Fostering Innovation, Economic Growth, and Sustainability in Northern California
Greater Sacramento is home to several incubators and innovation-based organizations. One of the newest additions is based right here in Folsom, and we’re proud to have them here.
The Northern California Innovation District (NCID) is a self-described aggregator that aims to foster innovative and economic sustainability across all sectors of the Greater Sacramento Region. Its primary focus is next-gen businesses and technologies, workforce development, and inclusive growth.
NCID brings businesses together to do more business by providing support services, educational curricula, and investment dollars.
Most importantly, NCID is about making impactful introductions. Through NCID, companies and investors can connect and build relationships. NCID opens the door by providing access to opportunities.
While innovation districts are typically defined as “geographic areas where companies gather and connect with startups, business incubators and accelerators” (Brookings), the NCID has a broader focus, one that’s regional, inclusive, and integrative.
It’s part of the next generation of innovation districts, those that leverage existing assets, connect the dots, and foster sustainable long-term growth and development.
“Innovation districts have the unique potential to spur productive, inclusive and sustainable economic development.” – Rise of Innovation Districts, Julie Wagner and Bruce Katz, Brookings Institute.
It’s fitting that NCID has chosen Granite School as its headquarters. The school, built in 1915, was incredibly innovative for its time. As a result, it's become an ideal backdrop for teaching and hosting entrepreneurs. With over 10,000 square feet dedicated to helping launch startups and scale-ups, NCID hosts companies from across the region and around the globe, some physically present and some co-locating as a base to support existing operations.
NCID provides a roster of opportunities for businesses, including:
- An ever-changing list of potential investment options via its network.
- A platform for employers and job seekers to connect for the perfect match.
- Access to various support services to assist a company’s innovation journey.
- Regularly updated regional data that includes economic, demographic, and more.
- A team of engaged founders, companies, and participants who want to expand the network of growing innovative companies.
- Regular events, investment opportunities, and professional development tools
I encourage you to follow Northern California Innovation District on LinkedIn and learn more about its impact on our region.
“True potency of districts lies in their ability to advance local and regional prosperity.”- GIID.org