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LACI Report Lays Out Path to Create 600,000 Green Jobs Countywide by 2050

For Immediate Release
Contact: anthony@laci.org

Report Makes Key Recommendations Needed at Local, State Federal Level to Achieve Goal & Ensure an Equitable, Inclusive Green Economy

LOS ANGELES, CA – A new report released on Friday by the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), researched by HR&A Advisors, and funded by the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB), and the City of Los Angeles Workforce Development Board, offers an in-depth analysis of the landscape of green jobs in Los Angeles County and lays forth a course of recommended actions on workforce investment to grow an economy in Los Angeles that is greener, stronger, and more inclusive.

Of the overall 40 percent job growth estimated by HR&A for Los Angeles County by 2050, the report finds that green jobs could grow nearly 80 percent, from 338,000 to 600,000 jobs over the same time period. The study also analyzes and details the makeup of the green jobs that exist across Los Angeles County today. For example, in addition to traditionally considered green jobs like solar installers, LACI and HR&A note that there is a broader spectrum of green jobs which are critical to supporting sustainability, ranging from electricians and contractors to engineers and software developers. 

The report also provides a breakdown of four recommended actions needed for green jobs, including how green jobs can drive an equitable recovery due to the COVID-19 economic crisis:

  • Accelerate Economic Recovery: Drive economic recovery and boost green job creation through increased public investment in infrastructure, such as the Transportation Electrification Partnership’s $150 billion proposed federal stimulus package.
  • Bolster the Workforce Pipeline: Change local, state, and federal funding criteria to update and bolster existing workforce training programs to better prepare individuals with green jobs knowledge and resources for growing sectors such as EV charging, and build capacity to create more responsive and nimble workforce training for future segments of the green economy.
  • Advance Equity and Inclusion: Increase underrepresented populations in green industries through project labor agreements and community benefit agreements, and support workforce training designed for underrepresented populations through paid apprenticeships, outreach programs, grants and scholarships, and soft skill development programs.
  • Clearly Define Green Jobs and Track Metrics: Improve evaluation of green industry performance metrics, including reassessing the Bureau of Labor Statistics industry and occupational classifications, and conduct a new and California-specific Green Goods and Services (“GGS”) survey to gather information about regional and statewide industry strengths. 

“LACI and our partners came together to study the future of green jobs in Los Angeles and what’s needed to ensure we create an inclusive green economy here in Los Angeles and beyond,” said LACI CEO Matt Petersen. “We will pursue the reports recommendations with policymakers at every level of government—including with our new partners in the Biden Administration—to invest in workforce development to create opportunity in every community as we pursue racial, climate, and economic justice.”

“Addressing the climate crisis is an environmental necessity, a moral imperative, and a massive economic opportunity with the potential to unlock widespread prosperity for a generation,” said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. “LACI’s new report opens a window into what a more sustainable, equitable future might look like –– as long as we follow through on our commitments and make the right investments in building a green economy that works for everyone.”

“I’m really proud of the partnership we have with LACI and our work together. At the core of our relationship is a shared mission to create a pipeline for quality green jobs and make them accessible to communities that have been underrepresented in cleantech,” said California State Senator Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles). “ I’m looking forward to scaling up this successful model especially during this time of change and opportunity.”

“It took a pandemic to get us clean air in Boyle Heights and other communities that live with the negative impacts of pollution — that shouldn’t have to be the case,” said California State Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles). “This report shows that we can have clean air every day of the week if we move towards the green economy the team at LACI has laid out.”

The OurCounty Sustainability Plan envisions a prosperous LA County that provides opportunities for all residents and businesses and supports the transition to a green economy,” said Los Angeles County Chief Sustainability Officer Gary Gero. “Understanding the pathways to promote inclusive growth across the changing economy is important and that’s why this deep dive analysis on careers that support family sustaining wages is a big deal.  We applaud LACI on the release of this report.”

“The findings related to job quality standards and community benefits for public investments are consistent with the high road agenda that has been adopted by the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) and our regional, industry-based, worker-focused job training partnerships that bring together workers, employers, and communities to collaboratively address job quality and access in their industries, improve competitiveness in a carbon-constrained economy, and build economic, social, and environmental resilience for the state,” said CWDB Executive Director Tim Rainey. “We believe that all jobs will be impacted by climate change, and our High Road Training Partnerships use an equity, climate and jobs strategy in pursuing a just recovery from the economic impacts of the pandemic, and serve as a national model for recovery that is necessary for the state to hit the goal of an inclusive and robust carbon neutral economy by 2045.”

