SoCal Wine Country EDC Promotes Skilled Workforce and Veteran Population as Competitive Advantage1/26/2026  SoCal Wine Country EDC Promotes Skilled Workforce and Veteran Population as Competitive AdvantageTemecula, CA – January 26, 2026The SoCal Wine Country Economic Development Council (EDC) is highlighting a powerful workforce advantage fueling the region’s continued expansion in manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, and life sciences: a robust talent ecosystem supported by higher education partnerships and a large, highly skilled veteran population.
At the center of this workforce strategy are strong collaborations with regional higher education institutions, including Cal State San Marcos and Mt. San Jacinto College, as well as local community and trade colleges, that align academic programs with employer needs across the Inland region. Together, these institutions deliver industry-relevant education and training that prepare students for in-demand careers in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, healthcare services, and life science-related fields. “These partnerships help ensure that employers have access to job-ready talent while students gain clear, local career pathways,” said Connie Stopher, Executive Director, SoCal Wine Country EDC. “It’s a model that strengthens both our workforce and our regional economy.” Complementing these education partnerships is the region’s strong network of veteran-serving institutions and resources, along with one of the highest concentrations of veterans in California—well above both state and national averages. This veteran population represents a significant workforce asset for industries such as cybersecurity, aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Local institutions play a key role in supporting veterans as they transition into civilian careers. Cal State San Marcos, with satellite campuses in Temecula, is nationally recognized for its support of military-affiliated students. Mt. San Jacinto College operates a dedicated Veteran Resource Center, and organizations such as the Menifee VFW Post 1956, ranked 15th in the nation, actively connect veterans with resources, employers, and job opportunities. The Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange (TVE2) also offers on-site veteran resources that support workforce development and entrepreneurship. With experience in leadership, operations, engineering, healthcare, and technical fields, veterans living in the region contribute directly to a strong and resilient workforce. Many transition into supervisory, technical, and mission-critical roles that support the Inland region’s expanding industrial base. “Veterans bring a unique skill set to our region and workforce. Besides their technical skills, they excel at leadership, teamwork, integrity, and have a high work ethic, which only strengthens an organization” said Greg Thomas, General Manager at Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and retired Marine, “EVMWD works closely with the schools and community, and is proud to higher veterans in many disciplines, and be a part of the region’s efforts.” Together, the region’s education partnerships and high concentration of veterans create a compelling advantage for companies considering expansion or relocation. Employers gain access to a deep, skilled, and resilient labor pool, while residents benefit from high-quality jobs and long-term career mobility. As demand continues to grow across defense, healthcare, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, the SoCal Wine Country EDC remains focused on aligning education, workforce resources, and economic development to support sustainable growth throughout the region. ### The Southern California Wine Country EDC is a nonprofit economic-development organization serving Temecula, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and southwestern Riverside County. For more than 30 years, the EDC has helped businesses relocate, expand or start up in one of Southern California’s fastest-growing and most strategic regions. Leveraging partnerships, incentives and a business-friendly environment, the EDC is committed to fostering sustainable growth, innovation and quality of life. SoCalWineCountryEDC.com Key Takeaways
Contacts Liselle DeGrave, APR [email protected] 951-764-0865 Read this story on the following news outlets: Reportable News Yahoo News News File Corp Citybuzz
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 Located within a Foreign-Trade Zone and proximity to Los Angeles and Long Beach ports make the Inland Empire wine country region uniquely positioned for changing tariff dynamics.
