California taps Ripple, Coinbase leaders for government innovation initiative
Tech executives join California task force to improve public services
On July 15, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the launch of the California Breakthrough Project, a new initiative aimed at modernizing government operations by collaborating with top technology industry leaders.
The project brings together experts from companies like Ripple, Coinbase, MoonPay, Snap Inc., and others to serve on an advisory task force focused on improving government efficiency and integrating modern technologies.
The task force held its first meeting last month at Ripple's headquarters, where participants discussed ways to streamline state operations and introduce innovative tools.
Members of the group will work closely with public agencies to identify inefficiencies, recommend modern approaches to service delivery, ensure transparency, and prioritize ethics and employee feedback.
“As the cradle of modern technology, California has a unique opportunity to bring together the best and brightest to advance our work. We won’t retreat from progress — we’ll use it to benefit all Californians, including our public workforce,” said Governor Newsom.
Early steps toward greater government efficiency
California — home to 32 of the world’s top 50 AI companies — has already launched various modernization efforts under Newsom’s leadership, including:
- Upgrading the Department of Motor Vehicles
- Introducing firefighting technologies to combat wildfires more effectively
Newsom also signed an executive order requiring state agencies to:
- Modernize hiring, procurement, and contracting processes
- Launch a new Innovation Fellowship Program, allowing state employees to help solve statewide challenges with creative, tech-driven solutions.
As we wrote, Bitcoin breaks $119K as U.S. begins crypto week push
