OVERVIEW
According to U.S. Census data released in March 2024, California’s population dropped below 39 million as of July 2023—its lowest level since 2015. Between July 2022 and July 2023, the state saw a net loss of about 338,000 residents to other states, the largest decline in the nation during that period. High housing costs, taxes, and the overall cost of living remain key drivers of this outmigration, making it harder for many to stay. This trend has been termed the ‘california exodus’. The ongoing debate about the california exodus reflects the challenges facing the state.
This trend, especially among middle- and high-income households, threatens California’s economic stability, political influence, and tax base. At the same time, the state is entering the “Artificial Intelligence Economy,” a transformation as disruptive as the Industrial Revolution was to the agrarian society of the late 19th century. The skills once seen as essential for success are shifting rapidly.
The traditional path—study hard, earn a degree, and secure a stable job—is no longer guaranteed. With AI platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude delivering real-time analysis and coding, the role of human coders is evolving. Can technical graduates still compete? What new skills will define the next generation of success? Most importantly, how can California lead in a way that benefits not just tech companies, but workers and communities across the state?
The Golden Research Institute takes a fresh, data-driven approach to tackling California’s most pressing challenges. With a mission to address the forces driving residents and businesses out of the state, the Institute conducts primary research on society, the economy, and the future of work—placing particular emphasis on how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the workforce.
Its work is centered on reversing population decline, lowering the cost of living, and fueling economic growth in the AI era through entrepreneurial innovation and technological advancement.
Co-founded by Dave Kaval and Brad Null, the Golden Research Institute is committed to revitalizing the California Dream for generations to come.
OUR OBJECTIVES
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Leverage Data for Solutions – Provide data-driven frameworks to guide policymakers on California’s biggest challenges.
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Make AI a Net Positive – Ensure Artificial Intelligence benefits the state and its people.
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Measure AI’s Workforce Impact – Develop real-time metrics tracking AI’s effect on jobs and industries.
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Identify Future Skills – Define the capabilities needed to thrive in the AI economy.
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Keep California Leading in AI – Promote policies that secure the state’s global leadership in technology.
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Enhance Quality of Life – Improve livability through targeted, effective policy changes.
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Combat Overregulation – Streamline rules to prevent bureaucracy from becoming the end goal.
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Cut Government Waste – Boost efficiency and eliminate wasteful spending.
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Strengthen Public Safety – Support initiatives that create safer communities.
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Champion Business & Innovation – Foster an environment where entrepreneurship thrives.
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Promote Fresh Leadership – Encourage non–career politicians to bring new ideas and perspectives.
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Highlight Success Stories – Showcase what’s working in California to inspire confidence and action.
Key Actions
Advocacy
Drive meaningful change through strategic outreach and public engagement.
Research and Analysis
Develop data-driven insights and case studies to inform policy and solutions.
Ballot Measures
Champion initiatives that align with the organization’s mission.
Media and Communications
Share stories and perspectives through blogs, podcasts, interviews and columns.