AM_OrangeCounty Why_SoCal_Tech | Page 4

1 The ecosystem is already in place with established educational institutions producing top talent, and an existing base of innovative companies with deep roots in the region. 2 The region is home to a highly educated and skilled workforce supported by several universities that boast nationally ranked STEM programs, including Caltech, Cal State Long Beach, Cal State Pomona, Harvey Mudd College, Loyola Marymount, UC Irvine, UCLA, UC Riverside, UC San Diego, USC, and University San Diego. 3 Talent is more affordable here than other coastal markets, providing strong cost savings for employers. The significant number of Millennials provides a large labor pool for companies to recruit now, and in the future. 4 Investors are funneling money toward good ideas. Patent generation is second in the U.S., and VC funding remains strong. The opportunities for innovators and investors are ripe here. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5 5. To top it all off? The region boasts a high quality of life, abundant amenities, and the best weather in the world!