Economic Opportunity
Creating pathways to good jobs, living wages, and shared prosperity across Orange County.
OCCF’s Economic Opportunity initiative supports workforce development, small business growth, and career pathways that lead to living wages and long-term economic stability.
Why it Matters
A strong local economy depends on access to skills training, career mobility, and entrepreneurial opportunity.
Impact Snapshot
Investing in job training partnerships, community colleges, and emerging workforce initiatives.
Work in Action
Since 2019, $3.1M has been awarded through The Future is Working initiative, connecting students to middle-skills jobs in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and IT. Programs funded include:
- Hornet Drones Apprenticeship Program (Fullerton College) – Launched a national-model Drone-Piloting apprenticeship and social enterprise employment, placing students in corporate careers.
- Bus Operator Training (Saddleback College & OCTA) – Customized not-for-credit Coach Operator training to develop a skilled talent pipeline for transportation careers.
Vision 2030 is OCCF’s five-year strategic plan to turn generosity into lasting impact—amplifying giving and strengthening communities across Orange County and beyond. Supporting the local communities we hold dear is a key pillar of our Vision 2030 plan. A promising future for Orange County depends on knowing what our unique communities need and delivering solutions to the real challenges they face. Over the next five years, OCCF is committing to six core initiatives that reflect our shared commitment to Orange County’s thriving future; Educational Opportunity, Educational Access, Women’s Health, Environmental Stewardship, Community Power Building, and Youth Mental Health.The Power of Community Series as Seen on PBS!
Watch Earn and Learn: Tomorrow’s Innovation Economy where we explore the critical role of workforce development in building bridges of economic opportunity in Orange County and beyond.
Helpful Resource:
2026 OC Economic Opportunity Report
The 2026 Orange County Economic Opportunity Report provides a detailed data analysis and workforce investment strategy to build a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous Orange County economy and workforce.
Spotlight Issue:
Workforce Readiness
Middle-skill job opportunities requiring less than a four-year degree have increased by 25% in OC since 2003.
Orange County needs career pathways, credentials, and learning experiences to connect youth to living-wage jobs so we can retain the future workforce and bolster future generations’ economic well being.
Get Involved:
Economic Opportunity
Since 2019, OCCF’s The Future is Working Initiative has granted nearly $2.8 million through 26 grants supporting 15 collaborative workforce projects, engaging nearly 2,000 participants and contributing to an estimated 350 job placements.
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