"As we step into Spring, I am excited to share the incredible momentum we have built and the promising opportunities ahead for San Joaquin County. This year, we are expanding our commitment to economic growth, workforce development, and community support through a series of new programs funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)..." Read More
Unemployment Insurance and Labor Market Review Snapshot
San Joaquin County (SJC) unemployment rate is up to 6.8%, which is higher than both the State of CA at 5.3%, and the USA at 4.2%.
Non-farm payroll employment increased by 228,000 in March, higher than the average monthly gain of 158,000 over the past 12 months. In March, job gains occurred in health care, transportation and warehousing, and social assistance.
Empowering Businesses with the San Joaquin County Revolving Loan Fund Program
"Opportunities don't happen. You create them."
Success in business isn’t just about waiting for the right moment—it’s about creating it. That’s exactly what Genesis Soto and Jesse Hernandez did with Michelada Mix El Cejas... Read More
New Programs
San Joaquin County Façade Enhancement Grant Program
The Façade Enhancement Grant program provides up to $25,000 to qualifying small businesses in unincorporated SJC. Those who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and are looking to improve their commercial properties’ neglected appearance can apply.
The Local Investment for Financial Thrive (LIFT) Initiative is providing Spark Relief grants up to $5,000 as reimbursement for qualifying utility grants to small businesses who suffered financial loss due to COVID-19. Apply Today!
For questions email: sparkgrant@sjcworknet.org
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Youth Entrepreneurship Incubator Program
SBDC has partnered with Open Innovation Centers to implement the Incubator program that will provide workshops, professional development, and pitch events for young entrepreneurs in San Joaquin County who want to start a business or work for themselves. Learn More!
Childcare Workforce Development
This initiative with the Family Resource & Referral Center of San Joaquin aims to provide high-quality childcare for San Joaquin County residents. It is a series of programs that will increase Family Child Care Homes, expand the capacity of existing home-based providers, offer training to support infants, toddlers, and special needs children, and provide Family, Friends, and Neighbors who have offered informal childcare with the proper training and certifications needed to become licensed family childcare home providers. If interested, please reach out to childcare@frcsj.org.
Healthcare Workforce Development
This program focuses on supporting efforts to rebuild and strengthen San Joaquin County’s healthcare workforce. Partnering with HealthForce Partners, the initiative will focus on providing up to $2,500 per year for 35 local students pursuing careers in high-demand healthcare fields, offering educational seminars to existing healthcare workers focused on stroke awareness and response, and having students participate in hands-on learning experiences for stroke care.
From Student to RN: A WorkNet Success Story
Carlos, a Stockton resident, embarked on his journey toward a career in nursing with determination and the support of WorkNet. As a recent high school graduate referred by the Healthcare Academy High School, Carlos had no prior employment experience or personal income. His goal was clear—to pursue a stable and well-paying career in nursing... Read More
Highlights from Recent Events
January 2025 Job Fair
On January 23rd, we were thrilled to see a fantastic turnout, with 25 employers and 441 job seekers in attendance, making this event a great success!
Amazon Job Fair
On February 6th, we hosted an incredible turnout with over 900 job seekers eager to fill more than 1,600 available positions.
Transportation Summit
We had the opportunity to participate in their panel, where we shared valuable information about our Revolving Loan Fund and its impact on the community.
Advanced Manufacturing Employer Roundtable
On March 12th, we hosted an employer roundtable, kicking off important conversations to address the needs and priorities within the advanced manufacturing industry.
Youth Job Fair
On March 20th, we saw a fantastic turnout with 25 amazing employers and resource partners and 206 participants, making the event a huge success!
Re-Entry Job Fair
On March 27th, we partnered with San Joaquin County Probation and had a great turnout of about 210 participants and five amazing employers!
San Joaquin Delta College Job & Internship Fair
On April 17th we had the opportunity to connect with students and community members. With over 60 partners in attendance, we were proud to table at the event and engage with individuals passionate about launching their careers!
Manteca WorkNet Job Fair at METC
April 24th was a huge success, bringing together 18 incredible employers and resource partners with 171 job seekers for a day full of opportunity and connection! Thank you to everyone who participated!
Employment & Economic Development Updates
San Joaquin County Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) Approved by USEDA!
This milestone reflects our collective efforts to drive economic growth, enhance workforce development, and support business expansion across the region. With this approval, San Joaquin County is well-positioned to pursue new funding opportunities and implement strategic initiatives that will create a stronger, more resilient economy. View the Document
San Joaquin County WorkNet Was Awarded the National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) Grant!
This grant allows us to provide employment and training services to migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families, supporting long-term career growth and economic stability. Through NFJP, we’re offering on-the-job training opportunities and supportive services like transportation assistance, childcare, and access to work-related tools and equipment.
We’re proud to expand our efforts to help participants build sustainable career pathways across a variety of industries! If interested, give our office a call at (209) 468-3660.
What is Ava Community Energy and What Are the Benefits?
In 2022 and 2023 (respectively) the Stockton and Lathrop City Councils voted to join Ava Community Energy (Ava), a local not-for-profit electricity provider, to give our community a choice of electricity sources. As a not-for-profit, Since 2018, Ava has helped its 1.7 million customers save over $145 million.
On April 1, 2025, Ava became the default electricity provider for residents and businesses in Stockton and Lathrop. There are two parts to electricity service: generation and delivery. PG&E used to provide both, and now Ava provides the generation.
With Ava service you save 5% on electricity generation compared to PG&E rates, and will get clean energy and access to local energy programs. You now have a choice of energy providers, and can choose to return to PG&E service at any time.
We’re excited to announce that two of our locations have moved! Our commitment to supporting the community and surrounding areas with valuable services and resources remains stronger than ever. Visit our new locations today!
San Joaquin County WorkNet Invites You to the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the New Tracy, CA Location!
In partnership with the Tracy Chamber of Commerce, SJC WorkNet is proud to host a Grand Opening celebration for our new location in Tracy! We're excited to expand our presence closer to downtown and better serve the Tracy community with workforce development services, job training, and employment support. Join us on May 27, 2025 for an Open House beginning at 3:00 PM, with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 3:30 PM. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and building stronger connections in the community. For more information, please contact info@tracychamber.org.
The San Joaquin County Economic Development Association is now on Instagram and LinkedIn!
Follow us on Instagram at @sjc_edaand connect with us on LinkedIn for an inside look at all things economic development in our community. From the latest updates on business growth and job opportunities to upcoming events, training programs, and success stories—we’ve got you covered. Stay connected and informed on all the exciting things happening in our community!
In partnership with Stockton Small Business Week, San Joaquin County WorkNet and Economic Development Association are hosting a webinar to highlight the valuable resources and support services we offer to help small businesses grow and succeed. Register Here!
In partnership with Stockton Small Business Week and SBDC, the San Joaquin County Economic Development Association will be joining a panel discussion to share insights on the San Joaquin County Revolving Loan Fund.
This WIOA Title I-financially assisted program or activity is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
San Joaquin County WorkNet, 6221 West Ln, Suite 105, Stockton, CA 95215, United States, 209-468-3660
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