Temecula, CA – December 22, 2025 As changing U.S. tariff structures begin reshaping global supply chains, the Inland Empire wine country region is emerging as a strategic logistical environment. Long known for tourism and agricultural assets, the region is increasingly being recognized, not only for its proximity to the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, strong distribution infrastructure, and rapidly expanding warehousing capacity, but for its location in a Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ). Being located within an FTZ allows for deferred or reduced duty costs on imports. With tariff adjustments influencing everything from routing decisions to inventory strategy, Southern California logistics stakeholders are preparing for shifts in cargo volume, commodity mix, and customs-processing demand. Together, the San Pedro Bay Ports handle roughly 31% of all U.S. containerized imports arriving by sea, leaving manufacturers and importers to reevaluate distribution models in response to cost changes. At just 90 miles from the San Pedro Bay port complex, the Inland Empire wine country area sits at a unique logistical crossroads providing strategic freeway access to the 15, 215, and 60 freeway corridors, proximity to major rail-served distribution centers, and more economical industrial warehouse real estate, as well as the benefits that come with being in an FTZ. “The wine country region also offers a growing talent base for supply chain, customs, and freight operations. Foreign-Trade Zone benefits eliminate export duties, making the region ideal for businesses working to navigate the new tariffs,” said Connie Stopher, Executive Director, SoCal Wine Country EDC. “This is a moment of opportunity. Our region offers the FTZ benefits, space, accessibility, and workforce that Southern California needs to stay competitive as the global trade landscape evolves.” This combination places the region in a unique position to absorb increased cargo-handling needs as companies reassess where they stage inventory amid tariff costs and longer lead times. Local customs brokers and logistics executives working within the Wine Country EDC are reporting a surge in inquiries related to tariff classification, alternative sourcing, and compliance strategy. “In today’s volatile trade environment, Riverside County’s Foreign-Trade Zones offer businesses the flexibility and risk mitigation they need to remain competitive in a global market. By allowing companies to defer, reduce, or eliminate customs duties on imported goods, including relief from tariffs on components that are later re-exported or incorporated into finished products, FTZs can significantly lower operating costs and improve cash flow. Riverside County, in partnership with ITC-Diligence, a consulting service designed to support the complexities of global trade, supports companies through the FTZ permit accreditation process and provides free business consultations, as well as bi-monthly Tariff Update webinars, to deliver timely insights and practical guidance. We encourage businesses to take full advantage of these resources,” said David Harlow, President of ITC-Diligence and Riverside County’s FTZ consultant. “As tariffs drive supply chain restructuring, the Inland Empire wine country region stands to capture new investment, expand its logistics ecosystem, and support the statewide economy.” About Southern California Wine Country EDC The Southern California Wine Country EDC is a nonprofit economic-development organization serving Temecula, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and southwestern Riverside County. For more than 30 years, the EDC has helped businesses relocate, expand or start up in one of Southern California’s fastest-growing and most strategic regions. Leveraging partnerships, incentives and a business-friendly environment, the EDC is committed to fostering sustainable growth, innovation and quality of life. SoCalWineCountryEDC.com Key Takeaways
Contacts Liselle DeGrave, APR [email protected] 951-764-0865 Read this story on the following news outlets: Newsfile Corp. Ontario Farmer Reportable News Trading View Yahoo Finance
Southern California Wine Country Emerges as Premier Destination for Business Leaders Seeking Balance12/2/2025 Cost of living, access to outdoors, family-friendly communities, proximity to LA without the LA price tag  Once known primarily for its rolling vineyards and scenic charm, Southern California’s Wine Country is quickly becoming a top destination for business leaders seeking both professional opportunity, and a higher quality of life. Executives are increasingly trading congested commutes and high overhead costs for a region that blends economic vitality with a relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle.
A Smart Move for Business and Balance With its proximity to Los Angeles, SoCal Wine Country offers unparalleled access to Southern California’s major markets without the LA price tag. Companies relocating here are discovering a lower cost of living, shorter commutes, and access to family-friendly amenities that enrich employee well-being and retention. “KTM is very happy to be in Southwest Riverside because of the skilled technicians, riders and support team members that live in the area and share a passion for racing and our brands,” says Robin Grangruth with KTM, who recently opened their North American Headquarters in the region, “The weather is ideal for year-round riding and the proximation to multiple tracks is vital to our business activities. Riverside County was incredibly helpful with our ground-up facility construction. This was our first property development, and we have only good things to say about our experience and all of the help from Riverside County.” The Southern California Wine Country Economic Development Coalition (EDC) has played a key role in supporting these corporate transitions. Through leveraging strategic partnerships and providing tailored resources to empower local businesses and communities, the EDC has made it easier for businesses to land and expand in the region. Building a Collaborative Business Environment Beyond quality of life, the area is gaining recognition for its collaborative business environment. Local governments, industry groups, and educational institutions are working together to attract and sustain diverse industries ranging from advanced manufacturing and life sciences, to