At a virtual event held on Friday the report was discussed with a panel that included California State Senator Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles), California State Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), and leaders in workforce development and business that are focused on expanding green job opportunities within Los Angeles. 

The clear message from the report is that public and private sector leaders must unite now to ensure that the post-COVID recovery bolsters a Southern California economy that is greener, more inclusive, and more resilient. 

Read the full report here at alaincubator.org/greenjobsreport/.

Statement from LACI CEO on President Biden’s Executive Actions on Climate

LOS ANGELES, CA — Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator CEO and President Matt Petersen released the following statement in reaction to President Biden’s announcement of executive actions to tackle the climate crisis at home and abroad, create jobs, and restore scientific integrity across the federal government.

“We applaud President Biden’s bold executive actions on climate today which make clear that our nation can and will tackle climate, economic, and racial justice together. We know that moving to zero emissions transportation and 100 percent clean energy is key to economic growth, green job creation, and climate action. Disadvantaged and frontline communities suffer the worst consequences of air pollution and the extreme heat and other climate impacts, yet also lack adequate transportation options. These important actions laid out by the White House will get us to the future our team at LACI is working to build every day.

“The order to replace the federal vehicle fleet with EVs moves the nation one step closer to a zero emissions transportation future and sends a powerful signal to the marketplace. As the former Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Los Angeles, I know the purchasing power of the government and the power of the federal government’s purse is enormous. President Biden’s executive action will help create demand for EVs and reduce the fuel and maintenance costs for government agencies. 

“We look forward to working with the Biden Administration to reduce climate and air pollution, improve public health, put Americans back to work, and restart our economy through his $2 trillion Build Back Better infrastructure stimulus plan. That’s why over 75 local governments, utilities, labor groups, cleantech startups, incubators and corporations across 16 states are supporting the Transportation Electrification Partnership’s comprehensive $150 billion federal stimulus proposal for manufacturing EVs, installing charging infrastructure, supporting zero emissions public and active transit, accelerating workforce training, and unlocking innovation from startups, including underrepresented founders.”

LACI’s Leimert Park Pilot Increasing Zero-Emissions Mobility Options In South LA




E-Bike Rentals and Electric Shuttle Service Launched With Community Input

LOS ANGELES, CA –

LACI recently launched its fourth community pilot in Leimert Park with a consortium of community partners to bring zero emissions mobility to the South LA neighborhood. The pilot is the fourth pilot launched under the Zero Emissions Mobility and Community Pilot Project Fund, which provides clean and affordable transportation solutions as well as benefits of the green economy through workforce development and job creation. The Leimert Park Pilot provides courier and commuter e-bike rentals from Zoomo and neighborhood electric vehicle shuttles from Circuit. In addition, ghost kitchen and delivery service, Chewbox, is the third participating company that will expand their service offering to include Leimert Park’s own South LA Cafe specialties to patrons across LA County. 

Funded by the California State Legislature via GoBiz to support zero emission transportation in underserved communities, LACI selected and deployed technologies after deep community engagement in the Greater Leimert Park Village Crenshaw Corridor community that included outreach to local elected officials, business owners, and grassroots organizations to assess their greatest transportation needs. 

“The issues of racial, economic, and climate justice are inextricably linked–working hand-in-hand with one of Los Angeles’ historically Black communities, it’s our goal to create an inclusive green economy,” said Matt Petersen, LACI’s President and CEO. “ Launching this fourth community pilot in Leimert Park was quite special — especially because of the extraordinary input we got from so many community leaders who we are proud to call partners.”

“For far too long, people of color and poor communities have borne disproportionate harm from air and climate pollution. I’m excited that LACI and their community partners are launching this project in Leimert Park that lacks access to zero emissions mobility solutions,” said Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Los Angeles). “I’m proud that the legislature and State is supporting this project, and hope that this community pilots program can serve as a model for other programs in underserved communities in the L.A. region.”

“I am thrilled to see this pilot in Leimert Park which continues to be a hub for creativity and innovation in South LA,” shared Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell (D-Los Angeles). “This initiative is helping to revitalize our local workforce while offering timely options for our residents to travel safely during this pandemic. The courier shuttles and electric bikes provide solo transportation that helps protect our environment and the health of our communities.”

