Our Impact
Igniting change at the intersection of
higher education, equity, and the economy
Since 2011, California Competes has been conducting policy research, identifying solutions, and guiding decision makers to address the most pressing issues in California’s higher education and workforce systems.
2022 Impact HIGHLIGHTS
More than
$700 million
$700 million
In funding for programs that strengthen the connection from higher education to work
Over
$2 billion
$2 billion
invested in expanding student housing
300,000
student parents
student parents
will have improved connections to basic needs resources & access to priority registration
Through our research, we enable strategic decision-making to:
ensure more students from underrepresented communities earn college credentials
- Unlocking access to financial aid for over 150,000 adults through Cal Grant equity reforms
- Advocating to provide California’s 300,000+ student parents with improved connections to basic needs resources and priority registration
- Fueling widespread adoption of credit for prior learning policies that could increase Black adult student enrollment by 50%
strengthen the connection between higher education and good jobs
- Launching 4 collective action initiatives in the last year to make transitions from college to employment seamless
- Guiding policymakers to invest over $700 million in the 2022-23 state budget to ensure California’s higher education system is responsive to local workforce and community needs
- Elevating the untapped opportunity to address workforce shortages by supporting the 6.8 million California adults who have a high school diploma but no college degree
fuel California’s economic strength, resilience, and growth.
- Playing a central role in the adoption and development of the California Cradle-to-Career Data System, which will deliver over 200 metrics on education and workforce outcomes.
- Steering policymakers to commit over $2 billion in funding to expand student housing
- Strengthening collaboration among all within the higher education ecosystem so California’s 2+ million students progress through and between systems smoothly to reach their full potential
Recognized for our expertise & influence
“California Competes has worked with decision makers across the state to identify practical ways of making California’s higher education system better serve every individual—and our state as a whole. The Leadership Council and I are excited to further this work and make California more economically competitive as well as more equitable and inclusive.”
Former Legislative Analyst for the State of California
“On many of the issues that matter most for higher education, California Competes is a thought leader. Its rigorous policy research not only benefits California students, but has an impact that stretches far beyond California’s borders.”
“Over the past 10 years, California Competes has established itself as a credible voice in Sacramento higher education policy circles. Always informed, they match insightful data analysis and policy expertise with a deep commitment to equity and authentic multi-stakeholder engagement.”
Waverley Street Foundation
“California needs civic and business leadership that could help set a direction that serves the communities and residents of the state, not just the institutions. California Competes has taken on that critically important role.”
Director of higher education excellence and senior fellow, The Century Foundation
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