California businesses looking to expand, create jobs, or make new investments will soon have another opportunity to compete for state tax incentives.
The state has announced that $819.8 million will be available through the California Competes Tax Credit program during the 2026–2027 fiscal year. The program provides income tax credits to businesses that plan to grow in California and commit to creating jobs and making capital investments.
The first application window opens July 20 and runs through August 10, with $350 million available for allocation during that round.
Two additional application periods are scheduled for next year:
January 4–25, 2027, with $250 million available.
March 1–15, 2027, with $219.8 million, plus any funding left over from earlier application rounds.
This year, the state says businesses operating in industries identified as priorities under the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint will receive special consideration. Those include sectors aimed at strengthening California’s economy and accelerating future growth.
Applications must be submitted online through the California Competes Tax Credit website. Businesses selected to receive tax credits are approved by the California Competes Tax Credit Committee, which is scheduled to meet on November 12, 2026, April 29, 2027, and June 17, 2027 to consider awards.
The California Competes Tax Credit is available to businesses of all sizes and industries that meet the program’s eligibility requirements and demonstrate a significant economic benefit to the state.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