“LACI’s partnership with South L.A. businesses is the type of work that will help our Black and Latino entrepreneurs sustain through this pandemic. The small business community continues to innovate and serve our neighborhoods during these difficult times,” said L.A. City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson (D-8). “Our city must continue to support small businesses and connecting them to new technology and transportation options is a great way to help them connect with residents.”

“It’s indisputable that the impacts of pollution are profound and that we need to move with a sense of urgency in our transition to cleaner, greener mobility solutions. I’m proud that not only are we piloting this potentially impactful initiative in Leimert Park with LACI, but that we’re doing it in a way that engages our entrepreneurs and supports our local workforce,” said L.A. City Councilmember District Mark Ridley-Thomas (D-10). “We don’t have to choose between a healthy environment and good jobs—we can and we must have both.”

Two of these local businesses, Ride On! Bike Shop and South LA Cafe, have participated in LACI’s Founders Business Accelerator, and are organizers and activists in their community. Another community partner is Ben Caldwell, artist, filmmaker, activist, and founder of KAOS Networkz. Caldwell is also a founding member of SankofaCity, a Leimert Park led initiative focused on afrofuturism designs for urban technology that include automated Neighborhood Electric Vehicles built locally. 

We Love Leimert, a local organizing group focused on creating sustainable opportunities for Leimert Park residents, was engaged to run a digital community feedback campaign on select zero emission mobility options. The Greater Leimert Park Village Crenshaw Corridor Business Improvement District (GLPVCC), Community Build Inc., Destination Crenshaw, and the Community Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) / Institute for Maximum Human Potential also helped with community outreach and project scoping. 

 The pilot program began in November and features technology from Circuit, a neighborhood electric vehicle shuttle service, offering both flag down and on-demand (via a mobile app) service within the designated pilot coverage area. Circuit was also recently accepted into LACI’s latest Market Access program. 

Chewbox, a software platform for ghost kitchens, is partnering with South LA Cafe. The South LA Cafe menu and eventually Market will be offered on the app and be delivered on set routes throughout LA County. This partnership will pilot their drink delivery service as well as be the first onboarded third-party restaurant which will test the increased revenue goals Chewbox aims to deliver. Chewbox is also a member of LACI’s latest Market Access cohort.


Zoomo
, e-bike rentals for couriers and commuters, is partnering with local Ride On! Bike Shop / Co-op to host the rental service. Ride On! Bike Shop / Co-op will not only be the location of service but also receive a revenue share. Complementary to the e-bike rentals launched for local couriers, rentals for commuters began at the end of the year. 

In addition to the technologies and services deployed in Leimert Park, this six month pilot will focus on local hiring for shuttle drivers, e-Bike mechanics, and operations staff. The pilot will run training and education workshops and seek to establish partnerships with local groceries and restaurants for food delivery to support local businesses during the pandemic and beyond. 

“We Love Leimert is proud to partner with LACI, Ride On Bike Shop, and Kaos Networkz to propel the Greater Leimert Park Village Crenshaw Corridor community into the future by providing access to clean and green transportation technology via the zero emissions mobility pilot,” said Kaya Dantzler, Co-Lead Organizer of We Love Leimert. “Our section of South Los Angeles is well known for our contributions to LA’s rich art and culture scene and we have so much to contribute to the development of our city beyond the creative industry. Given that, it’s exciting to contribute to an effort that  combats the destructive impacts of the systemic economic and environmental racism that has plagued South LA for decades and expands the green economy in our community.”

“Circuit is extremely excited to have partnered with LACI and the local community to provide an innovative and eco-friendly transportation option for a part of town that is currently underserved by public transportation, and we have seen immediate success,” said Daniel Kramer, Director of Operations and New Business at Circuit. “We look forward to building on this success and providing connections to public transportation in the area as the Leimert Park community continues to grow.”

“As the founder of ChewBox, and a native of both Watts and Silicon Valley, I am proud to leverage technology to empower hard working low income households with greater access to the gig economy. LACI was highly instrumental in helping us secure a pilot partnership with South LA Cafe, resulting in a rare symbiosis: where two black-owned companies join forces to expand their collective reach, resources, and reinvestment in the community,” said Kim Gaston, Comisar.io / Chewbox Founder. “As a result, we can offer discounts on chef made meals to families throughout LA County, and with every purchase delivered donated meals to those in need, all while providing jobs and gig work to low income families.”

