Kristin Coates works at the intersection of economy, community, and environment, helping California move toward becoming the nation’s first regenerative economy. As CEO of Regenerative California, she supports place-based efforts that bring together farmers, fishers, service workers, businesses, investors, local leaders, and many others to show that economic vitality, climate resilience, and community well-being can thrive together.
For more than twenty years, Kristin has worked across the private, nonprofit, and public sectors to advance projects that restore ecosystems and strengthen communities. She has helped design regional investment strategies, shape partnerships that open land access for farmers, and support regenerative food systems. Her approach is rooted in collaboration and in translating values like equity and regeneration into practical, measurable outcomes.
Kristin is most at home working across differences—building trust among funders, government, community organizations, and entrepreneurs. She believes that real systems change happens when uncommon partners find common ground.
Earlier in her career, Kristin worked in sustainable tourism, helping create award-winning destinations from Patagonia to the South Pacific. These projects, recognized for both their guest experience and environmental stewardship, reinforced her belief that business can be a force for regeneration.
Kristin loves hiking tall mountains, spending time with family, dancing to live music, and traveling.