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Irvine Advances Economic Development for 2026–2028
The Irvine City Council approved a new Economic Development Blueprint at its January 13 meeting to guide the City’s business and innovation efforts through 2028. The plan also launches the new Irvine Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The Blueprint brings the City’s economic development work into one coordinated program focused on:
- Supporting existing businesses
- Attracting new companies
- Growing innovation and venture activity
- Building a strong workforce
To help move these efforts forward, the City is partnering with the Greater Irvine Chamber to deliver programs and expand business support.
The Irvine Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship will serve as Irvine’s hub for startups and innovators. It will connect entrepreneurs with investors, provide resources for early-stage companies, and make it easier to start and grow a business in Irvine.
Over the past year, the City supported more than 300 businesses through free workshops, small business clinics, capital and growth programs, and workforce services.
To support informed business decisions, the City also launched the Available Property and Community Analytics Dashboard, an interactive tool that combines commercial real estate listings with demographic, labor force, and consumer spending data. In addition, more than 15,000 customers participated in the City’s Community Development survey, helping identify opportunities to improve processes and reduce barriers for new and expanding businesses.
These efforts position Irvine for continued economic growth in 2026 and beyond. Residents and businesses can stay up to date by subscribing to City of Irvine Economic Development updates.
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Galentine’s Day: Girl Empowerment Workshop
Girls in grades 6–8 are invited to a fun and supportive evening focused on building friendships, setting healthy boundaries, and strengthening confidence. This Girl Empowerment Workshop offers meaningful conversations, hands-on activities, and opportunities to connect with new friends in a positive, encouraging environment.
Friday, February 6, 2026
6–10 p.m.
Heritage Park Community Center
The cost is $35 and includes supervision, a T-shirt, dinner, workshop materials, and a goodie bag. Registration is open to all students in grades 6–8.
For questions, contact Sara DeVille at sdeville@cityofirvine.org.
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Opening Reception: January 25, 1–3 p.m.
Exhibition: January 25–April 12
Great Park Gallery, 8000 Great Park Blvd.
Arts in Irvine presents three new solo exhibitions opening January 25 at the Great Park Gallery, featuring work by Daniela García Hamilton, Kristina Rose Baker, and Vonn Sumner. Each exhibition offers a different look at contemporary painting through personal stories, art history, and pop culture.
A free opening reception with the artists takes place Sunday, January 25, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Opening Day Activities | 1–3 p.m.
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Live Jazz in the Palm Court at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
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Orizomegami Paper Workshop at the Great Park Studio — a free, all-ages fold-and-dye art activity
Admission, activities, and parking are free.
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Parent & Me Arts and STEM Classes
Families are invited to explore art and science together through these hands-on Parent & Me classes at the Northwood Community Center. Each program encourages creativity, curiosity, and shared learning between children and their caregivers.
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January 19: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Observed on the third Monday in January, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the life and legacy of Dr. King and his leadership in the civil rights movement.
Dr. King was a Baptist minister and civil rights leader who believed in creating change through nonviolent action. He is best known for his 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech, in which he shared his vision of a more just and inclusive nation where people are judged by the content of their character.
In recognition of his work to advance civil rights and end racial discrimination, Dr. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. His legacy continues to inspire communities across the country to work toward equality, respect, and understanding for all.
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