Statement from the Transportation Electrification Partnership Regarding Governor Gavin Newsom’s Proposed 2021-2022 Budget

LOS ANGELES, CA – “On behalf of the Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP), we applaud and thank Governor Newsom for including $1.5 billion for infrastructure and incentives in his budget proposal to implement the state’s bold zero emission vehicle goals to create jobs, advance equity, and electrify goods movement. This is a key step toward achieving our bold regional targets by 2028, and statewide goals by 2035 and beyond. We also look forward to working with the Newsom Administration and the Legislature to advance our proposal for a California EV Authority to ensure we meet these goals while growing our economy and ensuring all communities benefit from these proposed investments.

TEP is calling for the creation of a California Electric Vehicle Authority (CEVA) to enhance the coordination and financing tools needed to accelerate the transition for vehicles and charging infrastructure while boosting equity, job creation, workforce training, and economic development. The CEVA was introduced in the last legislative session via SB633 by Senator Henry Stern.

In addition, we need to work with our federal partners to support transportation electrification here in greater Los Angeles, across California, and throughout the nation. To help put people back to work, restart our economy, and clean our air, LACI and 74 companies, business organizations and labor groups across the country have advocated for a $150 billion federal stimulus proposal to be included in infrastructure stimulus in response to the economic crisis precipitated by the COVID pandemic.”

ABOUT TEP

The Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP) is an unprecedented regional public-private collaboration to accelerate deep reductions in climate and air pollution by the time of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games by pursuing bold targets, pilots, initiatives, and policies that are equity-driven, create quality jobs, and grow the economy.

Current members include:

Leadership Group: Mayor Garcetti, CARB, County of Los Angeles, LADWP, LA Metro, Southern California Edison, LACI

Advisory Group: Audi of America, BMW Group, ENGIE Impact, Nissan of North America, PCS Energy, BYD Motors, Normal Now sponsored by Electrify America, Greenlots, Itron, Proterra, AMPLY Power, Burbank Water & Power, Clean Power Alliance, Culver City, East Bay Community Energy, Glendale Water & Power, Inglewood, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 11 / National Electrical Contractors Association Los Angeles County, Metrolink, Pasadena Water & Power, Santa Monica, Southern California Public Power Authority, Tesla

ABOUT LACI

Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is creating an inclusive green economy for the people of Los Angeles by: unlocking innovation by working with startups to accelerate the commercialization of clean technologies; transforming markets through partnerships with policymakers, innovators, and market leaders in transportation, energy and sustainable cities; and enhancing communities through workforce development, pilots, and other programs. Founded as an economic development initiative by the City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles Department of Water & Power (LADWP), LACI is recognized as one of the most innovative business incubators in the world by UBI. In the past ten years, LACI has helped 236 portfolio companies raise $508 million in funding, $272 million in revenue, and create over 2,100 jobs in the Los Angeles region. Learn more at laci.org.

LACI Announces First Year of Investments from $5 Million Early Stage Impact Investment Fund

Exactly one year ago, LACI announced the LACI Impact Fund (LIF) for early-stage cleantech startups, as part of a relaunch of its cohort-based startup program. The $5 million LIF considers investment in LACI portfolio companies that are in good standing, have an active round of investment with a lead investor, and have demonstrated strong commitment to impact. The LIF provides our startups with an opportunity to have access to capital that aligns with LACI’s social impact priorities. In 2020, LACI invested in 6 companies, with a number of companies in its pipeline for future investments.

LACI-incubated startups are eligible to apply to the LIF if they: A) have an open and active round with a specified lead; B) secure a sufficient score based on their commitment to environmental, social and economic impact. Startups selected for this year’s incubation cohort will be eligible for investments as well. The application deadline is this Friday, January 15. Startups selected for LACI’s incubation program and for the LACI Impact Fund must focus on one of LACI’s Technological Priorities: Zero Emissions Transportation, Clean Energy and Circular Economy.

“Through the LACI Impact Fund, we are delighted to invest in our startup companies that are working day in and out to create an inclusive green economy,” said Matt Petersen, Managing Director of the Fund and CEO of LACI, reflecting on the investments to date.

