A Partner in City Government:
Resources
Promoting Citywide Economic Growth
We are your go-to place to get answers to questions about a wide variety of business development needs, big, complex infrastructure projects, City-owned property management, housing projects, and support for fun arts and cultural events.
We’re also the department that leads economic recovery following natural disasters and economic downturns. Think of us as a human connection where you can get reliable information about everything that we do to promote economic growth.
Business Development
Plan, Permit, Launch, Grow
A business roadmap tool to help you plan and expand your business
Space Available
Our online property database to find the perfect space for your business.
Guides For Starting a Business
Specific business guides for popular business types in Santa Cruz
SBDC Business Planning Services
Free, confidential, and expert business consulting tailored to your needs.
Santa Cruz Works
A gateway to the Santa Cruz tech ecosystem
Infrastructure and Property Development & Management
Wharf Master Plan
Santa Cruz Wharf Master Plan and Engineering Report
Metro Pacific Station
Information on this transportation/housing/retail project
Tannery Arts Center
Get the latest information about this City-managed property
Wayfinding Project
Information on project that helps visitors navigate Santa Cruz
Housing Development & Preservation
Inclusionary Housing (Measure O)
Affordable rental and for-sale units covered under this Measure
Security Deposit Assistance
Rental security deposit assistance for low income households. hacosantacruz.org (831) 454-9455
Find Affordable Housing
Find affordable housing resources, upcoming affordable housing project information and waitlists.
Housing Matters
Shelter services, day services and hygiene services, 115 Coral Street - (831) 458-6020
Low Income Rental Units in Santa Cruz County
List of eligible rental properties - hacosantacruz.org “Find Rental Housing
Salvation Army Shelter
Shelter services, day services, and food services, 721 Laurel Street - (831) 426-8365
Arts & Culture Development
Open Call for Artists
Opportunities throughout the year for art activities across the city
Arts Council Santa Cruz County Grants
Apply for grants from the largest arts organization in Santa Cruz County.
Santa Cruz Art League
A vibrant, multi-disciplinary art center located close to downtown Santa Cruz
Mural Matching Grant
Ideas for murals must address and meet the criteria laid out in the Mural Matching Grant application
Open Studios Art Tour
Information on the annual county-wide art tour put on by Arts Council Santa Cruz County
California Arts Council Grants
Apply for grants from this state agency.
About Choose Santa Cruz
Choose Santa Cruz is the flagship program of Santa Cruz Economic Development (SCED). A department of the City of Santa Cruz, we promote economic vitality and growth citywide in four interconnected areas.
We are your go-to resource for business growth and creation within the City of Santa Cruz
We guide complex multi-year City projects that drive and underpin our economy
We shepherd multi-family mixed income housing projects from idea to move-in
We support the arts & cultural events that make Santa Cruz a great place to live, work, & visit