 billion allocated for the project’s full implementation.  

This initiative is part of the Biden Administration’s broader agenda to combat climate change by promoting clean hydrogen as a key energy source for vehicles, manufacturing, and electricity generation. These hydrogen hubs, spanning 16 states, are expected to attract over $40 billion in private investment and create tens of thousands of well-paying jobs, contributing significantly to the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

 

Coolest Thing Made in California Contest

 

CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita, on CBS GoodDay Sacramento

Next, the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has been actively promoting its 2nd Annual “Coolest Thing Made in California” Contest, powered by JPMorganChase. CMTA has been on several TV stations, including KCRA 3, ABC10, CBS GoodDay Sacramento, and Fox 40. The contest, which opened for nominations on July 29, will close on August 8, followed by a popular vote from August 12-15.  

This exciting competition showcases the innovative spirit of California’s manufacturing sector, culminating in the announcement of the winner on October 18 at the CMTA’s MakingCA Conference. The contest aims to highlight and celebrate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of California manufacturers, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for the industry’s contributions to the state’s economy.  

💡To learn more about CMTA’s Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, click here. 

 

Developing New Aerospace Advancements in Kern County  

 

Photo Courtesy of NASA | Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center

Lastly, significant legislative progress has been made with the inclusion of an amendment proposed by California Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) in the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2024.  

This amendment authorizes the Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics (MACH) Program at NASA, which is designed to enhance scientific research and support high-speed flight technologies. The MACH Program will be developed locally at NASA Armstrong and in East Kern County, bolstering America’s leadership in aerospace innovation.  

This development also aligns with the broader goals of the NASA Reauthorization Act, which allocates $25.2 billion to support initiatives such as the Artemis Program and Moon to Mars Program, furthering human space exploration and strengthening the aerospace industry. CMTA member Stratolaunch, a key player in aerospace vehicle and technology development, will benefit from this legislative support, driving forward advancements in hypersonic research and development. 

 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

Manufacturing Minute: Boeing is Building Autonomous Undersea Vehicles for the U.S. Navy in California

Manufacturing Minute: Boeing is Building Autonomous Undersea Vehicles for the U.S. Navy in California

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights impressive developments happening in California from two of CMTA’s Board Member companies. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Watch the latest episode in the video player above. 

 

Boeing’s Orca XLUUV is leading innovation in Undersea Operations

 

Boeing Orca XLUUV | Photo Courtesy of USNI News

Boeing’s Orca XLUUV, an autonomous extra-large unmanned undersea vehicle, is being made in California near Huntington Beach. This fully autonomous vehicle is designed to meet the growing demand for undersea operational awareness and payload delivery.  

The Orca is set to transform naval capabilities. This vehicle is being made specifically to support the US Navy. The Orca can perform critical missions such as mine countermeasures, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, electronic warfare, and strike missions, all with remarkable reliability and endurance. The Orca’s modular design, boasting a payload capacity of 2,456 cubic feet, allows it to carry up to 48 small-diameter UUVs or 115 UAVs, providing unparalleled flexibility for diverse mission requirements. As an unmanned system capable of independent operation for months, the Orca represents a significant leap in naval technology, promising to enhance operational efficiency and mission success without requiring direct human intervention. 

Anheuser-Busch Invests $7 Million in Fairfield Brewery Enhancements

 

Anheuser-Busch Fairfield Brewery | Photo Courtesy of Anheuser-Busch

Anheuser-Busch has announced a significant $7 million investment in its Fairfield brewery, underscoring its commitment to quality and efficiency. The funds will be used for comprehensive facility improvements, including new roofing, equipment, lighting, and essential structural repairs. This investment aims to ensure the brewery continues to produce and distribute high-quality Anheuser-Busch beer efficiently.  

The Fairfield location, brews over 20 of the company’s brands, such as Budweiser, Bud Light, and Big Wave, employs 254 full-time staff and has been operational since 1976.  

Lance Hastings, president and CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, supports the investment, highlighting its role in strengthening California’s job market and manufacturing sector saying, “Anheuser-Busch’s latest investment in Fairfield underscores their dedication to bolstering California’s job market and manufacturing sector. Through this financial commitment for the future, they’re not only revitalizing their infrastructure, but they’re also reinforcing Fairfield’s pivotal role as a cornerstone of their business.” 

