Empowering Startups, Economic Vibrancy, and Growth in the Tri-Valley

In this episode of the Capstone conversation hosted by Jared Ash, Yolanda Chenko from Eyegate Innovation Hub and Daybreak Labs in Livermore details their work fostering economic growth in the Greater East Bay by supporting science-based startups. Yolanda explains how Daybreak Labs, a physical coworking space that provides lab and office facilities, assists early-stage companies in obtaining funding and scaling. She also highlights Eyegate's broader initiatives, including the Startup Tri-Valley ecosystem development and a new partnership with Las Positas College to create an innovative campus. Additionally, Yolanda shares her path from an academic and corporate background to leading Igate, and her advice for young women in STEM, startups, government officials, and similar programs. The discussion underscores the region's collaborative approach involving local governments and national labs in driving innovation and entrepreneurship.