The City of Irvine has received a $105,000 Catalyst grant from the California Jobs First (CJF) Regional Investment Initiative, administered through the Orange County Business Council (OCBC), to launch the OC MedTech Navigator, a concierge-style service that will streamline and accelerate the planning and permitting processes for medical technology (MedTech) companies in the region.
The OC MedTech Navigator is aimed at accelerating market entry for MedTech startups and streamlining tenant improvements and build-out processes for existing companies, thereby strengthening business attraction and retention efforts. The initiative is expected to drive economic growth in the region while reinforcing Irvine’s position as a proactive, business-friendly City.
“Irvine is uniquely positioned to support medical technology businesses, and this funding will help drive growth and job creation in this sector by removing barriers to success,” Mayor Larry Agran said. “My thanks go to the Orange County Business Council for their support in advancing this important effort.”
The OC MedTech Navigator will address two of the most significant challenges facing MedTech companies that require advanced, technical facilities to operate: prolonged permitting timelines and complex regulatory workflows that can slow business development and expansion. By improving efficiency and reducing administrative burdens, the program will support startups, established firms, and entrepreneurs navigating the permitting process.
Building on the Irvine Navigator Program that launched in September 2025 to support high-impact businesses establishing or expanding operations in Irvine, the OC MedTech Navigator will provide personalized guidance, coordinated project review, and real-time process tracking. The initiative will also develop a comprehensive playbook featuring City-tested best practices, templates, and toolkits that can be adopted by municipalities of all sizes across Orange County. Through this collaborative effort, the City of Irvine seeks to empower regional partners to share resources, streamline operations, and reinforce Orange County’s position as a leader in MedTech innovation and economic growth.
The City’s Economic Development division has established a coordinated approach to delivering meaningful resources, strategic planning, and forward-looking initiatives that benefit businesses of all sizes. The OC MedTech Navigator will advance Irvine’s economic development priorities and solidify its position as a regional leader in accelerating business growth, supporting job creation, and fostering innovation within the medical technology industry.
To stay informed about upcoming news, events, and resources designed to support business success and innovation, subscribe to City of Irvine Economic Development updates or visit cityofirvine.org/economicdevelopment.
View photos from a recent check presentation celebrating the Catalyst grant, featuring OCBC and City leaders.