The Fairfield brewery’s enhancements will bolster Anheuser-Busch’s capabilities, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the company’s operations. 

Coolest Thing Made in California Contest Nominations Open Monday, July 29 

 

Excitement is building as the Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, powered by JPMorganChase. Starting Monday, July 29, the public can nominate their favorite products made in California. This contest celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of California’s manufacturing industry, allowing various products to compete for the title of the Coolest Thing Made in California. The contest promises to be fierce, as nominated products will go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned this year’s winner. Mark your calendars and get ready to support and showcase the incredible innovations emerging from the Golden State.  

💡To learn more about CMTA’s Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, click here. 

 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

Manufacturing Minute: Boeing Subsidiary Leads Development of Space Defense Satellites

Manufacturing Minute: Boeing Subsidiary Leads Development of Space Defense Satellites

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights groundbreaking advancements from our CMTA members, showcasing their commitment to innovation. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Watch the latest episode in the video player above. 

 

Boeing Subsidiary to Spearhead Space Defense Satellites 

Courtesy of Millennium Space Systems

CMTA Board member Boeing has announced a significant milestone with its subsidiary, Millennium Space Systems, securing a $413 million contract from the Space Development Agency (SDA). This contract will aid Millennium in the development of the Fire-control On Orbit-support-to-the-war Fighter (FOO Fighter) system, a constellation of satellites designed to provide fire-control quality sensing against emerging threats. This advanced system will deliver high-fidelity data for tracking and targeting, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of missile defense systems and reinforcing Boeing’s role in advancing national security capabilities.  

Stratolaunch’s Roc Carrier Plane’s New Flight Capabilities 

Courtesy of Stratolaunch

Another exciting development, CMTA member Stratolaunch, has successfully completed a series of flight tests for Roc, the world’s largest flying aircraft and the company’s primary air-launch platform. Conducted from mid-May to mid-June, these flights culminated in achieving a new operational altitude of 35,000 feet and a speed of Mach 0.63. These tests are crucial for optimizing future Talon-A mission operations, aiming for sustained hypersonic flight. Earlier this year, Stratolaunch completed its first successful powered flight of the Talon-A1 (TA-1) vehicle, reaching high supersonic speeds approaching Mach 5. By enhancing Roc’s operational altitude, Stratolaunch is set to achieve higher speeds and extended time on condition for Talon-A, marking a significant leap in hypersonic flight capabilities.

Takeda’s $230 Million Manufacturing Expansion 

Courtesy of Takeda

Lastly, CMTA member Takeda has announced a major expansion of its plasma-derived therapies (PDT) production capacity at its Los Angeles site. This expansion, one of Takeda’s largest single investments in manufacturing capacity, underscores the company’s dedication to better-serving patients and fostering sustainable growth within the local community. The $230 million investment will significantly increase the site’s production capacity, making it Takeda’s largest fractionation site globally. Additionally, this project will create over 125 new positions, further bolstering the local economy and demonstrating Takeda’s commitment to innovation and community development. 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media. 

CMTA Government Relations Update: A Recently Expired California Incentive Program May be Reestablished

This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector. 
The California Legislative Summer Recess is approaching on July 3, 2024. This date marks the deadline for policy committees to meet and report bills, after which the State Legislature will take a break and reconvene on August 5, 2024.  

AB 2922 (Garcia), a CMTA Maker Bill, is aimed at revitalizing the recently expired Capital Investment Incentive Program. If successful, this bill will extend the program until January 1, 2035, providing financial incentives to attract qualified manufacturers to California. AB 2922 promotes economic growth, job creation, and regional development by allowing counties and cities to offer tax benefits to manufacturers with significant capital investments. This bill has been referred to the Senate Local Government Committee and represents a substantial opportunity for the state’s manufacturing sector to continue to thrive. 

Learn more about CMTA’s bills here. 

Do you want to get exclusive government relations insights from CMTA?  📲 Reach out to members@cmta.net.
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