Thanks in large part to the opening of its international airport, San Bernardino has built a strong reputation as an ideal business location. The centrally located airport, which serves about 4 million residents of the Inland Empire, was instrumental in the city’s efforts to attract new investors, among them Amazon and Tesla, which have set up major operations facilities there.
To attract more foreign investment, the city has set up special economic zones, among them the San Bernardino International Airport (SBD). Having recently launched its first scheduled service, officials are confident that SBD presents itself as a solid investment opportunity for Japanese companies. While the airport currently operates domestic flights, its runway can accommodate larger planes.
Anticipating the need for workers from new investors, San Bernardino also unveiled plans to create job opportunities, mostly in warehousing, logistics and supply chain management. Because its biggest employers include Loma Linda University Medical Center as well as California State University and its public schools, the city is also facilitating more work in research and medical technology in line with the San Bernardino 2025 Growth Plan.
City officials believe that the growth plan provides an excellent opportunity for residents and businesses. The plan envisions the establishment of a research triangle park either near the airport or the much-used Interstate 215 freeway.
San Bernardino has also built and invested about $25 million in a health gateway college in partnership with Loma Linda University, which officials hope will become a great incubator for more research in biotech and pharmaceuticals. The city plans to double that investment in the coming years.
