Innovation

A sampling of Chico's national and international companies.

With a strong university presence and a lifestyle attractive to creative talent, many entrepreneurs make their innovation breakthroughs in Chico.

Local success stories range from the well-established Sierra Nevada Brewery (once an experiment in home brewing) to recent startups such as PathoLase (providing laser solutions to bacterial fungus). A number of young information technology companies have also started in Chico and grown to serve international markets, such as Build.com, Auctiva, SunGard Public Sector, Landacorp. 

Innovation Clusters

Clusters of innovation exist around niche manufacturing, information technology, food and beverage processing, agriculture, science and sustainability. Export employers choose Chico as a place to relocate to (FAFCO, Lares Research) while others operate successful national divisions of major corporations (Smuckers Natural Foods) from Chico. Major Employers ►

Resources for Innovators

As an innovation center Chico provides entrepreneurs with:

• R&D – Applied research opportunities at CSU, Chico and Butte College. Higher Education and Training ►
• Creative Talent – Newly trained graduates, regional skilled labor market, and seasoned professionals eager to relocate to Chico. Creative Talent ►
• Venture Capital and Commercialization - The Innovation Lab provides mentoring related to capital access and product development, as well as networking opportunities with other innovators.  Both emerging entrepreneurs and established companies with new products are served.
• Startup/Expansion Resources - Chico has a broad range of support services to assist entrepreneurs.