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From idea to impact: How Yes SF continues to spur a new wave of innovation in San Francisco
When Deloitte collaborated with the World Economic Forum, Salesforce, Citi, and the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce to launch the Yes SF initiative in 2023, it was a bit of an experiment in and of itself. The goal? To help revitalize downtown San Francisco by elevating and supporting the growth of leading innovations in urban sustainability and cultivate an ecosystem of organizations to deploy those solutions locally, while supporting innovators through the revitalization jump-starting a local network of start-ups that could spur economic growth and diversify the economy in a way that is better for people and the planet. Just over two years later, the experiment is producing results.
Yes SF is spurring a movement
The program began as an innovation challenge calling for solutions to many of San Francisco's sustainability and revitalization goals. Fourteen companies — 'Top Innovators' — were chosen from 150 applicants. Since the program's inception, more than $60 million has been invested in San Francisco and many of these Top Innovators, and the momentum continues to build.
For example, Butlr, which creates thermal, privacy-first sensors, is now deployed in the Salesforce Tower. it's electric recently launched a new wave of curbside EV charging stations in the city. And BluumBio, Flower Turbines, Urban Machine, Zauben, and more are expanding their presence with local hires and new deployments that are helping to spur San Francisco's economy.
Meet the second cohort: Where sustainability meets AI
In April, Yes SF announced its second cohort of Top Innovators. The new cohort is centered at the intersection of sustainability and AI. Top Innovators are harnessing data and cutting-edge technology to tackle daunting challenges such as resource management (including energy generation and efficiency and biodegradable packaging) as well as transportation and mobility (including microgrids and autonomous last-mile delivery solutions).
The program intentionally choses startups that are early stage but ready to deploy. And, with the broad support Yes SF provides, these founders can build here and help advance the city's collective journey toward urban transformation and sustainability.
What companies are getting — and giving back
One of the most powerful roles Yes SF plays is convening and connecting San Francisco's innovation ecosystem. When the program began, I don't think any of us anticipated just how deeply the community would lean in. Today, nearly 60 organizations have joined the program, including large corporations and community institutions offering everything from research and development space to marketing support and mentorship.
Thanks to the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, Top Innovators can participate in information sessions related to doing business in San Francisco, get help navigating the permitting process, and receive support to build and scale their solutions. They also get visibility at events like Dreamforce, San Francisco Climate Week, and even the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos. That combination of practical support and high-level visibility helps make this initiative quite powerful.
Why I'm more hopeful than ever
I've spent my career working across the private, public, and social sectors — and I've always believed in the power of collaboration. Yes SF has become a shining example of what's possible when you bring various players to the table.
I remain confident in San Francisco's future. I see the energy downtown. I see the collaboration across sectors. And I see a new kind of innovation taking root — one that is local, sustainable, and visionary.
San Francisco's next wave of innovators is here and they are just getting started.
This publication contains general information only and Deloitte is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this publication.
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