GO-Biz Now Accepting Applications for California Competes Tax Credits
The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) is now accepting applications for the California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC). There are at least $306.6 million in tax credits available during this application period for businesses that are expanding and adding quality, full-time jobs in California that might not otherwise be created by the business or any other business. The deadline to submit applications is Monday, March 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time) and the online application website will automatically close once this deadline has passed. The online application can be accessed at www.calcompetes.ca.gov.
In FY25-26, special consideration will be given to businesses within the “strengthen” and “accelerate” sector categories as outlined in the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint. More information can be found at jobsfirst.ca.gov/blueprint/.
Members of the California Competes team are available to provide technical application assistance. In addition, an updated application guide, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), a recorded webinar, and program regulations are available at www.business.ca.gov/calcompetes. For applicants that are reapplying for the credit, the FAQs include instructions on how to copy information from a previously submitted application.
Businesses interested in learning more about California Competes can participate in free application webinars. Upcoming webinar information is as follows:
March 12, 2026
Details and Registration
If you have any questions regarding the California Competes program or application process, please call (916) 322-4051 or email CalCompetes@gobiz.ca.gov.
About California Competes
The CCTC is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in or stay and grow in California and create quality, full-time jobs in the state that might not otherwise be created by the business or any other business. Tax credit agreements are negotiated by GO-Biz and approved by a statutorily created “California Competes Tax Credit Committee,” consisting of the State Treasurer, the Director of the Department of Finance, the Director of GO-Biz, and one appointee each by the Speaker of the Assembly and Senate Committee on Rules.
About the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development
The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) serves as the State of California’s leader for job growth and economic development efforts. GO-Biz offers a range of services to business owners including: attraction, retention, and expansion services, site selection, permit streamlining, regulatory guidance, small business assistance, international trade development, assistance with state government, and much more. For more information visit: www.business.ca.gov.