The launch of the LIF included investments in Seatrec and FreeWire. Subsequently, 6 companies received funding from the Impact Fund in 2020, and continue to scale their products into markets across the country and world. All LACI Impact Fund companies are listed below:

  • Ampaire
    Founders: Kevin Noertker & Cory Combs
    Company Mission: Ampaire is designing and developing high performance zero-emission aircraft to help improve efficiency and reduce aviation’s impact on climate change.
  • Envoy
    Founders: Aric Ohana & Ori Sagie
    Company Mission: Envoy is committed to providing affordable, convenient and sustainable shared mobility to communities by offering Mobility as an Amenity™ where you live, work, or stay.
  • FreeWire
    Founder: Arcady Sosinov
    Company Mission: FreeWire Technologies provides clean, quiet mobile power and fast charging that’s easy to deploy, wherever and whenever you need it.
  • Nature Coatings
    Founder: Jane Palmer
    Company Mission: Nature Coatings transforms wood waste into high performing black pigments.
  • Pick My Solar
    Founders: Max Aram & Chris Blevins
    Company Mission: Pick My Solar is the first managed marketplace for the residential solar and energy storage market.
  • Repurpose
    Founder:
    Lauren Gropper
    Company Mission: Repurpose is a line of sustainable tableware that looks out for the health of you, your family, and the planet.
  • Seatrec
    Founder: Yi Chao
    Company Mission: Seatrec designs and manufactures energy harvesting solutions that generate electricity from naturally occurring temperature differences in ocean waters.
  • Xeal
    Founders: Xander Isaacson & Nikhil Bhardwaj
    Company Mission: Xeal accelerates electric vehicle adoption by making charging stations work anywhere for anyone.

The LACI Impact Fund will continue investing in new cleantech innovation throughout 2021. To find out more about the LACI Incubation Program or the Impact Fund, please visit LACI’s Incubation Program. Applications for the 2nd Incubation Cohort program are open until January 15th, 2021. 

Circuit Provides New Rochelle’s ‘Drive’ To a Smart & Sustainable City

The City of New Rochelle is in the middle of a remarkable once-in-a-generation redevelopment of its Downtown Corridor across 12 million square feet to build thousands of new units of housing and create an environment where New Rochelle can lead on culture, community, and innovation.  But like any new building, our redevelopment is also prioritizing the amenities and quality-of-life that come along with it, including doubling down on our transportation and technology strategy that New Rochelle is integrating into the very fabric of our transformation into a smart city, a key component to encourage and promote future growth. And one of the city’s “smartest” investments to date has been its new free, on-demand, electric shuttle service Circuit New Rochelle (NR).

Accelerating a Reliable, Clean Energy Future

This past summer California experienced extreme heat due to the climate crisis, exacerbating and challenging the electric grid to maintain reliable electric service. The result of raging wildfires and prolonged heat waves combined with other grid planning factors led to power outages and rotating blackouts that had not occurred since the 2001 energy crisis.  Severe weather conditions, like the summer heat wave, create new challenges in keeping the lights on, exacerbating grid weaknesses, and disproportionately putting vulnerable communities at risk. 

In response to the climate crisis which is impacting California at a pace ahead of scientific models, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced his commitment to explore accelerating the state’s decarbonization goals, including the goal of a clean energy grid by 2045. At a press conference in fire-stricken Butte County, Newsom stated, “I think 2045 is too late” to get to a clean energy grid. 

These distressing conditions can serve as a catalyst to develop an electric system that can better withstand the consequences of climate change, while accelerating our move to clean energy as well as transportation electrification. As such, the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) supports the Governor’s commitment to accelerate the transition to a clean energy grid that was established by groundbreaking legislation in SB 100 and his recent Executive Order to accelerate the deployment of electric transportation. 

These market signals from California policy makers, along with a Biden Administration that is supportive of an ambitious and equitable clean energy revolution, call for innovation from our state’s entrepreneurs. At LACI, we are demonstrating how these clean technologies will enable this improved, resilient grid through startups, partnerships, and pilots.

