Institute for Innovation and Economic Development

The Institute for Innovation and Economic Development (iiED) is an institute of CSUMB's College of Business and works collaboratively with other regional organizations to create and support businesses and entrepreneurs, promote inclusivity, community, and ecology and create prosperity in Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties.

Each year the iiED assists over 1,000 entrepreneurs develop and launch their ideas. Through mentoring, advising, technical assistance, and network development, the iiED provides critical support to the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem. Much of this support is directed to underserved communities located throughout Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. Through its annual programs, such as Startup Weekend, Startup Challenge, and the Startup Investment and Community Capital Expo, the monthly Startup Monterey Bay Tech Meetup, and its virtual incubator, Startup Launchpad, iiED is creating a community of entrepreneurs and mentors who can support each other in developing innovative businesses in our region.