Workforce & Industrial Development

South of Market (SoMa), a dynamic district in San Francisco, has evolved into a major center for technology, creative industries, and urban manufacturing. The neighborhood’s strategic location—adjacent to downtown, the Bay Bridge, and major transit hubs like Caltrain and BART—makes it highly accessible for workforce and logistics needs.

SoMa’s industrial real estate market is marked by adaptive reuse of historic warehouses, new mixed-use developments, and a growing inventory of flexible spaces catering to tech, light manufacturing, and R&D. Vacancy rates remain tight, and demand is driven by both startups and established firms seeking proximity to San Francisco’s innovation ecosystem.

The City and County of San Francisco actively support business growth through programs that streamline permitting, offer technical assistance, and connect employers to workforce pipelines. The Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) provides tailored services for industrial and manufacturing businesses, including site selection support and access to local hiring incentives.

California’s statewide incentives, such as the California Competes Tax Credit and workforce training grants, are available to qualifying businesses investing or expanding in SoMa. Regional partnerships, including the San Francisco Economic Development Alliance, help companies navigate resources and identify opportunities for collaboration and growth.