professional services and tech startups. The EDC is also advocating for business-friendly policies, making it a more sustainable environment for growth. “Our success comes from collaboration,” notes Connie Stopher, Executive Director, SoCal Wine Country EDC. “Public and private partners here don’t compete — they collaborate. That spirit is what makes SoCal Wine Country a model for regional growth.” Local municipalities are joining the movement too, Acting Mayor, Bob Karwin, of Menifee highlights recent business-friendly initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and supporting sustainable growth: “As one of the best places in Southern California to raise a family, we have a competitive advantage in providing businesses with confidence that they will be successful in our region, said Acting Mayor Karwin. “By providing a high quality of life for our families, we’re also drawing in a talented workforce rooted in the community and ready to support the expanding needs of our local businesses.” A Region on the Rise As executives seek locations that align with both business performance and personal priorities, SoCal Wine Country stands out as a region redefining what success looks like, blending prosperity, purpose, and the Southern California lifestyle. The EDC is dedicated to driving economic vitality, while also enhancing the quality of life in the area, to create long-term opportunities for the region's diverse industries and workforce. Read this story on the following news outlets: Yahoo News Newsworthy.ai CityBuzz NewsCrafters Temecula, CA – November 20, 2025 The Southern California Wine Country region is not only a scenic and lifestyle-rich place — it is also rapidly becoming a business destination thanks to a strong emphasis on community safety and livability. As companies look to relocate or expand, the region’s reputation for safe streets, stable neighborhoods and responsive local governments is proving to be a key differentiator. “In today’s competitive marketplace for business expansion, community safety is no longer optional—it’s foundational. When a company considers our region, they’re looking for certainty: safe infrastructure, stable neighborhoods, a workforce that feels invested. Our region delivers on all of those. We believe that safe streets create strong economies, and we see that dynamic playing out in every business we recruit, every expansion we support,” stated Connie Stopher, CEcD, Executive Director, SoCal Wine Country EDC. In cities like Temecula, public safety is recognized as the foundation of economic vitality. “Our City’s beauty and safeness fuel the local economy and continue to attract upscale development, redevelopment projects, and new business establishments, which is why Temecula invests heavily into public safety,” stated Mayor Brenden Kalfus. In Temecula, the latest crime index registers at 123 — nearly half the national average for similar‐sized U.S. cities. City of Menifee’s, violent crime rates are reported at less than 9 per 1,000 residents, significantly below county and national average. Riverside County’s violent crime rate is approximately 65 per 100,000 – more than 38% below the U.S. average For the Southern California Wine Country Economic Development Coalition (SoCal Wine Country EDC), safety is not simply a social good — it is a business catalyst. Firms relocating or expanding often ask: Will our employees feel safe? Will supply-chain logistics operate smoothly? Will our site recruit talent easily? The region answers “yes” to all three. "As someone who works with the community along with programs for youth, teens, adults, mainstream and special needs, it's important to be in an area that represents safety. I want families to feel safe when dropping off their kids and family members for creative programs, events and classes. Being located inside a city that understands that and makes it a priority is important when relocating and or expanding a business," shared Diane Strand, Executive Producer JDS Studio & nonprofit founder JDS Creative Academy, in Temecula. Why Safety Equals Business Growth 1. Talent attraction and retention. Companies relocating want regions where employees will stay, feel safe, invest in the community and thrive. With a business environment that emphasizes safe neighborhoods and quality-of-life, the region becomes more attractive to both employers and employees. 2. Operational reliability and cost-efficiency. Fewer disruptions, lower security costs, stable infrastructure and less turnover all support strong business operations. Firms in advanced manufacturing, distr 3. Site selection advantage. When site selectors or corporate real estate teams evaluate regions, they look for “business-friendly, safe and welcoming” places. Regions that tie safety, quality of life and business-development incentives create a powerful narrative. The SoCal Wine Country region offers targeted incentives for companies in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, life sciences and cleantech — in addition to a dedicated site-selection platform that gives real-time access to available properties and workforce/demographic data. Through programs like the Business Assistance NOW Program, firms relocating or expanding here can access financial resources, training subsidies and streamlined permitting support — all of which stem from the region’s emphasis on safe, stable communities as a foundation for business growth. 4. Community and brand strength. A region known for safety strengthens its brand: for residents, visitors, businesses and investors alike. That positive image further attracts investment, which fuels expansion, talent and further improvements — a virtuous cycle. Regional Efforts and Projects The Southern California Wine Country EDC represents a region encompassing Temecula, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and unincorporated areas of southwestern Riverside County. While the specific redevelopment and safety-infrastructure projects in the public domain are still being communicated, the region’s public-safety and economic-development strategies point clearly toward alignment and regional collaboration. SoCal Wine Country region offers not only lifestyle and location advantages but business-friendly policies and infrastructure oriented toward manufacturing, distribution and tech. In the region, firms in advanced manufacturing, distribution and high-tech benefit from: • A