A First for Accelerators

Looking for Undiscovered Talent, Ready for Growth

We think San Diego is the best place for startups to launch and grow. And, we know that entrepreneurs are spread across all communities in our city. There’s tons of untapped local talent waiting to accelerate their startups’ success. Our goal is to boost startup growth, especially for low to moderate income and diverse founders from broad backgrounds, ready and eager to take their companies to the next level.

Leadership

Introducing Our Dynamo Team

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Reginald Jones

President and CEO of the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation

A visionary leader and strong voice for innovative, grassroots change, Reginald works extensively with culturally diverse residents and partner organizations to implement neighborhood revitalization programs in San Diego.

Bennett Peji

Vice President, Impact & Partnerships, of the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation

Immersed in social entrepreneurship, Bennett believes diversity and inclusion empowers companies and strengthens brands. He facilitates partnerships and connections for the program, oversees the co-working space and manages its funding.

Alex Waters

Director of CONNECT ALL @ the Jacobs Center

With great passion and aptitude, Alex runs the accelerator program and Business Resource Center. He specializes in connecting startup founders with the resources needed to ensure their business ideas, confidence and investments lead to results.

Danea Ramos

Manager of CONNECT ALL @ the Jacobs Center

Danea is experienced in helping startups and small businesses. She has a passion for working with diverse businesses with experience around the world and providing resources to entrepreneurs.

Partnering for Startup Success

Meet Our Founding Partners and Major Funders

CAJC is a strategic partnership between the City of San Diego, Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation and CONNECT. This program is funded in whole or in part with Community Development Block Grant program funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the City of San Diego. Private funding is also provided by partners MUFG Union Bank N.A. and bkm OfficeWorks.

Welcome to an Active and Inspiring Workspace.

Gem in the Diamond Neighborhoods

Our accelerator is based in the bustling Diamond District in Southeastern San Diego. Our cooperative workspaces and robust Business Resource Center are housed in the Joe and Vi Jacobs Center (next door to Market Creek Plaza and the Euclid Avenue Transit Center), offering our startups top-notch business services, professional amenities and a collaborative community of enterprising entrepreneurs.

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Positive Impact

Defining Value for Startups and the Community

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CAJC’s workspace is designed to foster connections. Our 4,300-square-foot, co-working facility sparks conversations and partnerships.

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Our two core programs, the business accelerator and Business Resource Center, provide introductions and connections that have positive impacts on local economic development.

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Three core partners make CAJC possible: The City of San Diego, Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation and CONNECT.* Together, we are building a stronger and more supportive ecosystem for our local startups and small businesses.

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Get in Touch

Say Something or Ask Anything

Have questions about our accelerator program? Considering launching a startup? Need help with your current business? Want to offer your professional expertise or supply seed money? Reach out! We’ll happily answer any questions, respond to your generous offers or simply satisfy your curiosity.