Contra Costa County Innovation Fund

The Innovation Fund, an initiative of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, aims to stimulate and seed demonstration programs and innovative public service projects for the benefit of Contra Costa County residents. This grant program is aligned with the county's mission to foster community well-being by supporting projects that address local needs and promote progress. The fund seeks to move beyond replicating established programs, instead focusing on transformative change. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the residents of Contra Costa County, particularly those impacted by inequities and poverty. The program's impact goals revolve around improving equitable access to public services and removing structural barriers that perpetuate these issues. By investing in innovative solutions, the county anticipates a significant, positive impact on its communities. The Board has established four key priorities that distinguish the Innovation Fund: improving equitable access to public services, removing structural barriers that cause inequities and poverty, providing the greatest impact for every dollar spent, and fostering transformative change rather than simply replicating existing programs. These priorities guide the selection of projects and underscore the fund's commitment to creating lasting, meaningful change. Project categories include Engaged Communities, Agriculture and Food Systems, Economic Vitality, Environment, and Reliable and Accessible Infrastructure. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of innovative demonstration programs and public service projects that directly address the identified priorities. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the emphasis on "providing the greatest impact for every dollar spent" suggests an expectation of tangible, positive results. The fund's strategic priority is to support initiatives that can achieve transformative change, reflecting a theory of change that innovation and strategic investment can lead to significant improvements in the lives of Contra Costa County residents.