dedicated site-selection portal (RivCoSites.com) • Major transportation infrastructure linking to Los Angeles, San Diego and the ports. • Incentives and specialized support programs for sectors like aerospace, cleantech and advanced manufacturing. • A well-established manufacturing/distribution base and business environment characterized by expedited permitting, pro-active city and county economic-development teams and a strong local workforce. Looking Ahead As SoCal Wine Country EDC focuses on expanding business attraction and retention, the theme of safe streets equating to strong businesses will be front and center. Highlighting the intersection of public-safety investment and business growth, the EDC will continue to work with municipalities in the region to showcase safety-driven infrastructure and community development projects. For firms exploring new sites in advanced manufacturing, logistics, life sciences or tech — or looking to expand an existing presence — the message is clear: a region where community safety is a priority is a region where businesses can grow. About Southern California Wine Country EDC The Southern California Wine Country EDC is a nonprofit economic-development organization serving Temecula, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and southwestern Riverside County. For more than 30 years, the EDC has helped businesses relocate, expand or start up in one of Southern California’s fastest-growing and most strategic regions. Leveraging partnerships, incentives and a business-friendly environment, the EDC is committed to fostering sustainable growth, innovation and quality of life. SoCalWineCountryEDC.com Key Takeaways
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The SoCal Wine Country EDC, was recognized for achieving the distinction as an Accredited Economic Development Organization by the International Economic Development Council. This recognition means the organization has gone through a rigorous peer-review process and has been recognized as operating at a high professional standard in the field of economic development. In short: the accreditation is a “stamp of approval” from a recognized professional body in the economic development field, indicating the organization meets defined best practices in structure, operations, strategy, and governance. Contacts Liselle DeGrave, APR [email protected]  View in browser Become an Accredited EconomicDevelopment Organization! Like vintners tending their harvests, the Southern California Wine Country Economic Development Coalition cultivates exceptional opportunities for its communities. Located in a region characterized by sweeping landscapes, vibrant innovation hubs, quality schools, top talent, and a diversified economy, the Coalition's track record speaks for itself. True to its pursuit of excellence, this EDO set its sights even higher, enrolling in the Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) program to deliver new opportunities, expanded resources, and a superb quality of life for people in their communities. Connie Stopher, CEcD, Chief Executive Officer of Southern California Wine Country Economic Development Coalition, describes this journey as transformative: "The path to gaining our AEDO accreditation was incredibly valuable. It shone a light on what we were excelling at, helped us identify growth opportunities, and provided a level of credibility to my board, donors, and stakeholders that has elevated us as an organization. We felt supported and empowered through the entire process by the IEDC staff and the accreditation committee." Remarkably, the Coalition earned AEDO accreditation with a one-person team, demonstrating that this achievement is within reach for economic development organizations of all sizes. If your EDO seeks the gold standard in accreditation, the AEDO program measures your organization against highest professional standards. Benefits include:
For the Southern California Wine Country Economic Development Coalition, which is widely recognized as a "Blend of the Best" of what California offers, the AEDO designation confirms what the community has known all along: they're partnering with the best, and so can you. Your journey starts here!
Southern California Wine Country EDC Accredited by the International Economic Development Council8/13/2025  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 13, 2025 Southern California Wine Country EDC Accredited by the International Economic Development Council [Washington, DC] – The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) announces that the Southern California Wine Country EDC has been recognized as one of 90 economic development organizations accredited by IEDC as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). “Southern California Wine Country EDC displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an on-site visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the candidate economic development organization. Earning the AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that Southern California Wine Country EDC has attained a measure of excellence, assuring that their trust is well-placed and their business is in good hands. “We are honored to have received this accreditation,” said Connie Stopher, CEcD, Executive Director of the Southern California Wine Country EDC. “ It is a reflection of the EDC’s commitment to ensuring the economic vitality and sustainability of the region”. Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years and is accomplished through documentation submission and/or onsite visits by a team of the AEDO subcommittee. The International Economic Development Council is the largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals in the world. About the IEDC With over 5,000 members nationwide and abroad, IEDC offers the economic development profession one source for information and professional development, one voice for the profession and one force for advocacy. For more information on IEDC or the AEDO program, call Dana Crater at (910) 821.0245; fax (202) 223.4745; write to IEDC at 1275 K Street NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005; email [email protected]; or visit IEDC’s website at www.iedconline.org. Media Contact: Connie Stopher, CecD Executive Director, Economic Development Coalition [email protected] http://socalwinecountryedc.com 951-557-8070 |
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