In 2019, we are fundraising to support the following projects.
Business Retention Program
In this program, Santa Ana companies are surveyed in person or by phone with a business retention questionnaire. The questionnaire is designed to identify the needs and critical issues of businesses so strategies and solutions can be developed. The Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce, City of Santa Ana Economic Development Department, Rancho Santiago Community College District, Santa Ana College, Santa Ana Workforce Investment Board, and Santa Ana Unified School District are partners in this program.
GROW Economic Development Conference
The GROW (Geography, Resources, Opportunity & Workforce) Economic Development Conference is an annual event where the City of Santa Ana and business leaders give a formal presentation to developers, investors, real estate executives, business owners, and company leaders on the reasons to invest or locate their businesses in Santa Ana. A resource fair is also included in the conference.
Visitor and Tourism Initiatives
In 2019 we plan to fund two projects designed to attract people to do things, eat, and stay in Santa Ana.
- Taste of Santa Ana
This is an economic development event for the food and beverage industry in Santa Ana. Its goal is to create awareness of and attract customers to great food and beverage establishments in Santa Ana. The Taste of Santa Ana is a major event for the City. The goal for the event is 2,500 attendees and 65 food establishments, breweries, wineries and distilleries. Entertainment will include 2 live bands and a fun zone for kids. Special recognition and discounts are being given to veterans at the event.
- NFA Speech & Debate Competition
In 2018, Santa Ana was chosen to host the National Forensic Association’s annual speech & debate competition in 2019. Over 1,000 competitors from around the country and some coaches and family will be staying in local hotels and eating at local restaurants during the event.
Community Image Events
In 2019, we plan to fund two community image events.
- Difference Makers
At this annual event, business people in various categories are recognized for their accomplishments in doing good for the community. This not only thanks those being honored but inspires others to get involved in the future. Also at the event, one deserving student from each of 13 Santa Ana high schools and one from Santa Ana College are awarded a scholarship.
- State of the City
At this annual event, Santa Ana’s Mayor recaps events and accomplishments during the previous year, discusses current issues, summarizes development going on in the City, and lays out plans and priorities for the future. This assures the community that progress is being made and issues are being handled and helps the community work with the City toward common goals