Mark Cafferty: Why Inclusive Growth Is Smart Business

Mark Cafferty is the President and CEO of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), where he leads with a mix of realism, resolve, and heart. In this conversation, he shares his experiences of how his values—shaped family, mentorship, and a belief in equity— continue to guide his leadership today. Under Mark’s direction, EDC has taken a bold stance: inclusive growth isn’t just good policy, it’s a business imperative for San Diego’s future. 

This Episode: 

What does it take to build an economy that works for everyone? 

Mark and Grant dive deep into San Diego’s unique economic landscape, from its binational strengths to the increasing threats facing its innovation and research sectors. They explore how the EDC’s goals aim to create more skilled workers, quality jobs, and thriving households, especially for communities historically left behind. They also talk about the importance of values-driven leadership in a time of uncertainty. As diversity, equity and inclusion comes under fire nationally, Mark shares why staying the course is both a moral and economic necessity. 

Through it all, Mark reminds us San Diego’s competitive advantage is in its people. 

Note: Jennie Brooks is mentioned as the EDC Chair, which was accurate at the time of recording. The current EDC Chair is Tom Seidler. 

Key Moments: 

• [11:50] Who’s at the table at EDC and why that matters 
• [21:35] The three 2030 goals: skilled workers, quality jobs, thriving households 
• [29:32] Why diversity and equity are valuable to the economy
• [37:48] Why San Diego’s binational identity is a key strength 
• [41:45] Resisting the “fire drills” and staying focused on long-term impact 

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

•  San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) – An economic development organization that mobilizes business, government, and civic leaders around an inclusive economic development strategy  

Take Action: 

•  Learn More About EDC’s 2030 Goals – Explore how these targets aim to create a more just and prosperous regional economy. 
• Support Small Businesses – Shop local, advocate for fair policies, and help strengthen San Diego’s economic backbone. 
• Speak Up for Inclusion – Be a voice for equity in your workplace or community. As Mark says, “If you’re not for equity, what are you for?” 
• Champion Regional Collaboration – We all have a role to play—business, government, philanthropy, and community alike. 

Credits:

This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Hosted by Grant Oliphant
Co-Hosted by Crystal Page
Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield
Engineered by Adam Greenfield
Production Coordination by Tess Karesky
Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina

The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.
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Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team

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