Exactly one month before California experienced its first of two rotating blackouts, LACI launched a small-scale electric vehicle (EV) community car-share pilot that is illustrating resiliency on the electric grid. LACI, in partnership with community partner Pacoima Beautiful, Envoy – a LACI startup – and Nissan deployed EVs to a community center in the San Fernando Gardens housing development, while keeping the needs of the community front and center. At the core, the pilot provides affordable and accessible clean transportation options, which are critical to the low-income community that is also burdened by poor air quality and can lack access to transportation. 

To ensure resiliency, we incorporated an off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle supply equipment with battery backup that can serve as an emergency source of power for portable devices in the event of a power outage.  As the public and private sectors work together to create a clean, reliable electricity grid, we need to think creatively about how we can incorporate these types of solutions across every neighborhood.

Along with off-grid and local clean energy solutions, a modern, reliable grid will also need to solve for utility scale technologies. California has done an incredible job of accelerating the adoption of solar energy with approximately 28,000 megawatts installed since 2005. As Governor Newsom moves to accelerate solar and clean energy ahead of 2045, the fast deployment of various forms of storage is necessary. Alumina Energy, another LACI startup, provides distributed and utility energy storage solutions that turn renewables into 24-hour dispatchable resources that are cost-competitive or lower than fossil fuels. Alumina’s technology is a packed bed thermal energy storage that has a 30+ years life cycle – making it cost-effective and a long-term solution. This type of distributed and utility-scale technology becomes even more critical when we think about the diverse set of solutions we’ll need to properly respond to the disruptive and different types of extreme weather events. 


(Pictured: the launch of Pacoima Electro-Share with
Pacoima Beautiful and Envoy in the early summer of 2020)

Lastly, when we think of grid resiliency, we also need to consider the energy-transportation nexus. California is a leader when it comes to clean transportation. The state has a goal for there to be 5 million EVs on California roads by 2030 and recently, the Governor signed an executive order to phase out the sale of new gas-powered passenger cars and trucks by 2035 and a transition to 100% zero-emission heavy duty short-haul drayage trucks by 2035 and other heavy-duty vehicles by 2045. 

LACI and the Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP) are working towards a target of 30% of all passenger cars in LA County to be electric by the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As we work with our partners to advance progress towards these goals, we are supporting the discovery of new technologies that are needed to enable greater use of EVs and the efficient dispatch of energy, as needed, to support the grid. AMPLY Power and NeoCharge are two LACI startups that demonstrate this insight. AMPLY Power offers customized charging solutions to commercial fleet operators that optimize grid conditions to maximize savings. NeoCharge optimizes EV charging solutions in a manner that makes charging more cost-competitive for apartments and condos, while also supporting the needs of the grid. Additional work is needed to ensure these types of vehicle-to-grid and vehicle-to-building technologies are incentivized to come online to support grid resiliency. 

As California establishes new climate goals, we need to keep in mind that we need to move aggressively and inclusively to meet the needs of a clean and reliable energy grid. These recent heat waves, combined with massive wildfires throughout the state, demonstrate that we need to act now. LACI will continue to drive forth solutions and innovations with the public and private sectors to ensure an equitable, clean, and reliable energy future.

Second Cohort of Market Access Program Provides On-The-Ground Mobility Solutions For Communities Across Los Angeles

LACI recently launched its latest cohort of our Market Access program, which is designed to scale startups through transformative energy, transportation and circular economy pilots and supportive services. Series A startups in Southern California with less than $25 million raised were invited to apply and we admitted three companies who are now working with our teams to put their innovative tech into practice and into communities around Los Angeles.

Startups involved with the pilots receive: grant funding and access to LACI’s Impact Fund and Debt Fund; connection to government and corporate stakeholders; project scoping, implementation management, and evaluation advice throughout the 1-2 year-long pilot term with in-depth pilot measurement, analysis, and reporting including quarterly and final reports; and access to Market Transformation pilot partners.

This second cohort includes the teams at Circuit and Chewbox, which are integrating their tech in our zero-emissions community pilot program that recently launched in Leimert Park. The other company in this cohort is Automotus, which is working with our team to set up the first-in-the-nation zero-emissions last-mile delivery zone in downtown Santa Monica. 

Circuit makes transportation easier, greener, and more enjoyable by building on-demand, last-mile shuttle services for cities around the US. Using an on-demand app, fleets of electric cars, and teams of W2 drivers, they’ve provided over 3.5 million rides without charging a dollar or burning an ounce of gas. In Leimert Park, Circuit’s two Neighborhood Electric Vehicle shuttles operate within a set coverage area for on-demand service from Thursday through Sunday.

