California, Economics, & Beer
Join us for an engaging and insightful discussion with Lenny Mendonca, a trailblazer in civic reform, economic innovation, and regional prosperity. Over the last three decades, Lenny has been a key architect of California’s economic growth, driving reforms that have transformed the state’s governance, revitalized its fiscal systems, and empowered local communities to thrive.
Why This Matters
California’s innovation economy is the envy of the world, but maintaining its edge requires bold action and visionary leadership. Lenny Mendonca has been at the forefront of tackling systemic challenges like tax reform, budget accountability, and workforce development to create a stronger foundation for long-term economic growth. From leading the charge to modernize California’s tax systems to spearheading initiatives that broke legislative gridlock, Lenny’s work paved the way for transformative change in the state.
Key Topics:
Economic Growth Through Tax Reform: The impact of Lenny’s efforts, including performance-based budgeting and two-year budget cycles, on California’s economic trajectory.
Unlocking Regional Prosperity: How initiatives like California Forward and the Bay Area Council empowered communities and set the stage for economic reform statewide.
Bridging Sectors for Innovation: Lessons from aligning government, business, and nonprofits to address systemic challenges and drive sustainable growth.
Civic Engagement and Economic Resilience: Insights from Brews & Views and other grassroots approaches to inform, connect, and inspire change-makers.
About Lenny Mendonca
Born and raised in Turlock, California, Lenny Mendonca rose from his family’s dairy farm to become one of the state’s most impactful economic and civic leaders. As a longtime partner at McKinsey & Company, Lenny honed his expertise in economic development, globalization, and corporate social responsibility. He brought this knowledge to bear on California’s most pressing challenges, leading reforms like redistricting, budget modernization, and tax policy redesign through his work with California Forward and New California Network.
As Chief Economic and Business Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom, Lenny championed policies that advanced workforce development and economic opportunity. His advocacy for collaborative problem-solving and his leadership in groundbreaking initiatives continue to leave a lasting legacy on the state’s economy.
Who Should Attend?
This event is tailored for ecosystem builders, startup founders, economic developers, and government officials passionate about the future of work, economic resilience, and strong communities. Whether you’re looking to address local challenges or find inspiration from statewide success stories, this conversation will equip you with actionable insights.
Why You Can’t Miss This
Under Lenny’s leadership and influence:
California introduced innovative fiscal reforms, creating greater accountability and enabling economic resilience.
Regional initiatives spurred local innovation, job creation, and civic engagement.
Grassroots movements like Brews & Views fostered public dialogue on critical policy issues.
Lenny’s contributions to California’s economic landscape offer valuable lessons for leaders across the nation.
RSVP now and be part of a conversation that’s shaping the future of communities, economies, and work.
About build_:
We are a modern tool for building innovation economies.
Our mission is to empower local residents to create better lives and careers while collaborating with governments and foundations to foster stronger, more resilient communities and economies.
To join the Build_ community or learn more, please fill out this form.