This week, SVLG convened our annual Advocacy Day event in Sacramento. This premier gathering brought together a powerful coalition of employers from across California’s dynamic innovation ecosystem – from global tech brands and cutting-edge startups to path-breaking research institutions, hospitals, and next-gen mobility leaders.
A major focus for our trip to Sacramento – organized in partnership with our Institute for California AI Policy (I-CAP) – was bolstering the competitiveness of the innovation ecosystem, which includes modernizing our innovation infrastructure to scale AI, ensuring a strong 21st century workforce, and promoting equitable economic growth.
Throughout the day, SVLG members engaged directly with a curated group of the top lawmakers and policy experts, including members of the State Senate and Assembly, as well as senior leaders from the Governor’s Office.
Key speakers included:
- Senators: Angelique Ashby, Dave Cortese, Aisha Wahab, Scott Wiener
- Assemblymembers: Patrick Ahrens, Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, Marc Berman, Ash Kalra, Alex Lee, Buffy Wicks, Lori Wilson
- State Officials: Derek Kirk (Senior Advisor, GO-Biz), Jith Meganathan (AI Advisor to Governor Newsom), Darci Sears (Policy Consultant, Assembly Speaker’s Office)
These conversations reinforced California’s proactive leadership in AI policy and innovation, positioning our state to set the national and global standard for responsible tech governance.
On March 11, 2025, SVLG’s Sacramento Advocacy Day event brought together top lawmakers, policy experts. and SVLG member companies to discuss the future of California AI policy and the innovation ecosystem.
What’s Next?
With the legislative session in full swing, SVLG is committed to driving forward market-moving policies that support our members’ priorities and strengthen the innovation economy. Stay tuned for upcoming engagement opportunities as we continue to advocate for our region’s business competitiveness.
A huge shout-out to Microsoft for hosting and Zoox for their generous sponsorship. A special thank you to our partners, lawmakers, and industry leaders for making this event a success — and to everyone who joined us for our lively evening reception at Brasserie du Norde, which was the perfect way to end a productive day.
You can read more about SVLG’s Advocacy Day here in Politico’s California Decoded newsletter from March 11, 2025.
