A VIBRANT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS

Discover what so many businesses already know — a location in San Luis Obispo offers businesses a considerable advantage.

Whether it’s an exceptional pool of local talent, international reach, strong and diverse base of existing companies, or entrepreneurial spirit that you’re looking for, we’re so glad to welcome you to San Luis Obispo.

The Economic Development department is responsible for implementing the economic development policies of the City Council as laid out in the City's Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP). Overseen by the Economic Development and Tourism Manager, Molly Cano, this department works to make the city of San Luis Obispo a thriving place to work, visit, and do business. 

Economic Strategic Plan

The Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) was adopted on July 18, 2023. The plan aims to ensure the City's competitiveness and relevance in a rapidly changing environment. It aligns with other major city goals and plans, including the 2023-25 Major City Goals, the Climate Action Plan, the Downtown Concept Plan, and the DEI Strategic Plan framework.  

Follow this link for more information on the EDSP status, data and background.

Traditional Economic Development Activities

In addition to the specific actions laid out in the EDSP, the Economic Development program also focuses on more traditional economic development activities, including:

• Business retention and expansion assistance
• Business recruitment
• Site selection assistance for new and existing businesses
• Quick Response Team for timely processing of permits, providing development review strategies and identifying potential issues and solutions
• County, Regional, and State programs through REACH Central Coast

Business Retention and Expansion

Nurturing local businesses is one of the program's most important goals. We can help identify resources for your growing business needs and connect you with local service providers. We also offer site selection and site expansion assistance.

Site Selection

We assist new and existing businesses in finding sites for their business. We work closely with the local real estate brokerage community, property owners and developers to help you find existing buildings or properties that could be developed.

Development Review

The City of San Luis Obispo provides excellent customer service throughout the development process, and works closely with companies to ensure that project reviews are done in a timely manner. We are committed to working with businesses in an expeditious manner on planning, zoning, and permitting issues. More information on planning, building and permitting is available from the Community Development Department.

City Utilities

The City’s Utilities Department has detailed information regarding water supply, conservation, recycling, and sewer information. Interestingly, in addition to City provided utilities, several transcontinental fiber optic line landing points are located close to the city limits.  Telecommunications companies operate critical facilities in San Luis Obispo and connectivity is high-speed.

News and Announcements

Find the latest news about economic resiliency and economic development below. For more information or announcements, visit www.slocity.org/news.