Innovation and Specialized Manufacturing consists of industries involved in the research, design, testing, development and manufacturing of higher value-added products including biomedical devices, pharmaceuticals, clean technologies, information technologies, sports and recreation equipment, and products for the defense and communications industry. From a traditional industry classification perspective this includes those firms that are manufacturing products as well as those firms that are involved in the research, design, and testing of new and innovative products.
Connected Tourism and Agriculture is comprised of industries directly or indirectly focused on serving tourist as well as the production and service of food and beverages that bring visitors to North San Diego County. This includes a wide variety of businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, breweries, wineries, casinos, and recreational and entertainment resources (e.g., golf, Legoland, Safari Park).
Biomedical Devices and Products: This cluster includes both the biomedical devices manufacturers (including optical instruments, surgical and medical instruments, and dental equipment) as well as related research services and testing laboratories. In 2010, countywide employment for this cluster was 12,012 with average annual pay per worker at $65,300.
Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals: This cluster includes those firms that are producing pharmaceuticals and related biological products as well as related research services and testing laboratories. In 2010, countywide employment for this cluster was 22,636 with average annual pay per worker at $107,000.
Cleantech: This cluster includes manufacturers, testing laboratories, and research services that support the development of current and new renewable energy and energy efficiency products and services. In 2010, countywide employment for this cluster was 7,986 with average annual pay per worker at $87,400
Information, Communications, and Technologies (ICT): This broad technology cluster includes those firms designing and manufacturing information technology products (including semiconductors, software, computers, and related products) as well as related research and engineering services and testing laboratories. In 2010, countywide employment for this cluster was 72,043 with average annual pay per worker at $94,400.