 

ChewBox provides a cloud-based OS for ghost kitchens, making opening a restaurant as simple as launching a Twitter account. They are working with South LA Cafe in the same community to pilot cafe and market delivery across Los Angeles County, making it their first new restaurant integration.

Automotus is a computer vision company that helps cities better understand and manage their increasingly complex curb space while also helping commercial fleets get more dedicated access to the curb. Working with our pilots team in a 1-mile radius in downtown Santa Monica they will help develop a blueprint for cities to adopt zero-emissions delivery zones for last-mile delivery and best practices for integrating sidewalk delivery robots, e-Scooters, e-Bikes, light-, medium-, and heavy-duty EVs, as well as commercial EV car shares on our city streets.

These pilots that employ each of these companies’ tech will provide immediate benefits to the local community with reduced air pollution, GHG emissions, noise, and congestion, as well as improved safety. Additionally, they will provide economic opportunity to small businesses and individuals through access to zone benefit, workforce development through local hires and cleantech job training, and help create an important mode shift for goods and people movement in Los Angeles. 

LACI’s first cohort in the Market Access program included URB-E and Envoy, which successfully deployed their tech in community pilots in Long Beach, Pacoima, and San Pedro. URB-E scooters were deployed with the Long Beach Conservation Corps and Envoy’s EV car-sharing service is currently being used in communities that previously had little to no access to EVs in their neighborhoods. 

To learn more about our startup incubation programs please visit here.

LACI Launches Second Community EV Car-Share Program in San Pedro




“Rancho San Pedro Electric Car Share” Pilot Part Of Initiative To Reduce Air Pollution, Increase Access To Zero-Emissions Mobility Across LA

LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA), and Envoy, a LACI portfolio company, recently launched a new electric vehicle (EV) community car-share program named Rancho San Pedro Electric Car Share. LACI’s Transportation Electrification Partnership member, Nissan North America, is providing funding for one of the electric vehicles for the pilot. 

The cars are stationed at the HACLA Rancho San Pedro property, providing direct and affordable access to EV’s to Rancho San Pedro residents beginning last week.

The program is part of LACI’s Zero Emissions Mobility and Community Pilot Project Fund which is launching four zero-emissions mobility pilots around Los Angeles county this year. The first pilot, named Pacoima Electro-Share, launched in Pacoima, CA in July 2020. The fund is part of the ongoing work of LACI and the Transportation Electrification Partnership’s (TEP) efforts to bring investment, jobs, and the benefits of the green economy to underserved communities while reducing air pollution and increasing the use of zero-emission vehicles regionally.

The pilot program’s commitment to community includes affordable hourly rates and alternative payment methods for the unbanked population. The pilot is being made possible by a grant to LACI from the State of California.

“LACI is determined to bring the benefits of electric vehicles and mobility to historically underserved communities,” said LACI CEO Matt Petersen. “Partnering with HACLA and Envoy, with support from the State Legislature and other partners, we are putting in place the kinds of solutions that can ensure equity and help meet the goals announced in Governor Newsom’s historic executive order this week.” 

“I am pleased that the State of California is supporting this innovative project led by LACI and HACLA,” said California State Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena). “This program will bring EV ride sharing and charging infrastructure into communities in the 35th Senate District that previously lacked access to both, empowering consumers with new clean transportation options. Broadening access to clean vehicles is a critical part of our response to climate change.”

“Congratulations to this public-private partnership between Envoy, the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator and the Housing Authority of Los Angeles,” said California State Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell (D-Long Beach). “This project will bring good paying, green jobs to our community while providing San Pedro residents access to transportation options that will reduce carbon emissions.”

“As California takes the necessary steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve our air quality, we must also take steps to ensure that every community is included in this zero-emission future,” said Los Angeles City Councilmember Joe Buscaino (D-15). “In order to achieve that inclusive future, we must innovate with pilot programs like LACI’s EV car share program and continue to make sure that diverse and underserved communities benefit from these innovations.”

