Economic Development on Third

Founded in 1979, Pacific Research Institute is involved in social research and analysis. It is engaged in promoting individual freedom and personal responsibility by advancing free-market policy solutions. Based in San Francisco, Calif., the institute features several research centers that focus on public policy issues, including education, environment, health care, entrepreneurship and technology. Pacific Research Institute publishes books, provides commentary to media, hosts public events as well as conducts grassroots/community outreach. The institute's list of partners includes Hispanic American Center for Economic Research, Children First America and State Policy Network, among others. Pacific Research Institute is featured on Fox Business Channel, ABC News, CNN and other electronic media.

The Contra Costa Council is a public policy advocacy organization. Based in Concord, Calif., it provides for local/regional economic development and caters customers throughout Contra Costa County and the San Francisco Bay Area region. The organization represents nearly 400 members and 85,000 jobs in the region. Its primary functions include advocacy on public policy issues, leadership for countywide economic prosperity as well as education and networking opportunities for all council members. The Contra Costa Council has memberships with various organizations, including Foley & Lardner LLP, Praxair and Wells Fargo.