Local governments seeking innovative, hands-on support for developing strategies to attract and retain small businesses and drive job creation are invited to participate in the fourth annual Sunstone Economic Development Challenge at USC Price.
This program is led by the USC City/County Management Fellowship (CMF), a distinguished initiative that comprehensively supports graduate students pursuing leadership roles in local government. In partnership with Sunstone Cities, the civic-focused sister company of Sunstone Management, and supported by a $162,500 grant from the Sunstone Community Fund, this program bridges the public, private, and academic sectors by offering graduate students real-world experience in crafting economic development strategies for local communities.
This unique opportunity pairs participating cities with graduate students from the University of Southern California Sol Price School of Public Policy, who will spend the academic year working alongside municipal leaders to develop actionable economic development strategies and recommendations tailored to each city’s needs. The engagement begins in September 2025 and culminates in April 2026 with final presentations and the chance for students to win cash prizes.
A virtual orientation for prospective city partners will be held by Ryan Phong, Program Advisor, on Friday, August 15, from 12:00 to 12:30 PM PST via Zoom.
To register, please visit: lu.ma/5ds2psye
“There are lots of benefits for the cities involved, too,” Christopher Boone, USC Price Dean, said. “It’s an opportunity to give back, and professionals invariably like the chance to give back. And you get the chance to work with young people who aren’t constrained, who are blue sky thinking with new eyes. Finally, it is a chance for talent acquisition once the students graduate.” Past participating cities include Irvine, Carson, Glendora, Santa Clarita, Nevada City and more.
This year, we will accept up to five city partners to participate. To learn more about how your city can participate, please contact: Ryan Phong at Ryan.Phong@SunstoneCities.com
Visit the Challenge website for additional program details. Don’t miss this chance to bring fresh insight, capacity, and strategy to your city’s economic development efforts.
About Sunstone Cities
Sunstone Cities is an economic development consulting firm that helps local government leaders unlock economic development, new business formation, and job growth. Data-driven insights, industry expertise and public-private partnerships help cities revitalize economies, abstract businesses and better monetize community assets. Visit www.sunstonecities.com to learn more.