“Going green shouldn’t be reserved for only a specific socioeconomic status,” said HACLA President and CEO Doug Guthrie. “This electric vehicle share initiative provides a benefit to the community and environment as a whole. The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles is proud to partner with LACI on this forward-thinking and innovative pilot program that brings both opportunity and access to our residents in a community that is often overlooked and underserved,” Guthrie added. 

“We’re thrilled to be launching our second community car share program in partnership with LACI and HACLA. 

Envoy’s vehicles will be providing anessential service to this San Pedro community where the nearest grocery store is over half a mile away,” said Aric Ohana, CEO of Envoy. “Envoy is providing a low-cost mobility solution to help bridge the access gap. In addition, we’re enabling communities who are typically late adopters of technology and especially electric vehicles to be first adopters.”

“We are excited to make a Nissan Leaf available for the HACLA residents in San Pedro in partnership with Envoy and LACI,” says Rachel Nguyen, Director of Nissan Future Lab. “We continue to work to find solutions that provide people access to clean and affordable means of transportation for their everyday trips.”

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LACI’s currently seeking e-bike share solutions (e-bikes, infrastructure, and ops & maintenance providers) for the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles’ Rancho San Pedro development. Submit your Request for Proposal (RFP) by October 29, 2021 at laci.org/opportunities

ABOUT LACI

Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is creating an inclusive green economy for the people of Los Angeles by: unlocking innovation by working with startups to accelerate the commercialization of clean technologies; transforming markets through partnerships with policymakers, innovators, and market leaders in transportation, energy and sustainable cities; and enhancing communities through workforce development, pilots, and other programs. Founded as an economic development initiative by the City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles Department of Water & Power (LADWP), LACI is recognized as one of the most innovative business incubators in the world by UBI. In the past ten years, LACI has helped 236 portfolio companies raise $508 million in funding, $272 million in revenue, and create over 2,100 jobs in the Los Angeles region. Learn more at laci.org

 

MEDIA CONTACT

communications@laci.org

Statement from LACI CEO and Transportation Electrification Partnership Chair Matt Petersen

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from LACI CEO and Transportation Electrification Partnership Chair Matt Petersen

LOS ANGELES, CA – After today’s announcements from California Governor Gavin Newsom on climate initiatives, Matt Petersen, CEO of Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) and Chair of the Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP), released the following statement:

“On behalf of LACI and our unprecedented Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP), we applaud Governor Newsom’s ambitious yet needed targets to only sell zero emission passenger cars and trucks by 2035 and have all medium- and heavy-duty trucks be zero emissions by 2045, with a 2035 goal for drayage trucks. We also applaud the Governor’s commitment to advancing equity by increasing access to zero emissions solutions, including used EVs and micromobility options such as electric bikes. Governor Newsom’s leadership shows that, in the face of the worst climate crisis with wildfires and extreme heat ravaging our state, California will continue to lead.

“Through our collaboration with California Air Resources Board, regional utilities, Mayor Garcetti, Los Angeles County, LA Metro, labor, and industry, LACI and our partners set bold transportation electrification targets for light duty cars, mode shift, and goods movement for the LA region to advance climate equity, reduce air pollution, and more by the time the world arrives for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

To help achieve our targets and the state to lead, we are calling for the creation of a California electric vehicle authority to enhance the coordination needed and create additional financing tools for vehicles and charging infrastructure while boosting equity, job creation, workforce training, and economic development. Given the economic recovery needed due to COVID, we also convened a national coalition of over 80 companies, business organizations, and labor groups to push for comprehensive stimulus measures to support not just California’s zero emissions transportation efforts, but to grow this critical sector at the national level.

“California is building the future here now to clear the smoke and pollution from our air so all our state’s residents and future generations can breathe freely. LACI and TEP look forward to working with the Governor and the legislature to ensure all of our communities benefit from these policies.”

 

ABOUT LACI

Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is creating an inclusive green economy for the people of Los Angeles by: unlocking innovation by working with startups to accelerate the commercialization of clean technologies; transforming markets through partnerships with policymakers, innovators, and market leaders in transportation, energy and sustainable cities; and enhancing communities through workforce development, pilots, and other programs. Founded as an economic development initiative by the City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles Department of Water & Power (LADWP), LACI is recognized as one of the most innovative business incubators in the world by UBI. In the past ten years, LACI has helped 236 portfolio companies raise $508 million in funding, $272 million in revenue, and create over 2,100 jobs in the Los Angeles region. Learn more at laci.org.